I am a big proponent of supporting local small businesses, so I often visit area thrift stores looking to find items to use in upcoming home stagings that add character and life to my projects. On recent thrift store hunts I’ve also stumbled upon some wonderful gift items that can be highly personalized to reflect the personality of any husband, brothers, sons, brothers-in-laws, fathers and all other male friends and relatives. Check out a few highlights from my recent trip to one of my favorite thrift stores in Washington DC.
Barware
This collection of barware that includes everything from glass brandy decanter and glass ice bucket (with tongs) to the old school martini shaker are all great gifts for the type of man who appreciates fine brandy and a good cigar every now and then. Add in some personalized low ball glasses and bar napkins and you’ve got yourself a great gift!
Bust or statue
Perfect for the classical or jazz music lover and/or the history buff. You never know who’s bust you will find but as long as it is in good condition (no missing pieces or large scratches) you should be good to go! Couple this gift with albums or CDs with the same genre (lots of thrift stores carry albums too) and another gift is completed. The history lover might enjoy a coffee table book of relevance to the bust as well.
Professional gifts
For the lawyers/attorneys and judges who probably already have everything, this marble scale of Justice would be PERFECT! Keep your eyes open for all sorts of professional items, like judges gavels, mortar and pestle sets for doctors or nurses, and old school bells for teachers.
Some other items that I did not see on this visit but could also be great gifts are: old vintage maps (framed or unframed but in good condition), old black and white photographs, vintage alarm clocks, and valet stands.
Although I don’t usually give furniture as a gift, I just couldn’t resist taking a photo of this iron end table frame. Can’t you just see this with marble or granite top, sitting next to a leather recliner, or wing chair! What a find!
Don’t be a afraid to shop your local thrift store for holiday gifts! It’s a place that is commonly overlooked but houses some true gems just waiting to be discovered!
Written by:
Roslyn Ashford
Professional Designer & Stager, www.rarooms.com
