Between the Layers | Design Guide Series
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Holiday

Luxe Gifts & Heartfelt Treasures for the Season

The holidays are all about those cozy moments and thoughtful touches that make us feel truly appreciated, and we’ve gathered a few of our favorite finds that do just that! Whether you’re looking for a splurge-worthy treat or something truly heartfelt, this guide has a bit of everything to help make the season feel extra special. In fact, these are pieces we’d love to unwrap ourselves! Feel free to share this with anyone who might need a little gift inspiration. ? Or, just enjoy the ideas — they might inspire you to create moments that mean a lot to the important people in your life.

Splurge-Worthy Ideas

These are the pieces that make a statement. They’re the kind of gifts you unwrap that instantly make you feel like a million bucks. From timeless accessories to unique items that elevate your home, these are gifts that go beyond the everyday … they’re worth the splurge!

    1. Gucci Knee High Boots in Dark Green Suede
      These classic boots with the iconic horsebit detail are pure luxury. Dark green suede feels both festive and versattile. Honestly, I’d live in these all winter if I could.
    2. Rimowa Cabin Luggage
      If you’re gifting for someone who loves to travel, this glossy green suitcase is as stylish as it is practical. I’ve had my eye on one of these for a while—it’s the type of gift that makes every trip feel like an occasion.
    3. Satin Jacquard Pajamas
      There’s something magical about slipping into luxurious pajamas, especially during the holidays. While we often gift the kids a new pair, why not treat ourselves to a set? These are dreamy and so elegant—a true pamper-yourself piece.
    4. St. Laurent Envelope Suede Crossbody
      A designer bag is always a good idea. This rich suede beauty is timeless. I know it would be a welcome addition to my wardrobe … hint, hint (Derrick, if you’re reading this ?) Speaking from a girl who doesn’t buy herself handbags often, I would be head over heels to receive such a luxurious item.Ā 
    5. Martini Glasses with Olive Embellishment
      For the martini lover, these glasses with the chic olive embellishment are the ultimate indulgence. A little sexy, a lot classy, they’re perfect for elevating any cocktail hour.
    6. Ā Sentimental Silver Picture Frame
      A photo frame might be a traditional gift, but choosing a timeless, high-quality one makes it feel extra special. Add a favorite photo of you and the recipient, and it’s instantly personal. Any piece from this collection is a win.
    7. Polo Heritage Coffee Table Book
      For the history lover, sports enthusiast, or horse girl, this stunning book is packed with cool photography and stories about the sport of polo. It’s a beautiful, festive piece that will make any coffee table shine! And, if you know me, you know I’m a sucker for a beautiful coffee table book. So, this a no brainer!
    8. Vintage Tortoiseshell Wine Cooler
      This Italian wine cooler is as functional as it is beautiful. Whether it’s holding champagne or used as a stylish ice bucket, it’s perfect for those who love to entertain in style. Who else thinks tortoiseshell is a classic?!
    9. Pradel Horn Knife Set
      If you’re looking to surprise a host or chef, these knives are a showstopper. They add an artistic touch to any table setting. And, they’re sure to make an impression at the next dinner party.
    10. Knit Shawl
      Such a chic addition to your wardrobe! Use pieces like this to accessorize and elevate any basic outfit. Also, it feels elegant to wear a wrap over your classic long-sleeved tee and jeans.Ā 
    11. Pitcher and Stirrer Set
      Another bar addition … are we surprised? These items make the best gifts! Things you dread picking out on any regular day, but feel so sweet to receive. Pair this set with your favorite liquor or the martini glasses above for the full mixologist starter pack!

Thoughtful Gifts: Treasures from the Heart

While luxurious gifts make for unforgettable unwrapping moments, sometimes the most meaningful gestures are the ones that come from the heart. We believe that thoughtful gifts have a way of lasting, touching deeper than any high-ticket item. These are the ones that linger. They feel more personal, crafted with love, and chosen with the recipient’s unique spirit in mind. And, they remind us that sometimes, it’s the simple things that make life beautiful.

I’ll never forget a Christmas where I was struggling with something unique for Derrick. I decided to buy a set of wine glasses for our bar, and in each glass I added a hand-written note with ā€œsweet somethings.” There were memories through the years, things I loved the most about him, personal jokes, etc. To this day, he talks about how much he loved that gift! So, don’t think you have to break the bank to make the holidays special. Dive deep with your feelings and give the gift of thoughtfulness.

  1. A Handwritten Letter
    It’s amazing how far words can go. After all, a letter from the heart can mean more than anything bought in a store! It’s a moment to share how much you appreciate them, to say things that might not come up in everyday conversation. Writing down memories, hopes, and little reminders that you care is a beautiful way to show your love. And honestly, it’s something they’ll hold onto for years to come.
  2. A Recipe Book of Memories and Favorite Meals
    For friends and family, food is often at the center of our favorite memories. Compile a list of their best-loved recipes, or favorite dishes you’ve shared together, and hand-write them into a personalized recipe book. Add little notes about memories from those meals—funny moments, inside jokes, photos of the final dish and of you all around the table. This is more than a recipe book; it’s a nostalgic trip down memory lane.
  3. A Custom Photo Album from Artifact Uprising
    We adore Artifact Uprising for their beautifully crafted photo books and user-friendly design process. A custom photo album is a perfect way to revisit cherished memories together. Curate your favorite photos, whether from a trip, family gatherings, or just little moments that capture everyday life. And, these albums feel as polished as they do personal—a lasting keepsake that brings the past into the present with every flip of the page.

There you have it—a little bit of luxe, a dash of heartfelt, and plenty of inspiration to help you nail that holiday gifting. We hope this guide gives you all the ideas you need to surprise (and maybe even impress) the ones you love.

And, let’s be real—sometimes the best gifts are the ones we secretly want ourselves (hello, Gucci boots and satin pajamas)! So don’t be afraid to casually leave this open on your partner’s laptop or drop a hint hint here and there. It’s the season of giving, right?

At the end of the day, we believe the best gifts are the ones that make people feel seen and appreciated. Whether it’s a beautiful bag or a handwritten letter, it’s all about those little moments that make life feel richer. So go on, have fun with it! Pour yourself a holiday cocktail (extra points if it’s in a new martini glass), and let’s make this season one to remember.

Happy gifting, friends—and don’t forget to treat yourself too. You’ve earned it! ?

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This is one of those things I feel very strongly about.
Scale is one of the fastest ways to elevate a room... and one of the easiest to get wrong. I see it all the time: a space has beautiful pieces, but something still feels off. More often than not, it’s because everything is too small.

Our coffee table is a good example. It’s intentionally larger because it helps the whole seating area read as one zone. It visually connects the sofa and chairs, gives everyone an actual surface within reach, and creates one strong focal point in the middle of the room.

If it were smaller, we’d need extra little tables to make the layout function, and all of those pieces would start competing with each other.

One larger piece often creates more calm than several smaller ones.

Save this for your next room refresh, and share it with someone who’s trying to figure out why their space feels off.
Finally using our kitchen... and it feels so good 🄹

We don’t take this for granted for a second! Having a fully working kitchen again truly feels like such a gift. It’s always been the heart of our home, and after so many months without it, being back in this space feels extra special.

If you’ve been around here for a while, you know Derrick and I are major foodies.

And over the years, he’s become such an incredible cook... his recipes just keep getting better and better (lucky me ā˜ŗļø).

There’s something about cooking at home, slowing down, and gathering around a meal that just feels like us again.

Would you guys want to see more of what we’re cooking, like we used to share?
5 stars. I wanted to make our guests feel comfortable and welcome and a hotel inspired bed seemed like the perfect idea.

All of this bedding is from @onequince , comment ā€˜BED’ and we’ll send you everything that’s linked on our LTK.

This look isn’t for the ā€œanti-pillowsā€ person - in fact it’s all about the layering for that plush, all-white and cozy hotel inspired look.

Here’s how to get this look in your home:
- Start with smooth, wrinkle-free sheets (a quick steam makes all the difference) I love the classic embroidered trim on these I used.
- Tuck your sheets tightly (especially the corners) for that tailored finish
- Layer in a plush duvet or comforter for that full, cloud-like feel (I like to stuff a duvet cover with an insert thats one size larger)
- And don’t skip the pillow layer technique (this is key!): I stacked four total for sleeping, two euro shams for structure, two decorative shams, and an oversized accent lumbar pillow (ours measures 18 x 42 in @LeeJofa fabric) to finish it off

Save for the next time you want a bed refresh!
Here’s how to bring everything you love together. Without the chaos!

Comment ā€˜LOVE’ and I’ll send you exactly how we define your base, choose your lead style, and mix in the rest so it actually works.

Most people think they have to choose one style... but that’s usually not the problem. The issue is trying to make everything feel equally important.

If you want your home to feel collected (not confusing), you need a clear lead... and then layer in the rest.
The difference between a home that looks good... and one that feels good?
It’s what your hands touch every day.

Plumbing fixtures.
Cabinet hardware.
Upholstery.

These aren’t always the most exciting decisions, but they’re the ones you interact with constantly. And trust me, you notice the difference. If you’re going to invest anywhere, start here.

Save this + pass it along to someone designing a space right now!