📌 Some Fun Gifts for Your Writing Friend's Good News
When the news is too good not to share!
Every creator out there knows a great critique group is a priceless gift in itself.
All the same, sometimes *vague publishing tweets* (and the like) make it an occasion to celebrate! Here is a list of fun gift items I’ve seen (or, in some cases, have been lucky enough to receive) for those moments.
Two notes:
I am making NO MONEY in any way from this post. (Waah! #writerslife)
If you look at this list with an eye towards birthdays or holidays, you should know that Tara Lazar puts together a great list of gift ideas for other writers on her blog every year. This list really is most suited to debut celebrations, though a few may work in other gifty situations!
Fun “Good News” Gift Ideas Include:
Mugs. I’m including several standout options here because, frankly, they are a triple-duty gift: warm beverage holder, built-in (but flexible) desk decor, and Zoom point of interest (mugging for the camera is definitely a thing). And, even those with plenty of “so you are not holding a hot beverage in just your cupped hands” kinds of dishware will appreciate something special like...
A mug with the deal announcement on it. My critique group, PB Posse, got me this, and I *love* it! (Thank you all so much!) 
Future Best-Selling Author mug. So cute—and great for your friend who loves to raise the bar (and the coffee cup)! My friend Bridgitte bought me one on Etsy from Mint Chocolate Designs, and I use it often (and think of her)!
A book mascot. Maybe there is a stuffy or hand puppet that ties in with your friend’s book (couldn’t hurt during book events!) Frankly, though, I included this as an excuse to show off this AMAZING stuffie that my friend Shira made me. 😍 I MEAN! #bragitup
Something from Brittany Pomales’s collection! Brittany (a picture book author herself) has some really cute (and fun!) writing-related gift ideas at her Etsy shop, Words You Can Wear. It’s one to bookmark! (Hardy har har!)
Something from Ebony Lynn Mudd’s collection! Ebony (ALSO a picture book writer) is known for her “Your Art is the Prize” merchandise, but she has lately branched out and has even more cute options in her Merch shop. “I’m in my Author era” hoodie or “Writing books and minding my business” tee, anyone?
Not all heroes wear capes. Some wear cute and comfy things. Library check-out card bookmark. This one’s for the budget-conscious (I mean….we are writers. So.) I got you, boo! I made my critique group these little card catalog bookmarks a while back and then realized I could share those files here, free to download/save and use for personal use only.
They’re so cute, right? (Pats self on back.)
Books About Debuting. Uh-oh. Someone’s going to need to start thinking about book marketing! (Rubs hands eagerly, cackles.) A book about debuting is pretty meta but likely to come in very handy!
Your First 1,000 Copies. I bought my friend Bridgitte based on the good reviews, and she seemed to think it was good! (I'm going to get my copy now!)
Before and After the Book Deal: A Writer's Guide to Finishing, Publishing, Promoting, and Surviving Your First Book. I also just saw this one in a recorded webinar (by the author) that I finally got around to watching, and it sounds very useful, too! (I will also be procuring!)
Ready to launch? I didn’t think so. But we will get there!
Something book-theme specific. Okay, I’m not sure what that would be because it depends on the book. But it’s a solid line of thought! And you are creative!
A note! There is no better gift for someone who prizes words, and you are
really goodgreatphenomenal at using them. Win/win!
Whatever route you go (and this is a bummer but important), remember to budget! We’re in this for the long haul, so there will be LOTS AND LOTS of celebratable moments to write/make/buy. Make sure your choices are sustainable for you, and no one wants a mug or hoodie that keeps you from buying your next craft webinar and the like! We are all in this together—and understand the financial realities!
So, what did I forget? Leave a comment below if you know! :)
Yours in sharing our many gifts,
Elayne
My posts are always free, but my focus isn't; if you found this post interesting or useful, please consider ♡' ing it so I know. Thank you!