32 Thoughtful Thank You Gifts to Show Your Gratitude
Updated: Aug. 28, 2023
Show your appreciation for all they’ve done with thank you gifts they’ll truly love.
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When someone goes above and beyond for you, you might wonder if it’s enough to send a heartfelt thank-you message or if you should instead give them thank you gifts.
“A handwritten thank-you note goes the extra mile past politeness toward graciousness and shows sincerity, intention and effort,” says Taylor Elizabeth Perramond, founder and director of the Elegance Advisor Consultancy.
And a thank-you card is always the appropriate response when you receive a gift, says Crystal L. Bailey, director of the Etiquette Institute of Washington. “We like to think of gift-giving as discretionary, but there are certain instances when a thank-you gift is required.”
Ready to shop? We found the perfect gift ideas to convey your gratitude, whether you’re buying for a friend, a colleague, a neighbor or any other person who’s gone out of their way for you. From sweet treats and beauty products to personalized gift ideas and completely unique gifts, these affordable tokens of appreciation are guaranteed to make that special someone smile.
For sober pals: Knack Thanks & Cheers Gift Set
Looking for thank you gifts for someone abstaining from alcohol? This cheerful gift set lets you raise a glass of Töst’s nonalcoholic sparkling beverage to show your gratitude. It also includes Sugarfina’s candy Thank You Bento Box and two gem crystal martini tumblers. This also makes a sweet gift for a family member, like a sister or sister-in-law.
For caretakers: HopeLoveShine Thank You Necklace
This chic interlocking-circle pendant is stylish, sure, but it’s the meaning behind the bauble that makes it a beautiful piece of jewelry. Each handmade linked design—crafted in 14k gold vermeil and sterling silver—is a symbol of unity and gratitude.
And the ribbon-wrapped, book-shaped box opens like a story and displays the message: “You give your time. You give your hands. But most of all you give your heart. All your time and effort doesn’t go unnoticed. It makes a difference to so many people.” For more one-of-a-kind finds, these Etsy gifts won’t disappoint.
For homebodies: Natural Succulents Thank You Gift Box
Take the guesswork out of thank-you gift ideas for people who love to hang out at home. This nicely priced sweet bundle gets anyone ready for a chill night in: It comes with a pair of fuzzy socks, velvet scrunchies, hot cocoa mix, a hand-poured soy candle, matches, a bath bomb, lip balm and a personalized greeting card. It’s all presented in a boldly printed designer box—no wrapping paper required.
For on-the-go types: Yeti Rambler 30-Ounce Travel Mug
Yeti is like the Tiffany & Co. of tumblers. Once you own one, it becomes clear why so many people are die-hard fans of the brand. The quality and craftsmanship of this cup-holder-compatible design feature double-wall vacuum insulation and a leak-resistant lid, and as a bonus, it’s dishwasher safe. Customize it with text or a photo for an extra-special personalized gift.
For animal lovers: CurioPress Personalized Animal Note Card Set
Any pet parent will adore this personalized stationery that features an illustrated version of their furry BFF. Pick a pup, customize the text, then choose from 21 ink and envelope colors. It’s the paw-fect gift for dog lovers.
There’s also a feline version if you’re looking for gifts for cat lovers.
For chocolate super-fans: Harry & David Chocolate Box
“Food items are always reliable thank-you gifts”, notes Perramond. She particularly likes Harry & David’s selection because there are loads of different choices based on your budget and the recipient’s preferences. If the person you’re buying for has a sweet tooth, opt for this delectable “You’re the Sweetest” gift box.
It includes dark chocolate raspberry, dulce de leche, double chocolate and dark chocolate truffles. You should also bookmark this list of the best online flower delivery services for more thank you gift ideas they’re sure to love.
For serious snackers: Broadway Basketeers Token of Appreciation Gift Tower
When it comes to thank you gifts, simple and understated usually suffice. But if you really want to make a statement, this colorful tower of gift boxes is packed with a variety of scrumptious sweets and treats. The goodies include Lindt chocolate truffles, cinnamon yogurt pretzels, chocolate-drizzled caramel popcorn, a sweet-and-savory snack mix, assorted fruit puffs and gourmet cookies. Need a last-minute present? Here are more convenient Amazon Prime gifts that will arrive in a jiffy.
For tired parents: Augustinus Bader Eye Patches
The ideal thank you gifts for women (or men) are the ones a recipient might not buy for themselves. These brand-new eye patches from cult-favorite skincare brand Augustinus Bader are a little slice of luxury. The golden hydrogel patches will brighten dark under-eye circles and hydrate and plump the skin. Trust us, sleep-deprived parents will thank you.
For terrific teachers: Custom Mini Succulent Pot
Educators are our unsung heroes. And you don’t have to wait until the holidays to acknowledge their tireless commitment to children. The best thank you gifts for teachers are the ones that show you care, and this mini ceramic pot will do the trick.
Customize it with a thoughtful message (like, “thank you for helping me grow”) then add one of these succulents for the perfect desk accessory.
For wine connoisseurs: Big Dot of Happiness Wine Bottle Stickers
“It’s always a good idea to give the hostess a gift when attending a party they throw or stay at their home for the weekend, even if it’s just a bottle of wine,” says etiquette expert Lisa Mirza Grotts. When it comes to gifts for wine lovers, pick up a good bottle of vino, then add a memorable touch with these sticker labels that express your gratitude. The four designs display sayings like “Good Friends Deserve Good Wine” and “You’re Simply the Best.”
For skin-care aficionados: Replenix Picture Perfect Kit
Thank you gifts for beauty devotees don’t have to cost a fortune. For less than $20, get this Picture Perfect set from the medical-grade skin-care brand Replenix. The pint-size kit features a soothing antioxidant mist, anti-aging retinol serum, redness-reducing face cream, brightening eye cream, a compact mirror and a cute botanical-print cosmetic bag.
For cookie monsters: Cheryl’s Cookies Thanks a Bunch Treats Tin
Almost everyone enjoys a yummy treat, and you can’t go wrong with cookies. Plus, “food is always a good gift,” confirms etiquette expert Jules Hirst. This “Thanks a Bunch” treats tin has 12 cookie varieties, including buttercream frosted, chocolate chip, sprinkles and sugar. If you love to bake, whip up a batch of these homemade food gifts.
For home chefs: Man Crates Salts of Legend
When searching for thank you gifts for coworkers, consider a colleague’s hobbies and interests. Spice up a grill master or at-home chef’s seasoning game with this set of salts that add a pop of flavor to any meal. It includes Himalayan Pink Salt, French Grey Salt, Mediterranean Sea Salt and Hawaiian Black Lava Salt—all perfect additions to meats, veggies and popcorn.
For beer fans: Personalized Photo Bottle Carrier
Booze is a reliable pick when you need thank you gifts for small acts of kindness. Instead of buying a simple six-pack, put their favorite brews in this personalized bottle carrier. It’s custom-printed with a photo of your choice and one line of text. For less than $10, it’s a budget-friendly way to turn a traditional gift into something extra special. It’s also a fun way to say cheers to a buddy.
For hot-sauce enthusiasts: Mike’s Hot Honey Combo Pack
When it comes to condiments, some like it hot. Almost 45,000 five-star ratings and 4,000 five-star reviews rave about these spicy sauces, which add a kick to dressings, marinades and meats. Add a little of the original or the extra-hot version to fried chicken and wings, drip it on pizza or use it instead of regular honey in cocktails and tea. These Amazon bestsellers are all-natural and gluten-free, and they don’t contain any artificial sugar or preservatives.
For the cleaning-conscious: Williams Sonoma Meyer Lemon Kitchen Essentials Kit
Thank you gift baskets and sets are “wonderful not only in the way they are beautifully presented but also because they offer such a wide variety of options,” says Perramond. She particularly likes Williams Sonoma’s Meyer Lemon selection. This perfectly packaged pick includes hand soap, dish soap and countertop spray. The products don’t feature any harsh chemicals so are extra gentle on the skin.
For shoppers on a budget: The Popcorn Factory Cards with Pop
If you’re cash-strapped but want something that’s a step up from a basic note, this idea adds an extra “pop.” Send this colorful mini box packed with yummy caramel popcorn for a surprise treat. You’ll find more inexpensive ideas on our list of affordable gifts that don’t look cheap.
For beauty buffs: Ilia The Eye Set
Sure, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but Ilia’s ready-to-gift Eye Set ensures their peepers look their best. It includes the clean makeup brand’s award-winning mascara, liquid liner and cream-to-powder eyeshadow in two finishes. Also, check out Ilia’s Skin Tint—their bestselling foundation that’s sold more than 3 million bottles.
For cozy connoisseurs: Cozy Earth Bamboo Pajama Set
Whether it’s for a parent running on fumes or just someone who’s serious about getting a solid eight hours of shut-eye, a fancy pair of pajamas is a primo present pick. Enter Cozy Earth’s Bamboo Pajama Set: These temperature-regulating PJs have thousands of five-star reviews from happy customers, and they’re a Reader’s Digest editor fan-favorite too.
For tea drinkers: DavidsTea Sleep & Relax Tea Sampler
This thoughtful gift set for tea lovers offers up tea with a wellness twist. The 12 loose-leaf infusions help the drinker relax, calm down and sleep. We’ll drink to that—and so will they.
For scent mavens: Tocca Hair Mist
“I love a hair mist because it’s excellent to give to girlfriends, whether they are athletic or just love smelling good,” says Bailey. Tocca’s floral-scented sprays feature a mix of moisturizing oils that keep strands fragrant and shiny. “Even if they don’t use it for their hair, it’s useful to mist in your home, and the bottles are small enough for me to keep a few in the house.” Translation: Stock up so you have them on hand when you need them.
For the health-conscious: Goalz Chocolate Bundle
People on restricted diets still deserve to indulge. Thankfully, Goalz serves up sugar-, soy- and dairy-free sweet treats. These plant-based, Keto-friendly and diabetic-approved chocolate discs will satisfy any health-minded foodie. Trust us: These artisan-quality desserts may be low-carb, but they’re bursting with flavor.
For jewelry lovers: Shinery Radiance Jewelry Wash
These days, everyone is an obsessive hand washer, but this genius cleanser has an added benefit: It also removes dirt and oils from your jewelry, making it sparkle and shine in seconds. Simply layer on your baubles, dispense a few pumps into your palms and lather and rinse as usual. The plant-derived ingredients are gentle for daily use and safe on all metals and gemstones, including pearls, opals, emeralds and turquoise.
For practical fashionistas: Maui Jim Kawika Sunglasses
If you’re searching for thank you gift ideas for a style-minded pal who has really gone above and beyond for you, buy a pair of Maui Jim sunglasses. These splurge-worthy polarized frames are ultra-lightweight, scratch- and shatter-resistant and will last a lifetime. Choose black gloss, trendy tortoiseshell or crystal frames.
For zodiac followers: Tai Zodiac Charm Necklace
Anyone obsessed with astrology can proudly display their sign with this chic brass multi-charm necklace. The pendant features two zodiac charms and a sparkling moonstone gem.
For the hostess: La Tourangelle Black Truffle Infused Oil
Never show up empty-handed to a dinner party. Thank your host with a luxury cooking oil to spruce up their next meal. This La Tourangelle black truffle–infused oil amps up any culinary creation.
Drizzle it on pizza, top off popcorn, mix it in pasta or use it as a dip for bread. With more than 5,000 five-star ratings on Amazon, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. This is also a fun (and tasty) idea for wedding thank you gifts and favors.
For dessert lovers: Last Crumb Cookies
Last Crumb cookies are so delicious, you’ll devour—like its name suggests—every last crumb. The LA-based company freshly bakes these scrumptious sweets and releases limited-edition batches each week. Score a set of 12 unique and decadent flavors (like Nutella S’mores, Have Your Churro & Eat It Too and Pumpkin Spiced Latte), which are handcrafted with premium ingredients.
Each individually wrapped delicacy arrives in a luxury gift box that acts like a tasting experience. If you’re looking for dinner party thank you gift ideas for gourmands, this one is sure to make an impression.
For candle collectors: Birthdate Tarot Candle
It’s a simple fact: Women love scented candles. For mystical-minded ladies, this all-natural, soy-blend hand-poured candle features a special surprise. Melt the wax to reveal an engraved gold-plated tarot charm for a unique reading just for you.
The spiritual charm doubles as a pendant, which can be strung on any chain and worn as a necklace. And if you need a birthday gift, we love the brand’s Birthdate candles.
For long-distance loved ones: Personalized Mailbox
Do you wish you could hug a loved one to show your appreciation? If they aren’t within arm’s reach, this miniature mailbox—emblazoned with “Sending a Big Hug”—is the next best thing. Personalize it with a name and one line of text, then add their favorite candies, treats or a gift card if you’re feeling generous. Consider it an upgrade to the traditional thank-you card, and a gift that grandparents or parents will absolutely adore.
For loungewear lovers: Chaser Cotton Pullover and Joggers
There are certain instances where you may want to invest more, explains Perramond, like if someone offers ongoing assistance or is exceptionally generous. In that case, for lazy-day loungers or no-dress-code work-from-home employees, comfy matching loungewear sets are a worthy splurge. This Chaser pullover and matching joggers—in eye-catching tie-dye—is a sophisticated upgrade from ratty old sweats, and they’re stylish enough to wear outside too.
For skin-care novices: The Ultimate Kiehl’s Skincare Kit
If you’re a skincare newbie, navigating the beauty market and figuring out the correct order to apply products is daunting. This Kiehl’s Starter Kit takes the guesswork out of skincare routines by providing every step needed for glowing skin. The six-piece set includes customer-favorite formulas including their Ultra Facial Cleanser, Avocado Eye Cream and Deep Pore Cleansing Masque. They’ll end up thanking you for the flawless complexion.
For budding artists: Create Your Own Comic Book
Hirst loves giving books as thank you gifts based on the recipient’s interests. Whether you’re buying for kids or the young-at-heart, this DIY comic book is a fun gift for artists of any skill level. The 102-page tome features templates to inspire the creative process and help them dream up their own characters and storylines.
FAQ
When should you give a thank-you gift?
According to Bailey, you should give thank you gifts when someone has shown you hospitality or kindness that touched you in a special way.
Perramond offers up some examples of times she would choose to give physical presents: “To a friend who house-sat while I was on holiday, a property manager who always handles things with tact and a sense of urgency, a business contact who went out of their way to refer me to a client or a family member who invited me to stay at their home.”
Still stumped on whether to send a thank-you note or a gift? Perramond says to ask yourself the following questions:
- Was the person’s behavior, actions or generosity at a level where you would like to give special recognition?
- Was the act selfless, unexpected and deeply sincere to a point where a simple thank-you doesn’t feel sufficient and/or would not adequately express your gratitude?
- In the case of a professional relationship, are you or your company profiting in any way?
- Would this gift support your relationship because it would effectively communicate the sincerity of your appreciation?
How to choose a thank-you gift
When it comes to thank you gifts, it’s all about thoughtfulness. “There’s no need to break the bank,” says Bailey. Your first and foremost question should be: Is this something that will bring them joy? Consider the person’s hobbies, lifestyle and personality. If you don’t know them well, you usually can’t go wrong with something edible. “They may not have your taste in art or even paperweights, but almost everyone enjoys a box set of unique teas or coffee roasts,” Bailey adds.
Perramond also believes your gift should be proportional to what you are expressing thanks for, and it should be appropriate for the relationship. For example, a nice bouquet of flowers is a thoughtful way to say thank you to a neighbor for feeding your cat. If a professional contact refers your business to someone and it results in a lucrative contract, then consider investing in something a bit more significant—say, tickets to a show, a wine tour or another gifting experience.
How much should you spend?
If you’re still unsure about what to spend on thank you gifts, a general guideline is $25 to $75, depending on the context. “However, make someone feel really appreciated by presenting a thoughtful gift to them regardless of the price,” insists Perramond. “It really is the effort made and the thought behind the gift that counts.”
About the Experts
- Taylor Elizabeth Perramond: Perramond is the founder and director of the Elegance Advisor Consultancy. She has 13+ years of experience catering to 22 nations on five continents. The award-winning certified etiquette and image advisor holds a professional diploma in Etiquette and Protocol, an MBA in International Business and a Master of the Arts in International Affairs.
- Crystal L. Bailey: Bailey is the director of The Etiquette Institute of Washington and has more than a decade of experience as an etiquette professional, image consultant and public speaker. Bailey received her formal etiquette training at Debrett’s of London and Etiquette à la Française of Montpellier and is certified by The London Image Institute.
- Lisa Mirza Grotts: Grotts is a 23-year certified authority on etiquette and the author of A Traveler’s Passport to Etiquette. She is the former Director of Protocol for the City and County of San Francisco and wrote a manners blog for HuffPost for eight years.
- Jules Martinez Hirst: Hirst is an etiquette expert, the co-author of the book The Power of Civility and the founder of Etiquette Consulting Inc. She offers modern manners classes and is dedicated to providing students and employees with tips and techniques to handle proper etiquette in today’s highly competitive, global marketplace.
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