Everyone’s Moving
Thoughtful gifts for new beginnings.
Life is often measured by a checklist of milestones: first steps, first big game, graduation, engagement, babies, retirement. The list goes on, until it doesn’t. We tick one box and immediately turn our attention to the next. Personally, I’ve never been a fan of milestones. The pressure tied to these so-called “goals” (often expected by a certain age) feels mad unfair, especially when we all know that the human experience doesn’t follow a singular path. Timelines are not universal and, honestly, thank GAWD for that.
For me, the clearest marker of a new chapter isn’t a milestone, it’s a move. The packing up, the shedding, the uprooting. Each move is its own story and can happen at any time, for a myriad of reasons. What I love about a move, whether it’s mine or someone else’s, is how deeply personal it is. It feels expansive rather than restrictive. It’s not about keeping up, it’s about tuning in.
A few months ago, my best friend told me that she and her now-husband plan to eventually make their way back down South (maybe probably Texas). A future shift in space and pace—more room to grow, literally and figuratively. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t a little heartbroken. She assured me (there there) that it wouldn’t be for at least five years, but still, I felt the sting. And yet, I totally get it. That’s her next chapter, unfolding in her own time, in her own way, for her own reasons. I’m proud of her.
My dear friend Rayna just made a big move from her little studio apartment to an expansive loft space that’s impeccably designed. A big girl move for her big girl life. Steph, my girlfriend’s best friend, just moved to Connecticut into an unbelievable home that she got to renovate herself, all while waiting for baby #3. I feel like such an adult. Meanwhile, my girlfriend Jane and I have decided to take the next step: cohabitation. We’ve got big dreams and ideas: renovations, paint colors, closet solutions (Lord, help us). And, for the first time in my now adult life, everyone around me is pregnant. No exaggeration, like 10+ people (Steph included). Jane pointed out, that based on due dates alone, it’s clear there was something in the air over Memorial Day and/or Labor Day weekend. Congrats to all involved. And, for obvious reasons, many of these friends are now trading up and moving into bigger apartments with a little more breathing room.
While not every move is a celebration… sometimes life forces us to uproot for reasons beyond our control… I do think most moves mark something exciting. A triumphant new chapter of one’s own.
What I love most about moving and growing up? The housewarming and dinner party game seriouuuuuuuuusly levels up. Suddenly you’re buying the good bottle of wine, bringing a thoughtful gift, or hosting with more intention. Big moves often mean big purchases—for yourself or someone else—and I get so much joy from marking those moments. I like to think I speak every love language, but gift-giving might be one of my favorites. Here are a few ideas for all kinds of new chapter moments:
Alessi Accessories:
I hate that I’m starting off so luxe, but to be honest, these are things I personally want. And if you’ve clocked that Jane and I are in the midst of cohabitation… this isn’t not a hint.
For the Floral Enthusiast:
My girlfriend Jane (hi, babe) never gifts flowers without a vessel, because why give someone the gift of a task? It’s rude, and you’re not rude! It’s the easiest way to make a simple errand feel thoughtful. And if this becomes your new go-to, I’ve rounded up a few ideas to build on it or branch out (ha ha, get it). Here are my favorites for the floral enthusiasts in your life.
Serving Bowls & Dishes:
This list is for the homie who gets off on hosting, the one who finally has enough space for a dining table (a true feat in this town). I love this kind of gift, both giving and receiving. It’s a chance to find something special… one of those “want, but can’t quite justify” pieces. Plus, it’s the perfect excuse to pop into a fabulous store. My go-tos for this are Porta NYC and Nickey Kehoe.
Useful Shit:
This group is perfect if you’re stumped! Whether your friend has everything or is just tricky to shop for. The candle adapters are genuinely useful (because why aren’t candlesticks one-size-fits-all?). The dish tote is a true godsend, because the worst part of a potluck is figuring out how-in-the-hell to haul your casserole across town. The garden tote is especially great for New Yorkers; grocery runs can be a physical burden in this town (iykyk). This one easily converts from tote to backpack, aaaaaaaaaand it’s chic! And lastly: olive oil. Everyone uses it, even your non-chef friends. This one’s customizable, which makes it feel extra thoughtful.
One-of-a-Kind:
If you’re the kind of friend who looooooooves to go the extra mile with a gift, look no further than Ginny Sims Ceramics. Her drop system is a whole production, but totally worth it if you're campaigning for Bestie of the Year.
For Your Chef Friend:
Sure maybe this overlaps with the above Alessi picks, but these are for your friends who take cooking seriously. The “self-proclaimed” chef-types. I recently came across Florentine Kitchen Knives via and instantly thought that they would make for a wow-worthy gift. Florentine and Alessi are proof that form and function can still honor great design. IMO the picks below strike that balance beautifully.
Added Ambiance:
Ambiance is universal. Whether it’s a candlelit bath, a taper-lined dinner table, or a signature home scent, candles do the most. They’re also the kind of thing we rarely buy for ourselves. So go ahead, gift a candle, throw in a fancy matchbox, and call yourself Ambeyoncé.
Added Ambiance Honorable Mention:
Maybe I’m biased because I have a massive girl crush on Matilda Goad, but her site is legit a housewarming gift Mecca. The silver and bronze matchbox sleeves, in particular, feel so crazy luxe and special. Bonus: you can customize them for an extra thoughtful touch. Aw.
