Tips for Great Gift Giving!

The holidays are quickly approaching, and with them often comes the stress of finding the perfect gift. But don’t worry—let me help lighten the load. As someone whose love language is gifts, I’ve earned the title of “designated thinker and shopper” for all family group gifts. This season, I’m sharing my secrets to thoughtful gifting, so you can spread joy and skip the stress.

One of my favorite tricks is to make a mental (or physical!) note anytime someone mentions something they love—especially if it’s quirky or offbeat.

For example:

• Stephanie Hogue adores anything pink.
• My husband lives for all things heavy metal.
• My sister-in-law is all about soft and sparkly vibes.
• Steve Munch loves the ocean

When gifting time rolls around, I think back to these little moments. The key to being a great gifter? Thoughtfulness. People feel loved when they feel seen and understood.

Does your recipient have a favorite vacation spot or holiday memory? Bring that place into their everyday life!

• Idea: A beautiful photograph of that location, perfect for their home or office.
• Bonus: Pair it with an item they used or loved there, like a cozy blanket, a pair of shoes, or a soft robe.

Take them back to that special place every single day.

What lights them up? Everyone has a special connection to something:

• For me, it’s dragonflies because they remind me of my mom.
• Stephanie loves butterflies.
• A client of mine feels deeply connected to surfing and the ocean.
• My son? Lava—it’s his personality in a nutshell (and he’s right!).

Ideas:

• A 10"x10" print to brighten their desk or shelf.
• A 13"x19" wall print for a statement piece.
• A trio of wood prints—perfect for a home office or over a workspace.

Give them something meaningful that reflects who they are.

Some people are tricky to shop for—like the person who already “has it all” (ahem, Dad). In these cases, think about practical gifts or experiences they’ll actually use.

For instance, I used to give my mom a calendar made by her favorite artist every year. She loved it because it reminded her of me every time she flipped the page. One year, I skipped it, and she was so disappointed. Lesson learned: Sometimes it’s not the object itself but the thought behind it.

Ideas:

• A coffee table book filled with stunning photography.
• Blank notecards for heartfelt correspondence.
• A photo tote bag for errands or travel.
• Coasters featuring beautiful art.

Give them something functional and meaningful—something that reminds them of you daily.

Looking for the perfect gift? Check out these thoughtful items:

• Photo tote bags for stylish practicality.
• Blank notecards for personal touches.
• Photo coffee table books to inspire and delight.

The Heart of Gifting

The magic of a great gift lies in the thought behind it. When you focus on what someone truly loves, you show them they’re seen, understood, and valued. And that’s what makes gifting so joyful—for them and for you.