Holiday Gifts Based on Shakespeare's Comedies

As You Like It 

“Hang there, my verse, in witness of my love.” 3.2

For lovers of whimsy and the great outdoors, celebrate this woodsy romp through the Forest of Arden with:

• A native tree to plant — a lasting reminder that “tongues in trees” do indeed speak. 

• A beautiful letter-writing set, perfect for penning verses worthy of Orlando (and maybe even hanging from a branch or two). 

• A cozy flannel or picnic blanket for those forest wanderings.

Andrea San Miguel, Chris Klopatek & Melisa Pereyra, As You Like It, 2018. Photo by Liz Lauren. 

The Two "Gentlemen" of Verona 

“I think Crab, my dog, be the sourest-natured dog that lives…” 2.3

For the dog lovers (and loyal sidekicks) in your life:

• Obviously, a dog that you name Crab. But please remember to adopt responsibly! 

• Or sponsor an animal through a local shelter in their name. 

• You can also treat your pets to new gear or a bag of treats.

David Daniel and Lexie (or Madison!), The Two Gentlemen of Verona, 2003. Photo by Zane Williams. 

A Midsummer Night's Dream

“Peaseblossom! Cobweb! Moth! and Mustardseed!” 3.1.

For those who live in a world of magic and moonlight: 

• A whimsical “fairy” gift basket—peas for Peaseblossom, a feather duster for Cobweb, a candle for Moth, and a jar of mustard for Mustardseed.
  
  
• Add a pair of fairy wings or a flower crown for good measure.
  

Shariba Rivers, Kelly Simmons,  Joshua M. Castille, Ray Huth, Jonathan Gardner,  Casey Hoekstra, Jacob Alexander Craig & Alexa Christian, A Midsummer Night's Dream, 2025. Photo by Micheal Brosilow. 

Twelfth Night

“Remember who commended thy yellow stockings, and wished to see thee ever cross-gartered” 2.5

For the bold fashionistas and joyful eccentrics:

• A pair of bright yellow stockings (cross-gartering optional, but highly encouraged).

David Daniel & Colleen Madden, Twelfth Night, 2019. Photo by Liz Lauren. 

Much Ado About Nothing

“they say too that she will rather die than give any sign of affection." 2.3

“he shows me where the bachelors sit, and there live we as merry as the day is long.” 2.1

For those with a soft spot for the enemies-to-lovers troupe:

• If your favorite play is Much Ado About Nothing, we suggest a couples massage—because sometimes love’s sparring partners could use a little relaxation.

Samantha Newcomb, Miranda Pepin, Briana J. Resa, Bryant Louis Bentley, Jessica Ko & Marcus Truschinski, Much Ado About Nothing, 2024. Photo by Liz Lauren. 

Love's Labour's Lost

“This and these pearls to me sent Longaville: The letter is too long by half a mile.” 5.2

For the hopeless romantics and sonnet-writers: 

• Jewels
  

• A custom portrait of your love
  

• Gloves
  

• Pearls
  

• A long love letter to go with all of the above.

Phoebe González, Melisa Pereyra, Samantha Newcomb & Jennifer Vosters, Love's Labour's Lost, 2022. Photo by Liz Lauren. 

The Taming of the Shrew 

“Love me or love me not, I like the cap; And it I will have, or I will have none.” 4.3

For the fashion-forward (and delightfully stubborn): 
 

• A Hat! One that is the fashion at the time.

Casey Hoekstra, Alejandra Escalante, Daniel José Molina & Colleen Madden, The Taming of the Shrew, 2021. Photo by Liz Lauren. 

The Winter's Tale

“A sad tale's best for winter” 2.1

For the one who loves to hibernate: 

• A Teddy Bear…Or a real bear. Remember to adopt responsibly. 
  

• A book of wintery ghost stories!

Lillian Quigley, The Winter's Tale, 2025. Photo by Micheal Brosilow. 

The Merry Wives of Windsor 

“Wives may be merry, and yet honest too” 4.2

For the social butterflies and schemers in your life:

• Treat them to brunch with friends—bottomless mimosas and/or waffles are a must. Because nothing says “holiday spirit” like laughter and a little mischief.

Kelsey Brennan & Dee Dee Batteast, The Merry Wives of Windsor, 2023. Photo by Liz Lauren.