Gift Closet: Six Gifts To Keep On Hand

July 28, 2020 in Gift Guides, Home

I’m a big fan of having a “gift closet” stocked with a few items that are ready to go when you need a quick or unexpected gift. This was one of the many things I copied from my mom. Growing up, I remember she would always be ready with a hostess gift or a quick “happy” to brighten someones day. Today, I wanted to share six gifts to keep on hand so you are always set if you find yourself in a quick pinch to get a gift out the door. Whether you get invited to a dinner party last minute or forgot someone’s birthday, having a few things on hand will help keep you prepared for when you’re unprepared haha.

Kitchen Towels: My mom and I love kitchen towels and they’re also a great little hostess gift. I typically buy a pack from Anthropologie, Target, or Homegoods and always have a few on hand when needed. You can keep a set together or separate them out to get more bang for your buck. Something else I love to do is tie a wooden spoon in with them for an extra touch.
Nice Candle: Most girls love a nice candle. My favorites are Capri Blue and Voluspa. Both brands have amazing scents and hold a long burn time. They also look really nice and are a pretty decor piece in my opinion (especially the mercury glass Capri Blue Volcano candle). Want your house to smell like Anthro? Go for Capri Blue Volcano… not only is that CB’s signature scent, it’s also what Anthropologie has burning in store about 95% of the time.
Notebook/Stationary Set: These are great last minute teacher gifts or gifts for any friend that likes to keep her work space organized. Know a list-maker? I’m one myself and am a sucker for a pretty, little notepad. Rifle Paper Co. makes some of the cutest on the market.
Cutting Board: Small cutting or serving boards are great pieces to give to your friend who loves to cook or for a nice hostess gift. Amazon, Target, and Walmart all have some wonderful options at great price points!
Lotion/Hand Cream: I used to think this was kind of like a cop out gift. But as I have gotten older, I’ve realized what a luxury a nice hand cream or lotion can really be. I have dry skin and a good cream can make a world of difference in my day… as crazy as that sounds. A lotion works for a hostess gift, teacher gift, birthday gift.. you name it. Beautycounter has an amazing one that are perfect for spoiling a friend! I need to reorder and restock mine. Hazelwood Soap Co. also has fantastic lotions and creams and I’ve given them as gifts numerous times. Find their lineup here.
Neutral Baby Blanket/Lovey: I like to keep a couple of neutral baby items on hand so that I’m never without something in this department. If I need to put something with the rest of a gift I’ve already purchased or, heaven forbid, a baby shower sneaks up on me, I have something soft and sweet ready to send to Mama and baby. Here are some swaddles, blankets, loveys, and soft books that work for both boys and girls!

While the list could on and I typically have a few other random things stocked, I have found that the items listed above tend to be pretty versatile and one will typically work for just about any occasion (unless maybe you need a gift for a guy haha). I also love to grab things when they’re on a major sale and add it to my gift closet collection. Black Friday or end of season sales are a great time for snagging deals!