Courtney Opalko Etiquette

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The Good Manners Gift Guides (2023) Full Collection

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The holidays are here again! It’s time to make your list, check it twice and pick the perfect gifts for loved ones.

For the third year, The Good Manners Gift Guides are here to help you shop with intention this holiday season. These gift guides have been thoughtfully curated and designed to inspire good manners, kindness and connection.

Of course, there are a few things for you, too.

So, let’s get shopping!

Good Manners Gift Guide: For Her - Little Luxuries

The Good Manners Gift Guide for Her: Little Luxuries

These gifts are sure to delight the classic, sophisticated woman in your life (or perhaps yourself!). These little luxuries make for beautiful gifts and stocking stuffers and are suitable for both friends and family.

  1. Wedgwood Cup & Saucer Ornament: ($70) A beautiful ornament designed to add a classic touch to any tree.

  2. Mason Pearson Detangling Comb ($36) Add a touch of elegance to her (or your!) dresser with this luxury detangling comb from Mason Pearson.

  3. Waterford Lismore Bon Bon Vase ($125) This beautiful crystal vase is perfect for holding a sweet posy on her bedside table.

  4. Crane & Co Peony Correspondence Cards: ($34) Add a touch of luxury to her stationery suite with this beautifully engrave correspondence cards.

  5. Gabrielle Bath Salt Cady: ($50) This gorgeous set of bath salts comes beautifully packaged and ready to hang. Pair the caddy with a selection of bath salts to create a custom spa experience she’ll enjoy throughout the winter months.

  6. Heidi Carey Hydrangea Slip Nightgown: ($106.25) This soft and elegant nightgown will encourage sweet dreamy and dreamy mornings. Designed in California and handmade in Jaipur, India of 100% light-weight cotton with a darling scalloped trim.

  7. Rifle Paper Co Silk Scarf: ($68) This gorgeous 100% silk scarf features an original Rifle Paper Co print and will add the perfect finishing touch to her favorite outfit. Even better? It will arrive packaged in elegant gift wrap with gold foil accents, making gift giving a breeze.

  8. The Bouqs 3 Month Subscription: (Price Varies) What do you get the woman who has everything? Why not treat her to a monthly subscription of farm fresh flowers to brighten up the long winter months? The Bouqs company will take care of it!

Good Manners Gift Guide: The Intentional Hostess

The Good Manners Gift Guide: The Intentional Hostess

These gifts have been thoughtfully curated with the intentional hostess or host in mind. These gifts are for the friend who always has an open door and an open heart. Her love language is coffee, charcuterie boards and deep conversation. You feel instantly comfortable when you walk into their home and you want a gift that will reflect your appreciation of their thoughtful attention to detail.

  1. Beautiful Boards for Every Occasion: ($24.99 on sale for $14.48) This visually exciting book will provide endless inspiration for the creative host. Their charcuterie boards will know no limits as they discover endless ways to artfully curate beautiful boards for their guests to enjoy.

  2. Le Creuset Herb Planter: ($32) A sprig of fresh rosemary or pinch of mint can add the perfect finishing touch to plated meals and cocktails alike. Your favorite hostess will love having their favorite herb nearby and displayed in this elegant planter by Le Creuset.

  3. Silver Vase: ($69.95) There’s always room for one more vase! This gorgeous silver vessel will make a statement on the table or in the entry way.

  4. French Tulip Candle in Pagoda Box ($44). This beautifully packaged candle by Seda France arrives ready to gift and features a fresh fragrance reminiscent of springtime in Paris.

  5. Thermoworks Instant Read Thermometer: ($109 currently on sale for $70.85) One of the most important tools any host could have is a meat thermometer! This top of the line product gives accurate readings in less than one second and comes in a variety of colors to suite every personality!

  6. William Morris Playing Card Set: ($14.99) William Morris is known for his unmistakable textile prints and this set of cards features his famous Celandine and Seaweed designs.

  7. Birdies Slippers: (Price Varies) Your favorite hostess will love the 7 layers of cloud like comfort support of these glamorous shoes . Are they shoes? Or are they slippers? That’s up to her to decide!

  8. Party Planning Book: ($77) The savviest host will adore this leather bound party planning book! This handmade book is designed to help her keep every detail of her famed dinner parties well-organized, allowing space for notes on every aspect of the evening from the menu, to games and seating arrangements.

The Good Manners Gift Guide: Royal Enthusiast

The Good Manners Gift Guide: Royal Enthusiast

Do you have a friend who often refers to her friend “Kate”? Did you notice she picked up a preference for oat milk lattes despite being totally tolerant of dairy? She’s likely a Royal Enthusiast - and these Princess-approved gifts are destined to make her feel like the most important princess of all.

  1. The Royal Wardrobe by Rosie Hart ($28.99 on sale for $25.30): History and fashion combine to tell the tale of the British Royal Family through the clothes, jewelry and design that defined each generation. This book is easy to read, easily digestible and royally fun to enjoy!

  2. Fortnum & Mason Mini Huntsman Hamper: ($129.95) Your favorite royal enthusiast will feel as if they’ve been transported to an English country estate for a leisurely picnic with this Fortnum & Mason hamper. Packaged in F&M signature wicker basket is everything they’ll need to enjoy a royal afternoon including a selection of teas, preserves, honey and shortbread.

  3. Clarins Cryo FlashFace Mask ($80) Clarins is well-known to be preferred by women of the British Royal Family. This new face mask is sure to provide a royal glow with its age defying properties designed to visibly firm, tighten and hydrate skin.

  4. Machin Design Cushion ($56 plus shipping) Straight from the Buckingham Palace gift shop and Royal Collection, this decorative pillow features Andrew Machin’s iconic image of Queen Elizabeth II.

  5. Target x Rowing Blazers Rose Knitted Throw Blanket: ($45 now on sale for $22.50) Eagle eye royal fans will recognize the floral pattern on this heavyweight knit blanket as the Tudor Rose and appreciate the nod to Princess Diana, who famously wore Rowing Blazer’s black sheep sweater in 1981.

  6. William Morris Golden Lily Gardening Gloves Gift Set: ($48) His Majesty the King is well-known for his love of nature and gardening. So it shouldn’t be a surprise if your friend has recently picked up a new outdoor hobby. These lovely William Morris print gardening gloves will have her feeling like a queen!

  7. Barbour Beadnell Fleece Lined Jacket Handbag: ($295) Barbour has received the honor of Royal Appointment by Prince Philip, Queen Elizabeth II and now King Charles III, who issued his royal appointment in 1987. A staple of the British Royal Family’s country attire, this fleece lined jacket will keep her warm and stylish whether she enjoys leisurely country pursuits or simply walking her corgis.

  8. Simplified Linen Journal ($30) The Prince and Princess of Wales are champions of mental health, and what better way to decompress than writing out one’s thoughts in a luxurious linen bound journal? Use this link for $15 off your first order of $50 or more.

The Good Manners Gift Guide: Well-Mannered Kids

The Good Manners Gift Guide: For Well-Mannered Kids

These classic toys and books make learning manners fun. Thoughtfully curated to encourage social-emotional learning and development, these beautiful gifts will keep kids off the screens and instead immerse them in imaginative play, self-reflection and open their eyes to a world of possibilities.

  1. Neighborhood Appreciation Cards: ($19.99) This colorful set of cards is designed to bring the family together while spreading kindness throughout the neighborhood. The deck can be used in multiple ways, including as a scavenger hunt for family walks or to spread random acts & compliments to neighbors and friends.

  2. Madeline Says Merci: ($14.99) “Madeline loves adventure and is not afraid of mice. She loves winter, snow, and ice. And she also knows the secret to being polite is simply to be kind to others.” I agree, kindness is key! Share the message of good manners with this classic rhyming book sure to inspire and delight both the young and young at heart.

  3. Happy Hearts Board Game: ($45) This unique board game weaves science-backed mindfulness techniques into a lovingly designed board game designed to encourage a growth mindset, ignite laughter and bring joy to playtime.

  4. Slumberkins Gift Set Daily Routines: ($48) Help the child in your life develop healthy daily routines with their new friend, Slumberkins Sloth. Their new soft and cozy friend will be right by their side as they practice their routines and daily affirmations designed to help them get a head start on a great day.

  5. Young + Wild and Friedman Starter Sensory Kit: ($39) YW&F Sensory kits provide hours of creative, open ended play time for my daughter and your child will love these kits, too. Each kit also comes with the option to add a short curriculum to inspire new ways to play and lessons to learn.

  6. Bucket Full of Kindness Game: ($24.99) Move around the board and collect hearts to fill your Kindness Bucket. This game is recommended for 2-4 players ages 6+ and is designed to help children learn how to identify “bucket fillers” and “bucket spillers”. Encourage kindness and awareness of self and others with this fun and colorful game.

  7. All About Feelings Magic Board: ($32.99) Children will learn how to identify different emotions as they bring feelings to life with this unique magnetic board. This is perfect for children ages 3+ and a great quiet time activity that will also help them learn how to identify and describe emotions while encouraging social-emotional learning and fine motor skills.

  8. Growth Mindset Ninja Activity Book: ($19.97) Ninja Life Hacks is a wonderful book series created to help children learn how to identify, describe and move through big feelings in a positive way. This activity book is a great companion to the books but can also stand on its own as Growth Mindset Ninja narrates this interactive book filled with creative activities, games, and strategies that help kids grow their brains!

The Good Manners Gift Guide: Thoughtful Teens

The Good Manners Gift Guide for Thoughtful Teens

Remind your teens that there is life beyond the screen and encourage them to connect with themselves and others. These unique gifts are designed to encourage conversation, connection and self-care: important aspects to the healthy development of adolescents.

  1. Daily Goals Mindfulness Bracelet ($68): The most elegant progress tracker you ever did see. Each bead on this silver-plated bracelet represents one step toward a daily goal, or a daily task that needs to be completed. From moments of gratitude, acts of kindness, or simply making sure your teen is drinking enough water, these beads will only move with the active action of sliding each bead from one end to the other.

  2. La Neige Besties Skin Care Set: ($35) Skin care is all the rage and this Besties set is perfect for teens on the go. This set delivers effective multi-faceted hydration revealing a smooth and healthy complexion.

  3. Juicy Tubes Gift Set: ($39) Ok, maybe I had to include these because Juicy Tubes were all the rage when I was a teenager myself and I love to see them back and #trending! The perfect touch to that clean girl aesthetic she loves.

  4. The Unstuck Box: ($59 now $54) Deemed a career coach in a box, this deck of cards promotes problem solving, project management, brainstorming and smart decision making skills. Used by the likes of Google, Harvard and the US Air Force, this simple box of cards will give your teen an edge over the competition as they move toward the next phase of their life.

  5. Hatch Restore Alarm Clock ($199 check for $30 coupon!) Did you know that your teen needs a full 8-10 hours of quality sleep each night? Help make bedtime a breeze with this best-selling alarm clock designed to promote healthy nighttime habits, deeper sleep and more relaxing mornings.

  6. How Not To Be A Dick: An Everyday Etiquette Guide: ($17.99 now $13.48) Etiquette might not be your teens favorite subject, but understanding how to work with others and present their best self is key to their success. This guide presents useful information in a tongue-in-cheek style guaranteed to teach important life skills in an way that engages and entertains your teen.

  7. Marshall Portable Bluetooth Speaker: ($119.99 now $103.12) A bluetooth speaker with a retro design will surely pass the vibe check.

  8. ban.do Take Care Unplug Kit, Self Care Set: ($26.95 now $22) This colorful self care kit comes with an eye mask, journal prompts, a timer, and a carrying pouch. It also comes packaged in a ready-to-wrap box making gift giving a breeze!

The Good Manners Gift Guide: Magical Family Meals

The Good Manners Gift Guide for Magical Family Meals

The importance of sharing regular family meals has been well-researched and documented. Some of those benefits include better academic performance, higher self-esteem, lower risk of substance abuse in teens and healthier long-term relationships with food - not to mention better communication skills and deeper family bonds. But just because we know sitting down and sharing a meal together is good for us, doesn’t mean it’s easy to do. This thoughtfully curated collection of gifts is designed to empower, inspire and encourage Magical Family Meals so you can easily build intentional connection into your everyday meals.

  1. Lunchbox Joke Cards ($10.95): Why wait for dinnertime to connect with your kids? Slip a fun joke card into their lunch to remind them of your love and give them a smile and laugh while they enjoy their lunch at school. I love that you will also be supporting a small family owned business and still enjoy the benefits of Prime shipping!

  2. Sur La Table Popcorn Night Gift Set: ($29.95 Use code FRIENDS for 20%):  Elevate your Friday Popcorn & Movie night with a gourmet selection of popcorn kernels and seasonings. The customization options are endless and sure to please everyone!

  3. DIY Rainbow Bagel Making Kit: ($30): Level up your culinary skills with these Instagram worthy rainbow bagels! Your family will have so much fun making and eating these delightfully playful bagels while learning new skills in the kitchen!

  4. Winter Scene Disposable Coloring Placemats ($9.99):  These black and white paper placemats feature an idyllic winter scene. Your children can show of their artistic skills and bring this imaginary winter village to life in color before or after their meal.

  5. Together at The Table: ($50 now $26.90) From the husband and wife creators behind famed tableware brand Juliska, this gorgeous book is sure to inspire beautiful tables your family will enjoy.

  6. Anomia Party Edition ($29.95 now $25.99) A best rated game for family night, this fast-paced, brain-bending, laugh-til-you-cry game is sure to be a hit with the whole crew!

  7. Our Family Recipes Book: ($12.99 now $10.86) Take some time to write down your family’s favorite recipes in this lovely journal. Not only will you have a go-to collection of family favorites when you’re in need of a quick idea, but your family will also have their favorite recipes preserved for years, and even generations, to come.

  8. Who Knows More? Kids v Adults: ($24.99) Split up into opposing teams for the ultimate battle of the brains in this fun and simple trivia game. This game is best for older kids, ages 8+ and is a great way to engage teens in a fun family activity with just a hint of competition (wink*).

The Good Manners Gift Guide: For the Classic Gentleman

The Good Manners Gift Guide for the Classic Gentleman

NEW THIS YEAR! Introducing the Good Manners Gift Guide for the Classic Gentleman. Each item on this specially curated list is designed with the discerning gentleman in mind. You’ll find a mix of items with the intention of helping you shop for every important man in your life. I can guarantee you’ll find something that they love - this is list is 100% Husband-Approved!

  1. TheraGun Mini Handheld Electric Massage Gun: ($199) This handheld massage gun seems to be on every man’s wish list and it’s selling fast! This massage gun is lightweight and easily portable with an ergonomic grip making it perfect to pack and easy to store. Featuring customizable speeds and options, this smart device will relieve pain and stress with ease.

  2. Rhoback Golf Shirt: ($96 now $76.80) Rhoback is inspired by activity, especially by activities that bring people together. The classic gentleman in your life will love the quality of Rhoback golf shirts just as much as the cheeky designs that reflect his personality. Try this code for special savings off your first order: C230829-HLFJV4P.

  3. Pickleball Paddle: ($86) Elevate his pickleball game with a new paddle from Recess. Available in a variety of designs, this paddle has a durable fiberglass surface with a high quality honeycomb core. Recess paddles are perfect for an impromptu pickleball game with friends or a spontaneous day in the sun!

  4. Monogrammed Leather Money Clip: ($49) Functional and stylish, this leather money clip can be customized with a sleek foil embossed monogrammed.

  5. Italian Sterling Silver Plated Shoe Horn: ($210) For the gentleman who truly has it all, treat him to this luxurious silver plated shoe horn made in Italy. There is a variety of design options - each one surely to become a treasured heirloom and keepsake.

  6. Nike Killshot Sneakers: ($90) This eternally stylish option pairs just as well with a sleek suit as it does with a strong pair of denim.

  7. Herschel Duffle Bag: ($100 now $68.91) Herschel Supply Co. is well known for their classic products that combine style, quality and purpose while keeping sustainability at the forefront - all of which the classic gentleman is sure to appreciate. This duffle bag features an adjustable and removable shoulder strap as well as interior pockets for easy transport and organization.

  8. Solo Stove: (Starting at $99) Cater to his love of the outdoors with this sleek fire pit engineered for adventure. Whether he needs a portable fire pit for camping or a more substantial set up to enjoy in the backyard with family and friends, he’ll love being able to impress others with this smokeless fire pit.

I hope you enjoyed this year’s Good Manners Gift Guides and find the perfect gift for someone special. My wish for you is to have a holiday season full of intentional time spent together creating deeper connections and building new memories.

Happy Holidays and Merry Everything,

Courtney