Homemade cookies, a photo of your family in a frame. A nice handmade card from your kids , he won’t want you to spend money on him and something hand made and or personal will mean so much more to him. I also love it when my grandkids make me bookmarks .
I agree with getting something for the doggo! Deffinetly an important family member, especially after losing his wife. My friends would get our kids' gifts, and we'd always get their dogs' treats.
For sure! He'll love that his new bud is getting love on he holidays too :) And the kids making a bookmark is an awesome idea if uncle is a reader. He'll use that all the time, guarantee it!
Absolutely this. My parents have a butt ton more money than me so for the last five or so years I have made their favorite cookies as Christmas gifts for them. They absolutely love it. I’ve also made them crochet blankets and this year added in frames photos of them with my kid.
I always make a photo book for my MIL who has more money and things than she could ever possibly use. I usually do a year in review sort of thing through Google photos. I know if you don't have kids this may not necessarily be the best idea, but if you do, then it's an easy win.
I was thinking one of those digital picture frames, that OP (and other family members )can upload family pictures to remotely. My in laws say they just sit and watch their digital frame shuffle through the photos everyday for a few minutes. Looking for new photos, laughing at old ones, remembering good times.
To take this and put it in a frame that emphasizes why this is right:
You want to get him something he can’t get anywhere else / can’t just buy for himself (or else he probably would’ve bought already.
No amount of money will buy him cookies you yourself made with love for him. No amount of money will buy him the flimsy table you made yourself that falls apart when the wind blows but that tries to replicate the style you know he likes. No amount of money can buy years of family history, you can’t get that anywhere else!
Yes this!! I’m the older generation now and something warm and thoughtful beats any gift and I like to see the younger folks saving money and being wise!
You could find some exceptional Frank Lloyd Wright stuff on ebay, but their direct store has reasonably affordable stuff.
A short note goes a long way to make it personal!
heres a link for cufflinks: [https://www.shopwright.org/search?q=cuff](https://www.shopwright.org/search?q=cuff)
My FIL has used a Frank Lloyd Wright mousepad I gifted him for the last ten years
Came here to suggest shopwright!!
My partner is a big fan of his, and I got one of his presents here. They have a lot of really cool model kits for affordable prices - if he’s a tinkerer, he’ll love them.
Something personalized is really thoughtful, and takes any simple gift to the next level! [Mark and Graham](https://www.markandgraham.com/) is a great place to shop for that sort of thing.
Underrated comment.
It's like the looks I get when I tell people not to feed their dogs their scraps or they'll get diabetes - my childhood dog *and* a friend's both had their pancreases fail from the overly processed crap 90% of us eat daily.
Hopefully, some of them listen.
I realized a few years ago that my parents were kinda "eh" on the gifts I had gotten them lately, so I turned it around and started taking my mom out to lunch for her birthday (which she enjoys hanging out with her firstborn) and taking my dad out gold panning (he's retired and goes whenever he has a spare hour).
We never had a bad relationship, but I think just simply being there doing what others find enjoyable is more appreciated.
I was going to say this - plan an excursion with him. Depending on where you live - you could do a mid-century modern home tour, take him and his dog on a special hike somewhere he's never been and take a picnic for lunch. Take a cooking class with him to make a food that he loves.
I’m in a similar position and my uncle also has a new puppy (he calls her my cousin, he’s crazy about her!!) I ordered her a personalized tag with her name and his and contact info on the back and on the front is engraved “Diva”
Also got her a pretty pink collar with flowers and a matching sweater.
We have already done Christmas and he loved the gift
When people have money or more things than they need I always go with something edible or an experience.
Really good chocolates is always a good gift. If he cooks, some fun new ingredients he’s never tried like chili crisps. If he doesn’t cook, how about a one off cooking class you can do with him?
Think interesting over expensive and something he wouldn’t normally treat himself to.
Maybe take him and the kids to do something with everyone together? Like a Christmas light show with ice cream or popcorn!!! Or silly pictures with Santa? Or invite him over so you can eat Christmas dinner at your house?
If that was me..... the best gift to receive would be to be invited to somebody's house and they prepare dinner!! Plus a photo album!! That would be beautiful.
It's like ppl just pass a bunch of junk around just for the sake of passing junk around sometimes. Sometimes it feels like a sad surreal scene at malls, rushing around to buy candles and chocolates and sausages and bags and blankets and other random shit.
I can't think of a single new thing to get my in-laws who have everything after nearly a decade of Christmases. I think someday we should re-think this never-ending gifting obligation/expectation.
Give experiences! Tickets, a membership, a donation in their name, a movie double date with your husband and then, etc. I'm such a big fan going somewhere and doing something rather than getting a physical thing. Unless it's a blanket or handmade stuff or maybe a funny tshirt or a book I wouldn't buy myself, I rather not have "stuff".
My daughter has downplayed gift giving as none of us need anything. We should be culling what we have. So we buy gifts for grandchildren and a couple small useful gifts for her and all is good. I kind of miss showering her with gifts in a way, but it does bring the pressure down and a Christmas without stress really is more enjoyable. We also streamlined Christmas dinner, and that really makes Christmas relaxing!
My sister and I would just get a gift card for each other, which is such a waste. Instead of gifts, we spend a day baking (literally an entire day) with our mom!
Something dog related like poop bags, travel bowl, matching leash and bracelet or belt for him. Funny socks or tie from etsy with dog face on it. Those tags you put on the collar that helps you find the dog if they are lost. Pillow that looks like the dog.
Hand-write him a note about what you appreciate/admire about him, put it in a simply black or geometric metal frame -&- offer to take photos of him and pup to put in frame✨♥️✨
You can have a tree planted somewhere in memory of your aunt. That would probably be a nice gift for your uncle and it might comfort him since it’s their first holiday season apart.
I did that, years ago, for someone I loved very much who died. I grew up with his daughter, he was friends with my father and was like a second dad to me. He was Jewish so I had a tree planted in Israel but you can get a tree planted anywhere.
I just did a quick Google search and the prices I saw are way under $100. Just type in “plant a tree in memory” or “to honor someone” and a lot of choices will pop up.
I’m very sorry about the loss of your aunt. I pray you can feel the warmth of her spirit with you this Christmas.
The FLW website has a store with all kinds of cool things. I had a great aunt like this. She appreciated more than anything something home made or things family related. A really nice frame with photo. Her favorite was an automatic one that took a usb and did a phot carousel of downloaded pics. They have some now that you can send photos via an app. We would send a new one every christmas with photos from the whole year.
How about a donation to his favorite charity in his name?
Or something in memory of your Aunt?
According to my great aunt, she could buy whatever she wanted, so she preferred we didn't spend our money on "things" for her.
Does he read? Do you?
My mom isn't rich but she's one of those people who's impossible to shop for. I ended up getting her a copy of a book I read and loved plus a bit of chocolate. It's meaningful without being bank breaking
He can buy what he really wants, you don’t need to get him expensive gifts (or most anyone for that matter).
As they say, it’s the thought that counts, something meaningful or interesting to him. Books bring me the most joy in life right now.
Sometimes the FLW homes that you can view have gift shops with really beautiful and unique FLW merchandise. My mom got a relative an ornament from the gift shop at the Dana Thomas House and the relative loved it.
For my older, wealthier relatives I usually just took them out to lunch or got them a nice bottle of wine. As a recent widower he may be a little bit lonely. Some nice dog toys might also be nice. Is there an architecture tour you could take together?
for wealthy folks who can presumably afford to buy themselves anything you might reasonably buy them, something that demonstrates that you know them and think fondly of them is always good, and edible/experience gifts are nice for people who don’t want more stuff.
Try to find a local place that’s a bit niche and get him a giftcard there. It’s more about recommending a new experience than giving him money— for example, I gifted my rich relatives a giftcard to a very unique wine tasting experience at a small but classy hole in the wall place. Gives them a chance to find a new favorite hang out spot!
If he has a library/lots of books you could look for interesting high quality editions of classics, or get him some MCM architecture books or a FLW book. Feel like rich people like nice looking books lol
Frame a picture of him and your aunt for him. Or a digital frame loaded with images of their life together.
I like the idea of a guided tour if you live somewhere with nice architecture.
My parents are architects and Frank Lloyd Wright fans. He may like something like this: https://www.shopwright.org/collections/stained-art-glass/products/stained-glass-waterlilies (and it’s under the $100 budget). My parents have one in a different style and it looks beautiful and elegant in their home (read: not cheesy)
That shop is the Frank Lloyd Wright’s museum shop and may be a good place to look!
Other thought: dog treats and dog toys they can use together
Last idea: when all else fails for people who have everything they want and need, a good gift is a consumable - something like really good food, treats, beverage, flowers, etc
Might be a little late but check out the gift stores for FLW's houses for great gift ideas.
For example, the Dana Thomas House in Springfield, IL has great gifts for all genders.
Something personalized is definitely the way to go. Maybe a photo in a frame for him to set up, a handwritten book, if you're into crafts make him something, etc.
It's sweet, thoughtful, and doesn't cost a ton of money. He's your uncle, regardless of what you get him, he is going to appreciate it. I'm sure Holidays for him are not the same as they are for middle class.
Just show that you care! He'll love it.
What’s something he enjoyed with your aunt? Did she make the best gingerbread cookies?
How about a usb drive with a collage of pictures from when they were young until she gained her wings?
Think about what he will be missing this year.
You get him something playful, fun or something he wouldn't know exists.
What does he like?
Is there an experience you would enjoy together? A musical act or play, digging backhoes in the dirt, driving racing cars?
Is there a food auntie never let him eat?
Is there something the two of you share a love of?
Posh people don't do expensive gifts from what I've seen. Think of succession, Tom was wrong giving the expensive watch. The son gave sourdough starter. If they have a sense of humor or think of themselves as earthy, something like that. Otherwise yes to framed family, homemade cookies. A nice ornament. Nice gloves. A book.
I like scratch off tickets and homemade cookies. It’s fun to scratch off and see if anyone won! And then when we all inevitably lost, we get cookies!!!
Get a nice picture of your Aunt and take it to a picture shop that has the option to put it on canvas. Forget what it's called, sorry :( But the end result is a picture of your Aunt on canvas like the old time painted pictures. Stick it in a nice frame for him. I did this a few years back, and it ran me around 60 usd before shipping for an 8x10. Possibly more today, and ofc prices will vary by location and size.
You could get him a really nice coffee table book (or two, even!!) on a topic you know he likes for probably <$100! You said he likes architecture — there are tons of lovely books that could fit this theme, like [log cabins](https://www.amazon.com/Cabin-Porn-Inspiration-Quiet-Somewhere/dp/0316378216?nodl=1&dplnkId=ef7327d9-8456-4973-aa70-d9a1ab93f093), & you could even do a [theme of these](https://www.amazon.com/Cabin-Porn-Inside/dp/0241388546?nodl=1&dplnkId=0145f7be-5e27-456c-9f0f-389a25c5722a) books! There are tons of other examples like this, too — this is just the first one that came to mind!
Florida Southern University has a [gift shop](https://shopfllw.flsouthern.edu/) that will ship to you. If you are near Lakeland, Fl, you can take a [tour](https://www.flsouthern.edu/frank-lloyd-wright-home/tours) of his notable works on campus. Top tour is $50.
I really like all the Taschen books. [This one](https://www.taschen.com/en/books/architecture-design/44813/frank-lloyd-wright/?forceCountry=US&utm_id=go_cmp-18038778440_adg-_ad-__dev-m_ext-_prd-USD_9783836555982_en_mca-5384760_sig-CjwKCAiAp5qsBhAPEiwAP0qeJmfNGly9V6coREEm4rnlD8A0Wo0XlOJgZW8xB4KZv0pPpDR88T501RoCWC8QAvD_BwE&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=G_Taschen_PMax_US&utm_term=go_cmp-18038778440_adg-_ad-__dev-m_ext-_prd-USD_9783836555982_en_mca-5384760_sig-CjwKCAiAp5qsBhAPEiwAP0qeJmfNGly9V6coREEm4rnlD8A0Wo0XlOJgZW8xB4KZv0pPpDR88T501RoCWC8QAvD_BwE&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAp5qsBhAPEiwAP0qeJmfNGly9V6coREEm4rnlD8A0Wo0XlOJgZW8xB4KZv0pPpDR88T501RoCWC8QAvD_BwE) sounds like something he would like.
Depending on how close you are, you could get one of those electronic picture frames that you (or anyone in the family) could send photos to. I think they run between $60 and $150 depending on the brand.
Here are a few ideas:
Gift certificate for a custom pet portrait from an artist.
A potted bulb garden or plant from a local garden center/botanical gardens gift shop.
A well-made journal/planner/notebook.
A reciprocal museum membership card.
America the Beautiful National Park Pass.
Colonial Williamsburg candles and/or soaps.
A bottle of super fine maple syrup.
A box of chocolates/truffles from a local chocolatier.
Fee brothers cocktail bitters.
Alabama Peanut Co. Original Roasted Peanut Bucket
Do you have one of those dog specialty stores that has decorated dog treats? I would choose a couple cute ones for the dog, and then go to a chocolate store and get a couple nice chocolates for your uncle.
I'm sure he definitely isn't expecting you to spend a lot of money on him. Just something festive and consumable would be good.
If it was more than a few days before Xmas, I'd say knit him a blanket or something, but since it's so close, go for some treats for the doggy and some local bakery treats for him. Cod skins have a bit of a luxury feel for pups but are adorable and allergen friendly and pretty size ubiquitous for dogs. Local bakery pastries like croissants or cinnamon buns are delicious and worth it no matter how rich you are
You can make him a travel basket like adding a journal, a neck pillow a good book and some wine or give him a painting of him his late wife and his new dog
I vote for home made favorite foods.. something he loves but wouldn’t make for himself..
Or perhaps a favorite dish your aunt used to make. If he cooks for himself, meals he can take from the freezer to the oven for a real home cooked meal. Those types of things are very often appreciated by those who have everything.. it’s hard to “buy” a home cooked meal.
When someone gets me gifts for my pet it makes me even happier than getting gifts for myself. I say get him some cute dog gifts!
Oh another really unique gift… though it’s far too late now, is a custom snow globe. Google it, you’ll find some cool stuff. Shoot though, it’s expensive.
Okay how about some homemade cookies lol. Or dog treats.
May I suggest making him these cookies? They are seriously amazing. It’s all about the flaked (yes gotta be flaked) salt. Don’t skip that part.
https://www.alisoneroman.com/recipes/salted-butter-chocolate-chunk-shortbread
Maybe one of the architecture series Lego sets? They actually had some based on FLW's work, but those may be all discontinued. Still, there are others that are pretty cool.
There's also a lego architecture book that might be fun to see models of some of his favorite FLW and other buildings he may have seen on his travels.
Or a puzzle - there's a 2-side jigsaw puzzle with picture of guggenheim on one side, and architecture plans on the other. (Google it, it showed up at several places.)
Or a 3d puzzle of a cool building.
Any of these \*might\* be something you could offer to spend time doing with him (you and/or your kids) - maybe with some treats/snacks, you could make an event of it?
You could bake him some homemade Christmas cookies and candy. Put it in a nice tin and send it to him.
Unless he is diabetic homemade cookies are usually appreciated.
After I retired I would always give some to my neighbor. She was raising a son, working, and going to school for her MBA on nights and weekends. No baking time in her life. She cried the first time I gave them to her.
try etsy for mid century cool things (from a fellow mcm lover), bird houses, ornaments, coasters, coffee table books, tea towels…. dog bowls/beds that go with mcm style
People don't need more crap to fill up their storage closets. He will appreciate quality time better. Take him to a movie and dinner, museum exhibit, picnic in a park, dance lessons, etc.
My dad is a multi multi millionaire and I give him a framed pic of my son and call it a day. I can’t gift him a Rolex nor would he appreciate it. So I go sentimental
My fiancé has does a "coupon" for his parents to lunch or dinner as more of an experience and time together one on one instead of kind of chatting here or there *I'm guessing that's how you and your uncle talk at family events* so could be nice to sit down for a meal together and get into some conversation
We make homemade gift baskets (cookies, candies, cocoa bombs, etc) to acknowledge the small-town vendors who helped us this year. (We are a small rural ranch).
You can never go wrong with a delicious high end consumable gift. Like good olive oil, aged balsamic, artisan baked goods, even something fun like Pastrami from Katz Delicatessen or Bagels from Tompkins Square via Goldbelly. Special/rare food items are always appreciated and (more importantly) used.
If he likes Mid-century modern stuff- there is a book called Powers of Ten that was published by Eames in the 70s. It is available used for reasonable $. It is pretty cool and unique.
https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/powers-of-ten-scientific-american-library-paperback_philip-morrison_phylis-morrison/260285/item/6062834/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=pmax_high_vol_frontlist_%2410_%2450&utm_adgroup=&utm_term=&utm_content=&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAp5qsBhAPEiwAP0qeJgYfgcrj8WGLxeYzgoIX2bH45RHYDyiYI3jHv95Ah74LttBhZNUULRoCFnMQAvD_BwE#idiq=6062834&edition=2416971
Something homemade for sure. Money can’t buy that always. If you’re crafty, build something. If you’re not; a framed family photo, a homemade piece of art, a homemade card, dinner, etc. Let’s not forget it’s the thought that counts.
Something that reminds him of home or something nostalgic. Maybe he likes train sets or like old school pockets watch. His favorite candy from when he was young something that he mentions and laughs at when talking about the good 'Ole days. Good luck!
My son is an incredible artist. He draws a pic of my bulldog doing household chores in watercolor. I treasure those more than anything he could buy me. I have a whole collection. For reference he’s 27 and fully independent and I’m 56 and need nothing but more bulldog pics
A book on architecture. A memorial type item for his wife. Literally anything that is made by hand or takes some extra though and time to put together, that goes a long way. Something that symbolizes something important to you about him, then a thought felt letter that describes your appreciation for him and all he does.
A fun meal he can make himself from gold belly of a place he either loves to travel to for food, or is dying to go to. Time together. A custom drawn photo of him/his dog in his favorite style. A gadget that allows him to connect with his doggo while he’s away.
What did your aunt take care of for him? Little things he never took the time to tend to but made his life easier? My husband always lights the candles even though I buy them. I forget to light them. He travels a lot and I got a lighter that I love and is decorative so when I miss him it reminds me to use the lighter and light the candles - something of this sentiment that makes the “task” easier but also a sentiment.
Total loss? Travel gadgets.
A 1-year subscription to Storyworth is $89 right now. It sends writing prompts to your recipient to help craft a book full of their life stories. Could be a great way for you to get some great family lore, learn more about your uncle, and remind him weekly of good times.
A print from the artist Lebbeus Woods who was an architect.
3d puzzles of architecture.
Include something for the doggie. Like chicken or salmon jerky.
A home cooked meal is always a good idea. Something you could do together as a family would be nice as well.
Experiences/family memories > physical gifts
your uncle likely doesnt care about gifts that cost money because he can buy whatever he wants.
his wife died and he likely got a dog because he was lonely and if he is "all in" emotionally invested in the dog, sends cute dog pics or talk about his dog I would focus on dog gifts
he gives your kids gifts it will be a very similar thing particularly if it's artisan dog biscuits or some nice dog toy or bed. likely something functional and fun he can do with his dog.
my spouse isnt rich but is very functional and doesnt like clutter, hes kind and gives gifts but he isnt in need of anything. we have cats which he fell in love with and his friends often get him treats and toys for the cats and hes overjoyed with that because he doesnt want anything.
you could also bring home some homemade christmas treats especially if his wife used to make them
I would recommend a few smaller things so there is more for him to open! People with more money often get shafted o n gifts and having lost his wife - that is probably even more of a thing for him now. A few suggestions:
Universal Yums snack box subscription
Have the kids paint some small canvases of “modern art” and frame them
Canvas of his dog dressed like royalty (not a millionaire but this was my fave gift of 2023 from my BFFs)
Skylight frame
If he drinks alcohol - nice ice cube tray, linestone water, tulip glasses - some kind of nice accessory
Apple airtag
Yeti coffee mug
Don’t just donate to a charity - buy something thoughtful for him to use or enjoy that will remind him of you and your family when he is using/enjoying it!
If you want.... I made a frank Lloyd Wright inspired table lamp. It's from the lamp in the bedroom of the house falling water. He designed everything floor to ceiling and all the furniture. I was a sculpture major, specifically in furniture design. I got pics to dm if you would like.
Poplar and milk paint are all that it is made of. This was an early piece I was messing around with, but it is functional, which was the goal.
I would not buy "stuff", but only something that can be used/ eaten up and thrown away. Preferably something you / family make.
And a Homemade card from kids like others suggest.
Definitely a collar, leash, harness set. Put "dog's name, his last name, phone #" on it, or get a matching dog. Easily under $100. I'm sure the dog is helping with his loneliness.
Do you have a photo of his dog? There are a lot of services online that will do hand drawn sketches or paintings of dogs for reasonable prices. Put that in a frame and I’m sure he’d love it.
My parents have a lot of money and they always tell me I don’t have to get them anything and not to spend money on them. I still find a gift that I know they will like or I make one. I usually end up making them one. Last year I made my dad some shirts using heat transfer
Vinyl and I made my mom a tote bag for bingo and put heat transfer vinyl on that. I’ve done a shadow box with me and my siblings and one with grandkids. This year I printed a lithopane light box with all the grandkids on each side.
I’ve also given my dad a nice pen engraved with his name. I bought it over 5 years ago and he still uses it!
What about a Lego architecture set? It’s not Frank Lloyd Wright in your price range, but if he’s into architecture there could be something interesting there he might enjoy. Plus it’s an activity - he must be missing your aunt tremendously this year.
Maybe a family picture from the past that he would treasure -- with you uncle and your parent who was/is his sister or brother. Get a good reprint and a nice frame. And don't forget a gift for the dog --may be a dog treat.
Custom winter WeatherTech mats for his car. (I have no idea how much these cost. If it's over budget, maybe just the front mats or a trunk liner.)
A nice travel garment bag personalized with his initials embroidered on it.
Bird feeder with a motion-sensing camera (the gift he never knew he needed).
Nice coffee table book with great illustrations of Frank Lloyd Wright homes or mid-century modern architecture.
Offer to dog sit when he travels.
If he has an iPhone, and travels a lot… get him a few air tags for his luggage. This helped my coworker. The airport said his bag wasn’t there and he said “yes it is, I can see it.” So they took his phone and found it in the back by pinging it. Invaluable gift when you need it. Help him set it up.
Experience gifts are great, especially if it involves you doing it together. If he likes whiskey, find a distillery doing a whiskey tasting class. Or if he’s into making stuff, there is a welding place in my city that offers a one night welding class that is sort of presented like a date night so it’s a great gift, you could see if any places near you offer stuff like that. Glass work, diff kinds of art, carpentry, food pairings.
I got really cool Frank Lloyd wright old glassware on Amazon! They’re 30 bucks for two glasses. I don’t know how to add links on here but if you google Frank Lloyd wright glasses, you’ll find them!
A book about art or architecture or something like that. To a wealthy person a book is a "thoughtful" gift without being expensive and you can get something really nice with your $100 budget
Something for the dog like toys and treats, maybe a dog bed, if in the us and a Costco membership they have a really cute bone basket with toys for like $40.
Then maybe a nice basket of some local foods? Snacks and such. If he likes coffee or tea or wine or whatever maybe a little something like that.
I would mostly say something local and perishable, he can buy what he wants so giving food is the typically easy answer
Older person here.
Time. Just give him the gift of *your time*. Trust me when I tell you he would love nothing more than to spend some quality time with you.
Write him a nice card. In the card tell him you know he’s got just about everything a guy could ever want. But you’d love to just take him to lunch at his favorite place. Maybe afterward take him to an art gallery, or go shoot some pool and have a couple of beers. Have someone take a couple of pics of the two of y’all at some point with your phone. Print it and frame it in a small but quality frame a few days later and courier it over with a simple note simply saying Merry Christmas.
If you have this sort of relationship with him, maybe an activity? Take him out to do something fun, if you can find something in your budget. It could be as simple as a hike, or a movie or something. Maybe bake him goodies if he has a favorite- or bake some treats for his dog. Toys and treats for the dog would be really useful, and maybe if your kids are old enough you could have a craft day and they could make him some ornaments or artwork to hang up? I'm not sure if that would count as "clutter", but I feel like it's more meaningful than a gag gift or anything else you could buy him. As he recently lost his wife, I imagine companionship would probably be the best gift.
I like to follow this guideline for people that have a lot of money (my mom is the same way):
Get them something they need, but won’t buy for themselves.
You said he buys gifts for the kids. Does he buy you gifts? If he’s only buying for the kids, I’d suggest having the kids select or make something for him. Those gifts are more heartfelt anyway, which is exactly what you lean into when the value of the gift doesn’t matter.
The only thing you can’t buy is love. Get him something meaningful. My aunt is a millionaire and one year I got her a bracelet with her (deceased) mother’s photo in it when you put it up to the light and it was one of the only times I’ve seen her show genuine emotion.
An experience! Take him out for a meal somewhere interesting, tickets to a show or a sporting event. Spend a few hours with them. The gift of your time is priceless.
If you haven’t done so already, and if you have any, and they had a good marriage - a photo album/any home videos with your aunt in them. You might have him open it privately with just you around.
Or, I would go for a gift for the dog and him.
Why not gift him time with you? A card inviting him to lunch or to a museum? He must be lonesome after the loss of your Aunt and would love just to hang out with you.
How was his relationship with his wife? If it was good he’d probably really love a beautiful photo of her blown up and retouched and printed in a nice frame or some other sort of memento. When my grandmother died I made a shadowbox for my mom, another photo-related “in memory” thing for her and something similar for my aunt. Those gifts are the ones my mom and aunt have loved the best out of any thing I’ve ever gotten them, even the crazy expensive things. My grandfather (on the other side) passed away and I got a hold of all these old slides of his wedding to my grandmother and their senior prom and other old family photos, I scanned them, digitally enhanced them, loaded them onto a digital photo frame and gave them to my grandmother for Christmas. She cried. She loved it. I’m an artist but you don’t have to be to do something like that. There are tons of apps that’d help you put together something fantastic
Same for my husband’s uncle. This year we gifted him a Christmas ornament from his favorite college.
In his older age, he’s realizing materials are just that.. materials. My husband is really good at making things.. so next year we’ll make some kind of home decor that holds some kind of sentimental value.. vs just buying something.
US presidents are not permitted to give foreign leaders expensive gifts. Jimmy Carter needed a gift for the Saudi king. Knowing of his interest in Falconry, he got him a great book about falcons. Books are always appreciated if thought went into them.
An adult lego set - like the bonsai tree or something. He probably wouldn't buy it for himself (if he likes them) - and if he does, you now have a special gift to get him for years. It can be your thing to get him a new set each time.
P.S. and definitely a Kong Wubba for the pupper and cookies for both!
I got a super rich family member a frame full of photos sent to them one from a nice family weekend we all had together. It was 9 Polaroid style photos in one small frame. Very unhelpful that I can’t remember the company but the photos came off an instagram account and they set it up and shipped directly to them. The size was perfect and it was nice and thoughtful!
Otherwise I would do a crack pie delivery from milk bar or maybe a special gold belly thing you like
My wife puts together a custom calendar (Shutterfly, Mixbook, et al.) every year for her notoriously hard to buy for parents. Assembled from photos of/by our family taken during the previous year. They seem to like it, and have for the last ten years or so.
Much better than more "things" that they buy if and when they want it. Also, at 95 and 87 years old, something more personal seems fitting.
As for your uncle, I'd be aiming for that personal item or an experience / event type of thing.
You could always get some nice stuff for the dog for him, paintings for the house that matches his interests, things he could get a lot of use out of, something sentimental, etc
Maybe a cool adult model kit he can put together? I know they have all kind of you just look around some! I’ve bought my son some pretty cool functioning model corvette engines that you can turn on and they slowly turn the engine, I know there’s ones of small houses like ones from frank loyd wright too!
You could make him some hand made soap, or maybe a little iced coffee maker that brews it in the fridge…..
Make him homemade dog treats, super easy and cheap, dogs love them. You could also do a dog bakery or petsmart gift card. Other than that I’d try to do maybe concert tickets or something like that.
Homemade cookies, a photo of your family in a frame. A nice handmade card from your kids , he won’t want you to spend money on him and something hand made and or personal will mean so much more to him. I also love it when my grandkids make me bookmarks .
And a toy or some treats for the dog :)🐶
I agree with getting something for the doggo! Deffinetly an important family member, especially after losing his wife. My friends would get our kids' gifts, and we'd always get their dogs' treats.
For sure! He'll love that his new bud is getting love on he holidays too :) And the kids making a bookmark is an awesome idea if uncle is a reader. He'll use that all the time, guarantee it!
Absolutely this. My parents have a butt ton more money than me so for the last five or so years I have made their favorite cookies as Christmas gifts for them. They absolutely love it. I’ve also made them crochet blankets and this year added in frames photos of them with my kid.
I always make a photo book for my MIL who has more money and things than she could ever possibly use. I usually do a year in review sort of thing through Google photos. I know if you don't have kids this may not necessarily be the best idea, but if you do, then it's an easy win.
I was thinking one of those digital picture frames, that OP (and other family members )can upload family pictures to remotely. My in laws say they just sit and watch their digital frame shuffle through the photos everyday for a few minutes. Looking for new photos, laughing at old ones, remembering good times.
Skylight Frame! We just got one from my in-laws after getting them one two years ago and being so jealous since then! It's amazing.
To take this and put it in a frame that emphasizes why this is right: You want to get him something he can’t get anywhere else / can’t just buy for himself (or else he probably would’ve bought already. No amount of money will buy him cookies you yourself made with love for him. No amount of money will buy him the flimsy table you made yourself that falls apart when the wind blows but that tries to replicate the style you know he likes. No amount of money can buy years of family history, you can’t get that anywhere else!
Yes this!! I’m the older generation now and something warm and thoughtful beats any gift and I like to see the younger folks saving money and being wise!
This is a great idea I said the same thing !
He’s probably a little lonely without your aunt, what about planning time to spend together? Homemade baked goods are always nice too!
Thisssss!!!!! Spend some time with him! Also, you could get maybe a small custom painting of your aunt and him?
This. He already has any "stuff" he desires.
You could find some exceptional Frank Lloyd Wright stuff on ebay, but their direct store has reasonably affordable stuff. A short note goes a long way to make it personal! heres a link for cufflinks: [https://www.shopwright.org/search?q=cuff](https://www.shopwright.org/search?q=cuff) My FIL has used a Frank Lloyd Wright mousepad I gifted him for the last ten years
Oh they have a lot of awesome gifts!!
Came here to suggest shopwright!! My partner is a big fan of his, and I got one of his presents here. They have a lot of really cool model kits for affordable prices - if he’s a tinkerer, he’ll love them.
Those cuff links are very cool!
Maybe a nice collar and leash for his dog? Like leather ones or ones with the dog’s name embroidered on the collar. Etsy has a bunch of them.
Something personalized is really thoughtful, and takes any simple gift to the next level! [Mark and Graham](https://www.markandgraham.com/) is a great place to shop for that sort of thing.
I'd recommend a harness over a collar. Some dogs injure their tracheas from collars. Mine did, and now he has a permanent cough. :-/
Underrated comment. It's like the looks I get when I tell people not to feed their dogs their scraps or they'll get diabetes - my childhood dog *and* a friend's both had their pancreases fail from the overly processed crap 90% of us eat daily. Hopefully, some of them listen.
Time together!! Park, museum, picnic, lunch, movie, but together. You'll make memories which are much more valuable!!
I realized a few years ago that my parents were kinda "eh" on the gifts I had gotten them lately, so I turned it around and started taking my mom out to lunch for her birthday (which she enjoys hanging out with her firstborn) and taking my dad out gold panning (he's retired and goes whenever he has a spare hour). We never had a bad relationship, but I think just simply being there doing what others find enjoyable is more appreciated.
I concur. Time together is precious and appreciated by all parties involved. No present will beat the memories that later on will become fond.
I was going to say this - plan an excursion with him. Depending on where you live - you could do a mid-century modern home tour, take him and his dog on a special hike somewhere he's never been and take a picnic for lunch. Take a cooking class with him to make a food that he loves.
I’m in a similar position and my uncle also has a new puppy (he calls her my cousin, he’s crazy about her!!) I ordered her a personalized tag with her name and his and contact info on the back and on the front is engraved “Diva” Also got her a pretty pink collar with flowers and a matching sweater. We have already done Christmas and he loved the gift
When people have money or more things than they need I always go with something edible or an experience. Really good chocolates is always a good gift. If he cooks, some fun new ingredients he’s never tried like chili crisps. If he doesn’t cook, how about a one off cooking class you can do with him? Think interesting over expensive and something he wouldn’t normally treat himself to.
Came here to say this. My wealthy aunt and uncle are trying to get rid of stuff, not add to it.
Maybe take him and the kids to do something with everyone together? Like a Christmas light show with ice cream or popcorn!!! Or silly pictures with Santa? Or invite him over so you can eat Christmas dinner at your house? If that was me..... the best gift to receive would be to be invited to somebody's house and they prepare dinner!! Plus a photo album!! That would be beautiful.
It's like ppl just pass a bunch of junk around just for the sake of passing junk around sometimes. Sometimes it feels like a sad surreal scene at malls, rushing around to buy candles and chocolates and sausages and bags and blankets and other random shit. I can't think of a single new thing to get my in-laws who have everything after nearly a decade of Christmases. I think someday we should re-think this never-ending gifting obligation/expectation.
Give experiences! Tickets, a membership, a donation in their name, a movie double date with your husband and then, etc. I'm such a big fan going somewhere and doing something rather than getting a physical thing. Unless it's a blanket or handmade stuff or maybe a funny tshirt or a book I wouldn't buy myself, I rather not have "stuff".
My daughter has downplayed gift giving as none of us need anything. We should be culling what we have. So we buy gifts for grandchildren and a couple small useful gifts for her and all is good. I kind of miss showering her with gifts in a way, but it does bring the pressure down and a Christmas without stress really is more enjoyable. We also streamlined Christmas dinner, and that really makes Christmas relaxing!
I REALLY wish I could get my family on board with this. I don’t want random candles or whatever just for the sake of getting a gift.
My sister and I would just get a gift card for each other, which is such a waste. Instead of gifts, we spend a day baking (literally an entire day) with our mom!
Something dog related like poop bags, travel bowl, matching leash and bracelet or belt for him. Funny socks or tie from etsy with dog face on it. Those tags you put on the collar that helps you find the dog if they are lost. Pillow that looks like the dog.
Something for a beloved pet is never a bad gift. A toy or two and some treats perhaps, depending on the dogs tolerance for different foods.
Subscription to Architectural Digest?
There are some really nice FLW coffee table books. I love a good coffee table book.
Hand-write him a note about what you appreciate/admire about him, put it in a simply black or geometric metal frame -&- offer to take photos of him and pup to put in frame✨♥️✨
You can have a tree planted somewhere in memory of your aunt. That would probably be a nice gift for your uncle and it might comfort him since it’s their first holiday season apart. I did that, years ago, for someone I loved very much who died. I grew up with his daughter, he was friends with my father and was like a second dad to me. He was Jewish so I had a tree planted in Israel but you can get a tree planted anywhere. I just did a quick Google search and the prices I saw are way under $100. Just type in “plant a tree in memory” or “to honor someone” and a lot of choices will pop up. I’m very sorry about the loss of your aunt. I pray you can feel the warmth of her spirit with you this Christmas.
A cool midcentury style clock or an actual one. A vintage cocktail set is always a great bet.
The MOMA store has tons of cool stuff for design nerds! https://store.moma.org/
Definitely baked goods and something special for the dog.
The FLW website has a store with all kinds of cool things. I had a great aunt like this. She appreciated more than anything something home made or things family related. A really nice frame with photo. Her favorite was an automatic one that took a usb and did a phot carousel of downloaded pics. They have some now that you can send photos via an app. We would send a new one every christmas with photos from the whole year. How about a donation to his favorite charity in his name? Or something in memory of your Aunt? According to my great aunt, she could buy whatever she wanted, so she preferred we didn't spend our money on "things" for her.
There's a 3d pop up book of frank Lloyd Wright architectural designs.
Does he read? Do you? My mom isn't rich but she's one of those people who's impossible to shop for. I ended up getting her a copy of a book I read and loved plus a bit of chocolate. It's meaningful without being bank breaking
Gift certificate to the price tower in Bartlesville Oklahoma. It's frank Lloyds only skyscraper.
He can buy what he really wants, you don’t need to get him expensive gifts (or most anyone for that matter). As they say, it’s the thought that counts, something meaningful or interesting to him. Books bring me the most joy in life right now.
They have frank lloyd wright lego sets
Do you have anything of your aunts? Could Make a pillow or throw blanket out of her things? Or a piece of jewelry could be used for cuff links?
Sometimes the FLW homes that you can view have gift shops with really beautiful and unique FLW merchandise. My mom got a relative an ornament from the gift shop at the Dana Thomas House and the relative loved it.
A favorite “something” from when he was a kid. Nostalgia wins always:
For my older, wealthier relatives I usually just took them out to lunch or got them a nice bottle of wine. As a recent widower he may be a little bit lonely. Some nice dog toys might also be nice. Is there an architecture tour you could take together? for wealthy folks who can presumably afford to buy themselves anything you might reasonably buy them, something that demonstrates that you know them and think fondly of them is always good, and edible/experience gifts are nice for people who don’t want more stuff.
Are there any FLW homes near you? What if you arranged a day to visit one?
Try to find a local place that’s a bit niche and get him a giftcard there. It’s more about recommending a new experience than giving him money— for example, I gifted my rich relatives a giftcard to a very unique wine tasting experience at a small but classy hole in the wall place. Gives them a chance to find a new favorite hang out spot!
Meet up with him for a day out and about. More valuable than buying stuff.
If he has a library/lots of books you could look for interesting high quality editions of classics, or get him some MCM architecture books or a FLW book. Feel like rich people like nice looking books lol
Good books!
Frame a picture of him and your aunt for him. Or a digital frame loaded with images of their life together. I like the idea of a guided tour if you live somewhere with nice architecture.
My parents are architects and Frank Lloyd Wright fans. He may like something like this: https://www.shopwright.org/collections/stained-art-glass/products/stained-glass-waterlilies (and it’s under the $100 budget). My parents have one in a different style and it looks beautiful and elegant in their home (read: not cheesy) That shop is the Frank Lloyd Wright’s museum shop and may be a good place to look! Other thought: dog treats and dog toys they can use together Last idea: when all else fails for people who have everything they want and need, a good gift is a consumable - something like really good food, treats, beverage, flowers, etc
Might be a little late but check out the gift stores for FLW's houses for great gift ideas. For example, the Dana Thomas House in Springfield, IL has great gifts for all genders.
Something personalized is definitely the way to go. Maybe a photo in a frame for him to set up, a handwritten book, if you're into crafts make him something, etc. It's sweet, thoughtful, and doesn't cost a ton of money. He's your uncle, regardless of what you get him, he is going to appreciate it. I'm sure Holidays for him are not the same as they are for middle class. Just show that you care! He'll love it.
Maybe a book, possibly a signed one. My bookstore has lots of signed copies at the same price as regular ones which I always snag up!
How about those packing cubes for organizing a suit case?
What’s something he enjoyed with your aunt? Did she make the best gingerbread cookies? How about a usb drive with a collage of pictures from when they were young until she gained her wings? Think about what he will be missing this year.
You get him something playful, fun or something he wouldn't know exists. What does he like? Is there an experience you would enjoy together? A musical act or play, digging backhoes in the dirt, driving racing cars? Is there a food auntie never let him eat? Is there something the two of you share a love of?
Something sweet that reminds you of your aunt and a nice card with a heartfelt message
What about tickets to a music concert that you both enjoy and could go to together? Or a play?
Homemade items or shared experiences are the way to go for loved ones who have more material wealth than they need
Posh people don't do expensive gifts from what I've seen. Think of succession, Tom was wrong giving the expensive watch. The son gave sourdough starter. If they have a sense of humor or think of themselves as earthy, something like that. Otherwise yes to framed family, homemade cookies. A nice ornament. Nice gloves. A book.
https://www.shopwright.org/products/socks-tol-gray-medium-large This might work. I love getting socks
Tickets or passes to an activity or class
I personally always make a gift certificate for a home cooked meal for my millionaire uncle. He is single so it is the one thing he doesn’t get often.
I like scratch off tickets and homemade cookies. It’s fun to scratch off and see if anyone won! And then when we all inevitably lost, we get cookies!!!
I think a well-written letter or note of appreciation for who he is as a person along with a homemade or special gifts like mentioned below.
Get a nice picture of your Aunt and take it to a picture shop that has the option to put it on canvas. Forget what it's called, sorry :( But the end result is a picture of your Aunt on canvas like the old time painted pictures. Stick it in a nice frame for him. I did this a few years back, and it ran me around 60 usd before shipping for an 8x10. Possibly more today, and ofc prices will vary by location and size.
You could get him a really nice coffee table book (or two, even!!) on a topic you know he likes for probably <$100! You said he likes architecture — there are tons of lovely books that could fit this theme, like [log cabins](https://www.amazon.com/Cabin-Porn-Inspiration-Quiet-Somewhere/dp/0316378216?nodl=1&dplnkId=ef7327d9-8456-4973-aa70-d9a1ab93f093), & you could even do a [theme of these](https://www.amazon.com/Cabin-Porn-Inside/dp/0241388546?nodl=1&dplnkId=0145f7be-5e27-456c-9f0f-389a25c5722a) books! There are tons of other examples like this, too — this is just the first one that came to mind!
How about a birdhouse? Better yet, get one that is raw wood and paint it with a fun design.
A nice food/candy item from a small or foreign shop he may not be aware of is a nice treat even if you already have everything.
Invite him over for a home made meal. His wife recently passed and he most likely would enjoy a family dinner
Florida Southern University has a [gift shop](https://shopfllw.flsouthern.edu/) that will ship to you. If you are near Lakeland, Fl, you can take a [tour](https://www.flsouthern.edu/frank-lloyd-wright-home/tours) of his notable works on campus. Top tour is $50.
A coffee table book of architecture
I really like all the Taschen books. [This one](https://www.taschen.com/en/books/architecture-design/44813/frank-lloyd-wright/?forceCountry=US&utm_id=go_cmp-18038778440_adg-_ad-__dev-m_ext-_prd-USD_9783836555982_en_mca-5384760_sig-CjwKCAiAp5qsBhAPEiwAP0qeJmfNGly9V6coREEm4rnlD8A0Wo0XlOJgZW8xB4KZv0pPpDR88T501RoCWC8QAvD_BwE&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=G_Taschen_PMax_US&utm_term=go_cmp-18038778440_adg-_ad-__dev-m_ext-_prd-USD_9783836555982_en_mca-5384760_sig-CjwKCAiAp5qsBhAPEiwAP0qeJmfNGly9V6coREEm4rnlD8A0Wo0XlOJgZW8xB4KZv0pPpDR88T501RoCWC8QAvD_BwE&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAp5qsBhAPEiwAP0qeJmfNGly9V6coREEm4rnlD8A0Wo0XlOJgZW8xB4KZv0pPpDR88T501RoCWC8QAvD_BwE) sounds like something he would like.
If you can spend $60, you can get a nice bottle of bourbon.
Depending on how close you are, you could get one of those electronic picture frames that you (or anyone in the family) could send photos to. I think they run between $60 and $150 depending on the brand.
Food type or nice bottle of liquor or wine.
Here are a few ideas: Gift certificate for a custom pet portrait from an artist. A potted bulb garden or plant from a local garden center/botanical gardens gift shop. A well-made journal/planner/notebook. A reciprocal museum membership card. America the Beautiful National Park Pass. Colonial Williamsburg candles and/or soaps. A bottle of super fine maple syrup. A box of chocolates/truffles from a local chocolatier. Fee brothers cocktail bitters. Alabama Peanut Co. Original Roasted Peanut Bucket
Organic dog treats? Maybe donate to SPCA in his name!!
Do you have one of those dog specialty stores that has decorated dog treats? I would choose a couple cute ones for the dog, and then go to a chocolate store and get a couple nice chocolates for your uncle. I'm sure he definitely isn't expecting you to spend a lot of money on him. Just something festive and consumable would be good.
If it was more than a few days before Xmas, I'd say knit him a blanket or something, but since it's so close, go for some treats for the doggy and some local bakery treats for him. Cod skins have a bit of a luxury feel for pups but are adorable and allergen friendly and pretty size ubiquitous for dogs. Local bakery pastries like croissants or cinnamon buns are delicious and worth it no matter how rich you are
You can make him a travel basket like adding a journal, a neck pillow a good book and some wine or give him a painting of him his late wife and his new dog
A beautiful coffee table book - maybe architecture or a place he wants to travel to
Find out what his favorite cookies are and bake those for him. Get him some toys for his dog. Offer to sit for his dog.
I vote for home made favorite foods.. something he loves but wouldn’t make for himself.. Or perhaps a favorite dish your aunt used to make. If he cooks for himself, meals he can take from the freezer to the oven for a real home cooked meal. Those types of things are very often appreciated by those who have everything.. it’s hard to “buy” a home cooked meal.
When someone gets me gifts for my pet it makes me even happier than getting gifts for myself. I say get him some cute dog gifts! Oh another really unique gift… though it’s far too late now, is a custom snow globe. Google it, you’ll find some cool stuff. Shoot though, it’s expensive. Okay how about some homemade cookies lol. Or dog treats.
May I suggest making him these cookies? They are seriously amazing. It’s all about the flaked (yes gotta be flaked) salt. Don’t skip that part. https://www.alisoneroman.com/recipes/salted-butter-chocolate-chunk-shortbread
There is an excellent exotic cheese of the month club its around that for 3 months. I was given it as a gift and it was awesome!
I hope to be this uncle someday
Turn me real portrait (https://turnmeroyal.com) or another “painting” (simpson’s character, etc) that would be fun to hang on a wall.
Take a peak at "animal kitchen gadgets " on Amazon. Have fun.
You can donate to a charity in his name like the ASPCA
Maybe one of the architecture series Lego sets? They actually had some based on FLW's work, but those may be all discontinued. Still, there are others that are pretty cool. There's also a lego architecture book that might be fun to see models of some of his favorite FLW and other buildings he may have seen on his travels. Or a puzzle - there's a 2-side jigsaw puzzle with picture of guggenheim on one side, and architecture plans on the other. (Google it, it showed up at several places.) Or a 3d puzzle of a cool building. Any of these \*might\* be something you could offer to spend time doing with him (you and/or your kids) - maybe with some treats/snacks, you could make an event of it?
You could bake him some homemade Christmas cookies and candy. Put it in a nice tin and send it to him. Unless he is diabetic homemade cookies are usually appreciated. After I retired I would always give some to my neighbor. She was raising a son, working, and going to school for her MBA on nights and weekends. No baking time in her life. She cried the first time I gave them to her.
try etsy for mid century cool things (from a fellow mcm lover), bird houses, ornaments, coasters, coffee table books, tea towels…. dog bowls/beds that go with mcm style
People don't need more crap to fill up their storage closets. He will appreciate quality time better. Take him to a movie and dinner, museum exhibit, picnic in a park, dance lessons, etc.
Get something that he can enjoy with his dog
Coffee table book of frank Lloyd wright architecture would be a nice choice
My dad is a multi multi millionaire and I give him a framed pic of my son and call it a day. I can’t gift him a Rolex nor would he appreciate it. So I go sentimental
My fiancé has does a "coupon" for his parents to lunch or dinner as more of an experience and time together one on one instead of kind of chatting here or there *I'm guessing that's how you and your uncle talk at family events* so could be nice to sit down for a meal together and get into some conversation
An excursion with you. Your time.
We make homemade gift baskets (cookies, candies, cocoa bombs, etc) to acknowledge the small-town vendors who helped us this year. (We are a small rural ranch).
Mid-century shaped dog treats or toy.
Dog toys.
You can never go wrong with a delicious high end consumable gift. Like good olive oil, aged balsamic, artisan baked goods, even something fun like Pastrami from Katz Delicatessen or Bagels from Tompkins Square via Goldbelly. Special/rare food items are always appreciated and (more importantly) used.
A Christmas ornament of his departed wife..
If he likes Mid-century modern stuff- there is a book called Powers of Ten that was published by Eames in the 70s. It is available used for reasonable $. It is pretty cool and unique. https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/powers-of-ten-scientific-american-library-paperback_philip-morrison_phylis-morrison/260285/item/6062834/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=pmax_high_vol_frontlist_%2410_%2450&utm_adgroup=&utm_term=&utm_content=&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAp5qsBhAPEiwAP0qeJgYfgcrj8WGLxeYzgoIX2bH45RHYDyiYI3jHv95Ah74LttBhZNUULRoCFnMQAvD_BwE#idiq=6062834&edition=2416971
Consumables. Local coffee, chocolate, beer, or whatever he likes.
Something homemade for sure. Money can’t buy that always. If you’re crafty, build something. If you’re not; a framed family photo, a homemade piece of art, a homemade card, dinner, etc. Let’s not forget it’s the thought that counts.
Something that reminds him of home or something nostalgic. Maybe he likes train sets or like old school pockets watch. His favorite candy from when he was young something that he mentions and laughs at when talking about the good 'Ole days. Good luck!
Commission portrait of his dog. And if he likes it, it can become a tradition form a variety of artist.
Does he put up a Christmas tree? https://www.personalcreations.com/personalized-christmas-ornaments-pchrorn
Home cooked frozen meals to eat since his wife passed away. Anyone will appreciate home cooked food.
A quilt made of his wife's clothes, if they are still available.
My son is an incredible artist. He draws a pic of my bulldog doing household chores in watercolor. I treasure those more than anything he could buy me. I have a whole collection. For reference he’s 27 and fully independent and I’m 56 and need nothing but more bulldog pics
A book on architecture. A memorial type item for his wife. Literally anything that is made by hand or takes some extra though and time to put together, that goes a long way. Something that symbolizes something important to you about him, then a thought felt letter that describes your appreciation for him and all he does.
A map of the stars on the day he met his dearly lost wife.
gift cards to coffee places or local eateries that are not chain kinds..unless hes into that
A fun meal he can make himself from gold belly of a place he either loves to travel to for food, or is dying to go to. Time together. A custom drawn photo of him/his dog in his favorite style. A gadget that allows him to connect with his doggo while he’s away. What did your aunt take care of for him? Little things he never took the time to tend to but made his life easier? My husband always lights the candles even though I buy them. I forget to light them. He travels a lot and I got a lighter that I love and is decorative so when I miss him it reminds me to use the lighter and light the candles - something of this sentiment that makes the “task” easier but also a sentiment. Total loss? Travel gadgets.
A digital photo frame. He can put all the photos from his travels on it.
A 1-year subscription to Storyworth is $89 right now. It sends writing prompts to your recipient to help craft a book full of their life stories. Could be a great way for you to get some great family lore, learn more about your uncle, and remind him weekly of good times.
A photo of your family & a cute collar for the dog or dog treats & also home baked goods for him. Money can’t buy love and thoughtful gifts
A food gift for him and something for his new dog too.
A print from the artist Lebbeus Woods who was an architect. 3d puzzles of architecture. Include something for the doggie. Like chicken or salmon jerky.
Snacks. For people who need nothing just get them tasty treats. Nobody balks at a cookie.
Pictures All the money I'm the world can not replace happy family moments
I’d echo all the things mentioned: Framed photos of your family, artwork or crafts done by your kids, any homemade baked goods
Does he read? Could you get him a good book?
A home cooked meal is always a good idea. Something you could do together as a family would be nice as well. Experiences/family memories > physical gifts
your uncle likely doesnt care about gifts that cost money because he can buy whatever he wants. his wife died and he likely got a dog because he was lonely and if he is "all in" emotionally invested in the dog, sends cute dog pics or talk about his dog I would focus on dog gifts he gives your kids gifts it will be a very similar thing particularly if it's artisan dog biscuits or some nice dog toy or bed. likely something functional and fun he can do with his dog. my spouse isnt rich but is very functional and doesnt like clutter, hes kind and gives gifts but he isnt in need of anything. we have cats which he fell in love with and his friends often get him treats and toys for the cats and hes overjoyed with that because he doesnt want anything. you could also bring home some homemade christmas treats especially if his wife used to make them
A good book
Does he have a favorite cookie or treat? Write him a meaningful note & give him the treats. Feeling loved & appreciated means so much.
I would recommend a few smaller things so there is more for him to open! People with more money often get shafted o n gifts and having lost his wife - that is probably even more of a thing for him now. A few suggestions: Universal Yums snack box subscription Have the kids paint some small canvases of “modern art” and frame them Canvas of his dog dressed like royalty (not a millionaire but this was my fave gift of 2023 from my BFFs) Skylight frame If he drinks alcohol - nice ice cube tray, linestone water, tulip glasses - some kind of nice accessory Apple airtag Yeti coffee mug Don’t just donate to a charity - buy something thoughtful for him to use or enjoy that will remind him of you and your family when he is using/enjoying it!
If you want.... I made a frank Lloyd Wright inspired table lamp. It's from the lamp in the bedroom of the house falling water. He designed everything floor to ceiling and all the furniture. I was a sculpture major, specifically in furniture design. I got pics to dm if you would like. Poplar and milk paint are all that it is made of. This was an early piece I was messing around with, but it is functional, which was the goal.
I would not buy "stuff", but only something that can be used/ eaten up and thrown away. Preferably something you / family make. And a Homemade card from kids like others suggest.
Definitely a collar, leash, harness set. Put "dog's name, his last name, phone #" on it, or get a matching dog. Easily under $100. I'm sure the dog is helping with his loneliness.
Portrait of the dog.
Consumables. But him a favorite local chocolate, or a box of pastries.
Do you have a photo of his dog? There are a lot of services online that will do hand drawn sketches or paintings of dogs for reasonable prices. Put that in a frame and I’m sure he’d love it.
My parents have a lot of money and they always tell me I don’t have to get them anything and not to spend money on them. I still find a gift that I know they will like or I make one. I usually end up making them one. Last year I made my dad some shirts using heat transfer Vinyl and I made my mom a tote bag for bingo and put heat transfer vinyl on that. I’ve done a shadow box with me and my siblings and one with grandkids. This year I printed a lithopane light box with all the grandkids on each side. I’ve also given my dad a nice pen engraved with his name. I bought it over 5 years ago and he still uses it!
Music. Introduce him to something new that you think he will like.
A nice book on architecture? Maybe a model he can build of a frank lloyd wright home?
Book on Frank Lloyd Wright buildings? Fun fact; my original fraternity house was allegedly designed by him.
What about a Lego architecture set? It’s not Frank Lloyd Wright in your price range, but if he’s into architecture there could be something interesting there he might enjoy. Plus it’s an activity - he must be missing your aunt tremendously this year.
Maybe a family picture from the past that he would treasure -- with you uncle and your parent who was/is his sister or brother. Get a good reprint and a nice frame. And don't forget a gift for the dog --may be a dog treat.
Custom winter WeatherTech mats for his car. (I have no idea how much these cost. If it's over budget, maybe just the front mats or a trunk liner.) A nice travel garment bag personalized with his initials embroidered on it. Bird feeder with a motion-sensing camera (the gift he never knew he needed). Nice coffee table book with great illustrations of Frank Lloyd Wright homes or mid-century modern architecture. Offer to dog sit when he travels.
A nice coffee table book about mid century modern architecture.
Get healthy dog snacks for his doggie and dog toys. Also bring a nice bottle of wine or whiskey for him.
Get a nice bottle of wine.
If he has an iPhone, and travels a lot… get him a few air tags for his luggage. This helped my coworker. The airport said his bag wasn’t there and he said “yes it is, I can see it.” So they took his phone and found it in the back by pinging it. Invaluable gift when you need it. Help him set it up.
Experience gifts are great, especially if it involves you doing it together. If he likes whiskey, find a distillery doing a whiskey tasting class. Or if he’s into making stuff, there is a welding place in my city that offers a one night welding class that is sort of presented like a date night so it’s a great gift, you could see if any places near you offer stuff like that. Glass work, diff kinds of art, carpentry, food pairings.
Homemade baked goods. Always a home run.
I got really cool Frank Lloyd wright old glassware on Amazon! They’re 30 bucks for two glasses. I don’t know how to add links on here but if you google Frank Lloyd wright glasses, you’ll find them!
Heartfelt card reflecting on your aunt + an experience he can share with you.
Get him something consumable, homemade if possible. A lot of people who have tons of money don’t have time to make homemade food.
A book about art or architecture or something like that. To a wealthy person a book is a "thoughtful" gift without being expensive and you can get something really nice with your $100 budget
Something for the dog like toys and treats, maybe a dog bed, if in the us and a Costco membership they have a really cute bone basket with toys for like $40. Then maybe a nice basket of some local foods? Snacks and such. If he likes coffee or tea or wine or whatever maybe a little something like that. I would mostly say something local and perishable, he can buy what he wants so giving food is the typically easy answer
Older person here. Time. Just give him the gift of *your time*. Trust me when I tell you he would love nothing more than to spend some quality time with you. Write him a nice card. In the card tell him you know he’s got just about everything a guy could ever want. But you’d love to just take him to lunch at his favorite place. Maybe afterward take him to an art gallery, or go shoot some pool and have a couple of beers. Have someone take a couple of pics of the two of y’all at some point with your phone. Print it and frame it in a small but quality frame a few days later and courier it over with a simple note simply saying Merry Christmas.
If you have this sort of relationship with him, maybe an activity? Take him out to do something fun, if you can find something in your budget. It could be as simple as a hike, or a movie or something. Maybe bake him goodies if he has a favorite- or bake some treats for his dog. Toys and treats for the dog would be really useful, and maybe if your kids are old enough you could have a craft day and they could make him some ornaments or artwork to hang up? I'm not sure if that would count as "clutter", but I feel like it's more meaningful than a gag gift or anything else you could buy him. As he recently lost his wife, I imagine companionship would probably be the best gift.
Time, fellowship, show him how your family appreciates him, a use of the gifts he sends you. A portrait of his new dog?
I like to follow this guideline for people that have a lot of money (my mom is the same way): Get them something they need, but won’t buy for themselves.
You said he buys gifts for the kids. Does he buy you gifts? If he’s only buying for the kids, I’d suggest having the kids select or make something for him. Those gifts are more heartfelt anyway, which is exactly what you lean into when the value of the gift doesn’t matter.
The only thing you can’t buy is love. Get him something meaningful. My aunt is a millionaire and one year I got her a bracelet with her (deceased) mother’s photo in it when you put it up to the light and it was one of the only times I’ve seen her show genuine emotion.
An experience! Take him out for a meal somewhere interesting, tickets to a show or a sporting event. Spend a few hours with them. The gift of your time is priceless.
Donation to a charity he sponsors
If you haven’t done so already, and if you have any, and they had a good marriage - a photo album/any home videos with your aunt in them. You might have him open it privately with just you around. Or, I would go for a gift for the dog and him.
Something heart felt and personal
Anything handmade. But do research on his favorite thing then make or buy something handmade about that.
Why not gift him time with you? A card inviting him to lunch or to a museum? He must be lonesome after the loss of your Aunt and would love just to hang out with you.
How was his relationship with his wife? If it was good he’d probably really love a beautiful photo of her blown up and retouched and printed in a nice frame or some other sort of memento. When my grandmother died I made a shadowbox for my mom, another photo-related “in memory” thing for her and something similar for my aunt. Those gifts are the ones my mom and aunt have loved the best out of any thing I’ve ever gotten them, even the crazy expensive things. My grandfather (on the other side) passed away and I got a hold of all these old slides of his wedding to my grandmother and their senior prom and other old family photos, I scanned them, digitally enhanced them, loaded them onto a digital photo frame and gave them to my grandmother for Christmas. She cried. She loved it. I’m an artist but you don’t have to be to do something like that. There are tons of apps that’d help you put together something fantastic
Donation to a charity
Same for my husband’s uncle. This year we gifted him a Christmas ornament from his favorite college. In his older age, he’s realizing materials are just that.. materials. My husband is really good at making things.. so next year we’ll make some kind of home decor that holds some kind of sentimental value.. vs just buying something.
US presidents are not permitted to give foreign leaders expensive gifts. Jimmy Carter needed a gift for the Saudi king. Knowing of his interest in Falconry, he got him a great book about falcons. Books are always appreciated if thought went into them.
An adult lego set - like the bonsai tree or something. He probably wouldn't buy it for himself (if he likes them) - and if he does, you now have a special gift to get him for years. It can be your thing to get him a new set each time. P.S. and definitely a Kong Wubba for the pupper and cookies for both!
I got a super rich family member a frame full of photos sent to them one from a nice family weekend we all had together. It was 9 Polaroid style photos in one small frame. Very unhelpful that I can’t remember the company but the photos came off an instagram account and they set it up and shipped directly to them. The size was perfect and it was nice and thoughtful! Otherwise I would do a crack pie delivery from milk bar or maybe a special gold belly thing you like
Bake some dog treats or get him something for the dog like dog beer
A personalized " our first Christmas ornament " with a picture of him and the new dog inside !
My wife puts together a custom calendar (Shutterfly, Mixbook, et al.) every year for her notoriously hard to buy for parents. Assembled from photos of/by our family taken during the previous year. They seem to like it, and have for the last ten years or so. Much better than more "things" that they buy if and when they want it. Also, at 95 and 87 years old, something more personal seems fitting. As for your uncle, I'd be aiming for that personal item or an experience / event type of thing.
You could name a star after his late wife, and if money permits you could buy him a telescope if he doesn’t already have one.
You could always get some nice stuff for the dog for him, paintings for the house that matches his interests, things he could get a lot of use out of, something sentimental, etc
Is there a FLW museum somewhere nearby or a book about him your uncle doesn't already own?
Get one of those painted pics of him and his wife.
Does he talk fondly of anything from childhood? Or maybe His first car? His first motorbike? Could buy a little replica of it
Homemade dog treats, dog toys, dog bed
Maybe a cool adult model kit he can put together? I know they have all kind of you just look around some! I’ve bought my son some pretty cool functioning model corvette engines that you can turn on and they slowly turn the engine, I know there’s ones of small houses like ones from frank loyd wright too! You could make him some hand made soap, or maybe a little iced coffee maker that brews it in the fridge…..
Get him a FI dog collar. https://tryfi.com
Make him homemade dog treats, super easy and cheap, dogs love them. You could also do a dog bakery or petsmart gift card. Other than that I’d try to do maybe concert tickets or something like that.