Love & Co’s Easter Gifting Guide – Sans-Chocolate!
A lot has happened over the past 12 months, and in a time when we’ve learned to value our friends and our freedom even more, many Melbournians are looking for gifts that are a little more mindful than food.
While it only seems like yesterday that Santa was here, it’s time to start thinking of Easter gifts! If like us, you’re after something other than chocolate, we’ve compiled a list of great presents that won’t break the bank (nor the waistline)!
Think about shopping locally this Easter and supporting the many great little businesses that we are so lucky to have in our very own backyard here in the North.
There’s no shortage of beautiful Easter gifts to be found within a short distance of home. In fact, Heide Makers Market, Eltham Craft Market, Ivanhoe Makers Market and South Morang Makers Market are all fairly bursting with inspiration!
But, if you’ve been caught on the hop this easter you’re and scratching your head for something different to give, check out some of our best gifting ideas:
Handmade Cards and Stationery
Handmade cards and stationery always make the perfect gift for that someone special.
Check out these amazing cards from The Make It Collective. Featuring many exquisite items produced by local artists, this amazing store in Northcote really is your local one-stop-shop for easter gifting.
Are you a scrapbooker or craft lover? Nothing says ‘I love you’ quite like a card that you’ve created with your own hands! You’ll find all the papers, embellishments, and crafty nick-nacks you need to create your little treasures at Spotlight this season.
Storytime Favorites
Every child loves a bedtime story, so why not gift your little one a new Easter-themed book?
Local illustrator Sarah Hardy of Popcorn Blue alongside author Colin Buchanan she has the perfect Easter book on offer – Australians All Love Easter Eggs (this book is also available at Target, if it’s easier to run in store for the last minute shoppers).
Creative Toys
Tired of the regular pink plush bunnies and little fluffy chickens? Take a look at these quirky and fun hand crafted toys created by The Ocean Rabbit. This local designer takes toys to the next level, using remnant fabrics and recycled materials to create characters that will become part of your little one’s lasting childhood memories. Sam and Charlie Designs also have the sweetest, cleverly hand-knitted toys!
Kiozwi also has a huge range of unique wooden toys right in our backyard – Thornbury! These are toys are built to last a lifetime and will become a child’s favourite childhood toy.
Baked Deliciousness
I know we said we weren’t focusing on food, but we just had to sneak in this one: All Are Welcome. Whether you’re planning a simple family affair around the kitchen table organizing to feed a crowd, these mouthwatering treats available in Thornbury and Northcote are guaranteed to delight and keep hitting the “top 10 lists” of the likes of Broadsheet, Concrete Playground, Good Food Guide and Time Out.
And for those that like to try something a bit different, have you seen the ricotta-filled hot cross buns on offer by Cannoleria by That’s Amore Cheese? Quick, place your order and pick them up from Preston Market!
For the Minimalist
When you can’t pick what they’d like but still want to treat someone, Hampered in Thomastown offers a huge range of gift hampers and next day delivery service all across the Melbourne metro area! With something special to suit every taste and budget, you’re there’s a hamper that will tick all the boxes and you can order right from your phone.
Cookielicious by Carmel in Epping does delicious cookie boxes too – check out the cute little Easter designs she has at the moment.
Now that’s quick, easy and modern gifting done right!
Fancy Fashion
PJs are traditionally the go-to for Easter gifting but it doesn’t have to be that way.
Who doesn’t love personalised items? Melbourne based Etsy store, Mini Monogram offers the cutest little monogramed bodysuits, t-shirts and items such as Easter sacks and baskets – perfect for those egg hunts!
And for the tiny chef or craft-master, these colourful little aprons created by Brunswick’s Frida Friday are simply a must!
If organic fibers and bespoke clothing items are your thing, head on down to Honest Studios. Combining comfort, style and the latest in design trends, these handmade items are as wearable as they are beautiful.
If you do like sticking to the PJ tradition there’s nothing wrong with that too! With lots of locations in the North, Kmart, Target and Best & Less offer a great range of adult’s and children’s apparel too including easter-themed sleepwear at affordable prices – there are actually some matching sets too for the whole family!
Say it With Flowers
Sending flowers might seem a bit traditional too, but let’s be honest: who doesn’t love receiving a beautiful bunch of nature? Perfect for parents and grandparents to share some Easter love, especially if you can’t be together for the weekend.
Lillypad Flowers in Reservoir have a huge selection and their dried varieties are currently all the rage – they offer a same day delivery service too!
So, enjoy picking out those local treasures for your family and friends this season and soak up the experience of mindful gifting. Share the spirit of Easter this year by buying local and supporting our vibrant community in the Northern Suburbs.
From our family to yours, wishing you all a wonderfully festive Easter ?