12 Thoughtful + Unique Gifts (Based on Zodiac Signs)

Courtesy of Maria Conti

Hi Friends,

Here's the Zodiac Gift Guide...

Aries

Photo By: Crate & Barrel

(March 21- April 19) Ah, Aries—the zodiac’s lovers of shiny new gadgets and adventurous experience. Cover all your bases and gift them with this Crate & Barrel’s drool-worthy 11-Piece Copper Fondue Set. These fiery spirits enjoy the spotlight and will love showing off their ultra-trendy copper kitchen gear to friends and family alike. $120.00; Crate & Barrel

Taurus

Photo By: Nordstrom

(April 20- May 20) Gift them with the signature sips they love and wrap up Simon and Schuster's The Essential New York Times Recipe Book. With nearly 500 pages to flip through, this book offers countless classic cocktail recipes that any traditional Taurean will appreciate. $29.95; store.nytimes.com

Gemini


(May 21- June 20) "Double the trouble is double the fun"—that is, as far as Gemini are concerned. Represented by twins, Gemini are chatty, social butterflies that never say no to a night on the town. A gift they are sure to get mileage out of? This coquettish cocktail napkin, just as cheeky as their personalities. $38; Waiting on Martha

Cancer

Photo By: Anthropologie

(June 21- July 22) Cancers are happiest when cozied up at home with friends and family. The gift they’ll love? A set of lariat hanging frames, complete with prints of your favorite captured moments together. The classic design and neutral colors ensure that these frames will stand the test of time, meaning that Cancers will always have their loved ones hanging nearby. $38.00; Anthropologie

Leo

Photo By: Jonathan Adler

(July 23- August 22) Leo boasts the bold, self-confident spirits of the zodiac. What better gift for the self-loving Leos, then, than one that incorporates their impressive lion symbol? We’re confident that these regal fire signs would appreciate this posh needlepoint pillow by Jonathan Adler. A lion tail adds a flirty touch, while a proper crown completes the regal design. $98; Jonathan Adler

Virgo

Photo By: Williams-Sonoma

(August 23- September 22) Virgos are the perfectionists of the zodiac. With high-standards and particular tastes, Virgos are especially intimidating to shop for. So what is the perfect gift for a perfectionist? Our bet is placed on this gorgeous Williams-Sonoma Marble Wine Chiller. It gifts these earth signs the ability to serve their most prized whites at their intended, proper temperature. A perfectly chilled pour, to the very last drop. $59.95; Williams-Sonoma

Libra

Photo By: Wayfair

(September 23- October 22) Libras head the good-vibe tribe and always look for peace and harmony in their lives. Gift them a reflection of their own positivity with these funky, gold metallic hand figurines. Perfect for dressing up a foyer or styling a bookshelf, these decorative digits are sure to earn you a smile and two thumbs-up from any Libra pal. $37.47; Wayfair

Scorpio

Photo By: Waiting on Martha

(October 23- November 21) Scorpios are known no-nonsense personalities and an incessant need for control in whatever situation they find themselves in. Gift them a trinket they can appreciate with this glossy, ceramic catchall. It features a cheeky quote from Mark Twain that aligns with these fire sign’s zero-tolerance policy for dishonesty. Even better? They can put it just about anywhere and use it for just about anything. $45.00; Waiting on Martha

Sagittarius

Photo By: Modcloth

(November 22- December 21) Sagittarius are known for their never-ending wanderlust and constant need for adventure. Add an extra dose of fun to their travels with this Carry-On Cocktail Kit from Modcloth. It comes complete with a fool-proof recipe, all the mixer essentials and even a linen coaster—all the Sagittarians need to do is pick their favorite booze! $24; W&P Design

Capricorn

Photo By: One Kings Lane

(December 22- January 19) Capricorn pride themselves on practicality and having a strong work ethic. So what’s the perfect (and totally pragmatic) gift to wrap up for one of these busy-bees? We love this sleek acrylic phone dock that doubles as a ruler. $16.00; One Kings Lane

Aquarius

Photo By: Jonathan Adler

(January 20- February 18) Shopping around for an ever-eclectic Aquarius? Look no further—the Muse Blanc Ceramic Candle by Jonathan Adler is here to deliver. This candle gives off a crisp, floral scent as it burns and features sculpted faces reminiscent of the Classics. A guaranteed source of inspiration for these artistic air-signs. $78.00; Jonathan Adler

Pisces

Photo By: Anthropologie

(February 19- March 20) Pisces are innately intuitive, empathetic and tend to go above and beyond to bring their loved ones a sense of comfort. Gift them with a dose of their own medicine and wrap them up in this luxurious, roped fringe throw blanket, courtesy of Anthropologie. This blanket will bring the Pisces fish back into their element with saturated, water-inspired indigo color and ultra-soft threading. $78; Anthropologie

The stars can make shopping so much easier, you guys. ..

Check back for more great ideas from your friends at Interior Design!

Your kind contribution will allow us to continue sharing great, no cost and cost saving ideas for your space. Click the "Donate" button below to make a contribution. Thank you!

Live well,
Yvonne

How to Celebrate Dad (Based on His Astrological Sign)

Courtesy of Maria Conti

Hi Friends,

Picking out the perfect gift for Father’s Day is tricky. Tricky, but not impossible. The secret to providing a pops-worthy present? Start with his sign and you’ll be on the right track. As luck would have it, I’ve got just the little guide you need to help you through your Dad’s Day planning.

The Gemini Dad

Erik Meadows Photography

(May 21 — June 20)
Gemini are always on the hunt for new experiences, and Gemini Dads are no exception. Feed into his curiosity by attending a food and drink festival. He’ll love spending the day tasting and trying new flavors with his kids by his side.

The Cancer Dad

Martin Poole

(June 21 — July 22)
Cancer Dads are the zodiac’s quintessential family men, and they want nothing more than to feel needed by their children. The ideal FD afternoon for a Cancer dad? Cook up his all-time favorite meal and ask for his expertise and helping hand on the DIY project you’ve been procrastinating on.

The Leo Dad

The Leading Hotels Of The World

(July 23 — August 22)
Leos are known for their pride, but Leo fathers bring a whole new meaning to pride when it comes to their offspring. Gift them with the opportunity to show you off to their peers by reserving a table at a see-and-be-seen restaurant downtown, or spend the afternoon at the country club golf course. They consider their lion cubs to be their greatest accomplishment and will delight in the opportunity to celebrate their fatherhood.

The Virgo Dad


(August 23 — September 22)
The Virgo Dad is a giver, a fixer and a problem-solver that finds joy in serving others. The attention does not have to be on this sign to properly celebrate them. In fact, they prefer for their kiddos to shift their energy from him, to instead, prioritizing others. Celebrate through service with your Virgo dad. He’ll enjoy the afternoon with you volunteering at the animal shelter, planting the neighborhood garden or even delivering meals to the elderly.

The Libra Dad


(September 23 — October 22)
Balance is key with your Libra Dad, guys. Look back on Mother’s Day — did he go all-out for Mom? If so, it will be in your best interest to reciprocate. Libras seek balance by putting out their innermost desires into the world, hoping that they will come back to them in return. If Pops provided Mom with an ultra-elegant dinner, you’ll want to do the same. Show him that he is equally as important to your family and equally deserving of recognition.

The Scorpio Dad


(October 23 — November 21)
Ah, the Scorpio Dad. I doubt I need to tell you this, but a Scorpio is happiest when he is in complete and total control. Planning for a Father’s Day surprise? Scratch that from your agenda. Instead, offer to foot the bill for however your pops wants to celebrate his day. Give him the control he loves so much, and you’re guaranteed to provide him with a satisfying, sentimental day.

The Sagittarius Dad

Jacob Ammentorp Lund/istockphoto.com

(November 22 — December 21)
A Sag dad loves to flirt with Lady Luck. What better way to do just that than with a visit to the casino? Provide Dad with a little play money and spend an afternoon with the slots. He’ll be elated and with the ruling planet of Jupiter (planet of luck) on his side. He might just make a pretty pile of pennies by the end of the day.

The Capricorn Dad


(December 22 — January 19)
The Capricorn Dad will appreciate the classic go-to gifts more than any other sign in the zodiac. Go ahead and gift him a silk necktie, dress socks or a shiny, leather briefcase over Sunday brunch. The zodiac’s notorious workhorses will adore the practicality, functionality and, most importantly, sentimentality that comes with these gifts.

The Aquarius Dad

Luke1138/iStock/Getty Images

(January 20 — February 18)
Aquarian Dads are lovers of all things fresh, new and untapped — and they want to experience it all with you. Take Pops to the new art exhibit in town, listen to live, local music or sign up for a class to learn a new skill together.

The Pisces Dad

Tuck Fauntleroy

(February 19 — March 20)
Pisces are personal, sensitive and involved Dads and with them, the thought really does count. Show them you care by bringing them back to a place that holds sentimental feelings for your family. He’ll be so touched by your personal attention to details and will love creating new memories at an old, special place.

The Aries Dad

Darren McGee, NYS Dept. of Economic Development

(March 21 — April 19)
Celebrate the youthful, Aries Dad through a bit of healthy competition. Together, sign up for a foot-race or attend an adrenaline-filled day at the race track. Place your bets and see who comes out a winner. (My prediction is on Pops.)

The Taurus Dad

James Angus and Jamie Bolton, The Cavender Diary

(April 20 — May 20)
The Taurus Dad knows what he likes, what he wants and once he's established his favorite things in life, it's very rare that he wavers from them. The key here? Capitalize on his hobbies and provide a high-quality gift that enhances that experience. For a woodworking Taurus, gift that quality set of tools he’s been eyeing for a few months. A wine lover? Provide him with a bottle he’d never splurge on for himself. Still not sure what to spring for? He does. Go ahead and stick some cash in a sappy card. He'll be happy to spend it on exactly what he wants.

Not every Dad wants a tie (again) this year...

Check back for more great ideas from your friends at Interior Design!

Your kind contribution will allow us to continue sharing great, no cost and cost saving ideas for your space. Click the "Donate" button below to make a contribution. Thank you!

Live well,
Yvonne

Throw a Beer Tasting Party for Dad

Courtesy of Abigail Barnes

Hi Friends,

Dad's Day Party Table

Show Dad how much you love him by throwing a rustic-themed beer tasting party, complete with his favorite snacks, beer and games. Give it a customized look with a plaid paper banner and food labels, twine-covered bottles and specialty beers for guests to try.

Beer Tasting Station

Set up a tasting station and label the different types of beer with simple plaid tags. To attach the tags, tie them around the beer bottle necks with twine for a rustic look. Make a game of it by turning over the tags and having guests guess which type of beer they're tasting.

Galvanized Buckets

Galvanized buckets are great for serving chips, ice or drinks. Tie plaid fabric or burlap around the center of them so they match the rustic theme.

Pub Pretzels

Give the party a pub atmosphere with typical menu items Dad loves eating at his favorite bar. Serve pub-style pretzels — an easy, tasty snack that tastes great with beer.

Popcorn Containers

Label food containers - make your own by gluing plaid-patterned scrapbook paper to plain containers and stamping letters on them. Customize the containers by putting "Dad," your dad's name or "Happy Father's Day" on them.

Plaid Bunting

To make a budget-friendly garland, tear up your dad's old plaid shirts and tie them in bows on a long piece of twine. Wrap it around the beer tasting table or hang it over a doorway.

Game Labels

A party isn't complete without a few competitive games. Designate specific areas indoors or out for your dad's favorite drinking games, and make sure to have signs so people know where to play.

Budget-Friendly Decor

Label and decorate everything, including the beer bucket, so the party has a cohesive look. Wrap buckets, tables, chairs and other items with burlap to continue the rustic theme.

Blue Moon Cupcakes

Combine two delicious treats — beer and cupcakes — into one. The main ingredient in these cupcakes is Blue Moon beer, which adds an orange-amber flavor to the dessert. Top it with an orange slice for an extra fruity twist and printable "Happy Father's Day" cupcake toppers. Here are the cupcake instructions...

Beer Cupcake Recipe
The main ingredient in this cupcake recipe is Blue Moon beer, which gives it a tangy twist.

Materials Needed:

• Click here to download "Happy Father's Day"

Ingredients
Yield: 18-20 cupcakes

• 2 1/4 cups flour
• 1 1/4 cups sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 2 eggs and 2 egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 3/4 cup Blue Moon beer
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 2 teaspoons grated orange zest
• orange slices for garnishing

Orange Blue Moon Buttercream Frosting

• 2 sticks softened butter
• 5 cups powdered sugar
• 4 teaspoons fresh orange juice
• 4 tablespoons Blue Moon beer
• 1/2 teaspoon grated orange zest

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F, and prepare your muffin tins with paper liners. In a large bowl, use a whisk to mix together flour, baking powder and salt. Set aside.
   
   
2. Using an electric mixer with the paddle attachment, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add your eggs, one at a time, beating well after each.
   
   
3. Add the vanilla, Blue Moon beer, milk and orange zest. Mix until combined, scraping the sides when needed.
   
   
4. With the mixer on low, slowly add the dry flour mixture, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix. Scoop batter into cupcake liners, and bake for 20 minutes or until cake tester comes out clean. Let cool.
   
   
5. For the frosting, mix together butter and about half of the powdered sugar with an electric mixer with the paddle attachment. Add fresh orange juice, Blue Moon beer, orange zest and remaining powdered sugar. Mix until smooth. If your frosting is too runny, add more powdered sugar a small amount at a time until you get desired consistency. If frosting is too stiff, add milk, one tablespoon or less at a time.
   
   
6. To make the orange garnish, cut ends off of a whole orange and cut into wedges. Place atop finished cupcake.

If a handmade Father's Day gift just doesn't cut it anymore, throw Dad this beer tasting party with his favorite drinks, food, games and friends.

Enjoy the party!

Check back for more great ideas from your friends at Interior Design.

Your kind contribution will allow us to continue sharing great, no cost and cost saving ideas for your space. Click the "Donate" button below to make a contribution. Thank you!

Live well,
Yvonne

Show Pop He's Tops with a Brooklyn Brew Shop Beer-Making Kit

Courtesy of H. Camille Smith
Sarah Busby

Hi Friends,

Satisfy your beer lover’s hankering for a frosty pint with everything they need to whip up a gallon of their favorite brew. Best of all, when they reach the bottom of the barrel (pun intended), the kit’s tools can be reused (just add fresh mash, hops and yeast) to create another gallon of home-brewed awesomeness. Click here to Shop Brooklyn Brew Shop.

As tempting for hop-heads as for the ones who love them, this well-balanced citrusy IPA gets its bitterness from Columbus hops and its fragrant citrus aroma from super aromatic hops. And at 6.8%, it will make every day a good one.

Whether your dad is a brewmeister or captain of industry, show him some love this Father's Day with a gift that suits him to a T...

Check back for more great ideas from your friends at Interior Design!

Your kind contribution will allow us to continue sharing great, no cost and cost saving ideas for your space. Click the "Donate" button below to make a contribution. Thank you!

Live well,
Yvonne

Think Outside the (Tie) Box: The Father's Day Gifts Dads Really Want

Courtesy of Molly Miller

Hi Friends,

The one thing most dads can agree on? They really just want to spend time with their kids. This Father's Day, forgo traditional gifts. Instead, make June 18th all about fun experiences and quality time together. Here are some meaningful Father's Day gift ideas we're all about this year.

Take him to a baseball game.

aceshot

Or another sporting event. Between Nascar races, horse races and golf and tennis tournaments, there's plenty of choices for sports-loving Dads.

Buy tickets to see his favorite artist in concert.

Yuri_Arcurs

Bonus points if you score tickets to the show of a legend who rarely tours.

Go on a canoe trip.

Strevell

Canoes and kayaks are relatively cheap to rent if you don't own one.

Do yard work for him.

Flynnside Out Productions

Give Dad a break for the weekend and tackle his outdoor projects.

Eat at his favorite restaurant...

monkeybusinessimages

Food and conversation make for a Father's Day well spent.

Or make his favorite meal.


It's kind of like the grown-up version of a homemade card.

Take a brewery or distillery tour.

subman

Get your buzz on! Dads who appreciate a good brew or whiskey will enjoy a tasting tour.

Go fishing or hunting.

monkeybusinessimages

Spend the day in the great outdoors. Even if you don't catch anything, at least it was time spent with Dad.

Visit a car show.

carolo7

Take it easy, and mosey through rows of collector cars. A monster truck rally is another great option if you can't locate a local car show.

Play golf together.

MichaelSvoboda

Even if you can't tee off to save your life, Dad will appreciate your company.

Hunt for vinyls.

urbancow

Make a game of it, and see who can find the best bargain.

Participate in his favorite hobby.


No matter what Dad is into these days — bird watching, woodworking, gardening — get involved with something he enjoys doing.

Take a ride around a go-kart course.

BanksPhotos

Make him feel 20 years younger on a thrilling go-kart ride.

Enroll in a class together.

franz12

Whether it's cooking, music lessons or blacksmithing, sign up for an activity that Dad always wanted to master.

It's all about quality time...

Check back for more great ideas from your friends at Interior Design!

Your kind contribution will allow us to continue sharing great, no cost and cost saving ideas for your space. Click the "Donate" button below to make a contribution. Thank you!

Live well,
Yvonne