Holiday Gift List

BACCARAT CRYSTAL CANDLE

I wanted to weigh in on some of my favorite gift giving (and getting) ideas this holiday season.  Some items may be a little more indulgent than others but

  the holidays are a time to be indulgent, right?  If not now, when?

Coffee table books are a great way to inspire, educate, and enthrall.  I think it also says "I get you" when you select a topic that you know the giftee will appreciate.

SELECTION OF BOOKS

I went out on a limb with this one. I got Gucci on my mind, but why not ~ 

GUCCI VINTAGE BOMBER JACKET WITH MINK

There seems to be a renewed interest in game playing.  I like a gift that gets shared. 

Moma backgammon set

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Home fragrances can help change the mood.  It adds depth and character to a home much like a  fashion accessory in your wardrobe.

LOVE ROOM SPRAY

Cuteness overload for a party atmosphere.  These little colorful push up cake pops send me over the rainbow.   They're not just for kids, mom's love them too.

FLOUR SHOP RAINBOW CAKE POP

For the candles and fires and hearts of loved ones ~ light that fire

MATCH SHAPED LEATHER LIGHTERS

I am loving anything Irene Neuwirth right now.

IRENE NEUWIRTH OPAL NECKLACE or anything!

I like Tom Ford's confidence and he does make a fabulous product.  If you have not tried his make up; do.

 KIND OF SAYS IT ALL/UNISEX

I did a blog post on these little confections here.  I love them!  Send your message whimsically and deliciously, in chocolate .

Maggie Louise Coinfections

Joe set out to design not just a product, but a ritual.  In collaboration with Neal Feay studio, this wine chiller inspired by wind patterns of cold fronts from around the globe keep your wine cold longer.  A winner!

Joe Doucet Wine Chillers

Come sweet slumber and let me dream of diamonds and rubies and emeralds. Brilliant.  Sharing the gift of good sleep reaps rewards far beyond the hectic holiday season.

Silk Sleep Mask

Bluetooth speakers should be heard not seen but if you must see them, why can't they seamlessly fit into your decor?

Bang and Olufsen

I have gifted these of late.  I love everything about these wine gems.  They keep wine cold without diluting your drink.  The crystals have energetic properties and they couldn't be prettier!

Anna New York Wine cooler cubes

You see where this list went (without me even realizing it), I touched on our senesces ~ a candle, some perfume, chilled wines, a good book, possibly a bath, soothing music, something sweet and a good night's sleep.


If loving these is wrong....I don't want to be right!





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Dreaming BIG in Chocolate

Did you know July 7th is National Chocolate Day?  Neither did I till I saw it where I get all my news now ~ social media.  It is perfect timing because I discovered not only the perfect chocolate for any gift giving occasion, but one with an inspirational backstory as well ~ all wrapped together in pretty perfect packaging.

Maggie Louise Confections is an Austin, TX based company that makes haute custom designed chocolates.  Maggie Callahan, the Cordon Bleu trained chocolatier firecracker is the woman behind the sweet brand.  Combining art and science inspires the whimsical designs that are not only a visual feast for the eye, but also have the power to soothe the soul.

Not unlike a fashion line, new collections are introduced seasonally.  Maggie is inspired by fashion, travel, entertainment, iconic references; some with a nostalgic twist.  Customization is also a big part of the business.

What I am truly inspired by, besides the obvious, is Maggie's journey from Harvard educated lawyer to confectioner.  She followed her passion, melded her analytical side with her creative side, and broke rules along the way in order to live happily and authentically.

The Going Bananas gift box benefits St. Jude's Children's Hospital, a charity which is near and dear to my heart since visiting there several years ago.  If you are interested, see the post here.  Maggie Louise Confections collaborates with artists, organizations, and celebrities in an effort to raise awareness, raise money, or simply to raise the fun factor!

The black and white packaging and the decor of the store are as fashion forward as the artisanal  chocolates made within.  This helps create a rich, full, indulgent experience.  After all isn't that what it's all about?  The candy atelier transports you out of Austin and into a Parisian salon, with its graphic, Art Deco references and jewelry like display cases.

How are you dreaming BIG?  Are you breaking the rules and following your passion?

I'm certainly inspired (and hungry).  You do know chocolate is good for you too, right?  Do what's right ~ we all have the power within to be happy and live authentically and beauty~FULLY!