Now in its third year, The Glam Pad’s “Christmas with the Tastemakers Gift Guide” has become a holiday tradition, guaranteed to put a smile upon the face of everyone on your list. We are delighted to feature more than 20 of the nation’s top interior designers, artists, and purveyors of good taste to help you get a head start to your holiday shopping. The tastemakers are sharing the absolute chicest gift ideas for hostesses, stocking stuffers, children, teachers, neighbors, pets… and yourself! It is an impeccably curated and comprehensive list.
This year’s participants are listed below, please click the arrow to the right of their names to read their holiday tips. Merry, merry!
FAVORITE HOSTESS GIFT
Topiary from NY Topiary, with a velvet ribbon tied as a bow on it.
Pair of Nicola Bathie earrings
BEST STOCKING STUFFERS
GIFT IDEAS FOR CHILDREN
GIFTS FOR PETS
GIFTS FOR YOUR SIGNIFICANT OTHER
GIFTS FOR NEIGHBORS AND TEACHERS
My Moms Milk Tart for Neighbors
Spa Day for Teachers
WHAT IS AT THE TOP OF YOUR PERSONAL WISHLIST?
A finished De Gournay silk wallpapered dining room
Jenny Bohannan, Tallwood Country House
FAVORITE HOSTESS GIFT
My go-to hostess gift is currently a lovely set of bud vases, and I’m obsessed with the lovely sets of three via Mrs. Alice @mrsaliceshop!
BEST STOCKING STUFFERS
This will be unbelievable to some, but I find the most fun stocking stuffers for our children at…wait for it…Cracker Barrel! From their old-fashioned candy (which I will also unashamedly gift to adult family members, much to their delight) to their “World’s Smallest” toys collection, their selection always brings a smile! (P.S. I plan to include the, “World’s Smallest Leaf Blower” in my husband’s stocking this Christmas, lol!!!)
GIFT IDEAS FOR CHILDREN
We always gift our boys a handsome pair of pajamas on Christmas Eve. This Christmas, we’ll gift them each this tartan pair via Petit Plume.
Regarding children and Christmas gifting, I have to remind myself, as one who is always drawn first to aesthetics, that shopping for children is, first and foremost, about inspiring their imagination, curiosity, and sense of adventure. Occasionally, our two worlds collide, such as when we gift a pet (my favorite) or an oversized stuffed animal via Melissa & Doug or FAO Schwartz.
Other favorites in our household include Lego sets, antique or vintage toys, books, and games (which are always unique, interesting, and fun for our children). Also, I have little boys, not little girls, but as a once-upon-a-time little girl, I can confidently say that you can never go wrong gifting an American Girl Doll!!!
GIFTS FOR PETS
Currently obsessed with the Barbour Quilted Dog Coat and the Pet Bowls via For Pete’s Sake Pottery.
GIFTS FOR YOUR SIGNIFICANT OTHER
I love sourcing gifts for my husband at local antique stores or via other secondhand means — I recently came across a vintage Gucci overnighter at an Estate Sale and can’t wait to gift it to him this Christmas!
He also loves Vineyard Vines, so you can bet I’ll be taking a look at their current collection for a sweater or two!!!
GIFTS FOR TEACHERS AND NEIGHBORS
In this department, there is truly nothing more special than handmade gifts — Make cookies, candles, or soap and snag a gift tag personalized to your family via Etsy shops like Honey Bear Pages!!!
AT THE TOP OF MY WISHLIST
Anything antique or vintage, the MME. Birk Mink via @mme.mink, and a monogrammed Tech Carryall 13-inch via Cuyana for my Apple Air!!!
FAVORITE HOSTESS GIFTS
I love to bring something for breakfast the next day. Pastries fresh from a local bakery, quiche they can easily pop in the oven, or fresh fruit. It’s a lovely feeling to not have to worry about the next meal after hosting loved ones! Wrapped with gorgeous Courtland & Co hand towels for your extra favorite hostess.
BEST STOCKING STUFFERS
Opening stockings is always a favorite part of our Christmas morning. Overstuffed with candy, new toiletries & luxurious makeup, socks & unmentionables, little toys, Face masks, bubble bath, personalized notecards, and topped off with a new stuffed animal for my girls.
GIFT IDEAS FOR CHILDREN
Anything art related. Easels, paints, sticker books, seasonal crafts, jewelry making kits etc. Young Wild & Friedman kits are a huge hit to get their creativity flowing!
GIFTS FOR PETS
Our beloved bulldog gets a new plush bed every year from Santa.
GIFTS FOR YOUR SIGNIFICANT OTHER
THE comfiest Ugg Joggers, Lululemon workout wear, a Legos model of his Defender, and a trip of some kind.
GIFTS FOR TEACHERS AND NEIGHBORS
Gift cards to our favorite local small businesses with something sweet.
WHAT IS AT THE TOP OF YOUR PERSONAL WISHLIST?
Brent Neale jewelry or a Hunt Slonem glass bunny. Hope I have been good this year!!
FAVORITE HOSTESS GIFT
Casa Branca Fleurette Cocktail Napkins
BEST STOCKING STUFFERS
Rebecca de Ravenel Earrings + fun socks for the men in my life!
GIFT IDEAS FOR CHILDREN
GIFTS FOR PETS
Casa Branca Vintage Wicker Dog Beds
GIFTS FOR YOUR SIGNIFICANT OTHER
The latest tech!
GIFTS FOR TEACHERS AND NEIGHBORS
Vintage Books
WHAT IS AT THE TOP OF YOUR PERSONAL WISH LIST
Time with family!
FAVORITE HOSTESS GIFTS
Arriving at a holiday party with a beautiful box of linens by Texan-Australian Elizabeth Lake.
Bottles of wine are always welcomed! I love the natural orange wine by fashion designer Rosie Assoulin and her husband Max.
In Bermuda, my husband and I often bring friends and family bottles of Meghan Markle’s favorite wine Antinori Tignanello. I crack up when I gift it and share that the Tuscan full-bodied blend gave Megan such an epiphany she named her now-defunct blog, “The Tig,” after drinking it.
BEST STOCKING STUFFERS
Fortnum & Mason’s beautiful tin biscuits. A few years ago, I gave these as stocking stuffers at my in-laws and they were a delicious hit!
Rebecca Gardner’s new candle for her brand House & Parties is divine!!
GIFTS FOR PETS
Every dog needs a Dogwood wicker dog bed! I love the collaboration Dogwood did with Julia Amory.
GIFT IDEAS FOR CHILDREN
GIRLS: My brilliantly fun friend Charlotte just rebranded her linen company Charmajesty to Mrs Gray Home. Her little pillows are the sweetest!
BOYS/GIRLS: Custom kids caddy outfits are beyond cute. How fun for a winter golf day with dad!
FOR YOUR SIGNIFICANT OTHER
An experience gift is always so much better than anything material! I think my husband would renew our vows if I gifted him Formula 1 tickets to the 2022 Monaco Grand Prix.
We have a cute Boston Whaler type of boat in Bermuda, that we cruise around the harbour in. So, naturally, I am absolutely obsessed with Palm Beach Lately’s new boating business in South Florida, Palm Yachts. Conveniently, we are living in Palm Beach this winter. And, even though their crafts are pastel, I figured my husband would have fun cruising the intercoastal in one of their Boston Whaler rentals!
GIFTS FOR TEACHERS AND NEIGHBORS
My favorite coffee beans in the world coincidentally come in the most beautiful packaging. If you know someone who is a coffee connoisseur, Felix Roasting Co. is an amazing artisan roaster. They even make Nespresso cups for those who don’t have time to grind their own beans.
WHAT IS AT THE TOP OF YOUR PERSONAL WISHLIST?
Framed botanicals from Get The Gusto in hand-painted frames.
Necklaces from Brent Neale. My friend Helen’s family’s store Stanley Korshak in Dallas has a great selection of Brent’s beautiful pieces.
A custom cat intaglio ring from Millie & Noah. One of the most stylish editors while I was at Hearst was Maria Dueñas Jacobs. She is cat obsessed like me and she had a portrait of her cat etched into a spinel ring with opal inlay.
Also, amazing jeweler Anabel Higgins sources Victorian jewelry and specializes in reworking antique pet portraiture. So charming!
Any long floral dress by Agua by Agua Bendita. Every dress they design is a dream!!
FAVORITE HOSTESS GIFT
Casa Gusto Tole Flower – A rare improvement on mother nature, with all the permanence of art—and maintenance-free!
BEST STOCKING STUFFERS
Moda Domus Set of Four Hexagon Coasters – These are a chic way to protect precious surfaces!
GIFT IDEAS FOR CHILDREN
Rose and Rex Calm Mind Kit – They are never too young for mindfulness!
GIFTS FOR PETS
St. Moritz Collar & Leash Set – All members of the family deserve a treat!
GIFTS FOR YOUR SIGNIFICANT OTHER
Hermès City 3CC Colorblock Card Holder – Stylish and functional!
GIFTS FOR TEACHERS AND NEIGHBORS
Cire Trudon Gift Box for 3 Petite Bougies – An enjoyable experience for everyone!
TOP OF PERSONAL WISHLIST
Heritage Jewelry Enamel Locket with a Diamond in the Center – I collect enamel lockets from Heritage Jewelry NY and love adding to my collection—which will someday find its way to my daughters!
FAVORITE HOSTESS GIFTS
Jolly Christmas Place Cards – Casa Felix: I personally believe that a hostess gift should be both something that you wouldn’t always buy for yourself but also something that you would actually get great use out of. Something that has purpose! These beautiful place cards from Casa Felix would make for the perfect unique hostess gift! I just love everything Casa Felix creates with their bold and colorful stationery.
GIFTS FOR PETS
A dog bowl from Mollie Jenkins Pottery: Things for the pet in your home should be both practical and beautiful – you have to look at these items day after day, am I right?! I recently met Mollie Jenkins and fell in love with her beautiful pottery. This dog bowl would be the perfect addition to any home. Plus, I always love an opportunity to support small businesses, it’s a win, win!
GIFT IDEAS FOR CHILDREN
Beverly Bremer Silver Shop: When gift giving to the the children in my life, I always keep in mind the philosophy that gifts for children should be timeless… Santa can bring the toys! I love to give my Godchildren, nieces and nephews gifts that they hopefully will remember one day that I gave to them. So, every year, I gift them a sterling silver ornament to build a collection for them, and Beverly Bremer is my go-to shop for all things silver.
FOR YOUR SIGNIFICANT OTHER
A whimsical Hermès USA tie and Grainger McKoy cufflinks: Since I picked two things for myself, it was only fair to select two things for my husband, Brad. The holidays are always a great time to refresh any missing pieces in his wardrobe that I know he wouldn’t invest in himself. He loves to “dress” so these seem the perfect gifts for him.
WHAT IS AT THE TOP OF YOUR PERSONAL WISHLIST?
Charlotte Allison earrings and an Olympia Le-Tan clutch: I have two things on my personal wish list that I would love to find under the tree on Christmas morning. And I can’t wait to send this round up to Santa as a subtle hint.
FAVORITE HOSTESS GIFTS
“Even More Things Nick Haslam Finds Common” tea towel (available at the Eerdmans Holiday Bazaar)
Tug Rice’s “Sunday Drive” 12-piece chocolate tin for Louis Sherry (available at the Eerdmans Holiday Bazaar)
Charlotte Moss’ new book Home, a collection of essays by over 100 contributors (including myself) on what home means with proceeds benefitting No Kid Hungry
Dadant beeswax candles – they supply almost every Episcopalian church with their candles
MarieBelle Zenou Aztec Hot Chocolate (10oz Tin)
BEST STOCKING STUFFERS
Sam Sidney’s “New York Never Felt So Good” set of greeting cards (available at the Eerdmans Holiday Bazaar)
silver-plated coasters from Caffe Dante
Elizabeth Lake Mary Jane Cocktail Napkins (Set of 6)
Eerdmans Lenormand Deck of Cards
GIFTS FOR PETS
Custom made leash made locally by Doggy Style
GIFT IDEAS FOR CHILDREN
FOR YOUR SIGNIFICANT OTHER
His: Régis de Saintdo “Alix” cufflinks (available at the Eerdmans Holiday Bazaar)
Janie Kruse Garnett silk pocket square and at the Eerdmans bazaar
Hers: A vintage charm from Charmco
Fox fur basket handbag from Chefanie
Theirs: New York Times Cooking Gift Subscription
GIFTS FOR TEACHERS AND NEIGHBORS
Marble Paper Scissors document boxes (available at the Eerdmans Holiday Bazaar)
Tug Rice’s “Spotty Dog & Nutcracker” bauble for Halcyon Days (available at the Eerdmans Holiday Bazaar)
Christopher Spitzmiller’s A Year at Clove Brook Farm book
WHAT IS AT THE TOP OF YOUR PERSONAL WISHLIST?
A few dozen yew to start a hedge at our new house in Maine
FAVORITE HOSTESS GIFTS
Bottle of wine wrapped in a beautiful tea towel and a jar of Eleven Gables honey
set of hand soap and lotion for the kitchen
BEST STOCKING STUFFERS
For the Boys: batteries, headlamp, always an orange in the toe, gas card, deck of cards, lures (for the fishing pole)
Garden Lover: garden gloves, pruners, Starbucks card
Bourbon Lover: sphere ice cube tray, personalized scotch glasses, fire starter
GIFTS FOR PETS
GIFT IDEAS FOR CHILDREN
Chronicles of Narnia series- BBC CDs
classic books in abridged version
Fishing Pole
Bible
Clothes
one special toy
FOR YOUR SIGNIFICANT OTHER
Solo Stove, Devotional, Fishing Pole, Massage gift card, Date night planned by me, Spike Ball, tools, Big Green Egg and accessories, portable speaker, needlepoint belt, Sur La Table cooking class
GIFTS FOR TEACHERS AND NEIGHBORS
cozy blanket, basket with Spode mugs, teas, and EG honey, gift card to a restaurant for dinner delivered after a long school day
WHAT IS AT THE TOP OF YOUR PERSONAL WISHLIST?
vintage gold charms, David Austin rose bush for the garden, Spa gift card, LuluLemon gift card
FAVORITE HOSTESS GIFTS
My favorite hostess gift is a set of cocktail napkins like either of these two sets (here and here).
A coffee table book tailored to the interests of the host or hostess is a wonderful personalized gift.
This silver bowl is a favorite because it’s so versatile. I use it for seasonal candies or cocktail accoutrements.
BEST STOCKING STUFFERS
A unique phone case would make a lovely stocking stuffer for a range of ages.
These darling initial earrings by Nicola Bathie are another great stocking stuffer idea:
GIFT IDEAS FOR CHILDREN
Anything from Maisonette is always a hit. This precious play kitchen is no exception.
Roller Rabbit pajamas are another favorite.
This one might be more for the parents but it’s a good one nevertheless.
GIFTS FOR PETS
You can never go wrong with treats!
FOR YOUR SIGNIFICANT OTHER
A family photo in a classic silver frame like this one is a thoughtful gift that you can never go wrong with:
These custom backgammon sets are just fabulous.
GIFTS FOR TEACHERS AND NEIGHBORS
Louis Sherry chocolates make a great gift and the boxes are classics that can be saved to store trinkets and miscellaneous items.
The Neiman Marcus chocolate chip cookies are a cult favorite for a reason. So delicious!
An annual silver ornament is a thoughtful collector’s item to gift for something a little more special.
Another fool-proof option is a wonderfully scented candle like this one:
WHAT IS AT THE TOP OF YOUR PERSONAL WISHLIST?
I love all things D. Porthault and this robe has been at the top of my list.
Another favorite. Le lion sweaters are beautiful and the pieces from their collaboration with Julia Berolzheimer are just perfection.
A Hunt Slonem piece would be a dream Christmas gift. I’ve had my eye on this one for a while..
I love all of the pieces from Cece Barfield’s collection for Moda Operandi.
FAVORITE HOSTESS GIFTS
When it comes to hostess gifts, I like to give something useful – but here’s the catch – that the hostess wouldn’t normally buy for herself. So, a set of whimsical Caspari cocktail napkins along with a Caspari napkin holder is a great, robust gift. If you know the hostess loves to cook, you can’t go wrong with the gift of Ina.
BEST STOCKING STUFFERS
For the girl, you can’t beat: a Laneige Lip Mask, a mini volcano candle, a mini Jo Malone fragrance, Frank Body Scrub, Mejuri gold earrings, If 21+, a mini bottle of prosecco, Packed Party cups.
For the boy: Depending on age, little hot wheels cars are great. Dino stickers from Meri Meri, Lindt chocolate truffles, a homemade “get out of jail free card” for the next time he gets in trouble. If 21+, mini bottle of nice whiskey or rum, little case of Romeo and Julietta cigars, embroidered cocktail napkins.
GIFTS FOR PETS
This is more a gift for yourself, honestly – and something I have been drooling over for myself for quite some time – The Enchanted Home’s Pagoda Dog Bed.
FOR YOUR SIGNIFICANT OTHER
This year I’m going to Ralph Lauren to buy something for my fiance. In my opinion, you can’t beat it. Who wouldn’t be thrilled to see that navy bag under the tree?!
WHAT IS AT THE TOP OF YOUR PERSONAL WISHLIST?
At the top of my personal wishlist is a new block print quilt set, namely this one from Mary Marshmallow.
FAVORITE HOSTESS GIFTS
My favorite hostess gift to give is vintage Mexican bowls I find frequently while shopping in Mexico, with my grandmothers sugar cookie recipe beautifully wrapped in cellophane and a red silk bow.
BEST STOCKING STUFFERS
My 22k brass Maltese cross pendants that can be worn as a pendant or a brooch.
GIFT IDEAS FOR CHILDREN
The best gift for any child, at any age, is a book! We need to get them off their Ipads and reading again!
GIFTS FOR PETS
A spa day! That and lots of hugs and kisses.
FOR YOUR SIGNIFICANT OTHER
A Homemade booklet of honey-dos that they can redeem whenever they want.
GIFTS FOR TEACHERS AND NEIGHBORS
A bottle of good red wine!
WHAT IS AT THE TOP OF YOUR PERSONAL WISHLIST?
More time. More time with family and loved ones. That’s what o always find at the top of my wishlist.
FAVORITE HOSTESS GIFTS
Double Old Fashions from William Wayne
BEST STOCKING STUFFERS
A chic jigsaw puzzle
Gucci Westman’s signature dewy makeup sticks
GIFT IDEAS FOR CHILDREN
Retro style pink car rider
GIFTS FOR PETS
Darling pet toys or a warm coat.
FOR YOUR SIGNIFICANT OTHER
GIFTS FOR TEACHERS AND NEIGHBORS
WHAT IS AT THE TOP OF YOUR PERSONAL WISHLIST?
A stay at the new Miraval in the Berkshires ?
FAVORITE HOSTESS GIFTS
La Petite Abeille’s beautiful gold dusted beeswax candles in white as well as the most luscious saturated colors.
Gardenia delivery from High Camp Gardenias which come as beautifully packaged as the flowers themselves.
Cocktail napkins from Elizabeth Lake -impeccably made with the perfect amount of whimsy.
BEST STOCKING STUFFERS
Who wouldn’t love to find a little sparkle in their stocking? The Ocean Reef Collection: Danielle Rollins for Judith Ripka jewelry is interchangeable, easily wearable & layer-able with a great price point for gift giving.
GIFTS FOR PETS
N-Gage & West Paw are Henry the Goldendoodle’s favorite toys. The N-Gage toys are tough enough to handle the amount of love he bestows upon them, and I don’t have to worry about the squeakers coming out & West Paw toys are interactive & engaging enough we to keep him entertained for hours.
GIFT IDEAS FOR CHILDREN
I started giving my children a piece of art from a very young age for each holiday. They had the pieces personalizing their rooms while they learned to have an appreciation for art, develop their eye and hone their personal styles throughout the years, but the best of all came when they were older. I hadn’t originally thought about it but now that they have their own places, they enjoy having an intensely personal collection of pieces to decorate their grown up spaces. A gift that keeps on giving, I still add to it every year and look forward to seeing how they display it.
FOR YOUR SIGNIFICANT OTHER
I have had my eye out for a vintage Omega Aqua Terra watch like James Bond wears. I think they are so understated masculine chic on a man.
GIFTS FOR TEACHERS AND NEIGHBORS
One of my favorite new finds are the wonderfully packaged delivery gift boxes from Spoonful of Comfort. The food is deliciously homemade & it can be eaten right away or frozen for another day.
A signed copy of my new book, “A Home For All Seasons- Gracious Living & Stylish Entertaining” Rizzoli available on my website arrives beautifully wrapped with a handwritten note.
WHAT IS AT THE TOP OF YOUR PERSONAL WISHLIST?
Living in Palm Beach I have more opportunities to wear jewelry in coral, turquoise & colorful gemstones which I love since I tend to wear more florals and color. I have wanted a Schlumberger enamel bracelet as long as I can remember so maybe a blue & gold would be on my Santa, Baby list.
FAVORITE HOSTESS GIFTS
At the holidays I love bringing a festive ornament as a hostess gift! My favorite spot to shop for Christmas ornaments is Bergdorf Goodman – always the most unique selection! I also am loving this silver plate lions head urn – perfect for toothpicks for a cocktail party or any other use and I plan to use as my hostess gift this holiday season! Your hostess may also appreciate a copy of Dorothy Draper’s 1941 book, Entertaining is Fun! – a classic they are sure to enjoy!
BEST STOCKING STUFFERS
My parents have given each of us a special ornament every year, one that celebrates an accomplishment or interest of ours. Twenty-eight years later with twenty-eight ornaments, I love this idea! Perhaps start a collection for them, like the White House Historical Association’s annual ornament – I have slowly been collection past years to complete my collection! How about some fresh stationary that’s personalized in their favorite colors & monogram from Dempsey & Caroll? I also love something unexpectedly extravagant in a stocking! Think of something special like a Herend figurine that celebrates them tucked in the everyday essentials like colorful socks and candies already in their stocking!
GIFT IDEAS FOR CHILDREN
It wasn’t Christmas morning at my house if there wasn’t Playmobil under the tree! I love these wonderfully made German houses and playsets – I hardly ever played with the people but do consider these to be my first decorating projects! One of my favorite gifts was the year I received the starter box set of The Hardy Boys books! I continued to read all 58 books & encouraged my love for reading! Nancy Drew is also a crowd pleaser, but I’ll stick to Frank & Joe Hardy. Or start them young with a beginner friendly needlepoint kit from Jackie O’s Needlepoint, a shop named after my grandmother who taught me to stitch in the fifth grade!
GIFTS FOR PETS
A Christmas pup loves nothing more than the whole family together with them for the holidays, but they deserve something under the tree too! I loved dressing up our beagle Peggy – how about a chic Ralph Lauren cable knit cashmere sweater (get one for yourself to match!). Or give them a treat at mealtime with fun Christopher Spitzmiller marble bowls!
FOR YOUR SIGNIFICANT OTHER
First of all, how do I get one of those?! I love the idea of a special pair of Stubbs & Wootton slippers! Or better yet – needlepoint a custom pair for them with the Lycette Designs x Stubbs & Wootton collaboration. The time spent to needlepoint something for that special someone is so worth it, thinking sweet thoughts of them with every stitch! I know I would love to receive a Coastal Cane Backgammon Board, finished as an acrylic tray, from my collection R! by Rudy exclusively at Lycette Designs.
GIFTS FOR TEACHERS AND NEIGHBORS
I have a few go-to’s for friends, neighbors, and those people that help make my life easier – like my dry cleaners. I love sending a tin of homemade delicious chocolates and candies from one of my favorite spots, The Greenbrier’s Candy Maker. Also, I love sending a taste of my hometown, Cincinnati, with Busken Bakery’s signature smile iced sugar cookies or Graeter’s legendary ice cream!
WHAT IS AT THE TOP OF YOUR PERSONAL WISHLIST?
Much to my parent’s chagrin year after year, I usually assemble a wish list that closely resembles a wedding registry. But in my defense, I like to give (lots of) options to take the trouble out of gift giving, inspire ideas, and make shopping as easily as possible! However, I really would love this bright yellow historic cottage, Cairngorm, on Mackinac Island, Michigan – my favorite summertime spot!
FAVORITE HOSTESS GIFTS
If I have time, I will handpaint an ornament ahead of time, but in a pinch, I love the idea of getting one of these monogrammed decanter tags from my friend Susan’s collaboration with Estelle Colored Glass, and tying it to a bottle of wine!
BEST STOCKING STUFFERS
I love unique and fun ornaments, and try to collect a new one each year. Last year, I purchased a Stevie Nicks ornament from Furbish.
GIFTS FOR PETS
Stevie is in the market for a new dog bed (she has been using my daughter’s Dockatot for a few weeks now), and I have had my eye on a custom one from Julia Amory x Dogwood Co.
GIFT IDEAS FOR CHILDREN
When Bryn is old enough, I can’t wait to get her her first art set! I love this one – Faber Castell is such a great brand, and it feels a little more “grown up” than some of the other kid’s art kits out there.
This isn’t for children exactly, but this wrap is now number one on my list for any new parent. I owe many, many hours of work/painting to wearing Bryn in it!
FOR YOUR SIGNIFICANT OTHER
My husband is impossible to shop for- I won’t add his gift here because it’s probably a little too niche (ha!), but I got my sister a subscription to this Record of the Month club, and it could be a great gift for any significant other who loves music.
GIFTS FOR TEACHERS AND NEIGHBORS
When I used to teach, one of the most thoughtful gifts I ever got from a parent was a spa gift card – teachers work so hard, and I definitely put this idea in my back pocket for when Bryn starts going to school!
I also love these little monogrammed bags from Oso and Me – they are marketed for children, but I might have to order myself one for my art supplies!
WHAT IS AT THE TOP OF YOUR PERSONAL WISHLIST?
I am extremely late to the party on this, but I became obsessed with “Hamilton” during quarantine last year, and have asked my husband for tickets for the two of us to go see it either on Broadway or at the Kennedy Center next summer. The older I get, the more appreciative I am of gifted experiences (like trips, or concert tickets)!
FAVORITE HOSTESS GIFTS
This ornament from Only on the Avenue and a set of fun holiday cocktail napkins!
GIFT IDEAS FOR CHILDREN
Children’s gifts are always so much fun to buy, so it was hard to narrow this one down! I love how darling this bowling set is with its bright colors and patterns. These jammies are perfect for waking up on Christmas morning to see what Santa has brought them or cozying up in front of the fire with some hot cocoa! And my own Little Love would be SO excited to receive this art easel to create all of his masterpieces.
GIFTS FOR PETS
I’ve been eyeing this sweater for our own dog, Biscuit, during the winter months to keep him feeling nice and warm. And every pup needs the perfect bed!
GIFT IDEAS FOR CHILDREN
A gift that was a big hit last year for my husband was this fabulous bluetooth speaker. I’m also absolutely loving this leather belt and navy sweater by KJP. Both items are just so handsome!
GIFTS FOR TEACHERS AND NEIGHBORS
I know that the traditional gifts are usually a bottle of wine or candles, but I just love the idea of giving something useful and beautiful like this floral ring dish and diffuser.
WHAT IS AT THE TOP OF YOUR PERSONAL WISHLIST?
This floral tablecloth from Sarah Flint has been on my list for quite awhile! I can’t get over how darling this mini-muffin pan is, especially in the light blue color! And you can never go wrong with a gorgeous brass and bamboo napkin ring.
FAVORITE HOSTESS GIFTS
The Abd El Kader candle from Cire Trudon, which has a delicious Moroccan Mint Tea aroma:
OR if there is a working fireplace: this chic giant match holder from David Linley.
BEST STOCKING STUFFERS
Any of the Hermès key rings are such great gifts, I’ve had my leather tassel key ring for years and it never fails to delight.
GIFT IDEAS FOR CHILDREN
A one-year membership to Sketch Box, the monthly delivery of art supplies is bound to inspire! (and cut down screen time…)
GIFTS FOR PETS
For cat lovers: Gourmet cat nip, bien sûr!
And for dog lovers: a membership to the Bone of the Month Club.
FOR YOUR SIGNIFICANT OTHER
Anything from Bespoke Cycles – boys and their toys…
GIFTS FOR TEACHERS AND NEIGHBORS
Toffee from Enstrom, so popular, mark my words: people will be inquiring about their toffee the following years…
WHAT IS AT THE TOP OF YOUR PERSONAL WISHLIST?
A beautiful bouquet from Flowers Claire Marie makes me beyond happy
FAVORITE HOSTESS GIFTS
A box of Alma Kitchen Co.’s shortbread! Hand-decorated with edible fresh flowers, they are as beautiful as they are delicious.
BEST STOCKING STUFFERS
I love a good red lipstick and this one from Gucci has the loveliest floral case.
GIFT IDEAS FOR CHILDREN
One of Projektityyny’s luxurious quilts made with Liberty Fabrics. Perhaps more of a gift for the chic mom than her baby, these are almost too gorgeous to put down at the park (we have one that hangs on the side of the crib in the nursery). Or this beautiful dollhouse, which we also have and love in our nursery!
FOR YOUR SIGNIFICANT OTHER
Nothing I find more attractive on a man than one of Ralph Lauren’s classic cable-knit cashmere sweaters!
GIFTS FOR TEACHERS AND NEIGHBORS
Our favorite olive oil from Chateau d’Estoublon in Provence. Or of course my mother’s coffee table book, Provence Style.
WHAT IS AT THE TOP OF YOUR PERSONAL WISHLIST?
This Maxmara classic camel coat!
FAVORITE HOSTESS GIFTS
This time of year I like to give a set of our cocktail napkins made by Jacqueline Reese Linens and a bottle of my father’s Brandy Milk Punch, which is a classic New Orleans cocktail. I always serve them Christmas morning while everyone is opening gifts.
New Orleans Brandy Milk Punch Recipe makes a little more than 1⁄2 gallon. We usually double the recipe. It’s so good!
2 Cups Brandy
1 Cup Triple Sec
1 Cup White Crème de Cacao
3⁄4 Cup Simple Syrup (equal parts sugar and water melted and cooled)
5 Tsp. Vanilla Extract
4 Cups Half and Half
1 Tsp. Fresh Ground Nutmeg
This recipe is best made the day before serving. Add all ingredients to a pitcher. Refrigerate overnight. Serve over crushed ice with freshly grated nutmeg on top. Cheers!
BEST STOCKING STUFFERS
My Smalls are the perfect size for a stocking. I always have several handy for gift giving during the holidays. Slippers are one of my favorite stocking stuffers too. This year I will be adding these precious slippers by Brochu Walker to the stockings of the ladies in my family.
GIFTS FOR PETS
Our girls love their leashes by Urbana Pet. We love them too. The circular design of the handle allows you to walk your pets hands free. The best part is the LED light in the handle, which illuminates the road so everyone can see where they’re going at night.
GIFT IDEAS FOR CHILDREN
One of my favorite gifts for children are these adorable Learn to Play guitars. Both boys and girls have fun with these guitars and they’re available in several sizes for all ages.
FOR YOUR SIGNIFICANT OTHER
Our favorite gift to give is a weekend away or a weekend at our favorite local hotel, the Windsor Court.
GIFTS FOR TEACHERS AND NEIGHBORS
Sachets and candied pecans from Sucré are my go-to gift for neighbors.
WHAT IS AT THE TOP OF YOUR PERSONAL WISHLIST?
I recently started a collection of shells from Lucie de Moyencourt Shellegance collection. I’m wishing for a few more of her whimsical handmade ceramic shells from her next collection.
FAVORITE HOSTESS GIFTS
I know it is cliche but I love to give and receive a candle! Diptyque Cypress is my winter favorite. I love to take pretty coffee table books too! This year, I will be giving these wonderful glass trees from ShopKSW.com.
I also love when people bring something that is personal to them….something they bought on a trip or something special from their home town. For example, I have a Sweedish friend who always brings something meaningful to her childhood traditions and explains it in a note. I think that kind of meaningful gift is one that is remembered.
BEST STOCKING STUFFERS
These amazing USB lighters in fun colors
For the children – MadLibs are fun for every age and Pop-its are all the rage this year!
GIFTS FOR PETS
Love these tartan scarves on our giant schnauzer.
GIFT IDEAS FOR CHILDREN
I love everything at my sister’s store, JoJo Mommy. She has an amazing selection of books, toys and outfits! I love this bookand this hobby horse.
A beautiful keepsake trunk
FOR YOUR SIGNIFICANT OTHER
I rely on UnCrate for gifts for my husband. He is hard to buy for but they always have great suggestions. I have my eye on this new tennis racket for him.
GIFTS FOR TEACHERS AND NEIGHBORS
Millie loves to bake so we like to give cakes and cookies on a spatterware cake stand tied with cellophane.
WHAT IS AT THE TOP OF YOUR PERSONAL WISHLIST?
A ring from Brent Neale. Hint Hint!
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Below is a sampling of the recommendations from our tastemakers, by category… Happy Shopping!
Hostess Gifts
Stocking Stuffers
Gifts for Children
Gifts for Significant Other
Gifts for Pets
Gifts for Teachers and Neighbors
Treat Yourself!
Love all the great ideas. Will save this for future use