From gatherings to the gifts, the most wonderful time of the year can also be the most hectic. Whether you’re hosting a party or want to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list, here are a few tips to help simplify your holiday to-dos and still wow everyone.
Gifting: Consider What Feeds the Soul
- Create curated vibes: Show how much you care with simple, modern and classic items you can’t find elsewhere. Gifts from local artisans and or your favorite brand should always be inspired by what feeds your recipient’s soul or puts a smile on their face.
- Offer practicality with personality: Useful gifts don’t have to be boring. A relaxing candle and stylish oversized matches. A knife set that doubles as art. Soulful touches can turn functional items into fabulous ones.
- Inspire experiences: You don’t need plane tickets to gift a sense of adventure. A colorful book on a faraway destination or a game you can enjoy together, like chess, can generate excitement.
- Choose gifts that give back: Gifts that spark even greater joy. For example, Hearth & Soul works with a select local nonprofit partner each month, where 100% of net profits from its signature Hearth candle are donated to the Jacksonville Humane Society.
Hosting: It’s More About Sharing Than Serving
- Prioritize connections over perfection: The company is the most important element of a holiday gathering, and creating an ambiance warmer than your welcome sets the tone. Consider how different areas of your home can facilitate great conversations. If you’re hosting a formal dinner, seat guests with a shared interest together. You can even show them where to sit with placemats that make a statement.
- Create a theme: From the menu and tablescape to the drinks and playlist, a theme can add focus to your planning and continuity to your event. You can include the theme on your invitation (and ask guests to dress accordingly), or surprise and delight them upon arrival.
- Serve drinks with a splash of fun: An interactive bar where guests can customize their drinks with gorgeous glassware, interesting garnishes and accessories provides an icebreaker and shared experience. Offering mocktail options as festive as the spirited versions is a great way to make everyone feel included.
- End with a thoughtful parting gift: A small token of appreciation can make a large impact. Offer guests a handwritten note on beautiful stationery, some gourmet toffee or anything that offers a “little happy” as a thank you. Hearth & Soul’s AABIII steak seasoning also makes an excellent gift for the host.
Featuring unique finds for every room in your home and person on your list, Hearth & Soul is a shopping destination like no other. This new boutique in Atlantic Beach also serves as a place to gather with the community and feed the soul.
Stop by before Christmas to see the life-size advent calendar and enter the 25 Days of Giveaways for a shot at fabulous prizes!
