The holiday season is all about meaningful moments, cherished traditions, and thoughtful gifts. Few presents are as personal as a piece of art. However, with so many options available, choosing and gifting art can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be! That’s why we sought advice from Blakely Little, the artist behind Blakely Made. With a decade of experience navigating holiday art gifting, Blakely is a true expert. From selecting the perfect piece to framing and wrapping, she shares her top tips for turning art gifting into a joyful experience.
When it comes to selecting art, what advice would you give to help shoppers choose pieces that feel personal and special?
I think the most important part of gifting art is that the piece would reflect a memory or sense of nostalgia that you share with the person you are giving to. Maybe it reminds you of your grandmother's home, a place you traveled together, or a meal you’ve shared. Then, include a note jogging their mind of this, it will give the piece even more meaning.
Artist Blakely Little featuring her "Dawn" Print
Original artwork is one-of-a-kind, but reproductions can also be meaningful. How do you guide shoppers in making this decision?
Either one is a lovely gift, and usually it comes down to budget. I typically lean towards gifting small pieces, be it original or reproduction, as the receiver can tuck it in a bookshelf or find a side wall for it to hang. With this in mind, we decided to offer 8x10 prints in natural wood frames by SimplyFramed for the holiday season this year!
Small reproductions like Blakely Made's ready-to-gift prints are a great option for thoughtful and budget friendly presents.
What are some of your favorite ways to discover and source art, whether online or locally?
I love asking friends and family who their favorite artists are. It’s fun to see what style art people are drawn to. Locally, I love checking out art markets and galleries. Instagram and Pinterest are also great ways to find new artists.
Shipping art can feel a little daunting—what are your top tips for ensuring pieces arrive in perfect condition?
Agreed– it is definitely daunting! I always recommend using extra protection on the corners and making sure there is at least three inches between the edges of the piece and box. A good test is if you shake the box, make sure your piece doesn’t move an inch!
Do you have any advice on how to gift wrap art?
I usually pick a fun wrapping paper and then choose to mix and match a bunch of ribbon around it. You could even cut your own tag in the shape of something that reflects the piece inside. This year at Blakely Made, every order gets a pomegranate gift tag!
Handmade works on ornaments and ceramics are thoughtful and functional heirloom pieces
Framing can elevate the presentation and protect the piece for years to come. How do you suggest incorporating framing into the gift?
I love incorporating framing so you are giving a finished product and the receiver can immediately hang it up. I usually go with white or natural wood for a gift as it is neutral and safe. Then the piece can hang anywhere!
Olive Season by Blakely Made
Where can shoppers find your art both online and locally?
My artwork is at BlakelyMade.com or if you are in Charleston, we’d love to have you by the studio. It is by appointment only, so email us at info@blakelymade.com.
Charleston-based artist Blakely Little launched her art brand, Blakely Made, in 2014, drawing inspiration from her coastal upbringing and travels. Her collection includes original paintings on paper, ornaments, and, most recently, ceramics. Each piece showcases her signature vibrant palettes and playful brushstrokes. All photos courtesy of Blakely Made.
