Gift Guide: My Favorite Finds + Pier 1 Gift Card Giveaway

Christmas Gift Ideas from The Inspired Room

It’s better to give than to receive, right?

Yes. Yes it is.

I set out this week determined to shop for other people’s Christmas gifts. I really did. But then I saw a few irresistible items and, well, my willpower failed me.

Note: This post was created in partnership with Pier 1. I personally selected each gift because I truly like them.

I love shopping at Pier 1—there’s one close to our home and it’s become a favorite source for gifts, furniture and rugs year-round. I’ve bought pieces there before that I still enjoy, and this trip was no exception.

This week I found perfect gifts for …

1. Cuddling.

Soft, furry friends are hard to resist. The stuffed animals I found are incredibly cute and unbelievably cuddly. I first spotted the owl months ago and carried it through the store. I left it on a chair, but as soon as I reached the car I felt compelled to go back for it. If a plush has charm—especially tiny feet—I’ll be tempted to bring it home. These make delightful gifts, or a treat for yourself, because you won’t want to let them go after a squeeze.

*Gift ideas: Owl, Fox

2. Entertaining.

Pretty serving pieces and glassware are always fun to give and receive. On this trip I found lovely appetizer plates, napkin rings and hand-blown wine glasses that would be perfect for a hostess, a friend, or for your own holiday table. I may have already washed a few items and tucked them into my own cabinets—some things are simply irresistible.

*Gift ideas: Hand-blown wine glasses, appetizer plates, hammered gold and silver napkin rings

3. The kitchen.

I have a soft spot for measuring cups and spoons. Opening my baking drawer and seeing pretty tools makes me happy. Since a few of my current measuring cups have started to chip from regular use, I was glad to find new sets. These are practical and pretty—ideal for anyone who enjoys baking or cooking. I did stash a pair into my own drawer, but they’d also make a thoughtful gift.

*Gift ideas: Floral measuring cups, owl measuring spoons, zinnia measuring spoons

4. The home.

When my husband and I married, we decided to use special occasions to buy gifts for our first home. Since then we’ve enjoyed giving each other coasters, serving bowls, candles and cozy throws that helped make a house feel like home. Even after several moves we still love adding new pieces. On this trip I picked up coasters, a decorative bowl and a plush throw—perfect for making any room feel more inviting. I did give away one candle before lighting it, so at least that’s something!

*Gift ideas: Embossed coasters, leaf serving bowl, fuzzy throw, sugared cinnamon candle

In short, I found gifts I genuinely love.

A lot.

I hope this selection of favorite gift ideas makes your holiday shopping a little easier—or at least helps you add a bit more festive cheer to your own home this season.

Just added: You could enter to win a $50 Pier 1 gift card to shop for your favorite items—giveaways like this are a fun way to try something new.