Welcome to TGP Tidbits where we round up the happenings and our musings of the design industry each week. This week we take a look at Bauble Stockings’ big Shark Tank Moment, Ben Pentreath’s double Helix staircase for Fortnum & Mason, and the Dayle Haddon Collection at Freeman’s. Written by Natalie Aldridge.
Bauble Stockings’ Big Shark Tank Moment
One of our favorite holiday traditions just enjoyed a true full circle moment. Bauble Stockings appeared on Shark Tank this week and received a resounding “yes” from host Barbara Corcoran, a milestone that felt as joyful as it was well deserved. For founder Kate Stewart, the moment was nearly a decade in the making. She first wrote down the dream of pitching on Shark Tank in 2016, long before Bauble Stockings officially launched, never imagining that she would one day be standing in front of the Sharks sharing the tradition she cherished.
Kate has long built her legacy on championing women, and Barbara’s enthusiasm added an extra layer of meaning. Every Bauble Stocking is crafted with care—hand-stitched needlepoint made through fair trade in Jacmel, Haiti. Their manufacturing partner, Good Threads Needlepoint, is BCorp Certified, ensuring ethical practices. In addition, each year Bauble Stockings collaborates with select Guest Artists, in exchange for donating 10% of the profits to their charity of choice. Since its launch in June 2018, Kate has donated over $145,000 to organizations making a difference in the world.
Kate has always been candid about her journey and the meaning woven into the brand. She has heard “no” more times than she can count while bringing Bauble Stockings to life, yet she kept moving forward. Along the way, she found the people who understood her vision and believed in the quiet beauty of a small embroidered stocking that becomes a cherished family heirloom.
That community helped carry her to this moment, and her Shark Tank success feels like a shared celebration for all who have embraced the brand. As we inch close to Christmas, we are delighted to toast Bauble Stockings’ well earned spotlight and celebrate the enduring traditions that make this time of year feel truly magical. Click here to shop the Bauble Stockings collection of both full and mini sized stockings. The 12 Days of Christmas full set is at the top of my wish list! Or a Gift Card would make a perfect Stocking Stuffer.
Ben Pentreath’s Double Helix Staircase at Fortnum & Mason
Few places capture the romance of London quite like Fortnum & Mason, and this season the historic institution has unveiled a stunning new architectural jewel. The iconic store recently introduced a double helix staircase designed by one of our favorite British talents, Ben Pentreath, and it is nothing short of spectacular.
The central staircase that many visitors came to know was actually a relatively recent addition. Built in 2007 during a previous renovation, the staircase served its purpose, but it never fully matched the architectural grandeur of the building and often struggled to support the store’s growing number of guests. Fortnum’s wanted a solution that felt more in keeping with the historic setting and that guided visitors between floors with greater ease. The answer is this remarkable double helix design, which brings renewed beauty and intention to the heart of the store.
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Rising through three levels in a pair of intertwining spirals, the staircase creates a sculptural moment in the center of the shop. Inspired by Leonardo da Vinci’s dual-spiral concept, it allows visitors to ascend and descend without crossing paths on a staircase that feels both timeless and completely fresh.
As always with Ben Pentreath, the craftsmanship is exceptional. More than three thousand hand-forged components were made by British artisans, and the result feels perfectly natural to the space, something only Ben could achieve with such ease.
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Unveiled in the presence of His Majesty King Charles III, the staircase marks the most significant architectural transformation at Fortnum’s in more than twenty years. It is a thoughtful blend of heritage and innovation and a reminder of why Ben Pentreath remains a favorite for those who believe in the necessity of beauty and tradition. We cannot wait to stop by for tea, a wander through the hampers, and a slow spiral up this new masterpiece.
The Dayle Haddon Collection at Freeman’s
Freeman’s is celebrating the enduring style and legacy of the late Dayle Haddon, model, author, icon, and humanitarian, with Ageless Beauty: The Dayle Haddon Collection, which began yesterday, December 11, and concludes today, December 12. Presented across the house’s Important Jewelry and Holiday Lux auctions, the offering includes fine jewelry, handbags, and couture from Haddon’s personal archives, drawn from a life defined by elegance, purpose, and impeccable taste.
Dayle Haddon was a fashion icon in the truest sense, celebrated for a presence that felt effortless rather than ostentatious, and for continually pushing the boundaries of the modeling world. Yet her influence extended far beyond fashion. A devoted humanitarian and advocate for women and girls, she founded the education focused nonprofit WomanOne, a mission that continues through this sale. Consigned by her daughter, Ryan Haddon, a portion of the auction proceeds will benefit the organization, lending the collection a deeper and more resonant meaning.
Among the standout pieces are a pair of Van Cleef & Arpels Snowflake diamond earrings, radiant and unmistakably timeless, alongside numerous other exceptional jewels, haute couture, and even a set of photographs of Dayle taken by Cecil Beaton. These are deeply personal objects, chosen with discernment and offered in a spirit that feels true to Dayle herself.
As the auction draws to a close today, Ageless Beauty reminders us that true style endures, especially when it is paired with generosity and heart.
Read our favorite articles of the week!
A Cotswolds Inn Is Decked for Christmas, with Family and Rural Splendor at Its Heart written by Caroline Donald for Veranda.
A Christmas Miracle: Choosing Keeping’s Festive Window is an Unlikely Portal to 80s America written by Ariadne Fletcher for World of Interiors.
Shop this week’s inspired finds!
And don’t forget to check out “Christmas with 20 Tastemakers” – Our 7th Annual Shopping Guide for all of your holiday shopping needs.
x Natalie
Follow TGP on Instagram: @theglampad
Follow Natalie on Instagram: @natalieealdridge
The front entry sets the tone with a magnificent overdoor garland woven from foliage, winter berries, fruit, and a cheerful pineapple. It is a greeting that feels timeless and distinctly Southern. Once indoors, the holiday spirit reveals itself through a series of thoughtful moments. Rather than a single showpiece tree, the festivities slip into each corner, allowing for a sense of discovery. Small wreaths hang in the windows. Ornaments sparkle in unexpected places. Branches, pinecones, ribbons, and tiny accents find their way into tabletops and mantels. Even the smallest rooms are invited into the celebration.
Visitors will also find exclusive porcelain designed with Beata, including a candlestick, a vide-poche, and a wonderfully spirited reimagining of de Gournay’s classic Goose tureen. Every detail feels considered and slightly mischievous in the best way.
