How to give the brains of the Zodiac a very happy birthday.

Well, friends, we’re back in the swing of it – 2023 is roaring along and, honestly, we’re not sure how to feel. But onwards and upwards because your Aquarius mates are having a birthday. So, big smiles, everyone. Aquarians are great friends to have. They're super genuine and chill – but if they don’t like something, they’ll tell you. This not-so-gentle forthrightness can make gift-giving tough, so to avoid the “I don't like this” chat, here are a few things Aquarius won’t be returning for store credit. Bonus advice: if you’re a tad insecure about a new ‘fit, maybe don’t debut it around an Aquarius.

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1. For all the honeys making moneys

If there's one thing an Aquarius values over almost everything else, it’s their independence (cue Destiny’s Child 'Independent Women Part 1'). They do whatever they want, whenever they want, and will not compromise their freedoms. It has something to do with their giant brains, which they love flexing on worthy hobbies, like writing the next great American novel or disproving Einstein’s theory of relativity. And we love that for them and, even better, they love that for them. So, what do you get a nerdy, big-brained, independent (loner) friend? Well, something that is sippable on its own and totally unique – Brookie's Byron Slow Gin. It’s like a traditional English sloe gin, but made with a rainforest fruit native to NSW's Byron Bay, the Davidson plum, which makes it all the more delicious. Just pour into a glass with a big hunk of ice and hey presto! It’s the perfect companion for whatever an Aquarius’s new project is.

2. Smart gifts for smart people

The world needs big Aquarian brains. Think about it: where would we be as a society without Thomas Edison’s inventions or Ed Sheeran’s contribution to music? Aquarius is therefore going to need a gift that is equally brilliant-minded. No, we’re not suggesting you buy your mate their very own R2-D2 (that may be slightly over budget). Just grab them a six-pack of Funkin Strawberry Daiquiri Cans. Not only are they delish, but they’ve also got some very cool cocktail tech built into the cans. They use nitro infusion – something usually found in beers – to get the same velvety texture and head as a freshly-mixed cocktail. Trust us, they’ll get a nerdy little kick out of it.

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3. Weirdos with a capital W

Look, most people who are independent smarties are also a little quirky. Think of Mozart (an Aquarian) – a musical genius known for his revolutionary operas, but he was also someone who enjoyed writing dirty songs with titles like 'Leck mich im Arsh' (we’ll let you Google that on your own). That’s why we love them, though. They are their weird selves and they don’t care what anyone else thinks. So, what do you make for a freaky nerd? A freaky drink, like this Tiramisu Cocktail. Vodka, mascarpone and egg yolk?!? Sounds weird, but it works. Much like your Aquarius friend. Make it for them with Absolut Vanilia Vodka for the perfect finished flavour.

4. They're saving the world

Mark our words, an Aquarius will save the world. In the distant future when the aliens come out from hiding or some freak heatwave threatens to kill us all off, an Aquarius and their meaty brain will save us. They love to do it – not in a nurturing Cancerian-type way, but in more of a humanitarian, superhero scientist way. So, you have to make sure you get a worthy enough gift. Which is why Brick Lane Sunsetter Alcoholic Ginger Beer is perf. They’re yum and they’re B-Corp certified, which means they're good to our dear Mother Earth. It’s a win-win.

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5. What’s cooler than being cool? Ice cold.

Perhaps the best Aquarius trait is their enviable ability to let the small stuff go. Cancelled plans? No biggie. Accidentally dropped their ice cream on the ground? This stuff happens. Ran over their big toe? Good thing there are two of them. Seriously, when it comes to everyday stuff, they’re not bothered. So, get your Aquarius something that's equally as relaxed – we reckon Bird in Hand Sparkling is the way to go. It doesn’t need a fancy title like prosecco or Champagne to be special – it’s just plain old great Australian sparkling. It’s just chillin’. It can go in any spritzy cocktail or be enjoyed on its own, not unlike an Aquarius.