An Expert Host’s Guide to Gifts Perfect For Literally Anyone

A designer, interior DIY expert and lifestyle influencer – if you haven’t copied at least one of his dinner party tablescapes, where have you been? – Burke is the person we turn to when we need advice on all things entertaining. 

And in this season of hosting, we need him more than ever. 

Today’s question: what to gift the hard-to-buy-for – the friend’s new partner you don’t quite know well enough, the rich auntie who has everything (including an aesthetic you desperately hope to emulate) – especially when you’ve left it to the last minute (like, ‘the in-laws are arriving this weekend’ levels of last minute). 

Here, the supremely cultured Burke shares the failsafe options you can snap up in a MECCA minute. Crisis averted, and compliments gratefully received!

Burke is a self-confessed “one of the ‘people who has everything’ individuals” – so of course, he has a failsafe list of gifting options. First up: an indulgent makeup session or facial treatment: “[This] offers a relaxing experience that anyone can enjoy and the MECCA ones are redeemable on product, so it’s a no-brainer – they can pick what they want as well as having a great experience!” 

He recommends a MECCA Facial or MECCA Natural makeup application, and for those based in Melbourne, a luxe treatment at MECCA Aesthetica.

Similarly, a MECCA gift card, “allows them to choose exactly what they want, making it a versatile option – chuck in a Glossier lip gloss or flowers so there’s still something they can use there and then in the moment!” says Burke. (Editor’s note: for a limited time, purchase a physical gift card of $50 or more and you’ll receive a bonus MECCA COSMETICA To Save Face SPF50+ Superscreen 30g. A little something for them, a little something for you! T&Cs apply.)

For the giftee that’s worth the splurge, he recommends “a high-end set” in a travel-friendly size: “See what they have in their bathroom or what they’ve talked about and get that, or we love a trendy new item to try! Products are great because if they don’t love it, it doesn’t have to sit out on display forever like a physical object does.” 

Burke adds, “Fun, limited-edition makeup products like lip gloss or nail polish can also be a delightful addition to test out and talk about on your next coffee catch-up, like the Tower 28 Spray – obsessed!” 

Finally, Burke suggests “beautifully scented candles from brands like Diptyque, Tsu Lange Yor, Flamingo Estate or D.S. & DURGA. They’re practical and add a touch of luxury to any space. Or if they already have every candle under the sun, opt for some aesthetic scented matches from Diptyque or a D.S. & DURGA auto fragrance card as the perfect accessory.” 

A final tip? Check their MECCA wishlist! “I make a list for my partner so they have something to pick from easily, because I’m a Virgo and I usually pick up what I want on the regular,” confesses Burke. 

“A great tip is to opt for versatile and universally appreciated gifts,” says Burke. From your work Kris Kringle to the husband of a cousin you drew in the family gift exchange, he recommends home fragrance classics like candles and room sprays, auto fragrance cards, and “luxe hand soap or moisturiser”, adding, “kit: has the most amazing skincare and wellness sets, and some MECCA COSMETICA sheet masks are a great option too. Chic and affordable – love!”

And while your gift choice might be on the general side, “Adding a thoughtful card or note can make it feel more personal, showing you cared enough to make it special, even if you didn’t know them well.” 

For every occasion and every person, Burke is all about lifestyle: Flamingo Estate soap, a body care duo from MALIN+GOETZ or kit:, a crowd-pleasing Lazy Sunday Morning diffuser from Maison Margiela or a Maison Crivelli fragrance discovery set.