Gifts with Purpose
Nov 30, 2015 12:35AM ● By Family FeaturesAs the saying goes, it's the thought that counts when it comes to gift-giving. But the thought means even more when you delight the recipients on your shopping list with gifts that are as stylish as they are functional.
The kitchen is a focal point of most homes, so gifts that make the most of this oft-used space are sure to please. Ideas can range from the more practical, such as dishes or knives, to serving pieces that make entertaining extra special.
For the person who has it all, look for gifts that make life easier. For example, a tote bag with the versatility to safely transport items for a day at the park, gym or office is a handy choice that will have your recipient offering thanks for months to come.
Remember that gifts reflecting the recipient's personal taste are always winners. Look for detailed designs, colors and styles that reflect their interests to show the thought you put into choosing the perfect gift.
Get started on your holiday shopping with these ideas that combine the best of style, fun and function.
Practical meets pretty
Crafted from striking white porcelain with a detailed, hand-painted design of blue leaves that scroll around each piece, the Bombay Company Two-Piece Sugar & Creamer Set makes a great addition to the table for casual and formal entertaining and is durable enough to stand up to the rigors of everyday use. The creamer features an oversized handle that provides an easy grip and an elongated spout for precise pouring, while the sugar bowl features a recessed lid. This eye-catching gift set is available exclusively at Walgreens for $20.
Morning wake up call
Perfect for serving coffee with friends, the La Cafetière Wake Up and Smell the Coffee 8-cup French Press makes a great gift for the coffee aficionado on your shopping list. This Cafetière is available in black or mocha with striking polished steel accents so your freshly brewed coffee looks as good as it tastes. The set retails for $39.99 at Dillards.com.
A cut above
Keep essential everyday knives at your fingertips with the Sabatier 15-Piece Forged Triple Rivet Knife Set with Acacia Block. The knives are expertly crafted from superior quality high-carbon stainless steel and feature triple-riveted handles that are perfectly weighted and balanced for control. The acacia wood storage block keeps knives organized while adding elegance to the kitchen counter. The 15-piece set includes an array of knives for common kitchen tasks, as well as six steak knives, an angled sharpening steel, an all-purpose kitchen shear and a wood block. This cutlery set is available for $136 at Amazon.com.
Style on the go
The BUILT City Tote Bag combines fashion and function in one light-weight, ultra-durable tote bag that features stylish straps, a snap button closure and a roomy interior pocket for your phone, keys or other small items. Made from durable neoprene (the material used to make wetsuits), the bag folds flat when not in use for compact storage. Choose from a number of playful yet sophisticated patterns, including Granite, Black, Candy Dot, Plum Dot and Lush Flower, each available for $39.99 at BuiltNY.com.
Photo courtesy of Getty Images (people with gifts)