With the holiday season so close, gifting is top of mind. In this spirit, my hope is to share a thoughtful guide, if you are shopping for yourself or others. Personally, I often lean towards the “books or booze” policy with friends and family, but there are times when I want to get creative, or share a unique gift that truly makes me think of the receiver.

Small boutiques & shops are where I tend to find special and unique items. Fellow designers Ken Fulk & Gregory Blake Sams opened beautiful shops this year, and some of their offerings are included in this list. When considering a gift, I try to share something that the receiver and I both share an interest in. My husband requests a bottle of his favorite organic tequila, which we both love. Perfect on the rocks for him, or paired with Aplos Chili Margarita for me (a new discovery!).

My favorite gin martini, using the Schott Zwiesel glasses mentioned below

Of course, gifts for the home or garden tend to be my favorite thing to give. In lieu of temporary gifts, I like to think of something one will cherish and have forever. A heirloom cashmere throw, a candle in a unique vessel, or a special piece of art with a lovely frame would all be treasured long after the season ends. Paperwhite bulbs, or an incense from the French ceramics company Astier de Villatte are gracious hostess gifts that leave a lovely memory.

Glassware makes a useful & thoughtful gift this time of year. Lobomeyer, a Venetian company, creates the most unique whisper thin goblets. This practical

set of 6 from Schott Zwiesel is a more affordable option for gifting. If entertaining this season, it can be fun to share your signature cocktail with your guests. In our household, we always have ingredients for a dirty gin martini on hand. Recipe below, inspired by Martha's Martini from her recent cookbook:

Martha's 100th cookbook would be a wonderful gift. Ina Garten's biography Be Ready When Luck Happens is also in my book stack, and I've been diving into her cookbook Go To Dinners, a gift last year from a sweet client. My favorite Tuscan White Bean Soup, found in this book, is my go-to for chilly days.

A subscription to a favorite magazine, such as Mileu or Frederic, would be a lovely gift that keeps on giving inspiration year round. I've been collecting a stack of all of the issues of Frederic since they began publishing - they are worth saving and referring back to. Lastly, small or useful gifts are the best to receive. This leather tape measure is always in my bag, and would make an excellent stocking stuffer. This wool tote from the French company Rue de Verneuil is on my own Christmas wish list.

Cheers & happy gifting!