The holidays have always been my favorite time to lean into rituals: baking cookies with my daughter, putting candles in the windows, writing to friends I don’t see often enough. At the heart of it all is giving. For me, the best gifts are thoughtful, lasting, and chosen with the recipient in mind. They don’t need to be extravagant, just intentional — something that shows you really see the person you’re gifting.
This year, I’ve rounded up some of my favorite ideas, from MINOT classics to beautiful pieces from brands I admire. Whether you’re shopping for a gracious host, a beloved parent, your ride-or-die best friend, or that effortlessly cool sibling, here are gifts they’ll truly love and use long after the holiday glow fades.
For Your Host
The people who open their doors to us during the holiday season deserve something extra special. They’ve cooked, cleaned, decorated, and created a space for connection. I always want my hostess gifts to feel both gracious and useful — something special they can enjoy long after the night ends.
- MINOT Winter Collection Candles: Seasonally inspired without being tied to a single holiday, these candles are a thoughtful choice for anyone, regardless of what they celebrate. Each scent is warm, layered, and comforting — perfect to burn well beyond December.
- Ella Alden Reusable Wine Bags: Slipping a bottle of wine into one of Ella Alden’s block print fabric wine bags instantly elevates the classic hostess gift. Beautiful and sustainable, these bags turn a simple gesture into something memorable your host can enjoy again and again.
For Your Mom
Moms are so often the ones making the holidays magical, so I love choosing gifts that let them slow down and savor a magical moment for themselves. I look for pieces that are timeless, nurturing, and comforting — gifts that say, “You’ve done enough, now it’s your turn to be cared for.”
- MINOT x Ella Alden Serenity Set: A gorgeous, cozy robe paired with a MINOT candle, this set is designed to feel like a soft exhale at the end of a long day.
- Alice Walk Cashmere Cardigan: This cardigan is endlessly versatile. I love the cut and the quality. It’s a timeless staple she’ll turn to for years to come.
For Your Best Friend, Sister, or Sister-in-Law
These are the people who know you best — the ones who make you laugh until your cheeks hurt and show up when you need them most. I always want my gifts for them to feel personal and just a little indulgent: pieces they’ll treasure and that will always remind them of you.
- Anastasio Home x MINOT Cruller Bowl Candle: A collaboration close to my heart. It’s a striking piece for the home that also fills their space with a warm glow.
- straND necklaces: These beautifully crafted necklaces are versatile enough to wear every day but striking enough to feel like a special piece.
For Your Coworkers
Coworker gifts can be tricky: You want something thoughtful but not too personal, something polished but not over the top. I love choosing items that brighten up their space or help them start the new year on a fresh note. It’s a simple way to say, “I appreciate you.”
- MINOT Room & Linen Sprays: These sprays make a wonderful desk-side companion or home essential. Around the holidays, our seasonal sprays are especially fun — people love using them to scent faux trees.
- Wilde House Paper Planner: I’ve tried more planners than I can count, and Wilde House’s daily planner is my favorite. The design is minimal but thoughtful, and it helps me feel more centered in my day.
Scents for Every Personality
When in doubt, I think a candle or spray chosen just for them makes the most thoughtful gift. The right scent can feel like a reflection of someone’s personality, and I love the idea of pairing people with scents that remind me of them. Here’s my personal “cheat sheet” if you want to shop this way:
- The Romantic: Luna or Voyage - dreamy, layered scents that feel poetic.
- The Nature Seeker: Summit or Cove - inspired by the mountains and sea, these scents bring the outdoors in.
- The Caring Host: Haven or Sunbeam - warm, inviting scents that make a house feel like home.
- The Sophisticated Trendsetter: Eventide or Cliffwalk - elegant and modern, for the one who’s always ahead of the curve.
- The Effortlessly Cool One: Aeris, Dusk, or Cerulean Tide - bold, airy, and a little unexpected.
- The Martha Stewart Type: Wild Meadow or Terrene - grounded, garden-inspired scents for those who are always hosting and creating.
- The Boldly Unique Friend: Dewpoint - bright and unconventional, just like them.
- The Deep Thinker: Daybreak - contemplative and grounding.
A Final Note
The holidays should be less about the size of the gift and more about the thought behind it. Whether it’s a candle that reflects your friend’s personality, a cozy sweater for your mom, or a simple thank-you for your host, I hope this guide inspires you to choose something intentional and enduring.
At the end of the day, gifting is just another way to say, “I see you, I appreciate you, I love you.”
Wishing you a warm and glowing season,
Kerry