Being a dad is rad—but being a first-time dad? The best. And if there’s a new daddy-o in your life, consider this your unofficial guide to Father’s Day gifts he’ll dig.
Made In Washington Gifts for First-Time Dads
From sleepy sighs to snuggles to stinky diapers, those first few days, weeks, and months of a baby's life are equal parts special and exhausting for parents everywhere. That’s why, this year, dad deserves something with a little more pizzazz than socks (a solid-but-uninspiring choice, in our opinion). Thankfully, we’ve got you covered with an array of locally-crafted products perfect for all kinds of daddies, papas, and pops.
This one goes out to the devoted dads, fearless fathers, and armchair experts. Let’s get to it!
Meat the Parents
Life with a new baby can be draining, so what better way to fuel dad up for those late-night feedings than by snacking on premium flavored meat from Dan the Sausageman? This Burien-based small business has been a Pacific Northwest staple for decades—and it shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon.
Dan the Sausageman offers the traditional summer sausage we all know and love, plus flavors like Roasted Garlic Red Pepper that dads are sure to go nuts for.
Speaking of nuts: A Dan the Sausageman gift box lets dad pair high-quality meat with a carefully curated selection of cheeses, crackers, nuts, veggies, and more. Our recommendation? The BBQ Box, a gift you can’t pass up—and one sure to elevate summer nights for grill masters everywhere! (Can a stuffy old necktie do that? We didn’t think so.)
Cheers to That
Parenthood: Where the days are long but the years are short, they say, and where happy hours with the gang feel like distant memories. But fear not: Alpenglow Cocktail Company—one of our favorite woman-owned businesses right here in Washington—has dad’s back.
Alpenglow’s handcrafted cocktail mixers are created using local ingredients dads will appreciate, with flavors that pay homage to this vibey place we get to call home. And whether the new dad in your life chooses to unwind by adding his favorite spirit or simply savors them in a non-alcoholic way (those 3 a.m. feedings come early, after all), we’re confident he’ll enjoy the refreshing respite these mixes offer.
Hey, Hot Stuff
If dad can handle baby’s first few months, we’re pretty sure nothing phases him—including a little heat.
That’s why we’ve curated a spicy selection of sauces sure to make dad’s day. Our Hot Sauce Flight features fare from five Washington businesses: Funky’s Hot Sauce Factory, Bonache, Local Goods, Murder Hornet Hot Sauce, and El Fuego Pepper Sauce.
With bottles ranging from 5-8 oz, this exclusive collection packs just enough punch to get dad’s tastebuds revving.
Spice ‘n Easy
Variety is the spice of life, and lucky for you (and dad), we partner with several local makers to bring a host of spice rubs right to your doorstep. From fish tacos to veggies to Asian-inspired cuisine, spice rubs are the affordable, easy-peasy gifts sure to bring out dad’s inner foodie. Choose from single jars or gift packs, including Spiceology’s Love is Love Variety Pack—the mouthwateringly perfect way to also celebrate Pride Month.
Peruse our featured spice rub entrepreneurs: Local Goods, Spiceology, Tom Douglas, and Walden Lane Gourmet. Go ahead—give the “Add to Cart” button a workout!
Brew Crew
Babies are many things, but predictable is not one of them. If the daily grind is grindin’ for the new dad in your life, gift him all the caffeine with some of the best coffee out there, courtesy of our PNW artisan makers.
With a variety of roasts, blends, and flavors to choose from, there’s something to perk up dad’s early mornings and late nights (and let’s be real—everything in between). Deadman’s Reach Coffee feels…especially appropriate for all those sleep-deprived papas.
Shout-out to our coffee-making partners responsible for fueling new parents everywhere: Caffe Appassionato, Campfire Coffee, Kingfisher Specialty Coffee, and Raven’s Brew Coffee.
Pro tip: Gift dad our Breakfast in a Box—everything you need to make mornings a little more magical, including Roasted in Seattle’s Market Espresso coffee.
Proclaim It
His chest will soon shout his fatherly status, loudly and proudly when he dons his new man-pron (yes, we did just make that word up) from Porter Lane Home. In case you didn’t know already, you’ll be fed by “DAD. The Man. The Myth. The Legend.” Or, simply (but boldly), this guy you know who is “HANDSOME AND CAN COOK.” Whichever option you choose, you best believe the whole block will know who’s executive chef-ing your next cookout.
The Perfect First Father’s Day Gift Awaits
With goods and goodies from more than 100 Made In Washington makers, artists, craftspeople, entrepreneurs, and small businesses, there’s something the special new dad in your life is sure to treasure. Check them out!
