FIVE THINGS

FIVE Gifts for Girlfriends

BY HEATHER BAVER

August 1 is National Girlfriends Day, a time to celebrate the love and support of female friends. Whether it’s a childhood friend or someone you met recently, we treasure the ladies we can rely on in any situation. Here are five picks to honor the special women in your life.

1 Cultivate

Friendships.

Gather friends to build this 1,000-piecer featuring the glory of Nature's bounty. The paper tube and muslin bag provide attractive storage and an environmentally-friendly alternative to plastic packaging. Vibrant fruits and vegetables like peas, peaches and pumpkins provide inspiration for growing her garden. Cavallini Victory Garden Puzzle, $24.99, Riverview Garden & Gifts, 3049 Pricetown Rd., Temple, 610.929.5049. gardensandgifts.com

2 Have a Laugh.

From glamorous Audrey Hepburn to retro housewives wielding giant-sized bottles of champagne, these coasters are here to entertain and protect her table. Natural limestone absorbs condensation, and the slip-resistant cork backing holds them in place. It’s wine-o’clock, so pour the drinks and get together for a girls’ night. Tipsy Coasters, $7 each, Saylor House, 1295 Penn Avenue, Wyomissing, 610.816.7161. saylorhouse.com

3 Energize Every Day.

Perk up her morning routine. This small-batch blend coffee is locally roasted for maximum flavor. Savor the unique nuances of light, medium or dark roast. Add delightful vanilla bean syrup for a dash of sweetness. Simply BOLD Coffee, 1 lb. bag: $17, 2 bags: $30, Pink House Alchemy Vanilla Syrup, $16 for 16 oz. bottle, Simply BOLD Café, 550 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 610.207.7368. simplyboldcafe.com

4 Get Cozy.

Light a candle and bask in the warm glow. Bohemian Nest, Finch + Fern’s signature scent, showcases creamy vanilla and pumpkin spice for a delicious bakery aroma. Made in small batches, these soy candles are handpoured and available in two sizes. Custom Candles in Bohemian Nest Scent, $23.99 for large glass, $15.99 for ceramic, Finch + Fern, 728 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 484.869.5617. finchnfern.com

5 Taste

Tranquility.

Sweet, delicately floral notes of lavender and chamomile produce a delicious, calming drink. Oatstraw, holy basil and schisandra combine to reduce stress. Steep for five minutes in a favorite mug, sit back, and breathe in a feeling of peace. Naturopathica Stress Tea, $20, The Store at Bell Tower Salon and Spa, 18 State Hill Rd., Wyomissing, Text/Call 310.372.6379 to place an order, Instagram @belltowersalonspa, belltowersalonspa.com