LIFE & STYLE

Dads, Grads, and Weddings So Grand!

By Melanie Carden

It seems like just yesterday we were brushing off snowflakes…and then it’s “Hello, Summer!” I find myself trading my cold weather to-do lists for what feels like a bit of a scramble to source all the gifts I need for June—dads, grads, and the grandiose weddings of the season. Here, I’m sharing a few of my favorites. Call it a little seasonal smattering of gift-giving goodies.

UPCYCLED BRASS BOMB CASINGS
This ring is the physical manifestation of resilience, and a graduation gift of deep meaning. Ten Thousand Villages collaborates with makers in Cambodia who upcycle the brass from bomb casings, to create beautiful, symbolic jewelry. Get the full story on the website.
Info: tenthousandvillages.com

WHISKEY AND HEIRLOOM WATCHES
The Balvenie Single Malt Scotch Whisky and third-generation institution Grand Central Watch (Grand Central Terminal) are teaming up for a gift set extraordinaire. It includes an heirloom consultation at Grand Central Watch, a keepsake book, and QR discount code for a bottle of The Balvenie.
Info: www.thebalvenie.com

WEDDING WONDERMENT
One of the most beautiful, preserved flower ideas I’ve seen in a long time: Pressed Floral creates breathtaking framed floral preservation art, making it an exceptional shower or wedding gift idea.
Info: pressedfloral.com

CELEBRATE AL FRESCO
A gift from Olive & Cocoa is always a treasured treat, especially because it arrives in a custom wood crate. This tapas selection – with fire grilled vegetable antipasti and artichoke tomato spread -- is perfect for any of June’s celebratory moments.
Info: oliveandcocoa.com

THE GREAT OUTDOORS
Filson is in the upper echelon of outdoors outfitters. Celebrating their 125th anniversary, the brand’s dedication to unfailing goods is unwavering. So, rest assured this lightweight Alaskan Guide Shirt is up for the task—BBQs and adventures alike.
Info: filson.com

FIELD OF FLOWERS
FLATWARE

If you’re the gift-giver that likes to add a little wow into the day, Juliska’s Field of Flowers Flatware Set is a guaranteed showstopper. Its graceful, delicate print is so lovely for creating a special tablescape.
Info: juliska.com

GRAND GRAD ADVENTURES
Graduation brings a sense of relief, sure, but it also has a way of inspiring a bit of wanderlust. The Puffy Poncho from Rumpl is ready for post-grad adventures. It’s a poncho that packs into its own pocket to become a pillow, and more. Info: rumpl.com

CABINET OF CURIOSITIES 
Oh, my! If you dabble in gin, you’ve likely seen the Hendrick’s Cabinet of Curiosities line. Well, they’ve partnered with Flamingo Estate, home to one of America’s most sought-after gardens, to create this gift set. Gin, jazz on vinyl, strawberries in rose water, and jam? Yes, please.
Info: flamingoestate.com

DADS AND
LITTLE DAREDEVILS

This is a special gift for Dads who go out there to share adventures with the little ones. Uncharted Society offers a four-day off-roading Grand Canyon adventure for dads and kiddos (as young as 3 years old).
Info: unchartedsociety.com

GRADUATION GLOW
The Glow Up Journal from Simon and Shuster includes advice on beauty, style, fitness, and career—but it’s the cool journal prompts that caught my eye. Truly a resource, it includes real-life planning prompts like “Make Money Your Bestie,” and tips on how to draw energy from daydreams.
Info: simonandshuster.com

FROM THE BEACH TO THE MOUNTAINS
Everyone is heading outdoors, dads and grads included. Whether it’s a beach, boat, or mountain road trip outing, MSR’s WindBurner® Personal Stove System is a game-changer. Brew that coffee—even on a windy sailboat—make a proper roadside lunch. Info: msrgear.com

WATCHFUL WISHES 
If you’re looking for an heirloom quality watch, set aside some quality time to visit Hodinkee’s inventory and limited-edition collections, including Hermès and Chopard. Pictured here, the Slim d’Hermès With Opaline-Silver Dial. Info: shop.hodinkee.com