Gift-giving for acquaintances can be tricky—you want to show you put some thought into it, but keep the choice general enough that you don’t give them something they’ll never use. Here are some ideas that go beyond the tried and true “nice candle” option. (Although if you’re really committed to the candle, I have some recommendations.)

This post includes products that I believe in and love myself. It also includes affiliate links , meaning I will  receive  a commission if you decide to make a purchase from these links. This never comes at any cost to you. 

Olive Oil

Even though I don’t cook much, I do still appreciate having high-quality olive oil and vinegar.

Jigsaw Puzzle

My family appreciates a good jigsaw puzzle, and I love that these support local artists. They can even be framed for your walls.

Books

Books are some of my favorite gifts to get and give.

Adult Coloring Book

Coloring is a terrific way to calm our minds through our hands, and it’s such a pleasure to play with color.

Shutterfly Gift Card

Your recipient can upload their favorite photos to Shutterfly and turn them into printed albums, framed wall art, personalized mugs, and so much more.

Year of Guided Watercolor Calendar

2025 has been my year of watercolor, and this calendar is such a fun approach to painting more.

See Gretchen’s Other Gift Guides See more

The post Gretchen Rubin’s Gifts That Are Not Candles appeared first on Gretchen Rubin.