I was thinking about putting together a few different gift guides – foodie, tech and miscellaneous things that I would love – but I decided against it. I already have everything that I need (and a lot of what I want)! One type of gift that I really enjoy though is a gift subscription. It’s a sweet little reminder of the giver throughout the year. When the recipient gets it, they will think about you each time. In case you haven’t finished your holiday shopping, below are several subscription gift options…
*1. Beauty gift boxes: I reviewed Birchbox ($10/month) and Glossybox ($21/month) two of the leading beauty gift box companies. I think that they are fun options for people who like to try new things. In the Birchbox, my favorite thing was actually the “Lifestyle Extra” – an assorted mini chocopod from Chuao Chocolatier. It was one of the few dark chocolate treats that I have ever enjoyed. Meanwhile, Carol’s Daughter Shea Soufflé was my favorite item in the Glossybox.
*2. Food gifts: There are such a wide variety of food gift subscriptions available. I sampled Love with Food ($10/month) and Jacques Torres’ chocolate installment service (starting at $145 for 3 months).
3. Music: I love a variety of musical styles – from gospel to country. As such, streaming music subscriptions (Spotify Premium, Pandora One, Rdio, Xbox Music Pass and Slacker Premium Radio) would all hit the right note!
4. Movies: Dinner and a movie are some of my favorite in-home date night and family night options. Subscriptions to streaming video services (i.e. Redbox Instant by Verizon that is currently in beta, Netflix and Amazon Prime Instant Video) or a pass for unlimited movie showings in an actual theater (MoviePass) would be just the right ticket!
5. Newspapers and magazines: Reps from the local papers have been calling to sell subscriptions lately – ‘tis the season. My husband Reggie picks up the paper at the newsstand most days, but a subscription to the New York Times, Daily News or New York Post would always be welcome. I love the written word, so magazine subscriptions are also a consistent hit. Reggie’s aunt renews an O, The Oprah Magazine subscription for me each year and I think of her each month when I read it. I also buy Sports Illustrated for Reggie each year. (Well, it’s mainly for him, but I love their writing style too!)
6. Tea of the month: Art of Tea’s “Egyptian Chamomile” is a personal favorite and they also have a popular tea of the month club. Other notable tea of the month options include Adagio Teas and Teavana.
There are many other wonderful gift subscription services available. These are simply some of my top picks. What type of gift subscription would you enjoy?
{I was sent the subscription gifts marked with an “*” to review for editorial consideration.}