Gift Guides: Something More

When buying a little bit bigger gifts, I typically think of the types of things I would like to receive: useful, unusual or something I wouldn't buy for myself. Here are a handful of things that caught my eye to give (and get) this year.

For her stylish best friend, coordinated pup accessories in a variety of subtle hues. Walk Kit from Wild One

For an instagram-worthy take on the fridge magnets of his childhood. Magnetic Letters and Magnetic Chalkboard from The Typeset Co. Don't miss this ruler set to get the spacing juuuust right.

For brightening the walls with watercolor riffs on favorite travel destinations. Waffle House Print from Furbish. Don't miss the rest of their matchbook series.

For brightening the walls with dimensionally rendered maps of favorite travel destinations. 1956 Death Valley Topographic Map Print from Scott Reinhard Maps.

For adding some super soft flair to her winter wardrobe: Cashmere Bandana from Everlane.

For the love of games a strategy game that supposedly plays as well for two as it does for four: Cathedral Strategy Game, a high-design version of Yahtzy, and a riotously fun party game: Monikers.

For spreading cheer, regardless the season: Wonderful Cap from Best Made or a winter-ready option from Melin.

For daily wear; a repeat on the guide (and in my jewelry box), gorgeous affordable acetate earrings. Kate Hoops in Malachite from Machete.

For following the trend, but in a stunning classic ikat: Madison Headband by Maas.

For next level airplane races: App Controlled Paper Airline from Power Up Toys.

For everyone, for everything; a label printer that works with an app from your phone. Consider that 'get organized in 2020' resolution sorted. Brother Cube Wireless Label Printer available at Staples.

For young creative minds who need a break from screen time; a responsive story teller radio that changes the plot and players at the twist of a knob and press of a button. My Fabulous Storyteller by Lunii available at the MoMa Design Store.

For my winter drink of choice,  the boulevardier, heightened by a great local amaro. Ambrosia Aperitivo made in DC by Don Ciccio & Figli, available everywhere from Warehouse Wine & Spirits.

For sipping that drink, or more likely, a splash of bourbon. Whiskey Glass (comes in a set of two) by Norlan.

For staying organized, dry and tidy on the road; a super compartmentalized, waterproof toiletry bag. Peak Design Wash Pouch available at REI.

For staying glowing, hydrated and exfoliated on the road; a simple compartmentalized palette for doling out enough product to avoid breaking her skin routine (or breaking out). The Original High Fiver, from Palette by Pak.

For a lively dinner party exchange on an assortment of topics (some not so PG). A menu set that presents questions as courses from one of my favorite shops. Conversation Menus from The School of Life.

For never wasting the short ribs he threw in his freezer last July; a board filled with a thermal liquid that quickly brings meat from frozen to ready to cook, all while catching any runoff and preventing bacterial build up. Thaw Plate in copper from That! Inventions available on Amazon.

For topping everything and looking good on the counter while doing so. A delicious lemon infused spin on antioxidant loaded California EVOO. Lucid Olive Oil from Brightland.

For almost every kitchen task, a simple, affordable workhorse knife beloved by home chefs and pros alike. Santoku Knife from Misen.

For staying cozy, a sherpa-lined flannel with a bonus back pocket for his beer. High Sierra Shirt from California Cowboy.

Finally, see above, minus the beer pocket; Chalmers Sweater from Aritzia.