Gifting is generally joyous, right? There is nothing better than finding the perfect gift to celebrate something fun in someone’s life. It can be practical, fun, meaningful, or beautiful. If it’s done right, you will be remembered for many days or years ahead as the person who gave you your favorite everyday earrings on your birthday. On occasion, however, we are called upon to find the perfect gifts to help a friend or loved one get through a heavy time in their life. Illness, menopause, the loss of a good friend, a difficult time with someone they love or just going through a hard season of life. On these more somber occasions, we want to give gifts that bring emotional comfort, lift their spirits, or are therapeutic. No matter the occasion, these gifts are sure to lift their spirits when they need that the most.
To&From is built on a mission to bring you the best gifts for every occasion in your life–even the tough ones. Below are a few of our favorites, organized by intent. Best gifts to bring joy, best gifts to comfort, and best gifts to say “I’m thinking of you”.
Best Gifts to Bring Joy
Laughter is the best medicine, right? These gifts are sure to bring a smile to their face in a time that may otherwise be filled with sadness, confusion, or even pain.
SMILEY COOKIE
$21.99
Even the saddest day will be brightened with these smiley cookies. Perfect for anyone going through a tough patch.
PIÑATAGRAMS
Starting at $23.99
These adorable, fun piñatas are perfect for cheering up a friend in need. Choose from the many options to deliver one that has the perfect “cheer them up” sentiment.
FURBISH
$108
When there are no other words to explain what they are going through, this cheeky pillow is sure to bring a smile to their face even in the toughest times.
PENGUIN RANDOM HOUSE
$26
Perhaps a helpful prompt as The Dali Lama and Desmond Tutu look back on their long lives to answer a single burning question: How do we find joy in the face of life’s inevitable suffering?
Best Gifts to Comfort
Is your friend recovering from an operation or illness? Help them follow doctor’s orders with these perfect gifts for rest, relaxation, or just chilling at home.
ESKER BEAUTY
$65
Bring the spa to them with this amazing shower steamer. Even those 5 minutes of peace and relaxation will make their day a little brighter.
OSTRICHPILLOW
$45
The warmth and weight of this heated neck wrap will bring comfort in a time of need, hopefully erasing some of the pain of the day.
ORDINARY HABIT
$150
Activities, like puzzling, can often take our mind off of physical pain–if only for a while. This puzzle bundle will keep them busy and hopefully help the time pass during recovery.
VERVE CULTURE
$99
This handwoven Moroccan blanket is perfect for cozying up with a good book, the perfect activity for recuperation.
Best Gifts to Say “I’m Thinking of You”
When people in our lives are going through emotional times, we want to do SOMETHING. But it’s often hard to know exactly what to do. These gifts are a perfect way to say “I’m thinking of you” or “I’m here for you if you need to talk”.
URBANSTEMS
$58
A small plant is sure to bring a moment of joy and a longer lasting memory of your thoughtfulness during this difficult time.
SPOONFUL OF COMFORT
$84.99
Help them heal from their loss with comfort and care–for the mind and body–with this thoughtful bundle.
SILK + SONDER
$56
Silk + Sonder’s Self Care Gift Set is the perfect gift for a grieving, lost, or sad friend. The journal will help with reflection and remembrance and the bath bombs and candle will bring just the right healing touch.
L’OR DE SERAPHINE
$44
A new candle is always a pick-me up and the perfect gift for a friend who needs just that. This candle will light up any room and the scent is sure to bring a moment of calm.
All photos are from the respective brands included in this post. Our Gifting Intelligence™ was used to select each product. To&From may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.