There is no question that 2020 has been a challenging year, bringing more than a few stressful experiences. At a time when we can all appreciate the cheerful spirit of the holiday season, gift giving is that much more meaningful. If you are looking forward to surprising your clients and colleagues with special presents this year, look no further than the Design Manager Gift Guide: 2020 Edition. It’s full of ideas that channel the personal, home-centric vibe that we are seeking as the year comes to a close.

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Sophisticated Stationery

COVID has made it difficult to see friends and family this year, which is particularly trying during this time of year when people typically gather to celebrate with their nearest and dearest. Let your loved ones know you’re thinking of them with a hand-written note on an artfully made card, or give the mutually giving gift of hand and mind thought provocation with a beautiful notebook or planner.

Note Card Box "Green Holly GM" Ref. 52 from Benneton Graveur (80€; ships to U.S.)

Next Page Collection Set in Clay from Poketo ($86.00) 

Rifle Paper Co. - Personalized Flat Notes from Rifle Paper Co. ($65.00 for Set of 20)

Art

As an interior designer, you know your clients’ aesthetic tastes inside out. Gifting art is absolutely apropo. 1stDibs, the leading luxury art and antiques platform, is the perfect place to find a perfectly personal piece of fine art. 

André Roland Brudieux, “Les Granges de Port Royal” - Original Pencil Drawing 1970s from 1stDibs ($386.84)

Isheanesu Dondo, “Isheneanesu Dondo (Mood drawing with a black marker on a book page) 2020” ($181.33) from 1stDibs

Kyong Lee, “A Hard Line 07, 2020” from 1stDibs ($742.04)

Luxury Decanter

After spending more time at home this year, the small touches of glamour we can bring to our routines make a big difference. Your clients and colleagues will enjoy sipping brandy or a glass of wine by the fire using an artisan decanter to brighten the aesthetics of their chosen spirits. And, since we’ll be having our holiday cocktails at home a bit more than usual this year, this gift will be especially appreciated.   

Sterling Silver Crystal Decanter & Tumblers from Scully & Scully ($360)

Vintage Etched Spirit Decanter from Williams-Sonoma ($99.95)

Elegance Accent Decanter from Waterford ($275.00)

Candles

A richly scented candle can transform any ordinary room into a cosy den where the imagination can blossom. 

Le Labo Santal 26 Classic Candle from Nordstrom ($75)

Lavender x Eucalyptus from Fenwick Candles ($32 CAD; ships to U.S.)

Iconic Table Lamps from 1stDibs

Table lamps are like an accessory with utility – beauty, with a bonus. Knowing your client’s spaces so well, you’ll know just where one of these iconic pieces from internationally renowned artists can fit into your client’s home.

Louis Poulsen Panthella Mini Table Lamp by Verner Panton from 1stDibs ($725)

Akari Model 1AS Light Sculpture by Isamu Noguchi from 1stDibs ($675)

Delightful Delectables

For the gourmand in your Rolodex, you’ll be sure to please with the gift of rich delicacies from abroad.

Eataly Gift Baskets, like the Fall Picnic Perfection ($75) or Formaggi From North to South ($135)

La Maison du Chocolat Boite Maison, 125 Pieces from Williams-Sonoma ($289.95)

Jewelry and Accessories from 1stDibs

For the fashionista, give the gift of a one-of-a-kind, vintage accessory from luxury antiques and art platform, 1stDibs.

Lotus Aquamarine 18 Karat Gold Wrap Bracelet from 1stDibs ($770)

1980s Cartier Scarf from 1stDibs ($338.49)

Inlaid Box, Prob, Syria, circa 1940, from 1stDibs ($302.22)

Tequila

We all have a friend (or two, or three) who loves a tequila. What’s wonderful about this particular spirit is that it often comes in a decorative vessel worthy of any designers’ praise.

Casamigos Anejo from TotalWine  ($53.99 for 750ml)

Kah Tequila Blanco from Cask Cartel ($398.99 for 700ml) - hurry because this collectors bottle is no longer being made, and is in limited capacity!

Clase Azul Reposado from Country Wine and Spirits ($169.99 for 750ML)

As the holidays approach, embrace the opportunity to bring happiness to all of the special people in your lives with a thoughtful gift that will brighten their homes, the place where many of us will be hunkered down for the winter ahead. For more gift ideas, peruse the pages of the spectacular 1st Dibs Holiday Gift Guide. If you’re looking for something to give, consider the gift of organization and try Design Manager today!

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