Gift suggestions abound this time of year......here we join the chorus with our suggestions for gifts that are a joy to shop for and a pleasure to give and to receive. In our minds, gift giving should be thoughtful, meaningful, and always a pleasure (never a chore....otherwise, why bother?) We prefer to gift antiques and vintage, where possible. Otherwise, we select gifts that are of the highest quality and craftsmanship. All of our suggestions reflect this standard. And, of course, beautiful gift wrapping is a must.
For special friends, mothers, sisters......
We love Cire Trudon Taper candles, from the oldest candle maker in the world (photo above). Made in France, dripless, and in an array of gorgeous colors, these are truly special. We prefer Taupe because they are the perfect gray/pumice color that we adore. The Kaki green is also perfect for a Holiday table. And they arrive beautifully boxed and beribboned. Shop in New York or at www.trudon.com
D. Porthault embroidered cocktail napkins or hand towels. Exquisite hand embroidery. No explanation needed. Photo by Erik Kvalsik for the book "D. Porthault The Art of Luxury Linens,' by Brian D. Coleman. P.S. The book itself is also a lovely gift. Shop in New York or at www.dporthault.com
We love the Aerin decorative home collection and are pleased to carry a selection in our shop...her brass match strikers in either the cone or sphere shape are chic gifts. We also love her picture frames, which are unique and of heirloom quality. Available in our shop. Email us with inquiries or shop Saturdays in December, 11 am to 3 pm.
Cashmere wraps by Heidi Wynne are a perennially elegant gift. I have them in multiple colors and they are a year round staple for travel, chilly afternoons, or breezy beach days. Photo by Heather Clawson, Habitually Chic blog. www.heidiwynne.com
For the Gardener....
We love antique and vintage garden pieces. Our pair of cast iron garden urns can be used either indoors in a garden room or outdoors. Such a handsome gift. Available in our shop. Email us with inquiries or shop Saturdays in December, 11 am to 3 pm.
For the Book Lover...
There are many great books to choose from each season but why not give vintage books that are of interest to the recipient, whether it be art, design, fashion, gardening or cooking. We carry a great selection of vintage books in our shop. Email us with inquiries or shop Saturdays in December, 11 am to 3 pm.
For the Entertainer ......
As any entertainer knows,one can never have too much vintage china, silver, decorative tabletop pieces and bar ware. We have a great and ever changing selection in our shop, including this set of vintage Wedgwood Queensware. Email us with inquiries or shop Saturdays in December, 11 am to 3 pm.
For the men in your life....
We only need shop at one place...Sid Mashburn. Sid and his wife Ann's shops are a delight to visit.....always beautifully curated, the clothing and accessories always unique and high quality, and the staff are the best. Last year I gave our boys each a leather belt with a unique brass buckle. So much nicer than electronics! And of course we are quite partial to their gray gift boxes which look smashing under any tree. Shops in DC, Atlanta, LA, Houston and Dallas or www.sidandannmashburn.com.
For the Food Lover.....
For those who love food and do not necessarily need one more material good, give a fine dining experience. Gift certificates to a favorite restaurant are a wonderful gift. We love giving gift certificates from of one our favorite places in Baltimore, Petit Louis Bistro. 4800 Roland Avenue, Baltimore. www.petitlouis.com
Delicious macarons from Laduree are an elegant and chic gift for anyone. There are now Laduree shops in Union Station or Georgetown in Washington,DC. You can also shop at their chic UES shop in New York (get in line!) or at www. laduree.com.
For the Jewelry Lover....
Estate Jewelry is always preferred for that unique and one of a kind piece. One year I received from my husband my treasured estate gold charm bracelet found at auction. And, while I may never be able to have the budget for it, I will always covet a Schlumberger for Tiffany and Co bangle (a girl can dream).
And, remember, do not forget to gift wrap with care (preferably while enjoying a glass of champagne). The beautiful gift wrap is by Pierre Frey. Cheers to a restful, meaningful and joyful Holiday.
Leave a comment