Gifts: Hard to Buy For
James Joyce famously said, "In the particular is contained the universal," which in holiday giving terms means, don’t discount niche gifts for someone hard to please. Everyone loves the delightfully specific. From their very own New York Times front page to a watering can worthy of permanent display, this list solves the prickliest on your list.
John Kelly Chocolate Box
$60
A hand-made, award-winning artisanal box of dark chocolate that’s sure to impress, down to the stunning packaging.
Art & Fable Puzzle Company 1,000 Piece Land of Enchantment Puzzle
$36.95
This velvet-feel puzzle has a fantastical image by Bay Area artist Eric Joyner, whose style you might recognize from a Ben Folds Five album they had in 2012.
Haws x Gardenheir Watering Can
$78
A functional and beautiful watering can from England’s foremost watering-can company since the 1880s.
Heirloom Art Co. Clothbound Books
$16
Are they more Wuthering Heights or Oliver Twist; perhaps a Moby Dick with Sherlock Holmes rising? All these and more are available in cloth-covered hardback styles.
New York Times Birthday Pages
$75
Get them a book of every New York Times front page on their birthday, from the year they were born through present day.
Alessi Alessandro Wine Opener
$155
This fun little wine friend is designed in Italy and has tons of personality.
Crate&Barrel Marble Salt Cellar
$26.95
A polished marble keeper that’ll upgrade any kitchen. Gift it with a box or bucket of the best flaky salt.
Frog Hollow Farm Fruit Gift Basket
$55.99
Three pounds of peak-season fruit from certified organic and regenerative farms in California is an easy crowd-pleaser.
Aveda Stress-Fix Soaking Salts
$51
Lavender, lavandin, and clary sage lend a soothing scent to this stress-busting soak.
Bellocq Tea Collection
$40
A gorgeous set of loose-leaf teas, filter bags included, for anyone who’d appreciate their hot drinks elevated.