We could all use some extra holiday cheer, and a thoughtful gift can be just the ticket to spread a little joy. Here at G&G, we’ve got our eye on a few choice items that will help keep our holidays bright. From a clever fillet knife to a gorgeous cake stand, here’s what the editors are coveting this year.
’Tis the Seasoning
Amanda Heckert, deputy editor
My spice cabinet is pretty full, but I’d make room in a hurry for this quartet of dry rubs (one each for steak, pork, and fish, plus an all-purpose seasoning salt) from third-generation North Carolina pitmaster Sam Jones. Everything I’ve ever had of his is terrific, even his non-meat specialties such as this biscuit pudding with chocolate gravy. $25, samjonesbbq.com
Ready, Set, Hike
Marshall McKinney, creative director
Having been pent up at home for most of 2020, I intend to roam far more in 2021. When I do, I’ll be ambling along in Patagonia’s Wild Idea work boots. Cobbled by hand from sustainably harvested buffalo hide, these stompers are built tough and will keep me in comfort wherever the deer and the antelope play. $399, patagonia.com
Conversation Pieces
CJ Lotz, senior editor
No holiday in my family is complete without an unfinished puzzle on a side table, awaiting the hands that will put it together over conversations and sometimes Kahlua and cream. This year’s project will be a beautiful puzzle from the paper artist John Derian that features an antique print of dancing butterflies. $20, workman.com
Sharp Combo
Dave Mezz, deputy editor
The Charleston, South Carolina–based Toadfish keeps coming up with nifty ideas, like this stowaway fillet kit. The foldable knife has a seven-inch titanium-coated blade and grippy handle, the cutting board (with built-in sharpener) folds up accordion-like, and it all fits neatly into the neoprene case. Stick it in a boat locker, tackle bag, day pack, or wherever, and never be without your own personal fish-cleaning station again. $108; toadfishoutfitters.com
Standing Out
Ally Sloway, social media editor
When I took up cake making as a hobby several years ago (my most recent venture being the G&G August/September cover cake), I found there was nothing better than displaying my hard work on an extravagant or unique cake stand. This year an Estelle Colored Glass stand is on my wish list. I love supporting small, women-owned businesses, and each one is a work of art. $225; ggfieldshop.com
Cuddle Up
CJ Lotz, senior editor
It’s no replacement for family hugs, but I’ll get on board with clothing that feels like a warm embrace. This elegant cashmere and merino wool hoodie from the Southern designer Billy Reid is cozy-comfy and chic enough for an alfresco coffee date. $295; billyreid.com
Campfire Kings
T. Edward Nickens, contributor
In addition to toasting marshmallows with style, these sturdy Solo Stove campfire forks easily handle multiple hot dogs, an appetizer-sized portion of shrimp, or chunks of venison backstrap. Each skewer twists in the middle to separate into two easy-to-store pieces, and the four-pack stores neatly in the included bag. $70; solostove.com
Saving Face
Lindsey Liles, editorial assistant
My dermatologist sister convinced me that it’s high time I start taking care of my skin, so this year I’m asking for products from the plant-based skincare line by C&Co., a female-owned company in Asheville. Between the luxurious sweet orange and rosemary cleansing milk (shown, $44), a moisturizing rose facial serum ($80), and the daily face polish with honey and lavender oil ($28), I think I could put together a routine I’ll actually maintain. candconaturals.com
Holiday gift guides from G&G:
>> Gift Ideas Under $50
>> Gift Ideas Under $300
>> Gift Ideas for Southern Cooks
>> Gift Ideas for the Sporting-Minded
>> Gift Ideas for Kids
>> Heirloom-Quality Gifts to Last a Lifetime
>> Our Editors’ Wish List
Also see:
>> The Winter Catalogue from Fieldshop by Garden & Gun
Garden & Gun has affiliate partnerships and may receive a portion of sales when a reader clicks to buy a product. All products are independently selected by the G&G editorial team.
