The Reason I Always Buy My Mexican Dad Home Decor for Father’s Day

I always loved Father’s Day when I was growing up because my dad was the least picky person I knew (and still is to this day!). He appreciated and cherished every gift my sisters and I gave him, from new sneakers to handmade photo albums. Over the years I’ve realized there’s one type of gift that my dad always raved about and showed off, and for the most sentimental of reasons.

My dad grew up in Guadalajara, Mexico. At just 23 years old, he left his family and hometown to build a more secure life in the U.S. After my parents separated and my dad got his own place, I noticed so many trinkets, wall art, and dishes from Mexico. This type of decor was a way to connect himself and my sisters with our culture and remind us of our heritage every time we looked at it. While my dad visits his hometown regularly, I know his homesickness and love for his culture will remain forever. So, I do my best to find a unique piece of Mexican decor for his home and gift it to him for Father’s Day. 

In a sea of Father’s Day gift guides recommending grills, power tools, and golf clubs, I decided to take inspiration from my own dad’s style, preference, and culture. I’ve compiled a list of some of his favorite types of Mexican home decor, along with a couple of other recommendations, to make any dad feel loved this Father’s Day while also making his home a little brighter.

My papá Alfredo (aka my grandpa) has had talavera wall art and decor throughout his home in Guadalajara for as long as I can remember, which I imagine was the main inspiration for my dad’s collection. Talavera pottery is made of earthenware and hand-painted, which makes every piece unique. My dad loves his sun and moon talavera that give his living room a celestial yet colorful vibe.

My dad, like most Latino fathers, is the ultimate coffee-lover. His morning cafecito is a must to start the day, which is why this year I’ll be gifting him this rustic clay mug that’s hand-crafted in Oaxaca (along with some of his favorite cafe de olla). This mug looks beautiful sitting on a dining table on its own, but you can also fill it with a small plant or succulent to make it the perfect gift for any plant-loving dad. Because stock can run low for handmade items, I’m also eyeing this handle-free terracotta mug and this brown barro mug. 

If your dad is anything like mine, he loves sleeping on the couch. These serape blankets are perfect for keeping cozy during a nap, but also look great thrown over an armchair or sofa. Plus, they’re functional as picnic blankets or beach towels so your dad can take this vibrant textile with him anywhere. 

During one of the many childhood summers I spent in Guadalajara, we visited my cousin’s art studio where she made hammered tin ornaments and decor. Since then, I’ve associated anything hammered tin with my dad and his side of the family. This tin frame, along with a memorable family photo, makes for the ultimate sentimental Father’s Day gift. For a different home decor aesthetic, this hand-carved picture frame made of mango wood is also beautiful.  

My dad’s first apartment housed a similar hand-painted talavera parrot, which I would stare at to see its every color and intricate design as the wind rotated it slowly. This piece is great for indoors or outdoors, but will definitely make a statement under a pergola or front porch during the summertime.