Flowers are beautiful, and they’ve long been a go-to for expressing love, thanks, and celebration. At Dello Mano, we also believe in their charm—especially when they’re bundled with thoughtful extras like handmade brownies or sweet treats, as some of our wonderful florist partners do.

But sometimes, a moment calls for more than a bouquet alone. A box of handmade brownies, a small batch jar of granola, or a bundle of Little Luxuries can turn a simple gesture into something deeply personal. It’s not just the gift, it’s the intention, the care, and the feeling it conveys.

In the spirit of thoughtful gifting, here are five occasions where flowers are lovely, and even more so when paired with something made with love and intention. These ideas invite you to pause, personalise, and give something that leaves a delicious and lasting impression.

Flowers are timeless, but they’re also fleeting. They brighten a room for a few days before fading. That’s why so many people are searching for more than flowers gift ideas, something that feels more lasting and more personal. A handmade brownie box, a carefully wrapped treat, or a small-batch luxury speaks volumes because it’s not just beautiful, it’s delicious, thoughtful, and enduring.

When you choose gift ideas beyond flowers, you’re offering more than a gesture, you’re offering a memory.

In Australia, we celebrate World Teachers' Day in late October, a national moment to honour the impact of teachers on our communities, classrooms, and children. It’s also a time when many people go looking for the perfect gift to express heartfelt thanks.

Teachers do more than teach, they nurture, encourage, and help shape who we become. They invest time, energy, and emotion into every student. While a bouquet is a kind gesture, imagine the added joy of receiving a box of rich, handcrafted brownies or a set of thoughtfully wrapped treats. It feels even more personal. 

Our Little Luxuries Thank You Gifts collection includes elegant packages perfect for teachers. From small batch cookies to our signature 4- and 6-piece luxury brownie boxes, each gift is made by hand with premium ingredients and heartfelt care.

Not sure what gift best suits a teacher? We’ve shared our favourite ideas in our blog on five thoughtful gifts to say thank you.

A note from a student paired with a handmade gift can become something a teacher treasures for years to come.

A bunch of blooms is sweet and when you add a luxury brownie gift box, it feels like a celebration in every bite.” . A handmade brownie gift box is edible joy, wrapped, ribboned, and ready to spark happiness.

Our Brownie Collection and Australia wide delivery service makes it easy to send a surprise. Each gift is wrapped in our signature style and made by our artisan team in Brisbane.

You can also personalise your birthday gift with a message or custom selection of flavours. Whether you're sending to a friend across the country or surprising a co-worker in the next office, a birthday gift that’s handmade speaks volumes.

And let’s be honest, chocolate always wins.

Quick List – Alternatives to Flowers

Sometimes you want options at a glance. Here are a few thoughtful gift ideas beyond flowers:

• Handmade brownies or cookies – edible joy that lasts longer than blooms.

• Experience vouchers – from cooking classes to spa days.

• Subscription boxes – a monthly reminder of your thoughtfulness.

• Potted plants – longer-lasting greenery with life beyond a bouquet.

• Personalised keepsakes – something unique to the recipient.

These more than flowers gift ideas add a layer of surprise and care that flowers alone can’t always carry.

Gratitude doesn’t have to be grand. In fact, the most heartfelt thank yous are often the simplest. Maybe it’s a neighbour who brought in your bins while you were away, or a friend who took time to listen. Flowers say “thanks”, but handmade food says “I noticed." Together, they make gratitude unforgettable.”

Our Little Luxuries range was created for these exact moments. Small but special, they’re ideal for thank-you gestures that need to feel a little more thoughtful.

Sometimes, a small gesture says more than a thousand words. We explore those moments in our guide to everyday appreciation.

It’s not about how much you spend, it’s about how much you care.

Founders Insight

"When Bien and I first started Dello Mano, we noticed how people would pause when they received something handmade. Flowers are always beautiful and uplifting, but when paired with something handmade, the gift takes on an even deeper meaning. A box of brownies says, “I thought about you in a different way.” That human connection is why we’ve spent 18 years perfecting our brownies in small batches. For us, thoughtful gifting has always been about heart, not habit."

Deb Peralta

Every year, Mother’s Day comes around. And every year, it’s tempting to stop at flowers. But we believe mums deserve more than just a last-minute gesture, whether that’s flowers picked up on the run or something else. For all the love they give, a handmade gift adds something truly personal. 

Our Mother’s Day Gifts include handmade brownies, cookies, and bundles designed to pamper and delight. Whether it’s a treat box, an afternoon tea set, or a hamper of our signature creations, these gifts say, “You matter.”

We also share stories and inspiration for creating truly memorable Mother’s Day moments through small batch gifting.

Add a note, include a memory, or send something unexpected. The beauty of a small batch gift is that it always feels personal.

Not every gift needs a reason. In fact, some of the most powerful gifts are the unexpected ones.

A friend going through a hard time. A colleague who’s quietly been doing a great job. A family member you just want to reconnect with. These are the moments where a box of brownies or a thoughtful handmade treat can make a surprising impact.

Our Just Because collection is designed for those spontaneous acts of kindness.

When life is busy, the unexpected is powerful. A note that says, “You’re doing great” or “I’m thinking of you” can be the turning point in someone’s week. And when it comes with a treat made by hand? Even better.

Let’s not forget the most overlooked gifting moment of all, yourself.

Self-gifting isn’t selfish. It’s restorative. It’s a moment to pause, appreciate your own effort, and remind yourself that you’re worthy of celebration too.

Whether it’s a Friday night indulgence, a pick-me-up after a big week, or just because you made it through the day, our brownies and handmade goodies are here for it.

Small batch treats don’t just say “I see you” to others. They can say it to you, too.

Every Dello Mano product is made by hand, in small batches, with care. It’s not just about the item, it’s about the thought, the intention, and the joy it brings.

So next time you're about to order flowers, consider pairing them with something extra, or choosing a handmade treat that speaks straight to the heart.

Explore our full gifting collections and find the perfect moment to surprise someone special.