Pauline’s Holiday Gift Guide 2020 is here! As the owner and founder of Good Gracious! Events, one of the top catering companies in Los Angeles, she is a tastemaker and knows a few things about excellent hospitality. For the first year ever, she is sharing her top ten gifts to suit everyone on your list, from the on-the-go girlboss, to the enviable entertainer, to the cozy homebody (all of us these days) and last but not least, the men in your life that seem to already have everything. We are aiming to shop small as much as possible this holiday season to keep dollars local and to support brands that give back. It’s a win-win!
Gifts for the Entertainer
I love this vintage-inspired set of six oval glasses by The Vintage List. Each glass has been hand-blown, hand-engraved and made from fine crystal glass. I just purchased a set of my own for intimate entertaining this holiday season. Inspired by 19th century and early 20th century designs, these glasses are decorated in a variety of classic patterns, from engraved stars and ferns to delicate oval cut bands.
I head to Soolip time and time again to purchase their exquisitely designed paper placemats. Soolip is eco-conscious, design-forward and preferred by celebrities and trendsetters of all that is tactile and sensual.
Printed on smooth finish, rich cream paper stock, these placemats come in a handy easy-to-tear-off pad in sets of 25. This nature-inspired design adds an immediate sense of equanimity and whimsy to your table. These are ideal for easy entertaining like dinner parties, events al fresco, picnics, family gatherings, BBQs, Sunday Brunch and everyday dining. Pro-Tip: You can even customize them for an even more personal dining experience!
Unisex Gifts for People Who Have Everything
This sterling silver classic bottle opener is an elegant execution of form and function. The sleek handle design provides an ideal background for engraving to create a more personal gift, and I deem it pretty much an essential home bar accessory. Its elegance stands out on any bar cart or serving tray and feels luxurious to use for a quiet night in or when you’re hosting an elegant dinner party. Also a plus, it’s made in the USA.
A unique blend of the finest Espadin agave, hand-selected from the hillsides of a small village in Oaxaca, Mexico by Breaking Bad stars Aaron Paul and Bryan Cranston. We love giving the gift of artisanal spirits this time of year and this Mezcal is extremely delicate and smooth. I also love the transparent and sustainable process used to cultivate this beverage in small-town Mexico.
All the men in my life swear by these socks as they are the most durable, comfortable and fashionable socks they have come across as of late. Everyone could use a fresh pair of socks, and Bombas offers so many options to suit everyone in the family. I especially love the company’s mission to end homelessness. For every purchase, they donate a pair on your behalf and they have already donated over 40 million pairs!
Gifts for the Girlboss
This is a luxury leather item that can do no wrong, especially as a gift. Anyone gifted this item will surely love it and use it constantly. I have used mine for years, and it keeps me feeling organized and put together. The zipper is sturdy and keeps all my belongings safe, and it is so easy to grab when I’m running out the door. This classic wallet style is practical, luxurious and will forever stand the test of time. Trends come and go, but this wallet is here to stay.
I love giving the ladies in my life meaningful jewelry. One of my favorite designers in the jewelry space right now is Alex Woo. I love the simplicity of the mini initial necklace. She also offers many other charms to personalize her signature sterling beaded chain. This is an everyday piece that doesn’t have to be taken off, and every time I’ve given this gift, it’s a hit!
Gifts for the Cozy Homebody
Kiehls Midnight Recovery Concentrate
I love love love this serum and never go a night without it. The men and women in my life all love Kiehl’s for their great smelling, and better performing skincare products. Add a bit of luxury to your nighttime routine with this cult-favorite lavender-scented serum that truly makes me feel more beautiful every morning after I use it!
Baker’s Dozen Festive Sugar Cookies
I’ve been told and over and over again the cookies we make at Good Gracious! Events are the best ever. We have even heard through the grapevine that Brad Pitt loves them. Is that enough to convince you? Order a Baker’s Dozen of our new Festive Sugar Cookies wrapped in a box with twine for the perfect gift. Who doesn’t love a box of cookies?
Last but not least, I love these candles hand-poured locally in Los Angeles by none other than our beloved colleague’s sister. We love the emphasis on shopping local this holiday season and supporting hard-working business owners. Not to mention, this lychee and bamboo candle is fresh, fruity and festive.
I’d love to know, what are your gift ideas this season? I’m finishing up all my shopping this week so everything can arrive in time for the holidays.
Like this series? Read Pauline’s Five Favorite Things Part 1 and Part 2!
One Response
Paulines exquisite taste has been evident over the years and is reflected in this holiday gift guide.