Some birthdays call for a little more fanfare. If someone you love is celebrating their 30th soon, make sure you go the extra mile to make them feel special. That doesn’t mean you have to spend big – sometimes the best presents are the smallest tokens that simply show how well you know a friend or family member.
The sweet spot for thoughtful gifting is finding something that you think they would already own but don’t. Leaning into hobbies or remembering what they lingered looking at the last time you went shopping is another safe bet.
17 gift ideas to shop
Ilio Nema Icarus Chambira tote
$545
Ilio Nema crafts pieces for life. With asymmetrical stripes and shell details, this handwoven tote makes a statement piece to pair with jeans or a pared-back accessory for summer. The Aussie label works with Peruvian artisans to hand-dye native palm before crocheting it by hand. Soft Edge Studio Everything bowl
$170
After a hiatus of almost two years, the minimalist homewares brand has made a return with its curvaceous collection of plates and bowls. Handmade in Japan, these porcelain pieces come in colourful glazed finishes: espresso, marshmallow and cornflower blue. You could add a coordinating (or mismatched) rolled rim plate to make it an extra special set. The designs are currently out of stock via the studio’s website, but you can shop them online at Bassike. Fold Up movement mat
$129
Designed for “movement lovers”, Fold Up’s signature mat is a lightweight yet extra-thick yoga mat that folds up into a compact 1.2-kilogram square – making it more comfortable during workouts, as well as when carrying to and from the studio. The brand also sells a coordinating backpack, which fits the mat, a laptop and daily essentials. The yogi in your life will love this one. Gentle Habits perfume oil
$50
Treat them to a new signature scent from Aussie wellness label Gentle Habits. The Bells Beach fragrance is woody with notes of smoky eucalyptus. But if that’s not their steeze, the brand also offers a range of other aromas named after local places, including Noosa, Byron Bay, Bondi Beach, Margaret River, Yamba and Tasmania. Plus, several invite a state of mindfulness – Immersion, Grounded and Connect – which we all need a little help achieving sometimes. Each 10-mil oil features a roll-on application, and bottles have been designed to refill. Le Creuset round casserole pot
From $500
If they pronounce microwave like Nigella Lawson, it might be time for their first Le Creuset. The classic pots start at 2.4 litres and go up in size to 6.7 litres, ideal for slow-cooking casseroles, stews and roasts. The iconic French label offers a range of colourful cast iron and non-stick cookware to kit out their kitchen. Non 9 blackberry and plum
$30
There’s no denying that hangovers hit harder after the big three-zero. Whether your mate is sober curious or has already cut back on the booze, Non’s newest zero-alc pour is a thoughtful addition to any home bar. The ruby red tipple is made in Melbourne and has all the flavour without the headache. Dyson Ontrac headphones
$499 (was $799)
Gift them crisp audio for years to come with Dyson’s noise-cancelling headphones. The brand has long made the science behind its tools a selling point – and it’s put to use here with powerful sound (between 6–21 kilohertz) and up to 55 hours of playback. Choose from four slick colourways and customise the ear cushions and outer caps for a bespoke design. Tronque vitamin C body oil
$120
This one’s made for winter skin. The Kiwi label’s formula features a line-up of face-worthy ingredients – namely vitamin C, known for its powerful benefits. It’s designed to be slathered on after hot showers to help boost skin’s natural glow. ASO Go On mini CD
$10
CDs are retro now – which, naturally, means they’re cool again. If your gift recipient is the nostalgic type (or just really into the Aussie duo’s trip-hop album), this release could be a hit. It’s a single, just like the old days – so, it makes a nice gesture on its own or a thoughtful add-on for someone closer. It’s currently sold out on Bandcamp, but still available at Melbourne’s Skydiver Records. Studio Eter beeswax candle
From $27
If in doubt: candles. Melbourne label Studio Eter crafts theirs from beeswax sourced from its own hives – and a few other local beekeepers. The Lovers style features two candles entwined, while Protection showcases a trio of hands to symbolise strength. There are more classic pillar options, too. Parcta Egress Sconce
$189
If mood lighting is their vibe (and they’re maxed out on lamps), Parcta’s design provides a chic alternative to wall lighting. Made from recyclable aluminium and hand-finished in Sydney, it’s a geometric art piece that emanates a soft glow. The Creative Act: A Way of Being – Rick Rubin
$49.99
Despite what people may think, we’re all creative. Written by esteemed music producer Rick Rubin, this read provides guidance on how to channel your ideas, observations and musings into something tangible. It’s an uplifting and stimulating read for someone stepping into a new chapter in their life. Cushla Whiting Contours ear cuff
$1200
Ear cuffs might be trending, but this one has staying power. The Melbourne designer puts her architectural stamp on this elegant nine-carat gold design, inspired by the contour lines on maps. There are variants made from nine- and 18-carat white gold for those who don’t play with yellow, as well as diamond-encrusted options for something extra special. Kinnon Hale and Earle Duo
$165
Personalised gifts are the kind people keep. The Melbourne label’s Italian leather travel set – a passport cover and luggage tag – comes in 13 colourways and includes complimentary monogramming. Ruggable x The Local Project rug
From $179
Ruggable’s latest collab features three influential local designers – including Brahman Perera, whose Golden Marigold design draws on Sri Lankan heritage and expressive linework from artists like Matisse. The bonus? It’s machine-washable, like all Ruggable rugs. Nonna’s Grocer candle
From $45
It’s no secret we’re fans of Nonna’s Grocer’s signature fruit-and-veg-shaped candles at Broadsheet. From eggs and avos to a Kowtow collaboration with tomatoes, they’re the ultimate token gift.Libby Haines print
From $60
Bare walls are boring. But committing to art can be a big deal. Melbourne artist Libby Haines offers prints of some of her best-loved original pieces that bring a dose of dopamine to kitchens, living spaces and bedroom walls. The stylised tablescapes and still life settings depict all the best things in life – from Negronis and natural wines to shellfish, cakes and seasonal florals. Additional reporting by Alice Jeffery
This article was first published on October 17, 2023 and has since been updated.
We hope you like the products we recommend on Broadsheet. Our editors select each one independently. Broadsheet may receive an affiliate commission when you follow some links.
