Long weekends tend to mean at least one day spent ‘en famille’, so arming yourself with presents will earn you extra popularity this Easter. Here are just a few ideas for gifts that make a change from chocolate and will bring a taste of the Slow Life into your loved ones’ lives.
Remember that not everyone gives presents at Easter, so you shouldn’t go overboard or spend so much you’ll embarrass a friend or relative who hasn’t returned the favour. Small, token gifts are the way to go, so keep your budget as low as possible.
Kids
Most children are inundated with chocolate at Easter, and all that sugar can cause over-excitement – so you’ll be doing everyone a favour by giving them some non-edible items as gifts, too. You can buy some beautifully decorated hollow egg-shaped gift boxes for stashing away small presents, such as toy cars, colouring pens, bouncy balls or dolls’ clothes. The child can then keep the box for storing small toys or stationery.
For children who need a bit of encouragement at the breakfast table, a set of brightly-coloured egg cups may go down well – at least, with the parents! These hand-painted egg cups by Berry Red are particularly cheery, but have a look in your favourite artisan and handmade stores for more.
Easter gifts for grown-ups
Gardening season is upon us so instead of focusing on instant gratification for your gifts, why not give a gift that will keep on giving (and growing!) all year round? Some carefully selected seeds presented in a decorative envelope or inside an Easter card makes for a thoughtful gift, but make sure you only pick varieties that can be sown from April onwards! These could include sweet pea, cornflowers and nasturtiums.
Crockery and kitchenware make great gifts, and there are plenty of spring-themed pieces available at the moment from Slow Life, artisan producers. Emma Bridgewater’s Blue Hen range has been re-introduced into shops for Easter 2010, and will be an attractive long-lasting fixture in any kitchen. Sorbet Living has some delightful kitchen gifts in stock at the moment, including some fabulously stylish ceramics and 50% off decorative tea towels.
Small bath and beauty items also make great Easter gifts. Lush has some fun and fragrant Easter egg shaped bath ballistics, all made using fresh and natural ingredients. MADARA is another eco-friendly label that has some very gift-friendly products in its range, all beautifully presented in sustainable card. Their products are available at Selfridges and selected stores around the UK.
