Gift Guide for Him, Her and Your Host

There are a plethora of fine ways to show your gratitude to someone close to you. I know that something as simple as a ‘thank you’ can make me feel acknowledged in a big way. Whether it’s because I spend days upon days prepping and organizing for a dinner or brunch for friends and family, or whether it’s a small gathering to celebrate the holidays, I know I put in so much thought and planning to make things just right, and a show of appreciation fills my heart.

Then, of course, there are those times that my family is invited to go to someone’s home. Although I preach a thank-you is enough, the truth is, I could never show up empty-handed! I always bring a host(ess) gift – something for the home, something yummy to enjoy, or whatever, a simple token of appreciation. This gift guide, I wanted to share my favourite go-to host gifts, as well as some his/her holiday gifts, and easy ways to bring some sparkle to your home for the holidays.

For Your Host(ess)

The perfect host(ess) gift starts with knowing your host. If you know she loves to cook, then perhaps a beautiful cookbook is the way to go. I am such a fan of sharing things I personally love, and stacking the finest cookbooks on a kitchen shelf brings colour to the kitchen as well as yummy ideas for cooking. I’m obsessed with Sweet Laurel, Feasts of Veg, Fiesta Santé and Loounie Cuisine. I am also a huge fan of our very own Olive + Gourmando. If your host is more of a fashionista or art addict, then there is the most impeccable collection of coffee table books, like: Travel Home, Peter Lindbergh, Terry O’Neill, Tom Ford and Ian Schrager Studio 54 (yes, this might’ve inspired my costume for the Halloween!).

As you well know, a scented candle can change my mood and soothe my soul. There is something so easy and calming about watching a flame flicker. To me, the gift of relaxation goes beyond a simple candle, but what better way to share the sentiment than with Ruby Brown’s high-end collection of scented candles. I also love the Ruby Brown creams and soaps as well as anything from the L’Occitane and Kiehl’s line – especially their holiday collections.

For Her

If you know the person you’re shopping for very well, it can be super easy to check her off your list. My mom for example, is the easiest to shop for, because she loves spa pampering. This year, I’ll buy her a facial treatment and other beauty indulgences at Beauties Lab. Léa Bégin is the owner and “glow”-getter there, and she is also a fantastic makeup artist.

Then, there is the gift you buy for that special “her” in your life. I’d say jewelry all the way. The Maison Birks collection has simple beauties that brighten the neckline and say ‘I love you’ all at once. If it’s a ring or earrings, I think it’s fair to say that no woman would be opposed to jewelry… any time of year!

Speaking of jewelry – you could do fine jewelry or you could do high-fashion jewelry, I think she’d be happy either way! Chanel’s watches and necklaces have some serious street credit and might I say, finish any outfit. If you’re giving the gift of Chanel, then you know the woman in your life is a fashion lover. You can complement the gift with Chanel coffee table book or perfume. 

For Him

It’s tough finding the perfect gift for a guy. Whether it’s a friend, your husband or sibling, men can be pretty specific about the gifts they like to receive (ok, so can women!). One gift that’s a sure no-brainer: gym passes or memberships. Who wouldn’t love to a health-inducing present any time of year! Our city is replete with gyms, but personally, I’m a big fan of b.cycle for spinning, Pilates Noir, Vic Park for circuit training, and ELMNT for all their custom classes.

I was recently gifted the Oral-B GeniusX toothbrush and my teeth have never been happier! I use it along with the app, which is paired to ensure that the AI technology assures I’ve brushed adequately. I love a clean bathroom counter and symmetry says a lot, so for the holidays this year, my husband will be over the moon to find an Oral-B toothbrush. There’s not much he needs, but technology in toothbrush that also comes with a travel kit – I mean, he’ll be pretty ecstatic.

For Your Home

I love making my home festive and sparkly. Whether it’s little trinkets or a monochromatic fireplace mantle, whatever I can do to bring in the spirit of the holidays. This year I kind of went a little over the top with some Simon’s décor (the rose gold designs), a cookie tray and all its trimmings along with a cute “Let it Snow” graphic from Zone Maison, and a cozy blanket and other little extras from Chapters Indigo. I also added some tree / branch décor from our very own Hogg Quincaillerie.

I can always find a good reason to buy a gift for a loved one. It’s such an easy way to share the things you love with that friend. The holidays are yet another time of year to spend some time thinking about your friends, what they love, and how you can spread the joy of sharing, generosity and gratitude. Happy holidays everyone!

Photography by Patricia Brochu