The 30 Best Personalized Gifts of 2023
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Because they deserve a gift as unique as they are.
Real Simple / Marcus Millan
Choosing a unique, one-of-a-kind gift can be a daunting task. We all want to find something thoughtful that resonates with the personality and preferences of the giftee, which is why personalized gifts are such an excellent choice. They encapsulate individuality with a personal touch, whether it’s a name, significant date, heartfelt message, or custom design.
To help you find the right personalized gift, we pulled together an eclectic range of picks, from engraved jewelry to tailor-made artwork to timeless keepsakes. Whether commemorating a birthday, celebrating an anniversary, expressing gratitude, or simply reminding someone of your affection, these gifts are a memorable token for any recipient.
Fianora Custom Leather AirPods Case
Protect your giftee’s AirPods in a custom leather case that fuses style and protection. This handcrafted accessory can be personalized with their initials, ensuring a unique touch. A secure fit guarantees the safety of your AirPods, wrapping them in a sleek, durable exterior.
Price at time of publish: $45
Mark & Graham Everyday Italian Leather Mini Zipper Pouch
This Italian Leather Mini Pouch exudes elegance and practicality. It's the perfect storage for small essentials, offering a secure zippered compartment in a compact design. The customizable monogram adds a personal touch, making it an ideal gift for anyone on the go.
Price at time of publish: $49
Leatherology Small Train Case
Help your recipient travel in style with this exquisite leather train case. Its spacious interior can accommodate beauty essentials and toiletries neatly, while the high-quality leather ensures durability, and the refined design and monogram add a touch of elegance. This case is a versatile companion for the sophisticated traveler.
Price at time of publish: $125
LoveLinax Personalized Hair Clip
Gift a touch of elegance and fun with a personalized hair clip that marries functionality and style. With options to add initials or names, you can transform this hair clip into a unique accessory that reflects your giftee’s individuality. Available in many colors, this cute, personalized gift adds a distinctive, stylish flair to any ensemble.
Price at time of publish: $16
Papier Scallop Trim Notecard Set
Elevate the gift of writing with this enchanting Scallop Trim Notecard Set from Papier. You can add their name and select from nine playful colors, making this stationary more than just note cards; it’s a unique gift for thank yous, letters, and ideas.
Price at time of publish: $66
Marleylilly Monogrammed Packing Bag Set
Organize their next adventure or weekend trip with the Marleylilly Monogrammed Packing Bag Set. These bags offer a harmonious balance of style and utility, making packing and finding their belongings a breeze. Personalize each bag with a monogram for an elegant touch.
Price at time of publish: $30
Positive Prints Where We Met Map
Gift an adorable memento to the first place you met with this customized map from Positive Prints. You can choose from four shapes and 10 map styles, allowing you to tailor the final product to your giftee’s particular taste. Plus, the personalized title and coordinates make for a unique gift that they can hang in their home.
Price at time of publish: From $49
The Company Store Ledge Plaid Merino Wool Throw
Give the gift of warmth and luxury with this Ledge Plaid Merino Wool Throw. Crafted from high-quality wool, it promises cozy warmth and comfort. Its classic plaid design is timeless, complementing any decor, and the monogram will make it a cherished possession in any home.
Price at time of publish: $279
JasminePMboutique Minimalist Custom Text Sweatshirt
You can customize this minimalist text sweatshirt with their favorite quote, saying, or name for a unique garment with individuality and style. Its soft, comfortable fabric makes it more than just a sweatshirt; it’s a cozy, casual statement piece. As a gift, it's a thoughtful reflection of the recipient's personality.
Price at time of publish: $35
Gorjana Bespoke Plate Engraved Adjustable Bracelet
Elevate their style with the Gorjana Bespoke Plate Adjustable Bracelet. The bracelet can be personalized with a custom engraving, transforming it from an elegant staple into a meaningful keepsake. The adjustable design also ensures a perfect fit for every wrist.
Price at time of publish: From $75
Mark & Graham Celebration Wine Bowl
The Mark & Graham Monogrammed Celebration Wine Bowl is the perfect gift for a dedicated host who wants to level up their next gathering with a stylish and personal way to chill their favorite wines. The monogram adds a unique touch, elevating this wine bowl into a sophisticated entertaining piece.
Price at time of publish: $169
New York Times Custom Birthday Book
This thoughtful New York Times Custom Birthday Book features front pages from each birthday of their life, offering a fascinating glimpse into their past and history. You can personalize this gift with their name and birthdate for a tailored coffee table book they will want to keep on display.
Price at time of publish: From $100
StampiShop Custom Book Embosser
Leave a distinctive mark on their library with a custom book embosser. Personalize this gift with their name or a monogram, creating a unique seal that adds a touch of sophistication to their book collection. This thoughtful gift is perfect for avid readers and book lovers alike.
Price at time of publish: $50
Petite Keep Petite Classic Trunk
The Petite Keep Classic Trunk is a timeless keepsake box, perfect for storing precious mementos. Customize this sophisticated present with a monogram or name, transforming this elegant trunk into a personalized treasure chest they can fill with cherished memories.
Price at time of publish: $229
Artifact Uprising Everyday Photo Book
Capture moments precious to your giftee with the Artifact Uprising Everyday Photo Book. The books can be customized with their most meaningful photos, creating a beautiful scrapbook tailored to them. Its high-quality construction and elegant design make it a timeless keepsake they will surely enjoy.
Price at time of publish: $62
Home Wet Bar Classic Monogram Whiskey Glasses
Raise a toast with these Classic Monogram Whiskey Glasses from HomeWetBar. These elegant glasses can be personalized with your recipient’s monogram for a sophisticated addition to any barware collection, ensuring each sip is a luxury.
Price at time of publish: $45
Silver Dollar Candle Co. Personalized Scented Soy Candle
For any giftee who loves to get cozy, opt for this personalized scented soy candle. Customize it with your choice of scent and a name or message for a unique and thoughtful gift. You can choose from 10 scent profiles, with everything from holiday-inspired Fresh Cut Christmas Tree to soothing fragrances like Lavender Vanilla.
Price at time of publish: $20
Uncommon Goods Personalized Tic Tac Toe
Elevate your giftee's game nights with the Uncommon Goods Personalized Tic Tac Toe. Customize the beautiful wooden game board with names or a sweet message, creating a playful and unique piece perfect for family gatherings or friendly competitions.
Price at time of publish: From $18
Crown & Paw The General Custom Pet Poster
Celebrate your giftee’s pet with the Crown & Paw Custom Pet Poster. The photo can be personalized with a photo of their furry friend, transforming them into a statuesque general. This playful and distinctive gift is a delightful addition to any pet lover’s home.
Price at time of publish: From $50
Related: The 40 Best Gifts for Dogs and Dog Lovers of 2023
Crate & Barrel Marble Monogram Coasters
For the giftee who loves to host cocktail parties, elevate their bar cart with the Crate & Barrel Marble Monogram Coasters. These polished marble coasters can be personalized with a monogram, adding a sophisticated and personal touch to any table setting.
Price at time of publish: $30
MaleyDesigns Handwritten Recipe Cutting Board
Preserve cherished recipes with a Handwritten Recipe Cutting Board. This board can be customized with a scanned recipe in a loved one’s handwriting, creating a functional and sentimental kitchen gift.
Price at time of publish: $34
Create Your Own Mug Customizable Combo Mug
Create a mug masterpiece with Zazzle’s customizable combo mug. The mug can be personalized with photos, texts, and designs, crafting a one-of-a-kind mug to brighten your giftee's morning.
Price at time of publish: $17
Myka Personalized Family Tree Birthstone Necklace
The Myka Birthstone Family Tree Necklace encapsulates their family tree in a timeless piece of jewelry, perfect for those who want to hold their loved ones close. You can customize the necklace with names and birthstones, creating a thoughtful and cherished gift for any parent, sibling, or grandparent.
Price at time of publish: $55
Letterfolk Tile Mat
The Letterfolk Tile Mat personalizes any entrance with a funky, customizable design. Create welcoming messages or playful art for a doorway that reflects your giftee's personality. The high-quality construction ensures durability and style, making it a practical and stylish gift that will last for years to come.
Price at time of publish: $75
BaubleBar Custom Phone Case
For those who are always on their phone, opt for a customizable case to give their tech some stylish flair. Choose from various styles and personalize the case with the giftee’s name or initials, transforming their phone into a chic accessory.
Price at time of publish: $72
L.L. Bean Boat and Tote Bag
The iconic L.L. Bean Personalized Boat and Tote is perfect for all their daily essentials. You can customize this classic tote with a monogram, creating a durable and stylish bag that’s uniquely theirs. Plus, the robust construction and timeless design make it a versatile companion for any adventure.
Price at time of publish: $35
Abrideandgroomshop Personalized Passport Cover
They will travel in style with this cute personalized passport cover. You can customize it with their initials or name, adding a touch of sophistication to their travel essentials. The high-quality material also protects their passport, ensuring it's safe on any adventure.
Price at time of publish: From $35
Madewell The Transport Tote
The Madewell Transport Tote is the epitome of chic functionality—this versatile leather tote can accommodate their everyday essentials, while its elegant design ensures they will step out in style. This pick is a timeless companion for anyone who is always on the go, made even more special by the customized monogram.
Price at time of publish: $178
Weezie Women's Long Signature Robe
Wrap your giftee in luxury with the Weezie Women's Long Signature Robe, which you can customize with their monogram for a personal touch. The robe’s plush texture and stylish design make it a perfect choice for an at-home spa day and self-care.
Price at time of publish: $185
Birthdate Co. The Birthdate Book
Help your recipient discover their unique celestial story with The Birthdate Book. The book is personalized with their birthdate and offers a fascinating exploration of their astrological makeup, creating a beautiful and enlightening gift for astrology enthusiasts.
Price at time of publish: $115
Questions You Might Ask
Who should you not buy a personalized gift for?
According to etiquette expert Jacqueline Whitmore, you should avoid personalized gifts when shopping for professional acquaintances, new relationships, and those you know casually.
“Avoid personalized gifts for colleagues, clients, or business partners unless you share a close personal relationship,” Whitmore says. “It's best to keep gifts in a professional setting neutral and universally appealing.”
Whitmore also stresses that in new relationships, personalized gifts might come off as too personal. “Stick to thoughtful, but not overly personal, gifts until the relationship has solidified,” she says.
Finally, when gifting for a casual acquaintance—perhaps for a Secret Santa party or another occasion—it’s best to stay away from customized presents. “Giving a personalized gift to someone you don't know well can be uncomfortable for both parties,” Whitmore says. “Opt for generic, thoughtful gifts in these situations.
What are the best sites to find personalized gifts?
“Etsy offers a vast array of personalized gifts, from custom jewelry to artwork and home decor,” says Whitemore. She also recommends Shutterfly for customizable photo gifts including photo albums, calendars, and prints.
She also recommends Personalization Mall, which is a “one-stop-shop for all things personalized." And for those who want a personalized gift in the paper realm, Whitmore likes Minted. “Minted is perfect for personalized stationery, cards, and art prints, allowing you to add a personal touch to your correspondence and decor,” she says.
What are the best occasions to give a personalized gift?
Birthdays and personal milestones are excellent occasions for custom gifts. We recommend personalized gifts to commemorate weddings, births, graduations, anniversaries, and retirements. “Personalized gifts are a wonderful way to celebrate the union of two individuals, including items like customized photo frames, engraved glassware, or a personalized quilt,” Whitmore says.
Baby showers and births are also excellent times for personalized gifts. “Welcoming a new life into the world is a perfect occasion for a personalized gift,” Whitmore says. “These can include customized baby blankets, onesies, or a growth chart with the baby's name and birthdate.”
For celebrating retirement, she recommends marking the end of a career with a personalized gift like a custom-engraved clock, photo album, or personalized retirement plaque.
Take Our Word for It
This article was written by Elizabeth Loomis, a seasoned writer with experience covering lifestyle topics that have given her a discerning eye for what makes a gift both delightful and memorable. To compile this list, she researched and compared an eclectic range of personalized gifts and spoke with Jacqueline Whitmore, an etiquette expert and founder of The Protocol School of Palm Beach.
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