Thoughtful, sentimental, and quietly observant—Emma Caroline Brown brings a meaningful perspective to gift-giving. As a contributor to Pretty’s Spring Gift Guide, she selected items that reflect her belief that the best gifts tell a story, evoke a memory, and celebrate relationships.

A soon-to-be graduate of Mississippi University for Women, Emma Caroline Brown approaches creativity with both an analytical and artistic eye—something that comes through clearly in her gift selections and personal aesthetic.

We asked Emma Caroline to share more about her inspirations, her goals, and what makes a gift truly special.

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Tell us about yourself—what are you studying, and what’s next?

I will be graduating from Mississippi University for Women in May after spending my college career majoring in communication with a minor in film studies. I have been pursuing paths in continuing my education at a graduate school level, where I would further study communication, journalism, and media studies.

My career goals are constantly evolving, but as of now, I would like to either become a professor of film analysis and criticism or work as a communication specialist helping businesses with public relations, newswriting, social media outreach, and public engagement.

What makes a gift feel truly special, in your opinion?

I am a very sentimental person, so for a gift to be special, it involves specific ties to a memory, a person, or an experience. There is a certain thoughtfulness and care that goes into making a sentimental gift, and these special gifts are often unique to each person.

Was there a particular item in the guide that you especially loved?

I adore the statement napkins from the “Hostess Gifts She’ll Actually Use (And Love)” gift guide. Every pretty kitchen needs splashes of color, and the Evelyn and Kate napkins are perfect for spring and summer hosting duties.

How would you describe your personal aesthetic?

I move back and forth between a soft, feminine aesthetic filled with florals and pastel colors, and a grungier look of scuffed-up Converse and band T-shirts. The visuals of Sofia Coppola’s movies perfectly capture my personal aesthetic blend.

Do you prefer meaningful keepsakes or practical gifts—or a mix?

I prefer meaningful keepsakes. Being able to look at a gift and immediately recognize the memory or meaning attached to it evokes so much emotion and makes me care for the gift even more.

“I prefer meaningful keepsakes. Being able to look at a gift and immediately recognize the memory or meaning attached to it evokes so much emotion and makes me care for the gift even more.”

What trends are you noticing in spring gifting right now?

The main trend I have seen is spring gift baskets—especially baskets containing pretty beauty, wellness, or practical items following a color or scent theme. Rather than buying a premade basket, I prefer to curate the basket myself with quality products I know the receiver will truly love.

What’s your go-to gift when you don’t know someone very well?

I usually go for an extremely practical gift like a gift card to Amazon or Walmart. Even though this gift might not be super personal, it is a great way for the recipient to get something they really want or need.

What’s your favorite type of spring occasion to shop for?

Mother’s Day is always my favorite spring holiday for gift-giving. It is the perfect time for me to gift a very sentimental, meaningful gift to my mom to show her much-deserved appreciation for all she does.

Do you have a favorite “under $25” gift idea?

Either a small Lego Botanicals set, or a Capri Blue candle in the scent “Volcano.”

What inspires your gift selections?

I try to buy gifts that are specific to a family member or friend’s interests. The more personalized a gift is, the more meaningful and memorable it becomes.

“The more personalized a gift is, the more meaningful and memorable it becomes.”

What’s the best gift you’ve ever received?

For my high school graduation, my parents gave me a Tiffany & Co. Elsa Peretti necklace with an aquamarine pendant, which is my birthstone. This is the nicest piece of jewelry I own, and it will always carry a great memory of achievement and celebration.

Wrapping paper, gift bags, or ribbons—which do you love most?

Wrapping paper! I love finding pretty paper prints that make a gift stand out.

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Emma Caroline’s thoughtful, sentimental approach to gifting brings warmth and meaning to every selection. We’re delighted to feature her as a contributor and look forward to seeing where her creative and academic pursuits take her next.

✨ See Emma Caroline’s Spring Gift Guide in the Spring 2026 Issue of Pretty.