11/05/2026 11:19 am
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My best friend is finally moving into her first solo apartment in Chicago next week and i really want to get her something cool but literally every list online is just buy a candle or get a plant. She already has like ten candles and she kills every succulent she touches so those are definitely out. I saw some people suggesting those custom door mats with the last name on them but her place is an apartment with a shared hallway and i feel like that might be a bit much or just get stolen honestly.
I also looked into those high-end olive oil and vinegar sets but i dont even know if she cooks that much since she lives on takeout mostly lol. I really need something that feels personal but isnt just more clutter for her to move again in a year.
Here is what im looking for:
- Budget: around $60 or maybe $75 if its really worth it
- Vibe: practical but still looks adult
- Space: its a small 1-bedroom so nothing huge
- Timeline: I need to pick it up or have it delivered by Friday
Has anyone found something that actually gets used? Maybe something for the kitchen or bathroom that people dont usually buy for themselves? I was thinking about some nice linen towels or a cool tray but i dont know if that is too boring for a big move...
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11/05/2026 11:50 am
Jumping in here... in my experience, the best gifts for small city apartments are things that elevate the everyday stuff. I used to kill plants too, so I started gifting high-end glassware instead. I actually found a killer set of stackable glasses using Share Product that save tons of shelf space.
- Bodum double-walled glasses (no coasters needed!)
- Aesop hand soap
- A Brooklinen waffle robe That soap makes any tiny bathroom feel like a spa.
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11/05/2026 11:20 am
Honestly, most of those online gift guides are a total joke. I have been around these forums for years and unfortunately, those custom doormats are just not as good as expected in real life. They get filthy in two seconds and in a Chicago apartment, someone might actually swipe it. High-end oils are usually a bust too since they just go rancid if she isnt a cook. Instead of more clutter, try these:
- Just get any set of linen tea towels from Williams Sonoma. They feel super high-end and she will actually use them every day.
- A solid stone or marble tray from West Elm. You basically cant go wrong with their decor for organizing a small space.
- A fancy soap set from Aesop. It makes a tiny apartment bathroom feel like a spa. Dont stress, youre doing a good thing helping her settle in! If you need anything else just yell.
