TQE Presents Matchmaker: Your Personal Shopping Advice Column

Reader: What should I get for my BFF? I have a $100 budget! 

Remi: Simply put, your best friend deserves the best. And there are so many really special gifts you can get them for $100 or less. I know some people think gifting candles is cliché, but I am not one of them. I love getting candles – I burn them all the time and always need more. If your bestie is like that too, they’ll love Le Feu de Leau’s Artisanal Collection Candles ($70). Not only do these hand-poured candles smell amazing, but the actual vessels themselves are made of wax for a gorgeous, unique look. If they love hosting or are moving into their own place, treat them to some nice glassware. The Party Coupes ($95) at Our Place make every drink feel like a celebration. I love that they’re stackable and dishwasher-safe too. 

For the best friend that’s always on the move, a fanny pack is a no-brainer. Dagne Dover’s iteration, the Ace Neoprene Fanny Pack ($95), has a simple silhouette that goes well with any outfit, but more importantly is durable and helps them keep their essentials close while still being hands-free. Do you treat your best friend like your personal Google whenever you have a question about beauty or skincare? If so, treat them to a set of elevated everyday essentials with Necessaire’s Body Essentials kit ($75).

Reader: The best gifts for him? Where do I start! 

Remi: The great thing about broad categories like “gifts for him” is that there are so many options. But, that same fact is also what makes picking just one gift difficult. Since there are so many options out there, let’s cut through the noise with some general ideas and where to look, and then I’ll give you some fail-proof picks. 

If you don’t know where to start on finding the right gift for him, his passions are a great launching point. Does he love cooking? Go for the engraved Made In Chef Knife ($189). Is he a Harry Potter fanatic? This Hogwarts Lego Set ($169.99) is sure to excite his inner child. Does he spend every moment of his free time golfing or surfing or painting? He’ll probably appreciate this Pro Indoor Putting Green ($59.99), a Saba Surf Wax Pack ($18), or a custom set of Da Vinci Hog Bristle Brushes (from $7). If you can find a product that makes the things he likes to do in his free time better, easier, or even more fun, you are golden! 

And if you don’t think that path is really up his alley, we’ve penned plenty of gift guides filled with smart and thoughtful ideas for him. Start by checking out this one here.

Reader: What are the best gifts for parents who have everything?

Remi: Finding the right gift for someone who has everything can feel so difficult. But chances are your parents deserve something really great so we will make it happen. 

For people whose lives are already filled with enough stuff, try gifting an experience instead. There are so many ways you can go about this and cater to their personalities and tastes. If they love music, theater, or sports, use Ticketmaster or StubHub to treat them to tickets. There’s nothing like seeing your favorite artist perform or cheering on your favorite team from the stands, so you know this gift will get them excited, and create amazing memories they’ll cherish long after. For parents who love nothing more than splurging on a delicious dining experience, spoil them with a gourmet spread they can enjoy at home. Goldbelly partners with restaurants across the country and helps them deliver their iconic dishes nationwide, so your parents can enjoy Joe’s Stone Crab even if they’re in Arizona or chomp on some Franklin Barbecue brisket miles away from Austin. For curious parents who love to spend their free time learning new things, there’s MasterClass.