There are hallmark events that warrant planned gift-giving: holidays and birthdays are good examples where gifts can express gratitude and appreciation for a person––“thanks for spending the year with me”, “I’m grateful you were born”.
And then there are other life events that also warrant conveying thoughtfulness: “Congratulations”, “I’m excited for you”, “It’s good to see you again”. These are the events that often come up randomly; they creep up on you during busy weeks at work, in between big life changes, or just at a generally hectic time, leaving you frazzled to pick a gift up last minute.
Sometimes, gift cards come in handy. However, it's always best to be prepared. Enter the Curated Emergency Gift Stash: a small selection of versatile, universally appealing items that are gifting-ready for any occasion. The keyword here is curated: you’re still exercising thoughtfulness and care in pre-selecting your gifts, so your recipient feels especially thought of. Here's our top picks for versatile gifts for your favorite friend, a housewarming, a sweet tooth, and more!
Spice of life
Condiments and seasonings like Ausbarrel Sticky Balsamic Original Vinegar Pearls, Al’fez Harissa Paste, or Don Chilo Jalapeño Chili Crisps make great gifts for friends who enjoy cooking or eating. Finishing salts like Maldon Sea Salt Flakes, Falksalt Sea Salt Flakes, Asin Tibuok, Asin Tultul, and Le Saunier de Caramargue Fleur de Sel are perfect kitchen presents to bring to a housewarming party, while a Basimatsi Sampler Set of Philippine vinegars is a thoughtful welcome home gift for a balikbayan friend. Most of these are shelf-stable and keep well for long periods, so storing them in your pantry should be easy.
Everyday essentials
Sometimes the best gifts are items that we use everyday. Congratulate a friend who just renovated their home with Messy Bessy’s Minty Orange Surface Cleaner or Disinfectant Aroma Spray and help make them excited to care for their new abode. Is a friend’s family growing with toddlers? Ecos Fruit + Veggie Wash will let them know you’re thinking about their family’s health and are excited for this chapter in their life.
Sweet somethings
Who says gifts are only for big life events? Small wins, when celebrated with loved ones, can turn into special moments. Chocolate bars are perfect little gestures that can say a lot: “Congratulations on finishing that project”, “I’m proud of you”, “Well done”. Our top picks for making your victories sweeter are plant-based chocolate bars from TCHO, proudly local Malagos Chocolate, purpose-driven Tony’s Chocolonely, and bold, playful bars from Seattle Chocolate.
