Updated Sep. 18, 2024
Whether your friend lives far away or busy schedules make in-person hangouts difficult, these "thinking of you" gifts will let your BFF know they're loved.
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Obviously, big holiday events are some of the most popular times to show your love and gratitude to those around you (be they physically close or only close to your heart). However, the best thing about gift-giving is that you don’t necessarily need a special occasion to send someone a little something something.
Maybe someone you care for needs a little pick-me-up, or perhaps you’re just missing one another. Heck, it can even be a “just because” occasion. Whatever the case, we’ve wrangled together a collection of the best “thinking of you” gifts that are sure to lift the spirits of whomever you send them to.
Via Harryanddavid.com
Thinking of you gifts don’t get any sweeter! Harry & David’s massive gift crate includes snacks, treats and much more for the ultimate pick-me-up. It makes for a great college care package, too.
Via Williams-Sonoma.com
Ending the day with a craft cocktail is one of our favorite ways to unwind. And this premium old fashioned mix from Williams Sonoma makes the job easy.
Via HooplaLove/Etsy.com
Sometimes, the best thinking of you gifts are a small gesture showing you care. Etsy’s $5 card says it all, but we’re sure your BFF would appreciate it if you filled it with some kind words of your own. For added oomph, pair it with one of these gifts for a friend going through a hard time.
Via Naturalsucculents/Etsy.com
Bring a little love to their doorstep with a sweet care package from Etsy. It’s loaded with everything they need for a relaxing day, including a candle, bath bomb, matches, lip balm, fuzzy socks and a scrunchie. We love these other care package ideas, too.
Via Amazon.com
Whether your friend is a cat lover or an avid baker—or both—she’s sure to appreciate this cute set of measuring spoons. Available on Amazon, they’ll bring a smile to her face every time she pulls them out of the drawer.
Pair it with one of these Amazon gift baskets for the ultimate package.
Via Uncommongoods.com
If you and your bestie usually spend your time discussing the latest true crime podcast, send her Uncommon Goods’ puzzle book that’ll make her feel like she’s part of the action. This one is gorgeously illustrated, with 20 cases to solve.
Via LSWLondon/Etsy.com
This isn’t just an incredibly chic notebook she can display in her home office, but it’s also a functional daily mindfulness practice. “I bought one for my friend and myself,” one Etsy reviewer wrote. “They are literally perfect.”
via homesick.com
Reminisce about past girls trips—and get inspired to book some more—by sending her a candle that’s designed to smell like a specific location. Homesick makes scents inspired by over 100 states, cities and countries so you can send “thinking of you” gifts to everyone on your list.
Via Lovepop.com
The best part about this stunning Lovepop paper bouquet? It will never wilt! Cheer up your friend with these colorful stems, and add a personalized message, too.
via amazon.com
Emulate the ultimate girl gang by binging The Golden Girls together over Zoom. This pack from Amazon includes an episode guide for while you’re watching, plus trivia to test yourself afterwards. You might want to grab one for yourself, too. Find more Golden Girls gifts.
Via Uncommongoods.com
“You’ll feel better after you eat” is sage advice—especially when heartwarming comfort food is on the menu. This Chinese soup dumpling kit from Uncommon Goods includes everything your pal needs to make Xiao long bao in their own kitchen. For something similar, take a look at these soup gift baskets, too.
Via CookWithUs/Etsy.com
Your favorite baker is sure to adore Etsy’s sweet rolling pin, adorned with a variety of heart shapes. It’s perfect for cookie dough or a pie crust, and if she shares her baked goods with friends and family, it’ll just spread the love. Find more amazing gifts for bakers.
Via Uncommongoods.com
These days, it seems like everyone has a friend who’s super into houseplants. If your best friend has a green thumb, she’ll enjoy this kit from Uncommon Goods which gives her the ability to grow her own cactus or aloe from scratch. A flower subscription is another great gift for greenery lovers.
Via Uncommongoods.com
Sometimes a text isn’t enough. Whether you send your friend this pack of 52 letters from Uncommon Goods or keep them for yourself to send to her, they’re a fun, old-school way to keep your friendship thriving.
Via Amazon.com
Gift your friend a few moments of self-care with these Instagram-worthy mask treatments from Amazon. Each holds a different purpose, from hydrating to soothing to firming.
If the friend you’re shopping for loves to get comfy and cozy but often refuses to get out from under the covers, this oversized wearable Sherpa blanket hoodie is the perfect gift. It’s basically a comforter with arms, a hood and a big kangaroo pocket in the front.
When deciding how much to spend on a gift, consider your budget and the recipient’s comfort level. First, stick to an amount you can afford without stretching your finances too thin. Second, be mindful of the recipient—an overly extravagant gift might make them uncomfortable, even if you can afford it. Aim for a middle ground that feels appropriate for you and the recipient.
Choosing the right gift can be tricky, but consider what the recipient cares about. Think about their hobbies, interests or something that could add value to their life. It doesn’t need to be grand, but something thoughtful that brings joy. If you’re unsure, reflect on what would make them smile or ask people close to them for ideas.
Gift-giving should be about the joy of giving, not expecting to receive something in return. If your motivation for giving is tied to receiving, it’s worth reconsidering the purpose of the gift. The best gifts come from the desire to bring happiness to the recipient, with no strings attached.
Originally Published: February 04, 2022
