Three Last Minute Valentine's Day Gift Ideas

This was supposed to be a last minute Christmas gift guide post, but I didn't finish it in time and I realized some people my be looking for a last minute Valentine's gift so figured why not share now? I don't usually scramble when it comes to Valentine's Day Gifts - mainly because I don't give them except for small tokens to my parents. I love treating them to a small something I know they will love and my Mom always surprises me with an unexpected thing she knows I'll adore. I'm still not gifting anything this year (and sadly won't be receiving any gifts myself) but it's always fun to think of fun gifts to give someone...or gift yourself! I'm sharing a few different ideas that are still thoughtful but can be executed at the last minute. Below are three ideas that popped into my mind that don't include a spa or jewelry, but just may be exactly what someone wants (or doesn't!). 

Why not give the gift of education and treat someone to a Create Academy course? I've already shared my love for Create Academy with you, but I wanted to reiterate how fabulous the classes they have curated and filmed are. This gift certainly doesn't feel last minute and is perfect for someone who just bought a house, is starting a new diet, or just has an interest in interior design, floristry, or nutrition. I'm currently taking Rita Konig's class and looooove it. In fact, I want to take Amelia Freer's nutritional class next and once I buy a home or apartment I'll probably treat myself to Willow Crossley's class.

While not romantic in the slightest (in fact, you really should proceed with caution here), a thoughtful last minute gift is a yearly subscription to Ramsey+. Honestly, if this year has taught me anything it's the importance of having my finances in order and creating an emergency fund. I don't normally endorse practical gifts, but if someone you love is like me and actively trying to get his or her finances in order I'm sure this would be appreciated. I mean, I would be pumped to get this subscription. This gift idea is definitely for a particular person - be warned the gift might get thrown back at you or you just may end up alone!

For the book lover, why not give them a monthly book subscription from Juniper Books? They have a "Books You Should Own" (BESO) subscription that is the gift that keeps on giving. You could definitely create a budget or more customized version of this on your own, but the idea is a great gift that any reader would love. As a book reader, I can vouch for this 100%. 

Happy gifting,

ARS xx

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Three Housewarming Gift Ideas

A bunch of friends and family are moving into new houses (or back to NY!) so I have housewarming gifts on my mind. Moving can be daunting in the best of times and what better than to treat a friend once they are done? I already know I'll be inviting myself over to my family and friend's who moved closer to me and I obviously can't come empty handed. Given the trend of everyone moving out of New York, this makes me especially happy but I'm assuming you all also have some housewarming gifts to give. Below is a roundup of a few gift ideas I love to give and are planing to give to my new neighbors. Bonus: two ideas support small, local businesses!

When I first moved into my apartment my building gave me a welcome basket with a local restaurant's cookbook. It was so thoughtful and I loved the idea so much that I started making my own adaptation for any new friend's moving into the neighborhood. I also like to include a gift card to a restaurant, so their dinner is covered - who doesn't want a treat like that after a long moving day?

For the new homeowner, why not treat them to Rita Konig's Create Academy Course? I've shared my love for it a few times, so I can personally recommend. It's thoughtful because Rita talks about logistical things, such as budgets, that might seem a bit daunting to a new homeowner and also provides beautiful inspiration for all.  

Another go to gift of mine happens to be flowers from my local flower shop. The also carry fun gifts that also fit the bill, which is why I prefer going to flower shops in person or calling out of town ones directly. This ensures the flowers are to a friend's taste and I like having input in what the flowers look like. While websites are great in a time crunch, trust me, you won't regret developing a relationship with a local flower shop! 

Do you have any go to housewarming gifts? Let's discuss in the comments. 

ARS xx

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Gifts for Guys (That Aren't Socks, Cuff Links, or Boxers)

What is it about the men in your life that make gift giving so hard!? I'm kicking myself for making an Easter basket for my Dad, because I had great gifts for him - but the smile on his face for receiving a basket for the first time in over 40 years was priceless. Do you follow on the Towerhouse instagram - you might have seen the picture and smiled too!That being said, I'm back to square one with him (but have a few ideas in the pipeline). Hopefully one of the below ideas will help with any gift giving block:

 

First Aid Kit from Best Made Company (or anything from Best Made Company)


Mini Nespresso Machine with Milk Frother + pods as a stocking stuffer (if he already has a Keurig,  Death Wish coffee k-cups are always a winner!)


Vintage Golf  Drinking Glasses (an array of fun ones on Etsy!)


Customized Famous Portrait (an epic gift I've given in the past - that's my sister!)


Playboy Party Jokes book

Are you sick of these round ups yet?

ARSxx

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Gifts for the Sun Worshiper

As a dedicated beach-goer I love getting anything that makes the experience seem a bit more luxurious or adds a beachy vibe when I'm in the deep, dark depths of winter with no PB escape. If you follow the Towerhouse instagram you'll see I make it down there often and am all about the #TowerhouseTravel life. These are a few things that have been on my wishlist for awhile, that I think the sun worshiper in your life might enjoy too.

Maslin & Co Zebra Beach Towel (dying for one of these)


French Girl Organics Body Scrub

Large Decorative Clam Shell Bowl


Tassel Straw Slippers 

LL Bean bag (perfect for everything, but especially the beach!)

Now I'm ready for the beach myself! 

ARS xx

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Gifts for Someone Who Has Everything

Everyone has that one person on his or her list where they have everything and need or want nothing. (Hi Mom and Dad - are you reading this??) It's my friends and family like this that have me getting the most creative. I've posted a few ideas on instagram in the past, so be sure to follow along. Below are a few picks of mine that are unique, thoughtful, and not as expected! Hopefully something inspires you here.

Bespoke Anya Hindmarch Gift (a little pricey, but they have really amazing customization options available - you can even write a message in your own handwriting! The Daily Edited has a slightly more budget friendly option.)


A shipment of Georgia Peaches (Florida Oranges are another fave of mine to give!)


A credit towards a class they might be interested in. I was thinking of doing a Christie's one for my Dad but the dates didn't work out for him. Other fun ideas include calligraphy, language, or a continuing education class at NYU.


A donation to his or her favorite charity! I did this for my grandmother one year and she was so touched. Pairing the note card with flowers added an extra special touch.

Wishing you luck! 

ARSxx

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Gifts for the Traveler

I have a few family members that are, like me, dedicated travelers (check out the Towerhouse instagram to see where #TowerhouseTravels). They are sometimes my most favorite people to give gifts to, because it's always a bit of a challenge to find something that is chic, easy to carry, and functional. Finding something I know they'll love is so rewarding and the best feeling. Whether your recipient has to travel for work, fun, (or both!) I don't think he or she will be disappointed with anything listed below. 

Gift Card to Artifact Uprising (the recipient can choose to do a book with all his or her favorite pictures or have pictures printed. I've talked about my love for them in the past!)

Cuyuna Travel Case Set (comes in an array of different colors + can be used day to day too)


Mophie External Battery



CEREAL Magazine Subscription (they have amazing travel guides too!)


White + Warren Travel Wrap (more colors available)

ARS xx 

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Gifts for the Dog Lover

This is a shout out to my Mom and Grandma (Have you seen Thor and Creme Brulee on the Towerhouse instagram?!). In my family we give gifts to the dog (he loooves opening them) but I opted to round up a few things that were a bit more "human friendly" this time around. Here are a few gift ideas for the dog fanatic in your life.

Dog Topiary (feat. french bulldog, but they have many others) 

Annie Selkie Dog Bed



Love Me, Love My Dog artwork from Ben's Garden


Large Navy Quatrefoil Dog Bowl


Custom Pet Portrait by Laura Row

ARS xx

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Gifts for the #BlueandWhiteForever Believer

I have a few friends and family members that are big fans of anything blue and white (including myself!) so I'm rounding up a few things they may like, in both style and color. From desk decor to wall art I tried my best to find an array of fun and pretty touches that I personally love. Did you see my desk on the Towerhouse instagram? You'll see a few familiar faces below! 

Paige Gemmel Print


Blue Lotus Rice Bowl Candle

Blue and White Treat Canister


Staffordshire Style Dalmatian Trinket Dish


Blue and White Desk Calendar

Happy shopping! 

ARS xx 

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Gifts for the Linen Lover

As a linen fanatic I loooooove getting anything in this department. If you follow the Towerhouse instagram you're sure to have noticed my dedicated #TowerhouseStyle pics featuring India Amory + Matouk. I'm sure you have a list of friends and family members who feel the same way, so I'm sharing a few more "off the radar" picks that are chic, personal, and fun to give! 

D. Porthault: The Art of Luxury Linens 

Mini Pillow Cases from Hill House Home

India Amory Table Cloths (and robes! they are adorable)

Monogrammed Napkins

Laundress Make Messes Kit

ARSxx

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Gifts for the Stationary Lover

I'm a bit of a stationary nut and I like to think there are more of us out there than you would think! I have a few friends who I regularly correspond with via mail and I still swear by a paper calendar. Call me old fashioned but there is nothing better than writing a letter, except receiving them. I've rounded up a list of my personal favorites to give and things I use on a daily basis:

Graphic Image Desk Datebooks (option to monogram!)


Custom Return Address Stamp 

Calling & Business Cards by Nancy Nikko Designs (an array of designs are offered here!)

Dempsey and Carroll Subscription Box


Vintage Stamps

ARSxx

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Gifts for the Gardener

I don't know about you, but it's been months and I'm still pretty bummed about summer ending. I love to extend it as much as humanly possible and I'm guessing you have a few friends and relatives that feel the same way I do. (Seriously though, follow the Towerhouse instagram for my summery #TowerhouseThrowback pics). One way I like to keep the summer vibe going all year is to add in florals to my day to day life. This holiday season why not gift a like minded soul something to brighten up his or her dreary winter day?  Below is a roundup of my current favorites:

Matouk Charlotte bedding (I own these and am obsessed)

The Secret History of the Pink Carnation by Lauren Willing (This light, fun read is the first in a series about spies set in the Napoleonic Wars era  - all titles are flower themed!) 

Piyama PJs from Etsy (also available in pink + lavender and an array of different styles!)

Boxwood Topiary Notecards (I like to pair stationary with stamps and a pen for a complete set!)


Louise Townsend Totes (I'm obsessed with mine)


AERIN Jasmine Ikat Perfume (perfect for anyone who loves a happy floral scent) 

Ready to get back into the garden yet?! 

ARS xx 

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