From bridal and baby showers to birthdays and weddings—summer feels like its own holiday season. With so many occasions for gift-giving, I often find myself looking for a great gift that that’s unique, practical and healthy. If I’m going to give someone, or even myself, something new—I prefer it to be healthy in nature so it’s truly a gift that keeps on giving; a chance to show someone you care about their wellbeing beyond a special day. Maybe it’ll be that catalyst that special friend, sister or loved one needed to kickstart healthier habits or simply a way to reboot your own self-care rituals. So you have some ideas handy for your next gifting occasion, I’ve rounded up seven gal-oriented ideas for every occasion, including yourself. What healthy staples are you into lately?!
1. Diffuser and essential oils
An instant stress reliever, firing up my diffuser after a busy day is one of my favorite ways to unwind. Within minutes, it engages your senses and takes you to a calmer place. A quick mood booster, anxiety reducer—there’s a reason essential oils are everywhere right now. The list of benefits is long and you can even use them for a more natural approach to your beauty and cleaning routines. From calming lavender to uplifting sweet orange to invigorating eucalyptus, there’s a scent for every mood and occasion. I love turning my diffuser on in my bedroom for an hour before I head to bed so calming scents can take over my room. It’s also a great compliment to a relaxing bath. My favorite oils and diffuser come from Aura Cacia – (shown above) they are an essential in my office and workspace.
2. Citrus squeezer
Add fresh citrus to your daily H20 to make staying hydrated a little easier, and tastier. A good source of Vitamin C, citrus fruits like lemon and limes can also improve digestion and skin quality. And a citrus squeezer lets you get the most of our citrus so you can freshen up your drinks for days. This one, from Wayfair, has a bright and sunny hue and it’s super sturdy with a no-slip grip. It’s a great addition to your own kitchen and makes a great summer wedding gift!
3. Reusable water bottle
Stylish and sustainable, the options are endless when it comes to S’well bottles. Browse their website to see the full spectrum of offerings—various sizes, colors, and the option to order a personalized bottle. Starting around $25, these water bottles make a great gift for any woman on-the-go.
4. New pillowcases
Want better skin tonight? Start with what you lay on every night. The most affordable option is cleaning your pillowcases weekly with a gentle, unscented detergent, so freshly cleansed skin can touch fresh linens every night. I love these no frill, comfortable cases from Simple Luxury. Silk pillowcases are another option to look into as they can keep skin soft and prevent wrinkling. You could get really clever with some cute wrapping to make new pillowcases an unexpected but totally awesome beauty gift for your mom or sister.
5. Cooking classes
A cooking class has so much to offer—learn new skills, try out new recipes and enjoy a delicious and healthy meal made from fresh and often local ingredients. And the best part is, there’s likely one around the corner at your local grocery store or co-op (bonus: they are typically more affordable than classes at culinary stores). Most class schedules are available online and are offered on a regular basis, so head online to browse what’s available in your area. If you’re in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area like me, check out the classes at the Cooks of Crocus Hill. They have a ton of different classes so there’s sure to be something for everybody.
6. A comfy new robe
A robe is a perfect gift for any woman, especially mommas-to-be. From getting ready to lounging around the house, it’s truly the gift that keeps on giving. Because getting ready at home or simply relaxing with a good book and cup of tea at night can—and should—feel a little luxurious. I’m loving this luxurious but affordable one from VCNY Home.
7. A custom piece of wall art
Gift yo’self! Turn your favorite quote or drawing into wall art you can see every day. With all the custom art options on Etsy, it’s pretty simple and affordable to turn a quote or image into art you can hang in your home or office for a little everyday lift. If drawing isn’t your thing, check out Kate’s new prints, shown above, up on shopwitanddelight.com. Make it a gift for a friend and frame their own artwork, a favorite movie line or poem for a sweet reminder of how much you care for them.
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Brooke is an agency account gal by day and creative at heart—she’s probably whipping up a new recipe or DIY beauty remedy right now. She’s passionate about finding healthier alternatives to the makeup & products many women put on their skin every day—the inspiration behind her own blog, heronebeauty.com.
