Let’s Talk: Holiday Gift Guide

Hello, friends! As the holidays fast approach, I know firsthand how hard it can be finding the perfect gift for a loved one. So, I thought, why not make a holiday gift guide for all the book lovers in your life? These are some easy, affordable ideas that can make your life easier when present buying, and will make your book lover’s experience even better. Let’s get on with the list!

1. Bookish Candles

This seems like an easy and obvious one to start off with, but overall a good option! There are so many companies and stores on the internet now that make delicious smelling candles related to your favourites. From niche troupes, ships, and even Instagram hashtags, there truly is a scene and theme for everyone. I know there are so many different options on where to buy them it can be overwhelming, but I recommend looking at various Etsy storefronts and even seeing where book boxes get theirs – you’re bound to find something that fits the preferences of your bookworm!

2. Book Sleeves

There’s nothing worse than travelling with a book and getting damaged in transit. Here’s where book sleeves become your best friends! A handy padded fabric pocket, bookshelves fit comfortably around an array of different sized books for optimum protection in a backpack, handbag or anything you want to carry your book in. Like the candles, there are so many companies online that sell them these days, however they’re also easy to make! I’ve been meaning to try this tutorial myself, and it’s definitely something I’ve been thinking of doing for gifting purposes! 

3. Book Embosser/Stamp

This is another personalisation present, but this is a great way for your booklover to keep track of their books and make them a bit more special. I know Cossette has an embosser which she loves, and they make her books look so lovely! Again, these can be found on Etsy, and the pattern being embossed can be customised to fit the aesthetic and vibe of your book lover. Alternatively, if you don’t want to spend a lot of money on an embosser, a custom library stamp is also a cute idea! They’re very similar to embossers in a sense that they can be customised, and are perfect for personalisation, however they’re the more traditional route. Honestly, I love the look of book stamps, and have been definitely thinking of getting one for myself, too. 

4. Bookmarks 

Another staple in a bookworm’s life, but an essential one. While I’m someone who isn’t bothered by dog-earing pages, I know a lot of people don’t feel the same way, which is why cute bookmarks are a must have! It would be such a lovely idea to make them too, so they’re even more customised for your book worm. However, if crafting isn’t really your thing, there are some really lovely designs on different storefronts that will fit any vibe you’re going for – you can even get some with song lyrics, or album covers! I think this would be a lovely gift to receive alongside a book, which leads into my last suggestion.

5. An Annotated Book

I think there’s something really special about annotating a book for someone. I’ve done it for my very best friend, and I loved the experience so much. I annotated her favourite book, and it honestly made me feel closer to her. I kept a colour palette throughout mine (pink pen and pink highlighter, because it both fit the vibe of the book and it’s her favourite colour!) which made it look pretty as well. Whether it be highlighting your favourite passages or writing detailed analysis in the margins, I think gifting an annotated copy of someone’s favourite book would make for a very special gift. You could even go that extra step further like I did and draw a dodgy photo of a turkey – you’re guaranteed a laugh for that. 

And there we have it, some suggestions and ideas for gift giving this holiday period! Be sure to leave recommendations for any of your favourite stores below, and let me know what bookish goodies you’re asking for these holidays. Have a magical day, and happy reading!