Gifts are never expected, but every now and then, a gentleman will ask me, "Maxine... is there anything I can get you that youβd like?"
The answer is always the same: your company and kindness are more than enough. But if you genuinely enjoy spoiling the women in your life, I have to admit... I love being on the receiving end of thoughtful gifts.
A Few of My Favourite Things β₯
A bouquet of flowersβespecially white, pink or red roses, quirky and unusually bright Australian natives, and a small handwritten love note never fail to brighten my day and make me smile.
I also have a soft spot for caramel chocolate, strawberry truffles, artisanal honey, high quality teas, ηηͺ (bird's nest), Diptyque candles, afternoons at the spa, gym or health club passes, or anything that supports a healthy, balanced lifestyle. I'm also a big music lover, so music listening gadgets like noise-cancelling wireless headphones are always welcome.
For beautiful lingerie, my favourite brands are Agent Provocateur, ANOESES, BORDELLE, Studio Pia, and Maison Close.
(I'm a size AU 8, 34B on top and UK 10 on the bottom.)
If gift cards are more your thing, my favourites are Mecca, Sephora, Calvin Klein, Myer, COS and Readings.
My favourite perfume fragrances include the Gucci Flora collection (particularly Gorgeous Jasmine), ChloΓ© and Burberry.
For skincare, I adore ClΓ© de Peau BeautΓ©, SK-II, Diptyque and Aesop.
My favourite luxury houses include Chanel, Hermès, Bottega Veneta, Ferragamo, Dior and CELINE.
As for shoes, I love Jimmy Choos, Saint Laurent, Repetto, and RenΓ© Caovilla.
(I'm a size EU 38.5 / AU 8.)
If you'd like to make a gift in my honour, the charities closest to my heart are RSPCA, Animals Asia, Coral Triangle Center, OceansWatch Foundation and Women's Fund Asia.
And lastly... I really adore all kinds of plushies, whether tiny enough to fit in your hand or big enough to cuddle.
The truth is, gifts never need to be extravagant for me to treasure them. The ones I remember most are the ones chosen with thoughtβthe little things that reminded you of me, or that simply made you think, "Maxine would love this." Knowing I crossed your mind is often the sweetest gift of all.
As someone who is saving towards her first home, I also deeply appreciate those who choose to support my journey in their own thoughtful way. Every gesture, no matter the size, is received with genuine gratitude and never taken for granted.
Thank you for thinking of me.
-Maxine β₯οΈ
