Gift List: Brigette Romanek's Inspired Guide to Mother's Day Gifting

Rip & Tan: How would you define your typical gifting ethos?

Brigette Romanek: It’s nuanced. It depends on the person. Knowing them is key. Part of my job is about details and making things unique and special. Gift giving fits right into that!. The entire idea of gift giving shouldn’t be a burden, it should be fun because you’re looking to bring, and spark joy. Look for items through that lens. Especially for our moms.

Rip & Tan: What are some unexpected ways we can treat the mothers and mother figures in our lives?

Brigette Romanek: Fancy or simple, make something tailored to them. That’s the key. Did they say something that caught your attention and you can make a day or gift out of it? Did they lose something important to them that you can find another version of? It’s all about them. I know a traditional brunch is lovely, so I always incorporate this as a part of our day but add or change it up to make it memorable. For my mom this year, one of her gifts is a throw blanket, but with a note, written to her from me, on white linen, that’s sewn on the backside.

Rip & Tan: As an interior designer, we’re sure you have a knack for gifting special home pieces. Do you have any home treasures you love gifting?

Brigette Romanek: I love this question of course! Throw blankets made from soft materials can be so special and wrap someone in warmth. They are that detail in a room that brings another wonderful layer. Unique decorative accents like sculptural vases or artisanal candles are also great gifts. Scents are great because they can evoke memories or be part of the story creating them—they really set a mood. Sculptures, because they’re strong statements and usually great materials. Wood, marble, ceramics, stone. Love, love.

Rip & Tan: Do you have any tips for gifting home pieces with meaning?

Brigette Romanek: It’s all about personalization and thoughtfulness. Think about what really speaks to the person you’re gifting–maybe it’s something vintage that reminds them of a wonderful time, or a handmade item that’s unique like them. I love something that is custom-made or something that’s clearly their aesthetic. Even a small piece of art. I find these at flea markets, or mom-and-pop shops all over the country.

Rip & Tan: As a mother yourself, what’s a gift you’d love to receive this year?

Brigette Romanek: Are you making sure my girls see this? Haha. Most importantly, I want the day with them with no distractions. Meaning concentrated time. I really value the cards they give me. 

It’s when they tell me their feelings from over the past year how we’re doing and growing. It’s usually one of my favorite days with my girls. I love to get private cooking lessons. At home, to teach them to cook healthier meals. Hint, hint girls. 

Rip & Tan: What does Mother’s Day mean to you? How will you celebrate this year?

Brigette Romanek: Mother’s Day is a time to honor and celebrate the incredible women who have shaped our lives with love, guidance, and strength. For me, it’s about expressing gratitude and appreciation for everything my mother has done for me. This year, I plan to celebrate by spending quality time with my mom. It’s those moments of connection and togetherness that truly embody the spirit of Mother’s Day for me!

From the Jenni Kayne Collection

Musk Glass Candle—This scent is so luxurious and sophisticated but it also looks so chic on top of books on a coffee or accent table. 

Alpaca Basketweave Throw—This blanket is perfect for cozying up after a long day. Every mom needs some rest and relaxation!  

Shearling Mule—Anyone who knows me knows that I love comfort—these shoes are like a mixture of a slipper and a nice loafer!  

Cooper Cardigan—I love the structure of this sweater. It’s so unique and unexpected!  

Dew Body Oil—I love a good body oil! I really like the feeling of glowing skin.

Other Curated Favorites

My book, Liveable Luxe—It’s a beautiful and meaningful resource for creating inviting and luxurious spaces that any mother would love to explore.

Goop Lip Trio—A beauty set always makes for a great gift. These lipsticks are super moisturizing and add a super subtle tint to your lips that’s so natural and beautiful.

Apparatus Incense and Incense Holder—It’s a stunning holder in brass and the scents are by a company called Cinnamon. Earthy and rich and powdery. 

Our Place Pans—THE BEST. And the colors are beautiful. I have a series of the tan color. 

My Christian Dior Tote—Computers, sketchbooks, pens, phones, you name it, it fits in. I get to carry my work and look good doing it.