Whether you’re stumped on what to buy your best friend or just need a little extra inspiration, this year’s holiday gift guide is packed with great ideas. We asked a few members of our own community to share what they’re planning to wrap and place under the tree, from apparel to art to baked goods.
Wendy Talmon
Owner, Wandertree Fiber Art and Interior Design
Artist Wendy Talmon, who creates small- and large-scale fiber sculptures, prefers to browse local boutiques in person rather than shop online when it comes to finding the perfect presents for her loved ones. “I love to touch and see things firsthand,” she says. This season, Talmon has her eye on unique finds ranging from sculptural bags to chic metallic boots.
1. Lindquist Eggi Bag, from Yucca, $640
2. RRL Corduroy Collar Denim Jacket, from Berkeley Supply, $590
3. The Great Plush Car Coat, from Lawrence Covell, $625
4. Serene Quarantine in Onyx Artwork, from Blade and Knoll, $2,950
5. Fine Art Prints, from Strange Dirt
6. Sam Boot in Metallic Opalo, from Strut, $458
Dane Hiett
Owner, CDK Catering and Crudo Cart
Epicurean delights are the center of Denver chef Dane Hiett’s gifting ideas, whether it’s freshly baked bread or specialty kitchenware. Cooking, he says, “is storytelling through flavor. During the holidays, our events take on a special energy, filled with festive music, laughter, and the joy that comes from gathering around the table.” Professionally and personally, Hiett also chooses to support local farmers and artisans. “It preserves regional food traditions and ensures that future generations continue to experience the distinct quality and character that come from ingredients grown with care and close connection.”
1. Fois Gras Delivery, from Goudy French Cuisine, $41-$61
2. Fishwife Albacore Tuna in Spicy Olive Oil, from The Ambrosian Pantry, $11
3. Regeneratively Raised Local Meats, from Western Daughters Butcher Shoppe
4. Hitohira KH Western Stainless Gyuto Knife, from Carbon Knife Company, $185
5. Fresh Sourdough, from Leven Deli Co.
Jackie Johnson
Interior Designer, Jackie Johnson Design
For Jackie Johnson, who runs her eponymous Denver design firm, the holiday season is “an excuse to dress up, decorate, and see friends and family.” Johnson’s love for interiors is evident in her gift picks—an assortment of goods for the well-appointed home—though she says travel is also a failproof gift. “Last year, my husband [Erik Johnson, recently retired Colorado Avalanche player] and I gave each other joint trips to Europe. Travel will create memories to last a lifetime.”
1. Voyage et Cie Lavender Bath Salts and Bubble Bath, from Homebody
“This is a great home store with soaps, linens, and vases that I love,” Johnson says.
2. Juliska Glassware, Match Low Ball Glasses, and Simon Pearce Pitchers, from Homefest
3. Gift Card to Osteria Alberico
“I love the mafaldine pasta and the amazing selection of Italian wines.”
4. Apotheke White Vetiver Candle, from Be Home
6. Photography, by Jack Ludlam
7. Hand-Carved Canvas Art, by Cora Sexton Wheeler
Kelsey Huffer
Owner, Poppy & Co. Lifestyle Photography; Editor, Cherry Creek Lifestyle
It seems Kelsey Huffer, a professional photographer who also oversees editorial operations at Cherry Creek Lifestyle, was destined to love gifting. “I was born on December 21st, and my birth announcement stated, ‘Best Gift Yet,’” she shares. When the holiday season arrives, Huffer immediately gets into the spirit by planning a shopping day with her best friend. “We move from one local favorite local shop to the next. This is always a fun memory to round out the year.”
1. Custom Watercolor Pet Portrait, by Gina Dodge, $50
“Gina's hand-painted pet portraits are my favorite gift,” Huffer says. “Everyone feels so special receiving something handmade, especially of their animal.”
2. Carol Ferguson Tiny Bee Gold Pendant, from Element 79, $700
3. Aquila The Ouzel, from Small Batch Liquors, $25
“Aquila Cellars is an incredible local wine.”
4. Rachel Comey Alma Dress in Personals Print, from Recital, $795
“Love this little nod to keeping print journalism alive.”
5. Alchemy Facial Recovery Oil, from Alchemy Face Bar, $85
6. Black Chain Vase, from Modern Nomad, $375