It’s hard to believe it’s already December! I almost skipped out on sharing a gift guide this year, because there are so many floating around out there, and I didn’t think I’d be able to say anything that wasn’t already said. But then I realized there can honestly never be too many ideas when it comes to gift-giving (especially if you’re a self-proclaimed terrible gift-giver like I am, so take this all with a grain of salt). I’ve broken up this gift guide into three categories based on personas that I think everyone can relate to, and all include items from my own home that I would love to give and receive as a gift. So without further ado…
For the Homebody
I put myself firmly into this category so this was perhaps the easiest of the three to put together. Starting with a luscious fair isle knit, which happens to be extremely old from J.Crew, but they have a similar one which you can find here. The absolutely adorable mouse ornament is from a local shop, and I just love how cozy she looks. Le Bon Shoppe socks will always have my heart (these are their snow socks), and I think there’s something so nostalgic and sweet about giving socks as a Christmas gift. The tea is one of my all-time favourites from a tea shop in Banff, it’s the most delicious, creamy earl grey I’ve ever had — but make this one personal and choose one you love! Local tea rooms exist all over the place and often come in such cute packaging. A luxurious body cream is never a bad idea (especially this time of year), and this one is from Health Hut here in Toronto. The candle is from Aussie brand Fazeek, and I unfortunately don’t think they make this exact one anymore, but candles should be personal anyways. Cedar Stack from Boy Smells is a longtime favourite of mine if you need inspiration! And lastly, the teapot that I think any tea-drinking homebody would love to have in their home, this one is from Hasami Porcelain.
For the Party Girl
For the friend that likes to go out on the town, a selection of shimmery and shiny pieces. Starting with the absolute dream dress from Dôen; are dresses the easiest gift to give, probably not, but this one is just so incredible. The velvet headband is from Madewell and just perfect for the festive season. J.Hannah makes the absolute best colours of nail polish I’ve ever come across (this one is Compost and is the most gorgeous forest green). The incredible shiny tassel ornament is from a local boutique. The Chanel eye palette is the most perfect selection of matte and shimmer tones, for special occasions and everyday. Earrings are clip-ons from Jenny Bird (discontinued but I love these from Lizzie Fortunato). Lastly, the Chanel lip balm that I think any girl-about-town would love to receive.
For the Entertainer
Starting off with a timeless cardigan, which is never a bad idea. This one is from a favourite boutique of mine called Neighbour and is sadly sold out, but I can personally vouch for this cardigan from Sézane. For friends who drink alcohol, a beautiful bottle of bubbly is always a fun gift to give and receive. This one in particular is from my favourite local winery, Rosewood, and this bottle happens to be their first sparkling. I think wine from a favourite vineyard feels personal, but is also a pretty safe bet! The adorable goat cheese ornament is from a local boutique. Aesop hand cream is a cult favourite for a reason, and I know everyone is slathering themselves in lotion come this time of year so this will come as a welcome gift. I personally love giving things that are essentials, but a more luxurious, elevated version. The shimmery Voluspa candle would look gorgeous on any dinner table. And lastly, an entertainer can never have too many tea towels. My favourites are 100% linen towels in beautiful shades from June Home Supply; most colours are sold out right now but tea towels aren’t hard to come by!
