Getting the perfect gift for anyone is not easy. I even feel like buying items for care packages can be a struggle at times. As a military spouse, I have been asked so by civilians what I may want or need, especially during special occasions. Have you ever been at a loss for what to say in response? I know I have!
Whether you are the mom about to have a baby with a service member, the military spouse holding down the fort with four kids at home, or the boyfriend/girlfriend who is spending countless evenings alone, this ultimate military spouse gift guide takes the mystery out of gift buying for everyone! Plus it’s perfect for a little self-care in the area of retail therapy!
The Ultimate Gift Guide for Modern MILSOs
Instant Pot
I don’t even think I need to go into too much of an explanation about this one. Unless you have been living under a rock, you have heard of an Instant Pot and probably have already seen it in action. This is at the top of my list because no matter the walk of life the MILSO is experiencing, this baby can help! Forgot to defrost the meat? No problem! SO working late? Got dinner covered? Just walking in at 6pm from a basketball game? Boom! Best invention ever.
BraveCrate (Deployment Subscription Box)
I have been singing praises for BraveCrate for a while. I probably won’t be able to stop. Not only is this the easiest gift, but it has something for everything. BraveCrate provides a themed monthly box delivered like clockwork right to your doorstep. Past themes have included So Sexy, Gratitude, Perfectly Planned and Bloom Where You Are Planted. Make sure to go check them out! You can even use code NAVYMAMA for $5 off your first box!
Westhouse
With everything from stationary to apparel, Westhouse has something from everyone. They have stylish designs, high quality products and very reasonable pricing. From simple designs on shirts, humor on stationary only other military families would understand, to the best spelling candles you have ever known, make sure to check it out! Plus, use code NAVYMAMA10 for some savings!
Freedom Found Co.
By far one of my favorite shops for fitness tanks and shirt that also sport some milso pride! I am a HUGE supporter of self-care and fitness is on the top of many SOs list when they are focusing on their physical self-care. Might as well look good while working out! They can also be worn with a comfy pair of short/jeans for running errands or wrangling kiddos. She also carries candles, v-necks, etc as well as stuff for KIDS too!
WILCO Supply
WILCO SUPPLY is an online store and showroom featuring minimalist styles your SO can wear in uniform, but that also are perfect for any MILSO. Simple, sleek and stylish, they are the perfect gift. They even have a simple clutch with a phone charger accessory built in! Who wouldn’t want that?! You can use the code NAVYMAMA for some extra savings from me!
Sword and Plough
Sword & Plough was created by sisters Emily and Betsy, who were born into a military family. After Emily served, her and her sister wanted to give back. Their bags are made from military surplus material turned into durable and fashionable bags that people could use every day. Perfect for any military spouse and part of an amazing cause! Make sure to check them out!
HelloFresh
This is a no-brainer: meal subscriptions! Wanna make a MILSO super happy? This is one way to do it. Pick the plan, how many people are in the home, how many meals a week and if there are any diet restrictions. All the fresh food plus directions for cooking come right to the doorstep and perfect for meal plans.
One Line A Day Journal
This classic 5-year journal and memory book is the perfect way to track the ups and downs and progress of your life, day-by-day, during 5 years (which we all know can change drastically as a MILSO). More than a daily diary: Your daily dairy entries for each day of the year are recorded five times on each page — one journal entry for each of 5 years on a given date. Such a great keepsake to document everything military spouse related!
Loopy Case
This phone case is AMAZING! I have the worst luck with phones and I use to constantly drop them; on the floor, in the toilet, and unfortunately…on my face (or kid’s face…). Ever done that? Well no more! Not only does this “Stop the Drop” when I am scrolling late at night waiting for that important call, but it also allows me to hold my phone while also picking up my kids or several grocery sacks. The perfect accessory for any MILSO who considers her phone to be just another appendage.
Black Rifle Coffee
This is for all you coffee drinkers out there who count on that first warm cup (or the first cup that has to get rewarmed 3 times). They offer a mail subscription option called the Black Rifle Coffee Club. You choose the amount and blends you crave, you get it at a special discounted price, and its shipped directly to your home every month. Their mission states that the Club keeps us all working hard, making America the land of the free and home of the brave.
Unique Pl8Z
Such amazing pieces, especially if you are looking for something on the fun side. They specialize in making custom art and accessories for travelers and wanderers, helping us all stay connected to our favorite duty stations by transforming real license plates into colorful works of art. Perfect custom piece to remember all those places the military sends us.
Rollers
Rollors is a super cool new game which combines horseshoes, bocce ball and outdoor bowling. The concept was first visualized on downtime between deployments overseas in Iraq and Afghanistan supporting combat operations. Upon return, Matt developed a prototype in his garage that was a hit at BBQs, parties, and other outdoor get-togethers. The large wooden pieces included in our backyard game set are easy to grab, making this yard game a great choice for kids of all ages and people of all fitness levels. Perfect for those summer evenings living in base housing or when you are looking for something to do to get to know the neighbors.
Customized Military Moving Sign
Another awesome custom decor option for any MILSO. It’s so fun to document not only the different places the military sends you, but also the different life experiences you have along the way. We have documented each promotion, baby born and when we have purchased a home. This small shop has some of the best customer service and can pretty much make your dream design come true.
Books for MILSOs
Whether you are brand new to military life, preparing for a deployment, or recently PCS’ed, military life is an adventure! Whether a book about deployments or raising a military family, here are some great reads for you as you are trying to find humor and joy in this crazy life! I have read almost every single one of them and so far I have not been disappointed!
Wine of the Month
Specializing in value-oriented wines, the Wine of the Month Club is open to anyone who has an appreciation of fine wine and is interested in a monthly wine club service. Quality wine delivered to your door, guaranteed!
Daily Burn
There isn’t always time to go to the gym. Between workups, deployments and moving, especially if you also have children, taking the time to drive to the gym, workout and then drive home can feel overwhelming. Daily Burn is completely online and has workouts for everyone’s taste; barre, cardio, kick boxing, muscle building and pre- and post-natal workouts. A Standard subscription is $15 a month and a Premium subscription is $25 a month. There are also a lot of other subscriptions out there, so make sure to check around and find the one perfect for you!
Portable Hard drive
Between moving regularly and documenting our lives while our SOs are away, a portable hard drive is vital. We have 4 and they hold everything from tax forms to photos to my children’s favorite movies which we can play on the computer during PCSing.
Love Rewards The Brave
I am a sucker for personalized home decor and one of my favorite places to score some amazing military related pillows, throws and other items is Love Rewards The Brave. Her style is clean and simple and goes with just about any existing decor. She also has some amazing jewelry that speaks volumes with me due to its simple and classic look. Make sure to check it out!
Laptop/Bathtub Stand
I don’t know about you all but one of my favorite, and most inexpensive, way to relax after a long day without my love is to take a hot bath with bath salts and to read a book. This one is amazing! It has a space for a laptop/book, your phone, a drink, snacks, soaps and lotions or a candle. This one also comes in several colors for every taste!
Military Spouse Magazine
Military Spouse magazine is published monthly (12 issues per year). Each issue includes real life stories of military spouses from around the world that are meant to inspire and encourage readers. Get solid tips on relationships, parenting, finances, pets and education. Get good advice from other military spouses and topic experts. A wonderful break from junk mail and bills landing in your mailbox. There is also electric issues for those more tech savvy.
Something for Everyone!
Whether you are looking for the perfect gift for a MILSO you know, or are thinking of treating yourself, I hope you give these suggestions a try.
