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:

• Haniwa Warrior Sculpture by Noe Kuremoto — an ancient-inspired clay figure that channels mysterious narrative and timeless form.
• Abundance Wall Art by Studio Ēeme — wood and porcelain combine in wave-inspired reliefs that add subtle drama to any wall.

For the Minimalist:

• Stoneware Vessel by Lucia Mondadori — clean lines, neutral tones, and an understated calm that enhances empty space rather than filling it.
• Pedestal 47 by Anne Brandhøj The maker takes part in every process of creating—from sourcing to finishing each piece by hand.

For the Decorator 

• Delphi Sculpture by Pooja Pawaskar — carved birchwood sculpture that captures human form and movement, perfect as a standalone art object.
• Joan Duo Onyx Coffee Table by Marbera — This piece is defined by two organic shaped tops with a mixture of travertine and white onyx.

For the Host: 

• Clouds 01 Candlesticks by Caroline Desile — a 6-piece candle set with modular arrangement, ideal for tablescapes that shift with mood or season.
• Lyon Red Wine Glasses by Anna Vonn Lipa (set of 4) — The Lyon Collection's rippled design adds texture to the glass's simplicity. Each glass is 100% handmade and mouth-blown.

For the Favorite Client: 

• Anna von Lipa Tumblers or Glassware Sets — Handmade in Bohemia, these glasses by Anna von Lipa are available in six color variations and are sure to receive many “ohh and ahh”.
• Nadine by dumæ — this set of two vessels are a complementary pair, designed to live together or apart. With gently curved forms these vessels bring lightness to any surface.

For the Traveler and Dreamer:

• Oenochoos Sculpture by Melina Xenaki — sculptural, expressive, and filled with poetic energy. This piece is inspired by the shape of an ancient Greek wine jug.
• Appliqué Sphere by Vagabonde Creation is a white stoneware sure to bring a refined touch to any space. This piece is completely covered in small, intricate floral appliqué.