Julia Burns-Alexander of Vessel Brooklyn Knows How to Give the Perfect Gift

Everyone can agree that no two people (and no two relationships) are alike. Yet so often we fall into a cookie-cutter trap when selecting gifts for the ones we love. The best gifts say something about both the giver and the recipient and the bonds and memories shared between them. If you’re looking for a gift, ask yourself: what makes this person unique? When thinking about the time you have spent together, what are the first images that pop into your head? When you really tap into these specifics and use them as your springboard, you will end up with a gift that is thoughtful, creative, and one-of-a-kind.

When you show someone that you know who they are, you see them, and you love everything about them, THAT is the true gift. Throw the rules out the window, cast a wide net, and have some fun!

7 Gifts Ideal for The Bourbon Afficianado

1. Goorin Bros. Jet Set Black Hat Box

Historically, brides collected their wedding items in trunks called trousseaus. This Goorin Bros. Jet Set Black Hat Box is the perfect modern interpretation for the bride OR groom. Whether carrying wedding finery or travel essentials, it’s the perfect way to chicly organize your most precious possessions. Knowing that most couples want to have their photographer capture bespoke gifts and accessories on the day of their wedding, this is an excellent way to have them on hand!

2. Professional Canvas Bar Tool Roll-Up by Viski

This waxed Canvas Bar Tool Roll-Up is customizable and the perfect wedding party gift for a group of hospitality or food and beverage professionals. The Roll-Up’s ability to pack a large number of specialty tools also makes for a destination wedding attendant’s dream. Don’t wait for the bar to come to you; bring the bar with you!

3. Harrison Stainless Steel Slim Flask by Viski

It’s customizable and can easily slip into a purse or jacket pocket, helping to keep the celebration going all day!

4. Scrappy’s Bitters Exotic Gift Pack

Handmade in small batches using fresh organic fruits and herbs, this exotic gift set includes bottles of lavender, chocolate, cardamom, and grapefruit bitters to add to your cocktail experience.

5. Bulleit Bourbon 750ml

You can’t go wrong with a bottle of Bulleit Bourbon; it’s classy and timeless. This spicy and smooth bourbon is a crowd-pleaser that will be appreciated by any connoisseur.

6. Smash Natural Wood Muddler by True

Give your mixologist friends this minimalist muddler with a perfected design so they can enjoy and share their favorite specialty cocktails at their next dinner party.

7. Hammered Copper Mug by Alchemade

These mugs are customizable, travel well, help to keep your beverage cool, and enhance the flavor of the cocktail. They’re perfect for Moscow Mules!

6 Engagement Gifts to Help Stay Relaxed During Wedding Planning

1. Fig + Yarrow Pink Love Salts, sold as part of a bath trio

Fig + Yarrow’s aromatic, artisan bath salts will provide a nourishing self-care experience for the ones you love. Gentle on the skin and one of my favorite products, the Pink Love Salts are the perfect end to any day, meant to help relax the body, mind, and spirit.

2. Saipua Peppermint Pumice Foot Scrub with Tea Tree Oil

It’s hand-poured, cut and wrapped, and perfect for whipping those toes and feet into shape for summer sandals.

3. Skeem Design Mini White Gold Match Bottle

One of my all-time favorites, Skeem Design’s matchsticks in a refillable blown glass vessel with a strikeable base bring vintage flair to any gift.

4. Mine Design for Vessel Brooklyn “Cuivre” Rose Copper Candle

This custom candle smells of tuberose and gardenia, is soy-based, and comes in a reusable rose gold copper vessel. These make the perfect thank you gift or wedding favor for guests, as the outer packaging can be fully customized to your needs.

5. Love Bottle Opener by Beau-coup

The perfect tiny favor! You can’t beat the price point on this one, and you never know when a bottle opener will come in handy.

6. Fig + Yarrow Autumn Herbal Steam

This floral facial steam from Fig + Yarrow clears the mind while nourishing the skin. This product is wonderful in preparation for the big day and also helps to melt away the stress of wedding planning and festivities. This herbal steam also doubles as a delicious tea!

4 Gifts to Help Stay Perky on the Big Day

1. Sail Away Coffee Co. “Captain’s Blend”

These premium, single origin blends are crafted by the founder himself, whose well-traveled palate and free-spirited approach to flavor have created a brew that will be sure to have you coming back for more!

2. Japanese Tea Tin in Gold Leaf by Kotodo

Attractive and versatile, this handmade, airtight canister is perfect for housing your favorite coffee, teas, or spice blends.

3. Geometry Espresso Cups by ferm LIVING

Made of 100% porcelain, these espresso cups are stackable and dishwasher safe with a graphic design sure to please their recipient.

4. Fig + Yarrow Cardamom + Coffee Body Scrub

This coffee and cardamom body scrub will have your skin fully prepared and glowing for the big day!

JULIA BURNS-ALEXANDER

Julia is the creative behind Vessel Brooklyn, which works to curate vessels, celebrations, and moments that reflect her passion for the arts and love for personal touches.