Celebration Inspiration Archives

The 9 Best Birthday Gifts for Brothers

Whether they’re older and always looking out for you or younger and always looking up to you, one thing is certain — you treasure your brother and the relationship you have with him.

Finding the perfect way to show how much you care about your brother and value his companionship is important, but also easier said than done. No matter how tight the two of you are, finding the perfect birthday gift for brothers can be tricky.

Lucky for you, we have put together this guide to the best birthday gifts for brothers. Use it to kickstart your quest and ramp up your creative inspiration.

birthday gifts for brothers with surt and turf

The Gourmand

A birthday happens only once a year, making it the ideal occasion to treat yourself to an indulgent meal — and, to us, nothing is more indulgent than the classic combination of seafood and steak.

Give your brother the pinnacle of fine dining on his birthday with the premium pairing of succulent lobster tail and tender filet mignon. And no birthday feast is complete without a bottle of wine to wash it all down with.

The Reluctant Decorator

Whether your brother’s office lacks décor, his home needs a little greenery, or he could just use a little good fortune, the gift of a money tree is a fantastic option. These hardy plants not only have a reputation for bringing luck, but they also add a natural visual intrigue to any space. Thanks to these plants’ long lifespans, your brother can enjoy this gift for years to come, too (though that doesn’t get you off the hook from having to buy him a present for future birthdays).

The Boozy Bruncher

If your brother enjoys pairing his late morning weekend pancakes and eggs with a glass of potent tomato juice, treat him to a bloody mary kit. He can set up his own bloody bar filled with dill pickle hot sauce, garlic dill cornichons, and pitted green olives. Add an extra kick to each sip by rimming the glass with the chile lime seasoning. Vodka not included…

birthday gifts for brother: personalized grilling apron

The Grill Master

Few things speak to a man’s heart like the sizzle of meat on a grill. If your brother appreciates the art of grilling, why not facilitate his predilection with a themed birthday gift? Whether you opt for a grilling apron, cutting board, or barbecuing utensil set — or all three! — he’s sure to use his new, personalized tools with pride. Complete the package by sending him a little something to throw on the grill. Who knows, maybe he’ll share!

birthday gifts for brothers big rig d puzzle

The Model

We’re not talking about having your brother strut the runway. This gift is for the brother who enjoys building models. This wooden big rig is made up of 286 pieces, so you’re not only giving him a cool-looking model but hours of fun as well. If he prefers other modes of transportation, there are also puzzles in the shape of a steam train and cruise ship, as well as architectural landmarks (the Eiffel Tower!).

The ‘Sweet’ Brother

No birthday is complete without some tasty baked goods. Birthday cakes are a classic dessert, but variety is the spice of life, right? The birthday sweets basket is a party in a box overflowing with delicious birthday goodies. It contains everything from chocolate-covered Oreos to mint chocolate malt balls, as well as dark chocolate almonds and two creative pretzel confections to provide a sweet and salty balance. All these extra treats provide the proverbial icing on the birthday cake (see what we did there?).

The Football Fan

When fall Sundays roll around, your broski can be found on the couch drinking beer while watching football. Help him enhance his viewing experience with this NFL Craft Beer Flight Beverage Sampler. Coming in all 32 teams, these glasses are the perfect size to imbibe on a different beer each quarter. If the game goes into overtime, we’re sure he’ll know what to do.

birthday gifts for brothers Coffee Market Box

The Java Man

Is your brother one of those folks who can’t operate until he has a cup of coffee in the morning? The Wake Up & Smell the Coffee Market Box will have him fueled for days! Three different blends, along with a shot of vanilla latte, are just the start to fulfilling his caffeine dreams. The box also has has pick-me-up treats, such as espresso candy and rock candy swizzle sticks.

birthday gifts for brothers with gourmet snack box

The Insatiable Snacker

The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and your brother is no different. Gift that guy as many goodies as he can handle with the Grand Premium Snack Gift Tower or Premium Gourmet Snack Box. Both are filled with an incredible variety of salty and sweet treats that he (and his stomach) will surely thank you for.

7 Best Gifts for Teachers for Teacher Appreciation Week

gifts for teachers with teacher teaching young students

Besides you — and maybe including you — who spends the most time with your children? The answer is likely their teachers.

Educators put in long days working to shape the next generation, spending far more time at their jobs than just the hours between the morning and afternoon bells. The best ones can make an immeasurable impact on the lives of their students, and their hard work deserves to be acknowledged.

The perfect time to show these instructors how much you appreciate them and their efforts is during Teacher Appreciation Week, which this year is May 6-10.

Here is a curated list of the most meaningful gift options for teachers, taken from the advice of educators themselves.

1. Brighten their day with a floral bouquet

Nothing freshens up a school desk — or any workspace — better than a bouquet of fresh flowers. Choose an early spring variety, such as tulips, to match the season, or opt for a green plant that can serve as a reminder of your gratitude for years to come.

2. Make education easier with classroom supplies

Teachers face many challenges, one of which is a lack of basic classroom supplies. “In many underfunded districts, teachers have to purchase classroom supplies out of their own pockets,” explains Sarah Marier, a high school social studies teacher. “A great idea for Teacher Appreciation Week would be to ask for a wish list from your teacher and request donations on their behalf, or give them a gift card to purchase supplies they need.”

Students don’t realize how special gifts are when they celebrate the education behind them.
Alex Beene, Nashville high school teacher

3. Provide an opportunity for midday pampering

A little planning can go a long way toward making teachers feel appreciated. If you work in the school system, consider setting up some midday pampering during Teacher Appreciation Week.

“The school or PTA/PTO can show appreciation for teachers by treating them to one or two special lunches throughout Teacher Appreciation Week,” says Melissa Jones, who has been a teacher for more than two decades. “One year, the parent volunteers set up a smoothie and relaxation lounge where we could go and customize a smoothie and then get a 15-minute chair massage from a professional they hired. It was a wonderful treat and gave us an extra energy boost.”

If arranging for mid-day relaxation isn’t feasible, a spa day gift box makes for a thoughtful substitute.

4. Give meaningful gift cards

Avoid the struggle of figuring out exactly what teachers want by going the gift card route. Not only does this let each educator choose their present, but it still allows you some room for creativity.

Alex Beene, a high school teacher in Nashville, will never forget one student’s token of appreciation that came in gift card form.

“I received a gift card to Starbucks for $32 with a card attached. The note explained that the reason the gift card amount was ’32’ was because the student had scored a 32 on her ACT (good for the 97th percentile) and was so thankful for my help in getting there,” Beene says. “I was overwhelmed; I don’t think students realize how special gifts are when they celebrate the education behind them.”

5. Share something just for them

Bring a smile to your favorite teacher’s face every day with a personalized gift they can keep on their desk. Choose something practical — a pencil holder, paper note cube, or coffee tumbler with their name on it — or go for something unique, such as this teacher-themed gift box that comes with a frame, handmade soap, candle, and artificial succulent.

gifts for teachers with Girl giving teacher a gift

6. Gift some sweet treats

Dealing with rowdy students every day requires a lot of energy, so make sure your favorite teacher has a few treats on hand whenever they need an energy boost. Choose from boxes of gourmet cookies or specialty chocolates to show your appreciation. Themed gift baskets of baked goods or sweet and salty selections are always welcome, especially when there’s enough to share with the whole family.

You can even play off the “apple for the teacher” trope with an orchard-themed gift basket filled with fresh apples, roasted nuts, and dried fruit.

7. Present personalized notes

Sometimes, the simplest gifts have the most meaning. Teachers will forever treasure a heartfelt card that expresses your appreciation.

“The best gifts I’ve received for Teacher Appreciation Week are cards with thoughtful notes in them,” says Elizabeth Manly, an elementary school teacher. “I’ve saved all the cards I received throughout the years that tell me specifically why the parents appreciate me or why they’ve enjoyed having their child in my class. A thank you is nice, but a more meaningful note brightens my week.”

Great gifts for teachers

Any teacher would appreciate a lovely basket of flowers to dress up the classroom or bring home and enjoy. Our Teacher Appreciation collection features colorful arrangements and blooms that are perfect for showing teachers how important they are in their student’s lives, plus some unique gifts to make them feel truly special.

gifts for teachers with Thank You Assorted Roses — Thank You Assorted Roses

gifts for teachers with Simply Chocolate® Youre Amazing Personalized Box — Simply Chocolate® You’re Amazing Personalized Box

gifts for teachers with Teaching Touches Lives Personalized Crystal Apple Keepsake — Teaching Touches Lives Personalized Crystal Apple Keepsake

7 Ways to Honor Nurses During National Nurses Week

The past few years have been rough for health care workers. From navigating a global pandemic to combating chronic staffing shortages, nurses have been working harder than ever to keep us healthy.

National Nurses Week (May 6-12) is the perfect opportunity to show these health care heroes how much their selfless service means to you.

Here is a list of ways to honor nurses — with some input from actual nurses and their advocates — to serve as inspiration.

1. Write a thank-you note

Nurses devote their lives to serving others, so expressing your gratitude can go a long way toward making them feel valued. Take the time to write a heartfelt card and send it to a nurse you know who’s made a difference. Make the sentiment extra sweet by adding a “Thank You Healthcare Workers” popcorn tin.

2. Send a flower bouquet

The reality for nurses is that they are frequently exposed to sickness and sadness. Cheer them up with an infusion of life and color in the form of fresh flowers. These bouquets may be used to brighten up the break room at work or taken home to enjoy.

You can opt for a traditional bouquet of roses or go the cutesy route with a “Cure-All Doggie” gift, made from white carnations.

3. Give the gift of personal pampering

On their days off, nurses need nothing more than the chance to relax.

“As cliché as self-care sounds, it is necessary. Just as you recharge a car’s battery, we must recharge our own,” Elizabeth Cantu, BSN says. “Thoughtful gifts that encourage self-care while reminding us to unwind and fill our own cup first are much appreciated.”

Be creative with your present for pampering. A soothing tea and essential oil gift set, comfy personalized lounge socks, or supplies for a home spa day are all excellent options. Another is a themed box of chocolates to help them satisfy their sweet tooth while on break.

4. Food is always appreciated

When you spend your whole shift on your feet running from room to room, you can miss meals. That’s why the gift of food is always a hit among those in the nursing profession.

A Thank You Fruit and Sweets Basket is a clear sign of your appreciation and is easy to enjoy while on the clock. Or, go even bigger by covering dinner for an evening (or several!) with a gift of a gourmet ham dinner or prime rib feast.

5. Give gift cards (or even cash!)

Let’s be frank: What health care workers really want is to be paid more. The nursing profession is grueling under ideal circumstances, and the past couple of years have been anything but.

“The best way to celebrate National Nurses Week for these wonderful people is MONEY!” exclaims Evan McCarthy, CEO of online dental lab Sporting Smiles. “Nurses have sacrificed their own health and families during the pandemic, and they deserve more than a medal for their selfless service.”

While you may not be in a position to increase the salary of a nurse you know, a present of cash or practical gift cards is sure to be appreciated.

ways to honor nurses with nurse getting flowers

6. Think practical

Sometimes the best gifts are the most useful ones. Rebecca Morrison, NP for Alberta Health Services, has plenty of ideas that fall into that category. “Most nurses could use a high-quality black pen,” she says. “Legally, we have to write in black ink, and there is nothing better than having a really nice pen to write with. Or maybe give a super-fun lanyard or badge holder that we can easily clean.”

Consider also how you can provide extra comfort for nurses during their shifts. A cozy sweatshirt, Morrison says, is always a great gift idea. “Health care facilities tend to be quite cold, especially at night, so a warm sweater to go over our scrubs would make a long night shift more pleasant.”

7. Nominate a nurse for a DAISY Award

If there’s a nurse in your life you believe goes beyond their pay grade to show care and attention to patients, consider nominating them for a DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses. This recognition program began in 1999 and strives to honor nurses for all the super-human work they do every day.

Anyone, including patients, family members, co-workers, and other health care staff, can nominate a health care worker for this award. The program honors nurses all year long, not just during National Nurses Week.

Depending on the care facility, DAISY Award ceremonies may be held multiple times a year. All recipients receive a personalized certificate, award pin, hand-carved “healer’s sculpture,” and an online spotlight page recognizing why they were nominated.

Thank a nurse with a gift

Recognizing the sacrifices and patience of nurses is more important than ever. Flowers, gifts, balloons, and gift baskets are some of the best ways to honor nurses and show appreciation to all the selfless caregivers you know.

ways to honor nurses cure all doggie — Cure-All Doggie

ways to honor nurses with floral embrace bouquet — Floral Embrace™ Thank You

ways to honor nurses Thank You Chocolate Covered Strawberries — Thank You Artisan Belgian Chocolate Covered Strawberries

7 Ideas for Celebrating Valentine’s Day with Your Long-Distance Sweetie

The thought of Valentine’s Day may fill you with dread if you’re in a long-distance relationship. No one wants to watch those around you get showered with love when you live far away from your partner.

You don’t, however, have to let the distance get between you.

“Long-distance relationships can work — really! — especially when both partners are on the same page about communication and use technology as a tool to have quality time together,” says Lisa Concepcion, a certified love coach and the founder of LoveQuest Coaching.

“In the era of texting and video calls, there’s something so authentic and lasting about a handwritten card or letter.

Lisa Concepcion

Certified love coach and founder of LoveQuest Coaching

“Ideally, people who are interested in remaining in long-term relationships are on the same page about living separately,” she continues. “But, ultimately, the goal of relationships is to be in one where you’re together more than apart.”

If you are in two different places permanently or for long stretches at a time, then you need to find regular ways to reconfirm your commitment to each other — and Valentine’s Day offers a unique opportunity to do just that.

“Long-distance relationships require effort and creativity,” Concepcion elaborates. “So, be a team and talk about how you want to celebrate Valentine’s Day while apart. Make sure you plan ahead — that’s an important way to keep the relationship going.”

Need some inspiration? Here are seven ways to nurture that spark from afar this Valentine’s Day.

1. Plan a virtual dinner date

Don’t let distance prevent you from dining together as a couple. “If you can’t be together for Valentine’s Day, you can still plan a ‘digital dinner date,'” Concepcion says. “In fact, many of my clients who are in long-distance relationships connect for coffee breaks via video, go walking together while on the phone, and have dinner together through video chat.”

long distance valentine with man talking on phone

You can increase the sense of intimacy by enjoying the same meal. Make a shared favorite recipe, perhaps, or opt for a luxury experience with a delivered dinner like lobster pot pie or a hearty lasagna.

Make dinner more memorable for the holiday by exchanging gifts beforehand. You can ship a Valentine’s Day bouquet directly to their door and have them wait until you’re both on a video call to look at the blooms so you both can enjoy them in real time.

2. Have a long-distance spa day

It’s possible to pamper each other even when you’re hundreds of miles apart through an at-home spa day. This Valentine’s, indulge in a long video call as you relax together with facial masks, while taking bubble baths with the same scented body wash, or even after both enjoying a “couples” massage at spas near your homes.

Enhance the cozy and connected feeling for both of you with matching spa accessories, such as personalized fleece robes and plenty of candles.

3. Celebrate for multiple days

When you’re not meeting in person anyway, there’s no reason to limit the long-distance Valentine’s Day celebration to just one day. Concepcion has seen some couples get extra creative with daily gifts.

“I had a client hide 14 love notes around his long-distance girlfriend’s condo. He lives in New York, and she lives in Miami. On Feb. 1, the day he left for a month-long work project in Spain, he told her he had special love notes hidden and to photograph them each day when she finds one. Then, on Valentine’s Day, he surprised her with gifts of flowers , delivery from her favorite restaurant, and a card that included his travel itinerary to Miami, where they would spend a week together after his work project ended.”

There’s no need to go overboard in the present department, though. Think cute and quirky, like a mini heart puzzle, romantic photo Rubik’s cube, or keepsake magnets.

long distance valentine with woman getting flowers at work

And don’t underestimate the value of gifting an old-fashioned letter. Says Concepcion, “In the era of texting and video calls, there’s something so authentic and lasting about a handwritten card or letter.”

4. Send a surprise gift to their work

If possible, send your long-distance Valentine a gift where they will receive it publicly. That way, they’ll have a moment to feel proud of your relationship even if you don’t get to spend time together physically. A workplace gift is a perfect opportunity for something indulgent they can choose to share (or not!) with lucky coworkers.

Consider chocolate-covered strawberries, chocolate-dipped cheesecake bites, heart-shaped cookie “flowers,” or truffles. If the apple of your eye doesn’t have much of a sweet tooth, then a basket of fruit will be a welcome surprise.

Ensure your face is never far from your lover’s mind with a cute or romantic photo gift.

Get creative with how you use the photos. Maybe a canvas print of your favorite photo together for their living room, or go the steamier route and select a boudoir shot to display in the bedroom. A cozy throw blanket that depicts a smiling selfie of the two of you on a date will always be appreciated, or even a set of matching mugs with goofy candids of each of you.

6. Meet halfway (literally)

Your relationship may be long distance, but you can make Valentine’s Day the exception. “Make plans to see each other,” Concepcion says. “Make this part of the fun! Maybe you can both meet in a city between where you live or a city with the cheapest air tickets and accommodations. You’re already being adventurous — go anywhere!” The final destination is less important than getting to spend quality time in person.

long distance valentine Sweetheart Romance Bouquet — Sweetheart Romance™ Bouquet

long distance valentine Donut Bouquet — Donut Bouquet

long distance valentine with personalized photo blanket — Romantic Love Photo Collage Personalized Photo Blanket

7. Enjoy an online event together

Take advantage of Valentine’s Day as an opportunity to learn a new skill together — even if it needs to be virtual. There are classes for everything from creating a succulent garden with a “plantfluencer” to making gnocchi from scratch . You’ll get all the necessary supplies shipped to (both) homes beforehand, ensuring the session is a stress-free and stimulating experience for the two of you.

Alt Bashes: What These Unique Parties Are and Why We Should Have Them

Life can be challenging and stressful. Often, we look to traditional holidays — occasions that are meant to be celebratory and full of revelry — to provide us with a break from the everyday grind, but even those can put a lot of strain on us. That’s why it’s so important for our wellbeing that we acknowledge the smaller achievements in our lives.

Enter: alt bashes.

What’s an alt bash?

Alt bashes are parties that celebrate the little milestones in life. These are events that may seem minor but carry great significance to us. And, in this day age, they matter more than ever.

From puppy showers to break-up cakes, alt bashes prove it’s not just occasions like birthdays, weddings, and babies being born that warrant a shindig. Bought your first car? Celebrate it with a soiree. Signed the lease to a new apartment? It’s party time. Divorce just got finalized? Throw yourself an alt bash. (It might even turn out to be more fun than your wedding reception was!) These mini milestones all show that you’re moving forward in life, and they deserve to be celebrated.

Not only are alt bashes a fun reason to throw a party, but they can be good for our souls as well. Celebrations that bring us together to recognize small milestones are great ways to acknowledge progress toward achieving something greater, says psychotherapist Amy Morin, host of The Verywell Mind Podcast and author of the international bestseller 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do. “It feels really good to know that your friends and family know you’re working hard to reach a goal,” Morin says. This support network can be there after the party’s over, she says, to help you stay on track, supporting you along your journey.

“Celebrating smaller milestones or little victories can be instrumental in helping us stay motivated.

Amy Morin

Editor in chief, Verywell Mind

Celebrating small wins helps us stay motivated

One of the best parts of an alt bash is how liberating it can be. You can throw an alt bash for literally any reason, no matter how small the milestone. The freedom alt bashes offer gives us a chance to celebrate small victories on the way to big goals. “So often we think we have to wait until we reach the finish line before we can allow ourselves to celebrate the hard work we’ve put in,” Morin explains. “But sometimes celebrating smaller milestones or little victories can be instrumental in helping us stay motivated.” When we allow ourselves to break a bigger goal down into smaller, more manageable chunks, it’s easier to see our progress, Morin insists, and that can make the bigger goal seem more attainable.

photo of alt bash with young woman rejoicing at her computer

Morin encourages people to make sure goals are measurable and actionable. “Saying you want to become happier or get healthier won’t help. Instead, set out to go to the gym three times a week or pay off $100 in debt this month. Write down your goal and find a way to keep track of it, like just putting check marks on the calendar to show the days you worked on your goal.” Hosting an alt bash to celebrate meeting one of these mini goals can be a wonderful motivator and something to look forward to at the end of the task.

8 reasons to celebrate with an alt bash

Saying goodbye to the past and hello to the future

Revel in the end of a relationship when you’re ready to move on. Bake a breakup cake and throw a party with friends to help the healing process, whether it’s following a divorce or relationship ending.

photo of alt bash with friends celebrating a dog's adoption

Quitting a job

A party doesn’t just need to be reserved for a promotion or retirement. The great resignation has inspired plenty of “I Quit” parties that commemorate a new chapter beginning.

Adopting a pet

Your new fur baby can be any age when you celebrate their “Gotcha Day.” New pet parents can invite the special canines in their life to the party, but you’ll probably want to host that alt bash outside. (And don’t forget the party supplies!)

Overcoming a health obstacle

Whether it’s meeting a fitness goal, going through the last round of chemotherapy, or recovering from an injury, health milestones deserve a moment with loved ones.

Seeing the kids off into the world

Empty nest photoshoots have hilariously been trending online. Now it’s time to bring your social circle into the fun with an empty nest house party.

Meeting a financial milestone

photo of alt bash with friends with drinks toasting at rooftop party at night

Paying off a mortgage or big credit card bill, or becoming free of student loan debt takes lots of hard work and dedication, so why not celebrate the occasion (in a fiscally responsible way, of course)?

Improving your home life

We all have tasks around the house that we are always putting off. So if you finally get around to wall-mounting that TV, painting your bedroom, or organizing a closet, invite your buddies over for some delicious treats. Heck, throw in some wine and you might even be able to get them to help you with some other household chores while they’re there.

Welcoming a new member of the family

Baby showers aren’t just for babies, and they aren’t just for birth parents either. Adoption parties are just as special and exciting. This can also extend to fostering as well as annually celebrating the finalization day of an adoption.

Alt bash party planning tips

Alt bashes are fun and easy to plan. Here are three ways to make the preparations even simpler.

1. Focus on food

Specially themed cakes with fun puns and sayings relating to the milestone that’s being recognized make great centerpieces. And since alt bashes are meant to be laidback affairs, don’t spend time on lots of food prep. Instead, opt for a party menu that requires little effort, such as a sweet and savory brunch or a sampling of bakery favorites.

photo of alt bash with group of friends talking and laughing at lunch

2. Deck it out

Have fun with decorations that relate to the theme of the party. Grab some puppy-themed supplies for a dog adoption or a “Flying Colors” party pack after acing that big exam (get it?). And, of course, every alt bash needs a well-placed message banner (the cheekier the message, the better). With decor, you can go as far as you want. That means custom napkins, photo backdrops, wine bottle labels, you name it.

3. Don’t forget the games

Entertaining games make your guests feel like they’re part of the celebration. “Guess How Many” jars are popular and easy to make (except for the counting part). You can also find printable games on the internet for virtually every type of party. Just make sure to pick ones that keep the laughs coming, are easy to understand, and feed into the theme.

10 Delightful Ways to Celebrate National Rose Month

A photo of summer flowers with a woman smelling summer flowers

It’s finally here — National Rose Month! June is the special month we dedicate to celebrating the wildly popular rose. Roses are truly special flowers, with over 150 species that bloom all over the world in a variety of colors.

Roses have been a part of American history since the birth of the nation. It is believed that George Washington was an early American rose breeder, and the White House famously has its own rose garden, which presidents still use for important meetings and signings.

National Rose Month was established in 1959, as a way of trying to build support for making the rose the national flower of the United States. However, that goal was not realized until almost three decades later, when, in 1986, President Ronald Reagan declared the rose the national floral emblem, stating in his proclamation: “More often than any other flower, we hold the rose dear as the symbol of life and love and devotion, of beauty and eternity.” Since then, National Rose Month has taken on a larger significance, as it not only honors the beautiful flower but recognizes a symbol of our country.

It seems only fair, then, that we should mark this occasion in a floral and festive manner — whether that’s simply displaying a beautiful rose centerpiece, beginning a creative project, or traveling to a rose garden or rose festival. In honor of National Rose Month, we present 10 ways you can celebrate this most revered flower throughout the month of June.

1. Visit a rose garden

One of the best ways to celebrate the rose is to plan a trip to visit a rose garden. There are rose gardens all over the country, but you might be lucky enough to live close enough to one of the seven most beautiful rose gardens in the country. If you don’t live near any of these, a simple internet search will yield rose gardens located in your area.

2. Attend a rose festival

a photo of rose month with a float at the portland rose festival

Many rose festivals happen around the country in June. Portland, Oregon, known as the City of Roses, is home to one of the largest rose festivals, with four parades and dozens of events over a two-week period in early June. There’s also Elizabeth Park’s Rose Weekend in Connecticut, which takes place in the nation’s oldest operating rose garden. For Midwesterners, there’s the Slate Center Rose Festival in Marshalltown, Iowa, which hosts a well-known festival that attracts thousands of rose lovers each June.

3. Plant a rose bush

There’s a reason June was chosen as National Rose Month: This is when roses look their best. Many rose types love full sun, making them a great summer addition to your garden. Pro tip: Never plant roses in soil where you have planted roses before, as it can make the new rose more susceptible to disease. Roses also need lots of nutrient-dense soil to keep their blooms fresh all summer long.

4. Decorate with roses

Since roses peak in June, it’s the perfect time to clip a few from your garden or have fresh rose plants delivered to bring a lively presence to your decor. Beyond that, rose patterns are a common decorating theme and cover a variety of home decor items. Now’s the time to display those beautiful rose pillows or set out a fragrance diffuser and votive candle and fill your home with the unmistakable scent of roses.

5. Turn roses into rose water

Rose water is a clean and delicate floral liquid with just two ingredients: rose and water! Rose water is simple enough to make at home: Just toss a handful of rose petals and a few cups water into a pot, bring to a boil, and then reduce the heat and simmer for five to 10 minutes, or until the rose petals have lost their color. Prep in batches to keep rose water on hand for a variety of recipes, such as…

6. Make rose water ice cream

With homemade rose water in your pantry, the best way to celebrate a June holiday is with homemade ice cream! Bring the flavor of authentic Persian rosewater ice cream to your freezer with our easy-to-make recipe, which uses rose water for a floral note and chopped pistachios for a crunch. Add a half teaspoon of saffron powder for a golden hue and earthy sweetness.

7. Send a friend or loved one roses

a photo of rose month with gifting someone roses

One of the best ways to celebrate any holiday is to share the love and get gifts in celebration. In honor of National Rose Month, send a fresh bouquet of roses to someone who you know loves receiving flowers. No need to stick to traditional red roses either: With colorful options like sorbet, kaleidoscope, pale pink, or bright yellow, you have a variety of ways to send someone a splash of color.

8. Make your own rose arrangement

Of course, while you’re brightening someone else’s day with roses, make sure to get some for yourself, too. Stock up on fresh roses in a variety of colors and gather the family for a fun afternoon activity. Get creative with not only the arrangements but also the containers. For instance, you can arrange roses in a planter’s box, recycled glass bottles, crates, tin cans…you name it! The main rules of flower arrangements are: balance, proportion, unity, harmony, and emphasis.

9. Make pressed roses

a photo of rose month with a woman pressing roses

Pressed roses make for great craft projects. Follow our tutorial, and you can have your very own pressed flowers in five minutes using a microwave, or go with the old-fashioned method of pressing them into a book, which takes about a month. Either way, pressed roses make for beautiful decor and creative projects.

10. Learn how to keep roses for longer

We all want our roses to stick around as long as possible, and to help you with that, we have an easy-to-follow guide on how to keep cut roses fresher for longer. First, make sure to cut the stem at an angle one inch from the bottom. Then, clip the leaves — don’t rip them, as that can cause bacteria to grow in the water. It’s also good to keep roses in a cool room and away from direct sunlight. And, of course, change the water every few days as needed. Just these few tips will add days or weeks to the life of your roses!

How to Choose the Best Flowers for Graduation

Graduation is a joyous event of hope and celebration. It is marked by caps and gowns, colorful tassels, and an armful of fresh flowers for graduation that symbolize achievement and optimism. Acknowledging a college or high school graduate for this wonderful accomplishment with a special gift is a gesture that he or she will truly appreciate.

You’ll want your gift to be both meaningful and personal to your favorite grad, and for this you have many options. Whether you plan to say “Congratulations!” before, during, or after the graduation ceremony will help determine which bouquet or gift might be best. Here are four questions to consider.

1. Will you be attending the graduation?

If you will be greeting the graduate after the ceremony, be prepared with anything from a spray of white roses to a sunny mixed bouquet of sunflowers, delphinium, and yellow daisy poms. “Bright and cheerful is always a good choice for congrats,” says Jackie Lacey, past president of the American Institute of Floral Designers and director of education and industry relations at the Floriology Institute. “This is a message to both the recipient as well as the season. Sunflowers, field flowers (gerbera daisy, mums, flowers traditionally found in the ‘grab and go’) are easy to find in so many places.”

flowers for graduation with a cap decorated with flowers

2. What is your relationship to the graduate?

If you are a close friend or family member of the graduate and can prepare a gift ahead of time, consider helping to decorate the cap. This is a popular trend, as it allows graduates to express their joy and creativity to their graduating class and all in attendance. Flower garlands, paper flowers, special messages, comical observations…the possibilities are endless!

3. Is this a college or high school ceremony?

Select your flowers and gifts appropriately for your graduate’s age. For instance, a classic bunch of roses, in yellow, red, or sterling, commemorates the college grad with flair, while orchid leis are very popular among high schoolers (and you can make your own for a personal touch).

Is your college graduate a member of a fraternity or sorority? Find out if the Greek organization with which they’re affiliated is associated with a particular flower, and include that in your bouquet. You can also add a cute animal gift that reflects the school mascot, such as a bear, tiger, or bulldog.

4. What special message do you want to convey?

Graduation is a life event that is steeped in tradition, and your gift to the graduate can reflect that. Obtaining a bachelor’s degree at many universities is marked by special types of flowers with historic meaning. (See the section below titled “Special meanings of plants and flowers.”)

flowers for graduation with male graduate holding flowers

Like many other traditions, however, the rules bend, and even disappear, when it comes to today’s grads. “Today’s generation is more accepting of the act of giving and not so caught up in the hidden message,” Lacey says. “Taking their personal likes, hobbies, career choice, and style into the decision process will let the recipient know some thought was put into the gift.”

Your graduate — whether they’re going from college to the “real world” or high school to college — is facing a new phase of life. That likely means moving to a new apartment or house, or into a dorm. Consider gifting this person a meaningful lily plant or box of easy-to-maintain succulents that will last.

Ideas for the graduation party

Another way to infuse this special day with flowers is through decorations at the after-party. This event should be relaxed and colorful, and your flower choices should reflect that.

Consider florals for both the tables and as gifts for guests. “Themed centerpieces are a big hit, and flowers to wear means everyone gets a takeaway,” Lacey says. Make boutonnieres for each guest using gerbera daisies or carnations, and add a little paper graduation cap.

Create a vignette that is reminiscent of the school experience: books, chalkboards, pencil boxes, cap tassels, and replicas of the school logo are some elements you could incorporate. Then, for each table, create a centerpiece that has a school theme. Here’s one idea: Gather vintage books and stack three or four on each table, and then tie them with ribbon, like a present. Place a mason jar on top filled with blooms like hydrangea or sunflowers.

Another idea centers around old-fashioned slates, which evoke the iconic one-room schoolhouse. Glue a dowel on a small chalkboard with the words “You Did It!” or “School’s Out,” and then place it in a moss-filled basket with floral foam underneath to hold the dowel up. Adorn with greens like ivy and eucalyptus, and stud with carnations.

Of course, food and cake are important to get just right, too. Be sure to include the graduate’s favorite foods, and make everything easy to serve and eat — you want fun, not fussy, at this party. A few pretty flowers studding the cake is a nice touch — or serve graduation-themed cookies or cake pops on a raised platter.

Special meanings of plants and flowers

a photo of graduation flowers with a pink rose

“The Language of Flowers” was promulgated in Victorian times to help people convey meanings in a beautiful way that did not require words. Here are four flowers with assigned meanings that are particularly pertinent at graduation time.

Carnation = Admiration
Bay laurel = Success, personal achievement
Pink rose = Reward of virtue
Clematis = Ingenuity, mental excellence

An arrangement containing one or two of these flowers is a perfect way to say “Congratulations on your remarkable achievement.” And, perhaps, you can explain the significance of the flowers in your accompanying card.

4 Best Finals Week Care Packages to Get Students

“Celebration Inspiration” is all about bringing you top-notch advice and creative ideas to make the most of life’s special moments. Finals week is stressful for students. Help set them up for success with a finals care package that includes food, sleep aids, and comforting clothes.

We commonly celebrate special occasions and accomplishments with gifts, but an unexpected delivery during times of struggle or separation can make a big difference. Care packages help recipients cope with stress by strengthening connections and making them feel cared for — as the name implies.

Anyone in a challenging situation may appreciate a gesture acknowledging their struggle. Deployed military members, people caring for sick or injured loved ones, and new parents all can use extra support. There’s another group of people that could also use a pick-me-up this time of year: students studying for finals.

Students face unique academic and social pressures, especially in the lead-up to major tests and assignment deadlines. “The weeks before finals are particularly intense,” explains Derek Young, executive director of student life at St. Mary’s College of Maryland. “Younger students are often learning to balance competing priorities for the first time without parental supervision, and juniors and seniors are facing the added pressure of upper-level projects, their job market prospects, and what their grades will mean for their future career opportunities.” This leads to finals week being incredibly demanding all around, with most students reporting end-of-semester stress and a third listing finals as the biggest stressor in their lives.

“We have a lot of resources on campus to help students who are struggling socially and academically,” Young notes, “but getting support from friends and family back home makes a big difference.”

Research supports Young’s observation, as studies show that student persistence increases with parental engagement and greater parental involvement in college correlates to higher GPAs. In other words, supporting college students from afar has tangible benefits for both their mental health and academic performance.

“Regular phone calls are a great way to stay connected,” Young says, “but sending a care package during finals week shows your student that you are thinking of them and rooting for their success.”

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What kind of care package to send

Care packages often include food and other essentials. More than just fun presents, they also offer a unique opportunity to assist the students we love in tangible ways.

Young encourages parents to think about who their child is when considering what kind of care package to send. “You know your own student best,” Young observes. “You can’t go wrong when you include items that save them time, energy, and resources, and thereby allow your student to focus on their academics.”

Regular phone calls are a great way to stay connected, but sending a care package during finals week shows your student that you are thinking of them and rooting for their success.

Derek Young, executive director of student life, St. Mary’s College of Maryland

If you are putting together something yourself, tuck in homemade treats and favorite comforting household articles. Even if you are ordering from a retailer, gourmet goodies and gifts that express warmth — both literally and figuratively — should comprise effective care packages.

It’s also a good idea to include helpful items, such as academic supplies or tools for overcoming challenges. We’ve put together the following guide of the four best kinds of gifts to put in finals week care packages. With our advice, you’ll help your student alleviate stress and set them up for success.

1. Food and beverages

“Send your student their favorite comfort food and something they can share with their friends as they study together and support each other,” Young suggests.

a photo of a finals care package: pail of cookies

Treats for fun and comfort, like a bucket of cookies or tub of popcorn, can help your favorite student become the most popular member of their finals study group.

a photo of a finals care package: fruit and nuts tray

Nutritious choices, such as fruit and nuts, are also great for providing energy for studying without causing a blood sugar crash.

a photo of a finals care package: chicken pot pie meal

“Non-traditional students who have additional responsibilities to manage during finals week will benefit from meals or a gift certificate for food delivery,” Young suggests.

Adult students may also appreciate a reward they can look forward to after exams, such as a gift certificate for a relaxing massage or a celebratory bottle of wine. Even something simple, such as bath bombs, can help students recover from finals week stress.

2. Sleep support

Poor sleep hygiene is an ongoing issue for college students, and the added pressure around finals results in many all-nighters. Unfortunately, even relatively minor sleep deprivation can lead to cognitive impairment. “Good sleep helps students retain material and focus during exams, but this may be particularly difficult to achieve during finals week,” Young notes. You can help your student fall asleep quickly and stay asleep longer with a eucalyptus gift set, which features a weighted blanket, room-darkening sleep mask, and scented candle. A white noise machine can also help block out background sounds at all hours of the night.

3. Study tools

a photo of a student reading a book wrapped in a blanket

“Sometimes the best gifts for students are just the tools they need to easily access and manage their workload,” Young suggests. “A gift card to the campus bookstore lets them top up on pens, highlighters, and note cards.” Help your visual learner organize their time with a personalized planner or re mote learning journal. Technology upgrades that allow them to work faster or more comfortably, such as noise cancelling headphones for the library, are also good options.

4. Gifts of comfort

“Reminders of their support network can help students conquer homesickness and stay more focused during particularly stressful times,” Young notes.

While we all wish we could give our son or daughter a big ol’ hug through the phone, gifts that have a “cozy” vibe can provide the same feeling of comfort and love. If your student is living far from home and missing friends or family, you might send a photo from home while also warming them with gifts like these silly socks or a blanket.

4 Gifting Tips for the Person Who Is Hard to Shop For

“Celebration Inspiration” is all about bringing you top-notch advice and creative ideas to make the most of life’s special moments. It can hard to find presents for picky people. Here are four pieces of advice for picking a gift for the person who is hard to shop for.

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We all have someone in our life who is a challenge to shop for. That person might be your best friend, a coworker, a sibling, or even your spouse. Or it could be all of them. Regardless, they have one thing in common: Shopping for gifts for them is really, really daunting.

Maybe they already have the most cutting-edge technology and latest gadgets. Or they wear next month’s fashion before anyone else and there’s no trend they aren’t already setting. Or, possibly, they have few interests or hobbies (at least that you’re aware of), making them impossible to shop for.

The prospect of finding the right gift for your hard-to-shop-for friend does not have to be overwhelming, says Evan Polman, an associate professor of marketing at Wisconsin School of Business at the University of Wisconsin. He’s done plenty of research on the subject of picking gifts for picky people — “someone with narrow-and-unpredictable preferences.” He found that when shopping for picky people, gifters tend to buck typical gift-giving norms. But, often, that path can be a tricky one to navigate.

If you want to embrace the challenge of choosing the perfect present for the person who is hard to shop for, here is your gifting game plan.

1. Give gifts that vanish

Often, hard-to-shop-for people have one thing in common: They say they don’t necessarily want, or need, more stuff.

“There can be wildly different reasons making someone hard to shop for: They might already have everything, or they might be a minimalist with next to nothing,” says Sam Maglio, associate professor of marketing and psychology at the University of Toronto. “Either way, giving someone a material gift can turn out to be a pretty big imposition on the recipient.”

person who is hard to shop for: woman receiving flowers

Physical gifts that establish or reinforce a connection between the giver and sender can be a bit of an inconvenience even if they appreciate the gift. You can avoid this awkward situation by opting for a gift that goes away.

Brighten their day with flowers, appeal to their refined palate with a charcuterie board, make their dinner one to remember, or treat them to a scrumptious dessert.

These options are fantastic ways to avoid giving someone who has everything a redundant gift or something they simply don’t need. Even the most discerning people are sure to enjoy these gifts. I mean, everyone eats, right?

Polman agrees, saying that gifts that are not materialistic are refreshing options at a time when we’re living in a world of excessive consumerism.

2. Consider gifts that last

People may be hard to shop for because they’re not interested in frivolity or things that won’t last. Instead, if they’re going to receive a gift, they want to be able to hold on to it for the long haul.

“If you choose a gift that lasts, like a plant, preserved roses, or a personalized robe — a gift that keeps on giving — you can enhance their life experience,” says Valerie Ghitelman, vice president of product development, sourcing, and design at 1-800-Flowers.com.

And that, she says, is something that even the pickiest of giftees will appreciate.

Another great way to think outside the box is by giving the gift of a subscription. From flowers to mystery gift boxes, there are practically endless subscription service options out there, so do a little digging and find the perfect one for your hard-to-shop-for friend.

3. Personalized sentimentality is a must

The worth of a gift is rarely defined by its monetary cost. Sure, this aspect of an item can be a factor, but the most memorable gifts are seldom those that cost the most. Instead, they are gifts that hold a special place in the recipient’s heart.

Appealing to their sentimental side with something very personalized, like custom books, photo albums, embroidered pillows, etc., is a clever way to ensure your gift is really appreciated, Ghitelman says.

“A personalized gift is a great way to show your recipient that you took the time to really think.”

You can tap into gift-giving emotion by tailoring your gift specifically for the moment, accounting for their personality and preferences, and making the gift uniquely you.

4. Opt for experiences instead of items

One gift Maglio suggests for people who are hard to shop for is experiences.

“Experiential gifts just might be the magic bullet,” he recommends. “They solve so many problems inherent in gift giving, especially when you’re dealing with someone who is hard to shop for.”

From taking them to a class or workshop, concert, sporting event, or art gallery, to going on a hike, there is no shortage of possibilities when it comes to experiences. Get a little creative, play to their preferences, and keep things flexible so scheduling doesn’t become an issue.

Whether it’s someone who already has everything or someone with narrow interests, an experiential gift can open doors to new — and future — possibilities, Maglio advises.

“Giving someone a material gift can turn out to be a pretty big imposition on the recipient,” he says. “It’s like, ‘Here’s a blender. Find room for it in your kitchen, because you’re a blender guy now.’ What if, instead, we gave them a voucher for a cooking class?”

This allows the recipient to “test-drive the blender personality” and think about whether they like cooking in the first place, then decide for themselves.

Experiential gifts just might be the magic bullet. They solve so many problems inherent in gift giving, especially when you’re dealing with someone who is hard to shop for.

Sam maglio

Associate professor of marketing and psychology

University of Toronto

Plus, Maglio mentions, research shows that experiential gifts are better for strengthening the relationship between giver and receiver because it helps to avoid pushing items receivers don’t want on them and you can do the activity with them.

Giving experiences instead of items has several benefits. It prevents you from accidentally giving someone something they already have, shows thoughtfulness, and strikes an emotional chord. After all, we tend to reflect fondly more so on memories than tangible goods.

The difficulty of shopping for someone who seemingly has everything does not need to deter you from finding the right gift. And, if all else fails, take Polman’s advice: “Ask them what they want.”