There is much to celebrate all year around, so make something extra special about the next celebratory occasion. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary or even next Christmas, take a break from the go-to gifts and up the ante with unexpected and luxurious surprises. Here are a few to consider.
Good Night’s Rest
A good friend and I were talking about the importance of a good night’s sleep when you have a new baby or young children. Waking up every day can feel like Christmas morning with a brand-new mattress. (Bonus! Gift a mattress to your partner, and you benefit with superior comfort too.) Upgrading your sleeping situation is an investment, but one to aid in better sleep and health. To add more excitement with the mattress, include sleep-friendly aids like lavender essential oil, a sleeping mask and bottle of melatonin.
Custom Frame, Forever Keepsake
Capture memories and moments to remember by professionally framing a special photo. You can also frame other meaningful items such as:
- A map of an area where your loved one vacationed or place where you got engaged
- A special quote
- A handwritten letter
A personalized frame is a forever keepsake that adds an original, unique aesthetic to the home. Give the statement piece a personal touch by engraving a message. Rather than ordering the frame online, head to a local custom frame shop. A framing professional can help you choose a metal or wood frame, quality level, matte options and more to make it perfect.
Adventures in the Sky
This was one of my mom’s favorite adventures and made her life-long dream come true. Give the xxperience of a lifetime with a hot air balloon ride or helicopter tour. See your cityscape or your state’s famous landmarks as you soar across the sky. In New York City, for example, you can scope the urban jungle, admiring the Empire State Building and World Trade Center from a bird’s eye view.
Apple Toys
Who wouldn’t love opening a gift that reveals a slick, shiny piece of technology that’s yours to play with? Everyone loves an Apple gadget, especially those who are constantly charmed by Apple’s inventive designs and functionalities. Spoil the tech lover in your life with an Apple Watch, the iPhone X or AirPods. You’re guaranteed to be a hero by super-charging your loved one’s technological experiences, from the fitness fanatic to the music guru.
Grill for the Grill Master
The first thing we purchased with our wedding money was a gas barbeque! To be an official grill master, one must work his magic behind a premier, top-notch grill. From charcoal to gas, it’s easy to find a grill that’s in your gift budget. This also sets you up with gift ideas for special occasions to come, like delicious sauces and grilling tools.
New York Designer Jewelry
No gal can turn down a little ring bling or sparkle around the neck. Jewelry can be a cliché gift, but New York-based designers Anna Sheffield and Vale offer statement pieces that will make the lady in your life swoon. These aren’t your typical jewelry pieces; Anna Sheffield is known for non-traditional, uniquely meaningful collections. And Vale, founded by twin sisters Eva and Ava Bai, creates necklaces, earrings, rings, bracelets and bangles designed to reflect hands-on art and with a mix of uncommon features.
What would be on your list of luxurious gifts? I like to be practical, but I also like to dream a little and keep an item or two in mind for others should I receive a windfall. Share your gift ideas in the comments.
