Update from OP:

My new friend texted me a picture over the weekend of herself wearing the scarf. I was pleased that she wasn't just telling me she liked it; she went out of her way to wear it and tell me she wore it. I think we all can appreciate that!

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Offering wine to a woman doesn't sound right.

How about a basket from bath & body works with a candle, shower gel and lotion or something similar ?

Please no. She's not a teenager.

By the time women are in their 40's they have preferences about the lotions and creams they like. Bath and body works type stuff is fine for girls and teens but it's too juvenile for a grown woman. Plus, those strong scents make me gag.

Wine, chocolates, flowers or good quality perishables are much better options.

I am 40 and love bath and body worksstuff. I don't see why it's too juvenile for a grown woman.
Sorry the strong scents make you gag. Some people actually like those.
Wine, chocolate, flowers or good quality perishables are better options FOR YOU but not for everybody.
I'd HATE those.

Anonymous wrote:A scarf ... that's a terrible gift !! I hate when people get me some clothes ... I can buy them myself, at least I know my taste !

I love receiving scarves as gifts! You can never have enough. They don't take up much room. And with gifts, you're likely to get a color or pattern you don't often purchase yourself.

OP - glad you found something she liked!

Op here. I went to Francesca's and found a really awesome scarf for her. She seemed to love it, but I did give her a gift receipt in case she wants to return it.

+1 on the wine

Anonymous wrote:Offering wine to a woman doesn't sound right.

How about a basket from bath & body works with a candle, shower gel and lotion or something similar ?

Please no. She's not a teenager.

By the time women are in their 40's they have preferences about the lotions and creams they like. Bath and body works type stuff is fine for girls and teens but it's too juvenile for a grown woman. Plus, those strong scents make me gag.

Wine, chocolates, flowers or good quality perishables are much better options.

A scarf ... that's a terrible gift !! I hate when people get me some clothes ... I can buy them myself, at least I know my taste !

Thanks all. Gonna look for a scarf or something similar. I've noticed she wears them often. Planning to look at Nordstrom.

I would say a gift card to Bed, Bath and Beyond or wherever. Not wine ... I don't drink wine or drink coffee and often get these gifts...that means the person knows nothing about me or simply doesn't care

I would hate to get wine because I don't drink alcohol.
Same thing for a book, unless you already know I want to read it, just don't assume I'll like it.
And I only like flowers in my garden.

Anonymous wrote:Offering wine to a woman doesn't sound right.

How about a basket from bath & body works with a candle, shower gel and lotion or something similar ?

This woman would much prefer fine. Or a book. Or flowers, already arranged.

Offering wine to a woman doesn't sound right.

How about a basket from bath & body works with a candle, shower gel and lotion or something similar ?

A bottle of wine.

Bring a little something to party and get a feel for what she likes at party, then send her a thoughtful gift based on that. It doesn't have to be expensive, just thoughtful. If you notice she's drinking red wine, send her a bottle of red wine. If you notice she likes dessert, send her chocolates. Maybe she's into flowers, send her orchids...

She's not turning 50; she's turning 48. She's a new friend (our kids have gone to school together for the last two years). We've become close the last 6-8 months. Invited to a birthday party and looking for something to get her.

I really have little idea what she's into. She's an only child and quite quiet, but well traveled/smart, if that helps.

Any ideas? I am really at a loss.