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Hostess with the Mostess

Mariana Barran of Hibiscus Linens give her insight on the perfect hostess gifts for the holidays.

Article by Gabi De la Rosa

Photography by Lauren Holub Photography

Originally published in Memorial Lifestyle

Along with reading and math, Marina Barran, owner of Hibiscus Linens, learned how to embroider from Spanish nuns while attending school in Monterrey, Mexico. Barran, who considers herself a “fast stitcher,” enjoyed the art and eventually left her job in the energy sector to open her bespoke boutique, Hibiscus Linens. Hibiscus Linens specializes in embroidered and hand-stitched items for clothing, home, and gift giving occasions. 

Hostess gifts make their way onto many to-do lists especially during the holiday season when many celebrations and overnight stays take place. For Barran, who never goes anywhere empty-handed, a handmade hostess gift makes the gift-giving experience even more special. “A beautiful thing about giving or receiving something handmade is the time and craftsmanship that goes into it. It shows thoughtfulness and appreciation to the person receiving it.”

Barran handpicked several items from her shop that will make great hostess gifts this holiday season. Shoppers can find the Hibiscus Linens boutique inside Back Row Home and at its inaugural appearance at the 2023 Nutcracker Market. hibiscuslinens.com

Amparo Everyday Dress, $145. Hibiscus Linens can’t keep enough of these comfortable dresses stocked. They are lined with deep pockets and made from the softest cotton fabric. 

Hand towel with hand-stitched medallion, $92. One of the shop’s most requested hand towels is perfect for a housewarming, wedding, or hostess gifts. 

Handkerchiefs, $85. These hankies are hand-stitched with cute and sentimental sayings, perfect for weddings or special occasions. 

Cocktail napkins, $150 for a set of 4 cocktail napkins. Made with 100% linen and 100% cotton thread, these napkins are an heirloom to be passed down for generations. The patterned napkin is made with vintage cotton fabric, $12. 

Hand-stitched cowboy boot bandana, $35. The best-selling bandanas are all hand-dyed in-house. They are hand sketched and embroidered to ensure each one has a unique color combination.  

Hand towel with hand-stitched monogram, $92. Set of four cocktail napkins, $150. The hand towels and napkins are made from quality materials that will last over time and usage. Custom monograms are available. 

Hand-embroidered mini stocking ornaments, $52. Perfect for any tree, these holiday ornaments are hand embroidered on white linen, measuring 6 x 4 inches each. 

  • Hibiscus Linens owner, Mariana Barran.