If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, The Hollywood Reporter may receive an affiliate commission.
One of the best gifts is something that speaks from the heart — and unless you’re Dwayne Johnson (known for bestowing loved ones with cars), Keanu Reeves (famed for his epic wrap gifts) or a celebrity gifting expert, it can be a challenge to shop for people who love personalized presents. A nameplate necklace, crystal paperweight, beer mug or even a gift card with their name written on it might get the job done, but why not go the extra mile with a truly bespoke item that’s just as unique as them?
From functional finds for techies and sentimental style staples to cool birthday-inspired candles and custom skincare, we’ve rounded up some of the best personalized gifts that will arrive in time for Mother’s Day (May 12), Father’s Day (June 16), birthdays, graduation and other upcoming celebrations. These custom pieces also make great gifts for weddings, bridesmaids, groomsmen or any other occasion that calls for more thoughtfulness beyond a mall kiosk. And if they’re into classic (and non-basic) name jewelry and home goods, we’ve got options for them too.
For more ideas, see The Hollywood Reporter‘s gift guides here.
Leatherology Kress Medium Tote
Also available in mini and XL sizes, Leatherology’s Kress tote comes in classic cowhide or croc-embossed leather and can be personalized with a debossed or trapunto monogram.
Personalized Engraved Sterling Monogram Necklace
This personalized sterling silver monogram necklace has an antique-inspired pendant that vintage lovers will adore. It includes an 18-inch oval-link chain and a one-by-one-inch pendant; make sure to account for 10 business days for your custom piece to be created and shipped.
Artifact Uprising Hardcover Photo Book
For the screen-free photo lover, surprise her with this pressed glass frame by Artifact Uprising that displays two five-by-seven-inch pictures. It comes with your choice of 10, 25 or 50 prints with or without borders, so your recipient can change out the images. Still stumped? Opt for a gift card (available in $20 to $500) and let them create their own personalized treasures, from wedding photo books to framed prints and more.
<em>The New York Times</em> Custom Birthday Book
Commemorate their birthday with this cool coffee table book featuring the front pages of The New York Times throughout the decades. The book spans at least 20 pages and the fabric-bound cover is personalized with your giftee’s name and birth date (their DOB must be in 2002 or earlier). Additional pages of noteworthy events may be added to the end.
Moft Custom MagSafe-Compatible Phone Stand and Wallet
Whether they’re going on vacation or they’re a hands-free minimalist, this handy MagSafe-compatible phone stand and wallet by Moft lets giftees watch videos on the go while keeping their essentials conveniently on hand. Add a monogram with emojis for $10.
Papier Custom Notecard Set
Stylish stationery enthusiasts will appreciate these personalized note cards by Papier. Printed on thick or premium card stock, the cards come in designs for every type of giftee, from dog devotees and graphic design lovers to those who love a simple monogram.
Michele Deco Two-Tone 18k Gold Diamond Watch
A vintage-inspired timepiece is a great addition to any stylish horologist’s wardrobe. For those just getting into the watch world, Michele’s luxe Swiss chronograph pieces are a great entry-level investment. The Deco two-tone 18-karat gold diamond watch features a classic mixed-metal look and link bracelet that can be swapped out with any of the brand’s other 18mm straps. Plus, engraving is free so gift hunters can customize the back of the case with two lines of up to eight characters each.
Aura Carver Mat Digital Frame
Go the extra mile and personalize one of Aura’s Oprah Winfrey-loved stylish digital frames (like the best-selling Carver Mat that’s on sale for $30 off) with their favorite photos pre-loaded onto the device. If your giftee isn’t exactly tech-savvy, you can set up their frame with their Wi-Fi credentials so all they need to do is unbox and plug in. Screens can be used in portrait or landscape and Aura’s app makes it easy to add up to 10,000 photos (no subscriptions or additional storage purchases required), and the device’s AI automatically displays similar images side-by-side.
Hedley & Bennett Smock Apron
Treating the top chef in your life? Hedley & Bennett’s stylish aprons — available in collab prints with Rifle Paper Co., LoveShackFancy and more — can be customized with monograms or a short 10-character line.
The Birthdate Co. Birthdate Pendant
Make your astrology aficionado‘s eyes sparkle with The Birthdate Co.’s custom-made pendant necklace, which is set with four gemstones and crystals inspired by their birth month and day. The 14-karat gold-plated charm will be engraved with their birthday, astrological sign and initials, and it comes on an adjustable 16- to 20-inch chain.
If your recipient is more into fragrances or charts, the company also offers personalized birthdate candles, books, gift sets and more.
Related: The Best Zodiac Jewelry for Every Stylish Star Sign
Courant Mag:3 Essentials Dual-Device Charging Tray
Giftees with all of the gadgets and knick-knacks will love keeping their bedside table organized with Courant’s Mag:3 Essentials Dual-Device charging tray. Available in linen and leather, this sleek tech charger can be customized with a monogram for an extra $15. (The entire site is 20 percent off for Mother’s Day, too.)
L.L. Bean Boat and Tote
Spotted on the arms of Reese Witherspoon, Julia Roberts and countless other stars, L.L. Bean’s signature Boat and Tote is a classic personalized gift that’s guaranteed to find itself useful. Choose from open or zip-top options, standard or long handles and monogramming ($8).
Weezie Long Lightweight Robe
Whether you’re shopping for a mom, a dad or a grad, Weezie’s Long Lightweight Robe lets them luxuriate in comfort and style. It’s made of soft and stretchy French terry and features charming scalloped edges finished with contrast piping, and you can personalize it with more than 25 monogram styles, icons or short phrases.
Letterfolk Tile Mat
For those who love to throw a design-minded dinner party in a pinch, one of the best host gifts is Letterfolk’s customizable Tile Mat, which includes 150 vintage-inspired black hexagon tiles for spelling out welcoming messages, creating patterns and more. Gift it with your own design for an extra-personal touch — what’s cool is that they can rearrange the tiles and switch up their welcome mat for other occasions. (We suggest including a few tile packs, $12 each, to complete the set.)
Yves Saint Laurent Engraveable Libre Eau de Toilette
Show your favorite fragrance lover how well you know them with an engraved bottle of their signature Saint Laurent scent. Choose between a monogram or a 14-character message; if they’re not into perfume or cologne, you can also gift them YSL’s engravable lipsticks, lip balms and mascaras.
Monopoly Personalized Vintage Bookshelf Edition Board Game
Win over the heart of your favorite board game fanatic with a personalized Monopoly set that comes in a vintage-inspired linen book box that can be customized with up to two lines of text.
Custom Brass Door Knocker
Bestow the new homeowner in your life (and give their abode some charming curb appeal) with a custom brass door knocker from Etsy maker NokNoks.
Mark & Graham Terminal 1 Carry-On Luggage
For the jet-setter, a personalized carry-on by Mark & Graham ensures their luggage always stands out at baggage claim. Also available in expandable and check-in sizes, and in 29 monogram styles.
Casetify Custom iPad Ultra Impact Case
Already picked out the perfect tech gift — maybe the latest iPad? Don’t forget to protect their precious screen with a sturdy case, like this customizable one by Casetify. The tech accessories company offers a variety of options and personalized designs for Apple, Samsung and Google devices, including iPhones, iPads, Galaxy and Pixel smartphones and more.
TOPDesign Embroidery Initial Canvas Tote Bag
You don’t have to spend big on a personalized find. This initial canvas bag by TopDesign is one of the best gifts under $50; it also makes a great travel present or affordable custom gift for baby showers and bachelorette parties when filled with your guests’ favorite snacks and essentials.
Pure Culture Custom Skincare Set
Hollywood stars aren’t the only ones who can enjoy a bespoke beauty experience. Pure Culture’s custom skincare set contains an at-home test kit that helps determine their skin type and concerns, then receive a cleanser, serum and moisturizer based on their results.
Wonderbly <em>Where Are You? </em> Book
It’s practically a fact that kids love anything with their name on it — and a personalized book from Wonderbly is sure to outdo that monogrammed toy box you got them last year. From time-traveling adventures to heart-warming holiday stories, there’s a tale for every type of little one (or grown-up) who wants to see themselves in the pages of a book. Options also include books in Spanish, French, Italian and Japanese; there are also options for moms, dads and more loved ones.
Roam Carry-On Luggage
For the stylish globe-trotter, Roam’s suitcases can be personalized with their favorite hues — say, the colorway of their home country’s flag or beloved sports team. Customize the front, back, zipper, binding, wheels and carry handle, then add a monogram for a truly thoughtful (and flight-ready) finishing touch. Choose from a range of luggage sizes, including standard and large carry-ons, check-in bags and more.
BaubleBar Custom Throws and Blankets
In addition to offering stylish custom jewelry, BaubleBar also makes cozy bespoke knitted throws and blankets ($88 to $108) that can bear your loved one’s monogram, first name or an initial. Choose from a range of playful patterns, colorful designs, neutral options and even styles for NFL superfans and Disney lovers.
Cuyana Easy Tote
Cuyana’s buttery-soft pebbled leather tote bags are always in style. The company’s lightweight carryalls come in different colors and sizes, and can be finished in a simple gold monogram. If your recipient has plenty of totes, Cuyana also offers stylish pouches, minimalist wallets, travel-ready jewelry cases and other small leather goods that can be personalized. (Angelina Jolie, Meghan Markle, Jessica Alba and Taylor Swift have been spotted in the label’s minimalist goods.)
Vistaprint Travel Mug
For the on-the-go java or tea lover (or whatever they’re hiding in that to-go cup), Vista Print’s custom travel mugs make the perfect gifts. Whether you’re printing an NSFW inside joke or a PG phrase, brighten your loved one’s day with a stainless steel mug that shows some personality.
Paravel Fold-Up Backpack
Paravel’s fold-up backpack recently earned a spot on Oprah Winfrey’s Favorite Things list, and you can make it truly yours (or your giftee’s) with an embroidered monogram ($15 to $35). Available in a variety of colors, the water-resistant nylon carryall folds up into a small pouch, making it perfect for day trips, commutes or as an extra bag for bringing home more souvenirs.
Read the original article here