Client, Employee, or In-Law—We’ve Got You Covered

Let’s face it: gift-giving can be tricky, especially when you don’t know the person very well. Whether you’re trying to impress a new client, welcome a new team member, or find something thoughtful for your new sister-in-law, it’s easy to get stuck in analysis paralysis.

At Rising Tide Gifts, this is one of the most common dilemmas our customers face—and it’s exactly what we’re here for! We’ve built our shop around thoughtful, locally made gifts that feel personal without requiring you to know someone’s life story or coffee order. So here are some simple tips to help you pick the perfect present when you’re shopping in the “I barely know them” zone:

1. Bestsellers Are Bestsellers for a Reason

When in doubt, trust the crowd. Our bestselling items have earned their status because they’re universally loved, easy to gift, and full of East Coast charm.

Think:
🧼 A beautifully packaged artisan soap that smells like a walk on the beach.
🍫 A sea salt chocolate bar from a local chocolatier.
🕯️ A hand-poured candle with a clean, subtle scent.

You don’t have to reinvent the wheel. These are the go-to gifts that we restock again and again—because they work.

2. Consider the Travel Situation

If your recipient is flying home or traveling, keep that in mind.
Skip large liquids or fragile glass, unless you know they’re checking a bag.

Instead, opt for solid or compact items like:

• Lip balm or solid lotion bars

• Travel-sized snacks or candies

• Tea samplers in compostable packaging

• Locally made notebooks or art prints

Bonus: Most of these are lightweight and easy to tuck into a carry-on.

3. When in Doubt, Give Them a Taste of Where You’re From

A gift that’s from here always feels thoughtful—especially if your recipient isn’t local. We carry lots of options that give a warm Maritime welcome without being kitschy.

Consider gifts like:
🌊 NB Sea Spice - a local twist on a pantry staple
🦞 Locally roasted coffee with a coastal twist
🌲 A forest-scented candle or essential oil blend
📦 Or our ready-to-go Maritime Kitchen Party Gift Box, packed with regional favourites

You’re not just giving a product—you’re sharing a little piece of this place we love so much.

4. Consumables Are Always a Safe Bet

You know what doesn’t sit around collecting dust? Food. Skincare. Candles. Anything they can enjoy and then not have to store or dust later.

Try:
🍬 Small-batch maple syrup or artisan chocolates
🛁 Bath soaks or shower steamers
🍵 Herbal teas or latte blends
🍯 Honey or jam from local makers

It’s like saying, “Here’s something nice for you to enjoy, no pressure.”

Bonus Tip: Presentation Goes a Long Way

Even a simple gift can feel extra special when it’s packaged beautifully. We include a little postcard in every gift that shares our story, and we’re always happy to add a handwritten note or wrap your items in one of our signature gift boxes.

So next time you’re stuck trying to pick something for someone you barely know, don’t stress. We’ve got curated collections, local favourites, and years of experience helping customers find the just-right gift—even for the most mysterious of recipients.

Browse our ready-made gift boxes or drop us a message—we’re always happy to help.