Happy Gift Ideas to Brighten Their Day

Happy hump day, lovebugs! When I shared my Mother’s Day gift guide last week (see it HERE), I realized it’s not just moms who could use a little dose of sunshine, but so many of our friends, family and neighbors, too. This lockdown has put a strain on everyone, and no matter how hard we work to stay upbeat and positive for our families and ourselves, some days are a struggle.

The smallest gesture can lift a person’s spirits and encourage them for another day, so I put together this fun post of simple gift ideas to spread a little sunshine. All are available online for quick shipping, and many help support small business. It’s a win-win!

I had so many ideas, I broke them in to three categories… this first batch is all fun activities to stay active and entertained at home.

one. ‘That Bowl Life’ Cookbook // My darling friend, Beth Chappo, created this gorgeous and yummy cookbook of one-bowl meals. Not only are the meals so simple and delicious, but most follow her healthy eating plan with a balanced mix of protein, fat, and carbs. I couldn’t be more excited for her and her success… and excited for me to have these new easy dinner ideas!

two. Deluxe Painting & Art Set // From oil pastels to colored pencils, this 80-piece art set has everything you need to get creative! It comes in a handy carrying case for easy transport from the kitchen table to the backyard, whenever the creative spark hits!

three. Jewelry Making Bead Kit // Little Miss and I have loved making bracelets with this kit lately. Send the kit as a gift, or order it for yourself and gift others with your creations!

four. Floral Embroidery Kit // Embroidery is all the rage right now, and this kit gives you the instructions and materials to create your very own masterpiece! This would be a great activity for older kids and up, and a nice change from Netflix!

five. Custom Photo Puzzle // Puzzles have also gained rapid popularity, and what could be more fun than doing a puzzle made out of one of your own photos?!

six. Paint By Numbers Kit // I am no artist, so these paint-by-numbers kits are a necessity for me to make something that actually looks good! There are several outlines to choose from, and I love that I am supporting a small business in one of our favorite cities in America!

seven. 50 Piece Waterproof Sticker Set // When have stickers ever not been fun, right?? My kids love putting fun stickers on their water bottles and devices.

eight. ‘On The Bright Side’ Book // This charming little book is all about how to lead with love in every aspect of our lives.

If you’re looking for sweet gifts for grads, girlfriends, neighbors and more… these are sure to brighten their days.

one. Hands Free Key Chain Ring // Excuse me, but when did Lilly Pulitzer make a keychain ring?! I’m crazy for these colors and prints!

two. Delicate Open Heart Necklace // A sweet everyday necklace always makes a great gift, and this one is actually on my Mother’s Day wish list. Available in silver, gold, or mixed, it layers well with other necklaces, or is so sweet with a basic tee or tank.

three. Slim Koozie // Finally, an insulated can cooler for SLIM drinks, that actually keeps them super cold! Calling all Truly and White Claw lovers, this is genius!

four. Custom Color Tile Bracelets // My favorite color tile bracelets are now available with custom characters! Spell out your name, initials, or a special word, then layer it with your color tile bracelets for a fun stack! I have one with my name, and another with my kid’s initials (see them HERE). This 2020 option is perfect for grads, too. And code SUGARPLUM30 saves you 30% off all color tile styles!

five. ‘You Are My Sunshine’ Tee // A happy tee in a soft wash and comfy fit… and for a great price.

six. Faux Succulent with Planter // Send someone the gift of greenery they can’t kill! Such a cute addition to bookcases, bathrooms, and nightstands.

seven. Chanel No. 5 Bar Soap // The scent of Chanel in a luxurious guest soap… such a fun surprise!

eight. ‘Sunshine’ Box // A little box of happy… delicious treats and goodies delivered to their door for an incredible price! This site is chock-full of fun ideas!

nine. Custom Home Illustration // Remember the darling watercolor paintings of pets I shared for Christmas?! Well, the same talented artist will recreate your home in a gorgeous, framable watercolor print. Perfect for housewarming, or simply to remember this season at home, this gift is so special.

ten. Fruit Box // I don’t know about you, but I could use a break from junk food! These pears have been a go-to gift for years… they’re the best you’ll ever eat, and come beautifully packaged.

eleven. Colorful Clip-On Tassel // This little cutie has been accompanying me on trips and outings for a while now! I add it to the strap of my tote, and I love the little pop of fun!

twelve. Snack Box // My son loved receiving this box of healthy and delicious snacks when he was away at college! It’s a great care package to send to just about anyone on your list.

And finally, we’re all about self-care these days… here are some faves that brighten my days.

one. Luxury Laundry Detergent // This little bottle *almost* has me enjoying laundry day! I add a little splash to towels, sheets, and blankets, and the smell is absolutely divine. I love the ‘Diva’ scent!

two. Favorite Lip Sleeping Mask // I’ve been slathering this stuff on before bed for years, and I never have chapped lips! Such a perfect little ‘pick me up’ gift!

three. Cute Fuzzy Slippers // My current pair of house slippers has seen better days, probably because I’ve been wearing them non-stop lately! Upgrading to these pink fuzzy ones just makes me happy!

four. Colleen Rothschild Discovery Kit // This Kit includes all of Colleen’s bestsellers, perfect for trying out or later for travel! Use code ‘SUGARPLUM20‘ at checkout to save 20%, too!

five. Set of Facial Sheet Masks // A set of 12 assorted hydrating masks for $10! How can you go wrong?

six. Complete Manicure Set // This set has everything you need for an at-home mani/pedi! Love the compact carrying case for setting up anywhere in the house, or taking it on the go!

seven. Set of Headbands // I use these headbands every morning and night for my skincare routines. They are a fun little pop of color, but they also do a good job of holding your hair back!

eight. Silk Sleep Mask // There’s something about a silk sleep mask that is just so luxurious! I don’t sleep anywhere without mine, that’s for sure!

Okay, I hope these gave you some ideas for spreading a little joy and sunshine… to others or yourself! What gifts would you love to see arrive on your doorstep? What have you been sending to others? Leave your ideas in the comments for us to see!