The 10 Places You Should Check Out First for Great Gifts, No Matter Who You’re Shopping For
From housewarmings to birthdays, giving a friend something extra unique and special to them is simply one of the best ways to spread joy. Not only does it show your loved ones how much they mean to you, but you’ll likely have some fun shopping for an out-of-the-ordinary gift, too. But where to start? You’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re sending your long-lost work wife an “I miss you!” gift, or mailing your bestie a “just because” gift, we’ve rounded up the best places to shop for gifts.
1. Areaware
Speaking of your long-lost work wife, Areaware has everything she’ll need to make her home office picture perfect. From quirky accessories to fun desk objects, the brand is packed with great gift ideas. This puzzle from Dusen Dusen is so bold they’ll have a hard time putting it away once it’s done. We’re also huge fans of these food-themed puzzles.
Buy: Dusen Dusen Pattern Puzzle, $25 at Areaware
2. Rifle Paper Co.
If paper gifts are your forte, don’t miss the always lovely selection at Rifle Paper Co. Fancy stationery, address books, and pretty office accessories aren’t things people tend to buy for themselves, making them the perfect items to gift. This 2021 desk planner will make any table, desk, nightstand, or whatever is serving as a desk these days, look fabulous. Another can’t-go-wrong gift? Any and all of these stemless wine glasses and coffee mugs.
Buy: 2021 Desk Calendar, $16 at Rifle Paper Co.
3. Terrain
For the homebody/garden lover in your life, give them something gorgeous from Terrain. Whether that’s seasonal decor, cozy candles, a succulent, or garden gear, Terrain has everything you need for a gift that’s truly one of a kind. Help them get ready for fall baking with this bagel and cream cheese making kit, a perfect Sunday morning activity.
Buy: Cinnamon Raisin Bagel + Cream Cheese Making Kit, $32 at Terrain
4. Uncommon Goods
We can’t talk about unique gifts without mentioning Uncommon Goods, the mecca of eccentric goodies. The site features a wide-ranging selection of gifts from independent makers, from home goods to custom art and everything in between. This indoor mason herb jar garden adds charming flair to any windowsill, and will get whomever receives it excited about growing their own herbs.
Buy: Mason Jar Indoor Herb Garden, $20 at Uncommon Goods
5. Food52
If you’re looking for a gift for a food-loving friend, shop the selection at Food52. You’ll find a curated selected of gorgeous home goods and kitchenware from your favorite brands, all of which make for the perfect gift for any aspiring chef. These silicone oven mitts are as functional as they are cute, and make for an ideal housewarming or hostess gift.
Buy: Five Two Silicone Oven Mitt Set, $40 at Food52
6. The Grommet
If you’ve got a pal who loves gadgets and nifty finds, take a gander at The Grommet. From smart kitchen tools to gardening gear, The Grommet has something for everyone in your life, and all of the products come from independent designers. This flower workshop in a box is ideal for the person who loves to learn new skills—it contains premium flower arranging tools as well as instructions, so they’ll be a self-made florist in no time.
Buy: The Floral Society Floral Workshop Kit, $82 at The Grommet
7. Williams Sonoma
One thing we love about Williams Sonoma is that they basically do all the work when it comes to creating a flawless gift. Check out their surprisingly large collection of gift baskets and gift sets, as well as their more standard kitchen tools and accessories. If you know someone who is in a committed relationship with their Instant Pot, this gift crate will complete their collection.
Buy: Instant Pot Gift Crate, $129.95 at Williams Sonoma
8. Urban Outfitters
You might think of Urban Outfitters as just another clothing store, but they actually have a great selection of fun and quirky gifts — in fact, they even have an entire section devoted to “fun and games“! We highly recommend this chic little polaroid camera, exclusive to UO and available in two trendy colors. Gift it to someone who lives for capturing the little moments — and don’t forget the film!
Buy: Fujifilm UO Exclusive Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera, $79 at Urban Outfitters
9. World Market
Heading to a housewarming party? Snag something special at World Market. Gone are the days of gifting tacky home signs—instead, give your friend something that will really complete their home. These marble coasters are an affordable, smart gift that will actually get used. Honestly, who couldn’t use more coasters?
Buy: Hexagon Coasters, $12.99 for four at World Market
10. Etsy
Last but certainly not least, you can’t go wrong with the eclectic array of choices at Etsy. From handmade goods to vintage finds, Etsy is pretty much guaranteed to have a gift for everyone on your list. This lavender sage gift set is luxurious and sure to help relax whomever receives it. It’s the perfect self-care pick-me-up to send to a pal who could use some love from far away.
Buy: Aromaology Lavender Sage Gift Set, $65 at Etsy
This post originally appeared on Apartment Therapy. See it there: The 10 Places You Should Look First for Great Gifts, No Matter the Occasion