Gifting Thoughtfully

As the leaves fall off the tress and the grass becomes dormant; the season for giving comes upon us. I have always loved finding the perfect “something” for the people in my life. Some might say that I spend way too much time and energy in search of a special gift; but for me, it’s always been a chore that I revel in. 

These days, I believe that it’s more important than ever to share meaningful “things” because our world has become so very disposable. There is so much“stuff” in our lives and without knowingly doing it, our homes become bastions for junk. No one wants another uninspired sweater or scented candle. 

When my kids were little, I spent a lot of time deliberating on what to get their teachers for an end-of-the-year gift. One year, I gifted them personalized cosmetic bags …both functional and useful. I loved that even years later when I’d run into a teacher, she’d tell me that she still uses the bag and that it was one the most favorite presents she ever received from a family. From that time onward, I made a conscious effort to NOT gift useless things. 

Throughout my marriage, I’ve gotten some great things. But In terms of the favorite gift I’ve received, it’s as much the actual gift as much as the thought it took to make it a reality. About 10 years ago, we took a family vacation to Nantucket where we stayed at an adorable little inn a couple of blocks off the main street. On the way to downtown, we’d cross an old jewelry store that had these beautiful gold nautical braided rope bracelets in the window. Each morning, I’d peek at them as I loved the craftsmanship in the design and the natural connection to the great vacation we were having. The timing never worked for us to stop in; but a month later on our anniversary, my husband surprised me with the perfect one. Unbeknownst to me, he had taken notice and found time to sneak into the store and purchase a bracelet for me. Whenever I put on this unique piece of jewelry, the memories of both our picture-perfect vacation and my husband’s thoughtfulness come rushing back. 

In conjunction with the ethos I wholeheartedly embody  throughout my life and at Trove, I am sharing a “Gift List” of my favorite pieces. Please join me on this journey!

For the Collector:

• I suggest one of Noe’s Haniwa Warriors. Collectors cumulate stories as much as objects and thus, Noe’s work is perfect. With her Haniwa Warrior Collection, Noe shares a story that dates back to the Japan’s Kofun Period (300-700 AD). These traditional clay figures were buried along the dead to protect the soul in the afterlife. Noe’s hope is that “my Haniwas will protect our souls in this world.”

For the Minimalist:

• I’d like to offer one of Lucia’s elegant vases. Simple, understated and perfectly unadorned, Lucia’s stoneware vessels are a testament to perfected minimalism.

For your Favorite Client:

• You Can't go wrong with a set of beautiful mouth-blown tumblers. Handmade in Bohemia, these glasses by Anna von Lipa are available in six color variations and are sure to receive many “ohh and ahh”.

For the Hostess:

• I recommend Clouds 01, 6-piece candlestick combination by Caroline. Made from 6 distinct pieces, this is the perfect present for anyone who entertains because the piece can be arranged and rearranged to present a different look each time.

For the Traveler and Dreamer:

• I recommend either an Oenochoos sculpture from our Greek maker, Melina or an Appliqué Sphere from Faustine. Both of these objects bring a sense of adventure and whimsy to that special person in your life whose wanderlust you admire.