Help with Gift for Parents

KatieK501

So...I know we've talked a lot about what to give parents as wedding gifts, but I could use some help.

I plan on giving them wedding pictures later, so I wanted to give them something else at RD when we give the wedding party their gifts.  The last time I was home and helping my mom cook, I noticed she only had imitation vanilla, and she said it was b/c my dad didn't want to splurge on the real stuff.  I was thinking of putting together a gourmet cooking basket - but other than the vanilla, I sort of don't know what else to put in it.  I was thinking maybe also a gift card to a nice restaurant, but I need stuff to fill up the bowl or collander or whatever I put it in.

Any ideas??

honeybear072012

There are these things called silpats.  They're silicone baking mats that you put on your baking sheets that NOTHING sticks to.  I have 4 of them and they are amazing!  You can cook just about anything on them and it's wonderful!  They're kind of expensive...This link is about what I paid for mine but they have them at Macy's and you can get them 50% off sometimes.

http://www.amazon.com/Silpat-Non-Stick-Baking-2-inches-Sheet/dp/B00008T960

In addition to real vanilla, what about vanilla beans? Those are great to have.  Also, you could consider some really high quality chocolate if she bakes a lot.

And if you're going with a baking theme I'd do a really nice mixing bowl.

littlemoments324

That would be a great idea   I just sent my mom  a few things she was eyeing while she was here in FL visiting...

Other than that, they aren't getting things until after the wedding...

kidlets2

Do they like coffee? Maybe add a bag of really good beans to it. A bottle of wine? Fancy dried pasta with a nice sauce?  You could make them like a date basket for a meal they could make themselves, adding in cute wine glasses, a small cutting board, etc.

clh4444

Have you ever been to Penzey's spices. they have great gift boxes and will put together a gift box for you. Just tell them you  want it to include the vanilla and they will build around that. I love them.

butterflyjumper1

I am OBSESSED with Penzey's. I seriously go far too often and our spice cabinet is exploding with different Penzey's spices. I also love the Spice and Tea Exchange. I think both of those would be great options for contacting to put together a gourmet basket like you are talking about!

butterflyjumper1

PS - I suggested doing it through these two stores because, if you are in a mindset similar to me at this point, I would prefer someone else to do the dirty work. Either of the places I mentioned would put together the gift basket for you and make it look pretty and ship it to your parents - keeping you from having to go to multiple stores and deal with wrapping and making it look good. Your idea is a great one and I am sure they would love it!

KatieK501

These are great!  Thanks for all the suggestions!