The Only Holiday Gift Guide You Need

With Halloween now behind us, we’re on the fast-track to the holiday season, with all the holly jolly festivities. As delightful as holiday decorations and Christmas music are to my eyes and ears, it’s nevertheless a shot in the dark when it comes to gift giving, especially if you’ve got a list of people to get gifts for. 

For the most part, recipients appreciate thoughtfully curated items that resonate with their interests and activities. As a general rule of thumb when I’m purchasing for the special people in my life, I tend to give them items that are memorable, personal, and something that they would not typically spend on themselves. These are the gifts we think they’ll flip for, and we wouldn’t mind getting ourselves. 

Gather

BOLA Grill Master ($349) and accessories 

The BOLA Grill Master is a versatile tabletop charcoal grill that makes outdoor entertaining easy and fun. Double-walled and insulated, the grill’s base features three metals used to achieve maximum performance. The charcoal grate, crafted in cast iron, is easy to remove for quick and easy clean-up. Add-ons such as the BOLA oven and hanging rod, along with skewers, and hanging hooks can be purchased separately. 

Food52 GreenPan Reserve Ceramic Nonstick Fry Pan, Set of 3 ($105)

Food52 is not only a great website for everyday home goods, they have endless options for holiday gifts as well. This set includes three nonstick fry pans in various sizes ( 8-inch, 10-inch, and 12-inch). These are an excellent choice for the home chef who loves to whip up a meal at home. Oven-safe up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit and dishwasher-safe, it’s available in five colors. 

Bonnie & Pop Harvest Haven Cheese Board ($60)

This dried fruit and cheese spread is an ingenious gift for holiday parties and family gatherings. Take the guesswork out of what to bring. This board includes a hearty selection of nuts and dried fruits, including apricots, kiwis, apples, plums, peaches, pears, and dates. You’ll also find a generous-sized six-ounce portion of smoked cranberry cheddar cheese and four ounces of sharp cheddar. The mother-daughter company also carries an assortment of chocolate tins, nut crates, and cookie tins. 

Feast

Uncommon Goods Giant Artisan Macaron Sampler Set ($42)

Don’t pass on these delicious homemade giant macarons in 12 fun flavors. The package includes one of each of the following flavors – double peanut butter salted chip, chocolate salted caramel cheesecake, creme brûlée, Dutch apple pie, lemon meringue, churro, pecan turtle, s’more, cinnamon roll, strawberry shortcake, pistachio, and French vanilla coffee. The lemon meringue is made using lemons from bakers Rebecca Croucher and Brent Long’s garden. Completely gluten-free and beautifully packaged, they last for months in the freezer.

Provisions Market Hall Extra Virgin Umbrian Olive Oil ($19.95 ) and PMH Balsamic Vinegar ($18.95)

Provisions Market Hall, a food and wine emporium located in Eugene, Oregon, ships nationwide. Overflowing with gourmet grocery items, kitchen utensils and cookware, the brick-and-mortar stores also have freshly prepared food items, pastries, coffee and tea. Their Extra Virgin Umbrian Olive Oil along with PMH Balsamic Vinegar from Modena, Italy make an excellent pair for the dedicated home chef. 

Hero Croissant™ Box ($37 for a box of 6)

Don’t get me started on how good these croissants taste. Get them for the health-conscious foodie in your life. Made with natural ingredients, these flaky croissants have two grams of net carbs, and just 170 calories per croissant! Incredibly delicious and healthy, they’re the real deal, whether you’re a keto fan or not. Simply pop them in the oven for three to five minutes and they’re ready. Use them to make a savory breakfast sandwich or dip them in Âme Atrende’s creamy Chocolate Hazelnut Spread ($33). I also love them with their Strawberry Rhubarb Jam ($18). 

Honolulu Cookie Company Mele Pineapple Treasure Gift Tray ($110) and Holiday Gift Tray ($95)

Cookies galore! Nothing cheers me up more than getting a delicious package from Honolulu Cookie Company. In business since 1998, this holiday the company is offering splendid holiday trays that make superb gifts for those near and far. The Mele Pineapple Treasure Gift Tray includes a selection of pineapple-themed goodies in a variety of flavors that are sure to please any recipient. The classic holiday gift tray features a stocking tin filled with cookies in five flavors, a chocolate chip mini snack pack, along with a surfboard tin with cookies, and much more. 

Style

WISKII Activewear Bergamotto Mix Set ($136)

Your active, yoga-loving friend will also fall for WISKII’s collection of athletic gear and loungewear. The chic brand integrates technical fabrics with trendy styles, offering a full collection of tops and bottoms. The Bergamotto set features a stylish sports bra and high waist leggings in two-toned colorways. Made with Lycra Nylon and Spandex, the fabric is sweat-resistant and lightweight, allowing freedom of movement while working out. 

Gold Hinge Raspberry Cinched Zip-Up Jacket ($62) and Raspberry Pleated Tennis Skirt ($49)

If your bestie is in love with pickleball, Gold Hinge’s collection of matching sets like this one will hit the mark. The skirt is made with 85% polyester, 15% spandex, offering comfort and stretch for a forgiving fit, and comes in 21 colors. The cinched zip jacket features a crop fit, with adjustable bungees on the side. It comes in three colors and makes the perfect post-workout cover up.

Outdoor Vitals Ventus Active Hoodie – Women’s ($170) and Men’s ($180)

Outdoor Vitals makes superior, ultralight gear for men and women. The brand carries clothing, backpacks, and tents. The athlete in your life will love the Ventus Active Hoodie; it makes the perfect travel companion for races and game days. Lightweight and super packable, the Ventus Hoodie offers breathability and warmth. The brand’s 3DeFX keeps you insulated as you pursue outdoor adventures such as running, hiking, and skiing. Plus, it’s water resistant! 

Crown and Paw Animal Portraits (prices start at $49.95)

A pet portrait for a paw-rent is ingenious. Crown and Paw offers pet portraits, posters, mugs, sweatshirts, and home items. They can even make a replica of your pet based on a photo. For a little humor, present them with the Renaissance portrait, which has your pet’s head erected above a uniform or costume. Set on canvas, it’s an invaluable gift that will light up any room in the house. 

Freshpet x Meghan Trainor Dog Mom and Dog Day Collaboration Bundle ($69.95)

Freshpet and global sensation Meghan Trainor have teamed up, offering a collection of limited edition items to benefit local pet shelters. Dog Mom and Dog Day Collaboration Bundle includes a “Dog Mom” with pink lettering or a “Dog Dad” long-sleeved sweatshirt, a fun green bandana, a 

Green Wild One stainless-steel dog bowl, and a surprise free gift with every purchase. The sweatshirts are made of 90% cotton, 10% polyester, available in sizes XS – XXXL. They’re also sold separately for $49.95. Best of all, 100% of the proceeds benefit pet shelters.

Sculptor Robin Antar Stone Carved Apricot/ Alabaster Bowl ($755)

Your recipient will love this piece, especially if they have an eye for art. New York-based award-winning sculptor Robin Antar creates beautiful pieces of art from various stones. Although she is blind in one eye, she captures the beauty and grace of each piece, showcasing their sharp angles and rough edges. This bowl measures 2.75”h X 5”w X 6”d, and makes a bold statement piece on a coffee table or work desk. Her brilliant pieces range in sizes, shapes, colors, and costs. Each item is unique and special, just like each one of us. 

Sparkle

Allurez Flower Shaped Diamond Cluster Stud Earrings ($949)

These sparklers from Allurez will not only “wow” her, they’ll last for years to come. Set in either  14K White or Yellow Gold, with a total carat weight of 0.52, they feature secure butterfly backs for a reliable fit. Pair them with a dressy outfit or casual loungewear – they’re the perfect complement. 

Holly Yashi Halley Earrings ($70) and Capella Pendant ($80)

Delicate and feminine, the Halley Earrings and Capella necklace are 18-k gold-plated with striking details. The pendant displays hand-hammered gold and vibrant crystal stones, which sparkle brilliantly. The earrings are lightweight and comfortable; choose from four stunning colors. The celestial sage happens to be my favorite because the colors balance nicely.

Indulge

NYX Cosmetics Home Alone 24-Piece Advent Calendar Makeup Gift Box ($110)

Home Alone 24-Piece Advent Calendar Makeup Gift Box features 24 fun and alluring makeup products from NYX. In collaboration with 20th Century Studios’ Home Alone, which was originally released in 1990. The decorative box was inspired by the McCallister’s house in the movie; you’ll find full-sized surprise items behind each door, including the brand’s best-selling lip gloss, blush, eyeshadows, and much more. 

FarmHouse Fresh Pink Bubbletini Bath & Body Retreat Kit ($110)

I’m a huge fan of this Texas-based skincare and bodycare company. Not only do they use the highest quality ingredients in their products, they also have the most charming packaging. The four-piece set includes full-size bottles of Rasmopolitan® Liquor Infused Body Polish, Pink Moon® Body Wash, Pink Moon® Shea Butter, and a travel-sized Pink Moon® Hand Cream. This is one bundle she’ll be able to indulge in. The brand also carries a ton of gift selections at all price points. 

Magno chocolates Amulets Chocolate Gift Box – 12 pcs ($48) 

Magno Chocolates combines high-quality cacao from Medellin, Colombia and aspirational design and craft to create beautiful, yet delicious flavors. This gift box features hand-painted chocolates with decadent fillings. Each amulet holds shape and meaning – the Turkish eye, hamsa, and the heart. Flavors include semi-dark chocolate with caramel (2), white chocolate with lemon cheesecake filling (4), white chocolate with freeze-dried strawberries (4), and white chocolate with pistachios (2). Another one of my favorite selections is the XOXO box ($58), which is a box of 15 chocolates hand-painted with 24K gold leaf.

FACTORFIVE Skincare Age Defying Duo ($329)

This anti-aging gift set is an excellent choice for moms, sisters, and best friends. Packed with responsibly sourced human stem cell ingredients, the Regenerative Serum improves skin texture and stimulates collagen production and the Anti-Aging Cream seals in moisture for maximum benefits. 

Something Splendid “May Your Days Be Merry Gift Box” ($212)

Located in Indiana, Something Splendid will definitely be met with good cheer. This curated box includes items from a bevy of well-known brands, including Rifle Paper Co., Boston International, Voluspa, Sugarfina, and more. Decorated with all things “Merry + Bright”, your recipient will find all the best of the holidays – luxury candles, peppermint bark cookies, a bourbon cocktail kit, decorative tartan plaid napkins, Nutcracker coasters, as well as an embroidered tea towel, and an olive match cloth. If you want to get extra creative, you can even customize your own gift box.