teacher gifts they DIDN’T get last year

by Cora L. Diekman

Teacher gifts are seriously tricky. No one on your holiday list is more deserving of thanks AND more impossible to buy for. It’s time to think beyond the kitsch and gift them with something they actually, really, seriously want. Leave those prepackaged one-size-fits-all cellophaned gift baskets at the store…where they belong. You can do better. Way better. Here’s how.

For the teacher who’s serious about style

Some teachers really are superhuman. If you know a teacher who can successfully manage a room full of chaotic kiddos AND keep their style in check (pointers, please!) they deserve a gift that makes a major statement – one that says “thank you” while acknowledging their feats of style strength. Marble and copper are having a serious moment right now, meaning you can’t go wrong with any of these fab gift finds.

webb copper candleholder

Style doesn’t have to break the bank. A pair of these chic copper candle holders conveys gratitude on a budget. Teacher will never guess how affordable they are (and we promise not to tell)!

marble 4×6 picture frame

A desk-sized frame is way versatile. This modern version adds instant style to teacher’s desk at school, at home, a mantle, a nightstand… You get the idea.

copper cup

A chic copper cup has so many possibilities! We love this as a stylish desktop catch-all for pens and pencils, but it could also perform double duty as a glam flower vase, bar tool receptacle, or makeup brush holder.

For the teacher who covets coffee

To feed their love of coffee (and need for caffeine!) these gifts ideas are sure to hit the java mark.

kate spade new york charlotte mug

Now this is a mug. Teacher can start each day in style with this chic Kate Spade mug (that’s sure to be the envy of the break room).

bodium 8-cup french press

For weekend mornings when relaxation is in order, a french press is the perfect way to slow things down and enjoy a bolder brew the coffee-purist way.

slingshot coffee co. bottle cold brew coffee

Treat your coffee lover to a bottle of delicious cold brew coffee – perfect for DIY energy drinks, as a cocktail mixer, or yes, over ice.

For the teacher who bakes

Encourage their love of downtime baking with these clever (and oh-so-adorable) kitchen essentials.

tinware ceramic measuring spoons set

Any baker knows you can never have too many measuring spoons. Up the ante with this unique set that’s chic enough to keep on display.

wooden neon mixing spoons, set of 3

These are so not your average ho-hum wooden spoons, adding a pop of neon brightness to the kitchen.

christmas tree patterned wooden rolling pin

This genius roller adds a touch of holiday cheer to cookies, pie crusts, and other treats with ease. Why didn’t we think of this before?

For the teacher who entertains

Each of these giftable goodies will also double as perfect hostess gifts this holiday season. Love that!

oslo serving spoon, matte gold

You can never, never, ever have too many serving spoons. Especially when they’re as chic as this.

hybrid valdrada fruit and dessert plate

We’re betting that even those who don’t entertain will want to get their hands on this adorably clever plate. Use this conversation starter to serve cookies, stack hors d’oeuvres, or simply hang it on the wall – yes, it’s that cute.

cupcakes and cashmere at home book

When you’re not exactly sure what an entertainer might need, gift them with a beautiful book full of inspirational ideas, like this one brimming with design, DIY, and party planning tips.

(Foodie) gifts for the soul

When only edible treats will do, opt for something they can’t find at the local market, and think with your sweet tooth!

french riviera marshmallows

Treat the teacher on your list to the flavor of strawberries and champagne with these super creamy, extra fluffy, top shelf marshmallows.

toasted almond syrup

When you’re not sure what they like to drink, opt for a delicious and versatile syrup that elevates cocktails and coffee alike. Yum!

salted caramel sauce in reusable mason jar

Improve any ice cream (or dessert, for that matter) with a touch of salted caramel goodness, like this delicious sauce that is (bonus!) shipped in reusable mason jars.

super dark mini bar library

Give them options with a library of dark chocolate treats – tasty with seriously clever packaging that is so teacher appropriate.

When you (seriously!) have no idea what they want

When all else fails and you’re starting to rethink that ‘Greatest Teacher’ mug, stop and consider one of these fantastic gotta-have-em finds that are sure to please anyone on your list (think in-laws, neighbors, and coworkers).

custom 22k gold monogram white heart ring dish

Monogrammed gifts feel ultra personal, and all you really need are your teacher’s initials to ensure success with these glam ring dishes.

threshold four votive candleholder, brass

You can’t go wrong with a set of votive candle holders. This set is petite and elegant, making them perfect for the tabletop, bathroom vanity, or any place needing a touch of warm candlelit glam.

sicilian tangerine votive candle

Who doesn’t love candles? With mouthwatering scents like yummy Sicilian Tangerine, this is one stocking stuffer no one can resist.

violet & lark bath salts

For the teacher in serious need of rest and relaxation (um, every teacher!) surprise them with a glam bottle of bath salts. These are hand mixed with exotic oils, and packaged in a seriously cute reusable glass bottle. Choose from a large variety of scents from Frankincense Lavender to Bergamot Orange. Yes, please!