hoopLA’s 2022 Holiday Gift Guide

The holidays are amongst us, and that means it’s time to dust off those ugly sweaters and get ready for White Elephant gift exchanges. But how do you find the perfect gift? Take a breath, grab a cup of hot cocoa, and relax because we’ve got you covered. We drew inspiration from Oprah’s Favorite Things and Amazon’s best Black Friday deals to compile a list of the perfect gifts for everyone on your list. From beauty to books, home and kitchen, health and wellness, fashion, sports, electronics, travel, and more, ’tis the season for hoopLA’s 2022 Holiday Gift Guide.

Beauty/Grooming/Self-Care

Bath and Body Self-Care Oil from Only Light Brand – Stocking Stuffer (Under $20)

Give the gift of self-care this holiday. What’s that intoxicating aroma? That’s what was going through my head the moment I discovered the Bath and Body Oil from Only Light Brand (OLB). The vegan and cruelty-free Self-Care Oil includes hints of gardenia and jasmine, and is “Intended to alleviate stress and nourish the mind, body, and spirit!” Only Light Brand believes in a total mind/body connection, and that using high-quality products can elevate one’s mood. The goal is for “Humanity to be inspired to defy define darkness, through the power of mood-elevating, high-quality self-care products. In addition to bath and body goods, like Body and Beard Oils, Bath Salts, and Soaps, OLB also sells 100% Handmade Soy Candles, Honey, Cocktail Mixers, and more. According to owner Erica Jones, “Self-care is no longer a luxury, it is a necessity!” Well, Erica, we couldn’t agree more! $10+; Available online for nationwide shipping at Only Light Brand and Etsy

Le Labo Gift Box from The Spa at The West Hollywood EDITION

Give the gift of luxury beauty products with a Le Labo Holiday Gift Box. For those looking for the perfect wellness item to give, The Spa now has holiday gift boxes available for purchase featuring the brand’s exclusive EDITION Le Labo scented products. Craft a unique box from the line’s selection of candles, soaps, and lotions. Each box is customizable, and allows for product swapping to build the perfect gift. $190+; Mondays – Sundays, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm; 9040 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069; 424.310.1622

fresh Rose Deep Hydration Sleeping Mask

Give the gift of flawless beauty with the Fresh Rose Deep Hydration Sleeping Mask. Made for all skin types, this beauty must-have will have you age backward overnight, as it will replenish your dry skin and lock in moisture. Simply apply the mask after washing and toning your face, and like Beyoncé sang, “You wake up, flawless.” $29+; Available online at fresh (with a special offer of 15% off your first order)

That Limitless Glow Sheet Mask by J LO BEAUTY

Give the gift of beautiful skin with That Limitless Glow Sheet Mask from J LO BEAUTY. If you know anyone who wants to tighten, lift, hydrate, plump, and brighten their skin, these sheet masks are perfect for them! $48; Available online at Amazon

USTAWI Melanin-Focused Skincare

Give the gift of melanin glow with USTAWI. Melanin-focused skincare line “USTAWI has developed the perfect skincare range for you (especially if you have darker skin): inspired by nature, powered by science, and 100% clean!” Founded by former model Natacha Paugam, USTAWI wants you to “Let your melanin GLOW!” The line has tested all innovative formulations on darker skin tones (phototypes 4-6) to achieve the best results without compromising the well-being of your beautiful skin!” I’ve been using this line now for almost 2 months, and I’m literally getting stopped on the street by people to let me know my skin is simply glowing. Can you say Black Girl Magic! $27+; Available online at USTAWI, Bergdorf Goodman’s, and Nordstrom

Facials from Holistic by Nona

Give the gift of glowing skin with a package of facials from Holistic by Nona. I love her holistic approach to glowing skin, which is why Nona has been my esthetician for over 15 years. With an understanding that each person’s skin is unique, she takes the time to study each client to curate a special facial treatment for that individual. Let Nona assess your skin and formulate the best plan to ensure it looks radiant and glowing for 2023. And yes, in case you were wondering, men get facials too! Contact Nona for rates and availability.

Facial Steamer for Home Spa Day

Give the gift of clear skin with this facial steamer from EZBASICS. Perfect for at-home spa days, this steamer moisturizes your skin, unclogs your pores, and includes a 5-piece skin kit to follow up your steam session. $29.95; Available online at Amazon

Spa Day at Burke Williams

Give the gift of self-care with a spa day at Burke Williams. The luxury day spa is known for its soothing steam room and sauna, relaxing massages, facials, manis, pedis, and more! Various prices, hours and locations

Beard Grooming Kit – Stocking Stuffer (Under $20)

Give the gift of beard care. This beard grooming kit includes, beard shampoo/wash and conditioner, beard oil, beard balm, beard comb and brush, beard scissors, storage bag, and a beard e-book. $11.94; Available online at Amazon

Men’s Grooming Tools from Manscaped (Razors, Trimmers, Shears, Deodorant, Body Wash)

Give the gift of men’s grooming. Manscaped offers the right tools to keep your man feeling clean and confident with its premium line of razors, trimmers, shears, deodorant, body wash, and more! $30+; Available online at Amazon

Toiletry Bag for Men

Give the gift of ease with a toiletry bag from Elviros. This bag is the perfect toiletry/travel gift for your man. It’s made of water resistant material, has a large storage pocket, and has separate compartments for all his items. $26.97; Available online at Amazon

Giorgio Armani’s Acqua Di Gio Pour Homme Eau de Toilette Spray

Give the gift of a sensual and stimulating scent. I have to say that when a man walks by me wearing Giorgio Armani’s Acqua Di Gio, I melt like butter. This refined, classic, and elegant cologne is the perfect gift for the man in your life. $59.70; Available online at Amazon

Books/Audio Books/E-Books

Audible Premium – Stocking Stuffer (Under $20)

Give the gift of bestselling audiobooks with Audible. Amazon is offering 4 months for only $5.95 per month. Audible is the perfect gift for those who love to listen to books, podcasts, and more. $5.95; Available online Amazon

Kindle Unlimited – Stocking Stuffer (Under $20)

Give the gift of reading with Kindle Unlimited. Kindle Unlimited is the perfect gift for the avid reader in your life. This digital gift is great because it saves your reader from carrying a book wherever they go and allows unlimited reading and listening on any device. $0 (30-day trial) and then $9.99/month; Available online at Amazon

Agatha Christie Mystery Collection Box Set

Give the gift of mystery with this Agatha Christie Mystery Collection Box Set. This collection contains 10 of Christie’s most popular works, including And Then There Were None, Death On the Nile, and The A.B.C. Murders. $273+; Available online Amazon

The Explorer’s Library: Books That Inspire Wonder (Atlas Obscura and Gastro Obscura 2-Book Set)

Give the gift of discovery with this 2-book set from The Explorer’s Library, which combines the two New York Times bestselling guides, Atlas Obscura (a tour guide to global destinations) and Gastro Obscura (a guide of international culinary delicacies). It’s the perfect gift for the person who longs to travel and try new foods. $85; Available online Amazon

Recording the Family Tree: A 10-Generation Genealogy Book – Stocking Stuffer (Under $20)

Give the gift of family history with a 10-Generation Genealogy Book. We’re fortunate to live in an age of science and technology, where we can trace our ancestry back for multiple generations. But where can you store all of your information? This 10-Generation Genealogy Book allows you to organize all of your notes, take pride in your ancestral footprint, capture details about specific family members, and record treasured family items. $11.99; Available online Amazon

The Women of Rothschild

Give the gift of the untold story of the world’s most famous dynasty with The Women of Rothschild. This coffee table book is perfect for the history buff who loves stories of wealth and power and longs to learn of the privileged, complicated, and gifted women of the famous Rothschild family. $29.99; Available online at Amazon

Wellness

Transform Group Ketamine Immersion: Your Journey to Psychological Wellness

Give the gift of personal transformation and psychological wellness. Transform Psychological Services is hosting two Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy group events led by experienced therapists. Transform Group Ketamine Immersion teaches you to let go of past trauma and creates a portal to better habits and a new perspective. This gift is perfect for anyone looking for personal growth and transformation, and looking for guidance along their healing journey. $800; with $520 due today. Ticket sales close on 1/6/23. Each event includes:

• 1 hour intake and medication evaluation with a Journey Clinical psychiatrist
• 30 minute intake and KAP evaluation with a Transform Psychological Clinician
• A four-hour event at an intimate, private venue
• Live music
• 1 hour virtual group preparation session before the event
• A small group setting, guided by two clinicians
• Choose from two events:
  • Encinitas: 1/28, 11:30 am – 3:30 pm; Peace Love and Yoga – 830 South Coast Highway 101, Encinitas, CA 92024
  • Beverly Hills: 1/30; 5:30 – 9:30 pm; 215 South La Cienega Boulevard, Beverly Hills, CA 90211

Wellness Journals – Stocking Stuffers (Under $20)

Give the gift of wellness. This holiday season, the perfect gift comes in the form of gratitude, full moon, and manifesting journals. Each book from author London Blake is smothered in positivity and follows the law of attraction, allowing the reader to make room for abundance to flow into their lives.

• The Cherry On Top Of My Day: 5-Minute Daily Gratitude Journal To Help You Learn To Appreciate ALL The Moments That Bring You Joy: This 180-day 5 minutes a day gratitude journal is designed to help you identify the good aspects of your day, the appreciated people in your life, and anything you may have learned from the moments or people. There is no moment too small or big for the journal as long as it made you experience a level of joy or gratitude. You might not already be where you want to be in life, but through identifying your moments of gratitude, you can learn to embrace the journey to reaching your goals in life. $8.99+; Available online at Amazon
• Today Kinda SUCKED: Venting And Gratitude Journal For Days When Life Feels Like It’s On Level Hard: This 90-day complaint/venting and gratitude journal encourages you to let your frustrations and anger for the day out on paper. Then, when you’re done complaining about what went wrong, it helps you remember the good things that happened that day too. $6.99+; Available online at Amazon
• Full Moon Manifesting Ritual Journal: Harness the power and magic of the full moon. Whether you are experienced at practicing full moon rituals and spells, or you are new to them, this journal helps to provide a dedicated space for releasing negative emotions and manifesting with the full moon. The full moons in the workbook cover the period of October 2022 through December 2023. $10.99; Available online at Amazon
• 369 Manifesting Journal: Magnetize your desires with the power of 3 6 9 method manifestation. Through this guided manifestation journal, you will learn the power of the 3 6 9 method and how you can use it to magnetize your energy in order to attract your desires through the universe. The 3 6 9 method involves repetition when writing affirmations (3 times in the morning, 6 times in afternoon, and 9 times at night) to boost your manifesting capability. $18.90; Available online at Amazon

Heated Neck and Back Massager

Give the gift of a massage for the holidays. This heated neck and back massager is one of Oprah’s Favorite Things, so you know this item is good. With 8 deep-kneading Shiatsu Massage nodes, your friend or loved one will feel like they’re getting a personal massage from a trained masseuse. Yes, please! $34.99; Available online at Amazon

Electronics/Entertainment

Apple Watch, iPad, iPhone, Apple TV, AirPods, (Apple Store)

Give the gift of Apple this holiday season by buying a loved one (or yourself) the newest Apple Watch, iPad, iPhone, Apple TV, AirPods, and more! I am OBSESSED with all of my Apple products and how seamlessly they all sync with each other. And trust me, once you join the Apple ecosystem, you’ll be OBSESSED too! Various prices; Available online at Amazon

Fire TV Devices (Fire TV Sticks)

Give the gift of streaming with a new Fire TV stick. This Amazon early Black Friday item is for those who love to stream Prime Video, Netflix, Hulu, YouTube, and more! $24.99; Available online at Amazon

Bluetooth/Wi-Fi HD Projector

Give the gift of entertainment with a 1080P HD Bluetooth/Wi-Fi projector. The person receiving this gift will have the ultimate movie-watching experience, taking movie night to a new level. $189.98; Available online at Amazon

Portable Bluetooth Speaker

Give the gift of music with this portable Bluetooth speaker from JBL. This powerful speaker has 15 hours of playtime, making it perfect for pool parties, travel, backyard BBQs, the park, and, my favorite, the shower. $299.95; Available online at Amazon

Selfie Stick Tripod – Stocking Stuffer (Under $20)

Give the gift of the perfect photo with this selfie stick from Oprah’s Favorite Things. This selfie stick is perfect for the photographer or influencer in your life, or for the office white elephant party. $9.99; Available online at Amazon

Amazon Prime Video

Give the gift of Emmy-award winning shows, blockbuster movies, and Thursday Night Football, with Amazon Prime Video. $0 (30-day trial) and then $14.99/month; Available online at Amazon

Fashion/Accessories

BoHo Fringe Crossbody Purse

Give the gift of fashion this holiday season with my favorite boho fringe crossbody purse. I have it in black and brown, and I get compliments on it pretty much every time I wear it. The vintage look is in this season, and this purse is a fashion must-have. $22.97; Available online at Amazon

Matching Family Onesies

Give the gift of comfort this holiday season. We’ve all seen those cute family photos with everyone smiling in their matching onesies. Well, here is your chance to get in on the action. Choose from matching onesies or pajamas and lounge around on the holidays in comfort with your loved ones. $10.99+; Available online at Amazon

Unisex Ugly Sweaters

Give the gift of an ugly sweater for the holidays. Ok, this may not necessarily be a gift you would give to someone else, but you can wear this to an ugly sweater party. The sweaters come in all different sizes and colors and are so very ugly! $35.95; Available online at Amazon

2-Piece Sexy Workout Set – Stocking Stuffers (Under $20)

Give the gift of a sexy workout look. This 2-piece workout set is EVERYTHING. Flattering on all body types, the racerback crop tank and high waist short leggings offer tummy control while also lifting your butt. Yes, please! $9.99+; Available on Amazon. Here’s a tip, throw in a matching yoga mat bag to complete the look. $15.99; Available online at Amazon

Health/Fitness

Indoor Stationary Cycling Bike

Give the gift of physical fitness with an indoor cycling bike from YOSUDA. This bike features a water bottle holder, LCD monitor, comfortable seat cushion, and the best part, it has an iPad mount for you to stream a workout or your favorite show! And if you’re looking for great FREE online spin classes, check out some of my favorite classes from The Spin Junkie. $279.99; Available online at Amazon

Resistance Bands for Home or Travel Workouts – Stocking Stuffers (Under $20)

Give the gift of toned legs and a round butt with three non-slip resistance bands for home fitness or travel. Ranging from heavy (40-50 lbs.), medium (25-35 lbs.), and light (14-25 lbs.), these bands will help you tone up in no time. $12.72; Available online at Amazon

Plantmade – Health & Wellness Supplements

Give the gift of health and wellness with supplements from wellness company Plantmade. The line consists of vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO supplements such as the Super Multivitamins, Apple Cider Vinegar Gummies, and Protein Powders. Each product was carefully curated to promote healthy digestion, boost your immune system, increase energy levels, maintain weight loss, support muscle mass, improve skin & hair, and more. $14.99+ (Use coupon code HOOPLABLOG for 10% off); Available online for nationwide shipping at Plantmade

Giotto Motivational Water Bottle

Give the gift of good health and hydration with a Giotto motivational water bottle. Every year, I hear people say they want to drink more water. Well, let this be the year you hydrate your life thanks to a water tracker bottle from Giotto. Sold in a wide variety of colors and sizes, Giotto’s water bottles are lined with a time marker and positive affirmations to encourage your water drinking and track your progress. $9.20 (32 oz.) and $23.99 (1 Gallon); Available online at Amazon

Sports and Outdoors

NFL Rugs, Mats, Auto and Leisure Accessories

Give the gift of the NFL with an array of football accessories from Fanmats. This online store has rugs, mats, leisure, and auto accessories for your favorite football fan. Various prices; Available online at Amazon

NFL Stainless Steel Tumbler

Give the gift of football with an officially licensed NFL tumbler. Allow your favorite football fan to show their support for their team with this 30 oz. stainless steel tumbler with a clear flip lid and straw. Are you ready for some football? $29.99; Available online at Amazon

Stanley Adventure Reusable Vacuum Quencher Tumbler

Give the gift of ice cold or piping hot drinks with this reusable tumbler from Stanley. This gift is perfect for the outdoors, tailgates, hydrating while at the office, and relaxing at home. $40; Available online at Amazon

Portable XXL Camping Chair With Cooler

Give the gift of relaxation with this portable chair from ONIVA. This XXL heavy-duty portable chair comes with an insulated, detachable cooler and an insulated drink holder. It’s the perfect gift for anyone who likes to camp, picnic, tailgate, or attend movies in the park. $146.99; Available online at Amazon

Tesalate Beach and Workout Towels

Give the gift of color to the yogi or beach bum in your life? Tesalate makes bold and vibrant Sand-free Beach Towels that can be used for workouts, yoga, picnics, hiking, camping, and throw blankets for home décor. Their antibacterial, odor-free Workout Towels encourages people to stay fit anytime, anywhere. $35+; Available online at Tesalate

Home & Kitchen

Love is Served Plant-Based Cookbook 

Give the gift of plant-based cooking with the Love is Served cookbook. Café Gratitude’s Executive Chef Seizan Dreux Ellis created this book for those who want to learn plant-based home cooking, and for those who want to re-create Café Gratitude dish favorites. $30; Available online at Café Gratitude

The Gracias Madre Plant-Based Cookbook

Give the gift of home-cooked plant-based food with The Gracias Madre Cookbook. Get ready to make robust plant-based Cali-Mexican classics like Calabaza and Onion Quesadillas, Coliflor with Cashew Nacho Cheese, and Coffee Flan. $35; Available online at Gracias Madre

Gourmia XL Air Fryer

Give the gift of mouthwatering food from your new XL air fryer from Gourmia. Air fryers are one of the best inventions of the last decade, and I’m personally obsessed with mine. I literally make everything in it, and now, so can you! And for air fryer recipes, check out Airfryerpapi. $110.32; Available online at Amazon

Large Charcuterie Set with Knife Set, Cheese Board, and Fruit Tray

Give the gift of tasty meats and cheeses with this large charcuterie set. This gift comes with a large cheese board, knife set, and separate fruit tray and is perfect for those who love to host dinner parties, game nights, and other social gatherings. $39.99; Available online for Amazon

Nespresso Vertuo Next Deluxe Coffee and Espresso Machine

Give the gift of a great cup of coffee or espresso with this Nespresso Vertuo Next Deluxe Coffee and Espresso Machine. Choose from coffee in a variety of sizes: 5, 8, 14, and 18 oz. and an assortment of 30 Nespresso Pods in a variety of 3 best-selling coffee blends. $185.99; Available online at Amazon

Prosperity Market’s Holiday Gift Sets

Give the gift of specially curated gift sets from Prosperity Market, a mobile farmers market in L.A. featuring Black-owned businesses and farms. Choose from 4 collections, including Flavor (a variety of sweet and savory seasonings, sauces, and spreads, including vegan cream cheese, hot sauce, and jam), Snack (popcorn, cookies, crackers, energy bites, and granola), Self-Care (luxurious soaps, body butter, and tea), and Produce (fresh, locally grown and harvested produce, herbs, and fruit). Online ordering launches here on Black Friday (11/25) and closes on 12/15. Local delivery (fee applies) and pick-up will be available on 12/17. $45 – $55; Available online at Prosperity Market

Whiskey Glass Set of 2 in Crafted Wooden Box

Give the gift of drink with this whiskey glass set of 2. This all-in-one gift comes in a premium crafted wooden box with 2 whiskey glasses (10oz / 300ml), 8 natural granite whiskey stones kit to keep the drink cold, a velvet bag to protect chilling rocks, tongs, and 2 slate table coasters. Perfect for the whiskey, bourbon, or scotch drinker in your life. $36.99; Available online at Amazon

Wine Aerator Pourer – Stocking Stuffer (Under $20)

Give the gift of a good glass of wine for the holidays. Any wine drinker will tell you they swear by a wine aerator, which provides rapid aeration by sending it through a funnel. This is the perfect gift for the wine lover in your life. $15.99; Available online at Amazon

Stainless Steel Wine Bottle Stoppers – Stocking Stuffers (Under $20)

Give the gift of fresh wine with these two stainless steel wine bottle stoppers. These stoppers are perfect for all wine lovers and those hosting dinner parties, game nights, or any other social gatherings. $14.88; Available online at Amazon

Stemless Wine Glass Chiller

Give the gift of chilled wine to the wine lover in your life. This gift from Oprah’s Favorite Things is a complete game-changer! The chiller has temperature-control capabilities and even keeps wine cool outdoors for up to 45 minutes. Cheers! $44.95; Available online at Amazon

Villa Lena’s New Exclusive Online Shop, Cabinet of Curiosities 

Give the gift of Italian craftsmanship with Villa Lena’s new Cabinet of Curiosities. The online store combines the best of Italian craftsmanship with sustainability, where every item is created directly on the estate or in collaboration with local artisans in the surrounding Tuscan area. The Cabinet features candles, cutouts, napkins and tablecloths, olive oils, artwork, and wines, having something for everyone. $19 – $873; Available online at Cabinet of Curiosities

Candles from CLR Los Angeles

Give the gift of serenity from CLR. With candles for every person, mood, and color, CLR’s classic collection features six types of candles that reflect a spectrum of moods. “Made by women, LGBTQIA+ people, or people of CLR,” CLR candles look sleek and clean, and smell absolutely amazing. $48

Marvel’s Avengers Calendar – Stocking Stuffer (Under $20)

Give the gift of The Avengers with this deluxe 2023 Avengers calendar. This calendar is perfect for the home or office and includes over 100 individually wrapped Dateworks calendar stickers. $14.95; Available online at Amazon

Dining

Rustic Canyon Family Holiday Cookie Box

Give the gift of delicious sweets this holiday. This season, Rustic Canyon’s Pastry Chef Erika has rallied various restaurants within the group for the Rustic Canyon Family Holiday Cookie Box, with ALL proceeds going to local charity No Us Without You. The box features a dozen treats like Huckleberry’s Mint Chocolate Sandwich Cookies with Sprinkles, Sweet Rose Creamery’s Chocolate-Dipped Macaroons, Milo + Olive’s Soft Ginger Molasses Cookies, and more! $79; Available for pickup at Rustic Canyon 12/18; 1119 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, CA 90401; 310.393.7050

Trejo’s Tacos Limited-Edition Hot Sauce 

Give the gift of spice this holiday season with a signed bottle of limited-edition Trejo’s Tacos hot sauce. The self-confessed aficionado of hot sauce, Danny Trejo has signed and numbered 1,000 bottles of each edition, available for purchase while supplies last. The hot sauce comes in a VIP box, making it an ideal gift for that special someone during the holidays and is sure to become a collector’s item. $75; Available online at the Trejo’s Tacos store

BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse’s Holiday eGift Cards

Give the gift of good food and brews with Holiday eGift Cards from BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse®. With the online purchase of a $50 eGift card, guests will receive a $10 Bonus Card. For every $100 eGift card purchased online, guests will receive a $25 Bonus Card and a 20% off VIP Card. On Cyber Monday, guests will receive a $15 Bonus Card for every $50 Gift Card purchased and a $30 Bonus Card + 20% off VIP Card for every $100 eGift card purchased. eGift cards are available through 1/1/23, and ALL bonus cards and VIP 20% off cards can be redeemed from 1/3/23 – 2/6/23. Various prices, hours, and locations

BOA Steakhouse, Katana, and Sushi Roku Gift Cards

Give the gift of fine dining with a gift card from Innovative Dining Group’s restaurants. Guests will receive a $20 Complimentary Bonus Card for every $100 purchased in gift cards. Gift cards can be purchased online or in-store at all Boa Steakhouse, Katana, and Sushi Roku locations. $10+

Café Gratitude eGift Cards

Give the gift of a delicious sweet or savory plant-based meal from Café Gratitude. Menu highlights include the I Am Hospitable (Chik’n and Waffles) for brunch, Margherita Pizza, and the I AM Glorious wrap (blackened tempeh Caesar wrap). eGift cards can be purchased in-store or online. Various prices, hours, and locations

Castaway Holiday Gift Cards

Give the gift of mouthwatering food and panoramic views with a $50 gift card to hilltop oasis Castaway. For $40, you will receive a $50 gift card, that you can personalize with your own message for same-day delivery, or for a future date. Gift cards can be purchased in-store or online, and are available through 1/1/23. $40; Mondays – Sundays, various hours; 1250 E Harvard Rd, Burbank, CA 91501; 818.848.6691

Esters Holiday Gift Cards and Gift Boxes

Give the gift of wine this holiday. Esters, the neighborhood wine shop & bar is selling beautiful holiday gift boxes and gift cards, ideal for anyone, wine novices and oenophiles alike! Pick from a variety of sizes featuring sweet and savory artisanal snacks, like gourmet tinned fish, mustards, crackers, chocolate bars and Esters’ housemade nuts, like those addictive lavender almonds, then choose a bottle of red, white or sparkling wine. There are wine-only boxes too featuring the sommelier team’s favorite seasonal offerings that range from affordable classics to cellar-worthy gems. Customizable options are available as well, if you want to mix and match snacks or select a wine from their 250+ planet-friendly list. Gift boxes and gift cards are available online, in-store, and for local and national delivery. $50+; Sundays, 12 – 9:00 pm and Mondays – Saturdays, 12 – 10:00 pm; 1314 7th St., Santa Monica, CA 90401; 310.899.6900

Eureka! Gift Cards

Give the gift of authentic, house-made food freshly cooked to order with a gift card to Eureka! Gift cards are available online and in-store 11/25 – 12/31. Various prices, hours, and locations

Gracias Madre Plant-Based Holiday Gift Card

Give the gift of delicious plant-based Gracias Madre. Guests will receive a $20 Holiday Gift Card Bonus for every $100 in Gift Cards they buy, and a complimentary Hot 8 yoga class! Grab them in-store or online through 12/31. Various prices, hours, and locations

Kebab Shop Holiday Gift Cards

Give the gift of a quality meal with a philanthropic bonus from The Kebob Shop. The award-winning, ‘Mediterranean For All’, fast-casual restaurant makes for the perfect place for a festive feast. Through 12/31, 10% of all eGift Card sales will benefit  Feeding America. Just enter promo code “Charity” when ordering an eGift Card over $20, and an eGift Card will be generated to work for online and in-store dining at all locations. Gift cards are available online. Various prices, hours, and locations

NORMS Partners with Make-A-Wish for Gift Card Promotion

Give the gift of good food and philanthropy with a gift card from NORMS. $1 from every gift card sold will be donated to Make-A-Wish! Purchase $50 in NORMS gift cards and receive a $10 bonus card, and those who purchase $30 in gift cards will receive a $5 bonus card. Gift cards are available online and in-store from now through 12/31. Bonus cards will be valid from 1/1/23 – 2/5/23. Various prices, hours, and locations

North Italia Gift Cards

Give the gift of handcrafted Italian cuisine with a gift card to North Italia. This year, North Italia is offering a limited-time promotion where those who purchase $100 worth of holiday gift cards will receive a complimentary $20 bonus card. Purchases can be split between multiple gift cards adding up to $100. Gift cards are available online and in-store from now through 12/31 at all restaurants nationwide. Bonus cards will be active immediately after purchase and redeemable through 1/31/23. Various prices, hours, and locations

Ocean Prime Gift Cards

Give the gift of a mouthwatering meal from Ocean Prime. The upscale steakhouse is offering a bonus $25 gift card for any $100 gift card purchased through 12/31. Gift cards can be used at any Cameron Mitchell Restaurant nationwide. Various prices, hours, and locations

Rock & Brews Gift Cards

Give the gift of a rockin’ good meal at Rock & Brews, the rock-inspired restaurant from the minds of rock icons Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons of KISS. Guests can purchase holiday gift cards where those who spend $50 will receive $10 in Rock & Brew Bucks, and those who spend $100 will receive $25 in Rock & Brew Bucks! Please note gift cards are not accepted at Paia, airport locations, casinos & arenas or locations outside the United States. Various prices, hours, and locations

Rustic Canyon Family Gift Cards

Give the gift of Rustic Canyon Family food! Just in time for the holidays, Rustic Canyon is offering a gift card that works at all their restaurants (except Sweet Rose Creamery as they’re set up a lil’ differently). Rustic Canyon Family Gift Cards are available as e-gift cards or physical gift cards, and can be purchased online or at any restaurant (except Sweet Rose). Various prices, hours and locations

Soulmate Gift Cards

Give the gift of Spanish Mediterranean food from West Hollywood’s Soulmate. Through 12/31, Soulmate is offering a special Holiday Gift Card Promotion. For every $100 spent at the restaurant, Soulmate will gift a $20 bonus card to be used in the new year! Gift Cards are available online and in-store. $5+; Mondays – Sundays, Various hours; 631 North Robertson Blvd., West Hollywood, CA 90069; 310.734.7764

Travel/Hospitality

19 Best Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles

Give the gift of a weekend getaway from Los Angeles. We’ve all been stressed out and looking for an escape. Between adjusting to a post-Covid world, sitting in traffic, and, well…, life, an escape may be the perfect remedy to help you blow off steam and recharge your mood. We say leave your home and head on a weekend getaway. Let hotel housekeeping worry about making the bed, and let room service cook for YOU! You just sit back and relax; you earned it! So pack your bags and get in the car because here’s a list of some of my favorite hotels from DTLA, to the desert, to the beach, to Vegas, perfect for a weekend escape from Los Angeles. Various prices

One California Day

Give the gift of adventure with new Los Angeles- based travel company One California Day. This unique travel company offers one-day SURPRISE road trip itineraries departing from Los Angeles, San Diego and San Francisco. One California Day’s mystery day-trip experiences are revealed on the actual day of travel, making for an accessible and exciting day of Californian discovery. According to founder Trina Hendry, “One California Day encourages Californians and visitors to escape the city and explore the Golden State’s beauty one memorable day at a time.” $80+; Available online at One California Day

The Peninsula Beverly Hills Gift Guide

Give the gift of luxury at The Peninsula Beverly Hills. The luxury hotel invites you to celebrate in style, with a curated a collection of unique gifts – whether for a spa lover, fashionista, whiskey drinker, traveler and more. Various prices; 9882 S. Santa Monica Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90212; 310.551.2888

• Luxurious Weekend Getaway: Relax and unwind with a luxurious weekend getaway.
• Foodies: The Peninsula Beverly Hills Signature Smoked Salmon to-go. Farmed in the wild, pristine waters of the Faroe islands, the 1 lb. smoked salmon filet is rich, silk, and flavorful. The gift package will include house-made bagel chips and an Apple Cucumber Horseradish Sour Cream Salad as well.
• Whiskey Lover: The Peninsula Collectors’ Table 9 Whiskey. The Peninsula Beverly Hills is the first hotel to launch a collaboration with celebrate cult whiskey creators, the first release in Wolves Hotel Series is named after the most sought-after table at the hotel.
• Wellness: The Innovative Skincare Facial by Biologique Recharche, MBR, 111 Skin, and more at the Peninsula Spa is wonderful. Relax with Voyage et Ciet Candles & Bath Salts available at the spa for the ultimate luxury blend for travel, fragrance, and design. And the Peninsula Spa experience includes highly effective treatments with the finest therapists and products to offer a truly customized spa experience.
• Comfort lover: Get cozy in the Wrap Up by VP Pajama Set, available at the Peninsula Beverly Hills Spa. This unique line of men and women’s sleepwear is designed for every personality. And head to sleep on The Peninsula Monogrammed Pillowcase Set for $145: send your loved ones a set of (2) King size FRETTE 3000 thread count, 100% cotton sateen pillowcases with a small vertical stripe design and monogrammed initials with a silver thread.
• Fashionista:  Purchase one-of-a-kind accessories and ready-to-wear from the designer pop-up on property, Sita 1910 which includes designer collection from around the globe. Choose from custom jackets, pants, shirts & suits for men and women at Mr. Alex Beverly Hills, a third-generation bespoke clothing boutique located on property. Additionally, guests can choose from a curated selection of ties, belts, scarves, cufflinks, and knitwear. And treat someone to luxury resort wear & accessories from the on-property boutique store, Marie France Van Damme.
• Kiddos: Give your kiddos a trip to the giant Polar Bear Gift Shop with a personally curated collection of specialty gifts for children. Items can be ordered through the hotel and delivered wrapped or unwrapped directly to the room.

Kenneth Cole 3-Piece Luggage Set

Give the gift of travel to the adventurer in your life with this 3-piece luggage set from Kenneth Cole. Available in a variety of colors, each piece features 8-wheel multi-directional spinners, expands an additional 2 inches, and has several zippered organization pockets for your shoes and clothing. $283.96; Available online at Amazon

Brick and Mortar Stores

Emerald Forest Gifts and Fine Crafts

Give the gift of, well, everything from Emerald Forest Gifts and Fine Crafts. Emerald Forest is one of my favorite stores in L.A. More than your average gift shop, this unique boutique is filled with an eclectic mix of artisan crafts perfect for aiding in your holiday gift shopping. “From jewelry, accessories, bath, and body, baby, men’s, books, to home décor, we’ve thoughtfully selected unique and special gifts from around the world.” $30+; Tuesdays – Saturdays, 11:00 am – 5:30 pm; 12638 Ventura Blvd., Studio City, CA 91604; 818.509.8529

Shutters On the Beach Invites You to the Barclay Butera Boutique

Give the gift of eclectic home décor. Shutters On the Beach unveiled a stunning seasonal transformation of its lobby Living Room and front façade, created by renowned interior designer and arbiter of Southern California style, Barclay Butera. The oceanfront lobby is now a chic holiday wonderland, dressed in glittering décor custom-designed exclusively for the hotel. Complementing the lobby transformation is a new Barclay Butera Boutique featuring a collection of eclectic home décor. The boutique sells furnishings from Barclay Butera’s collection for Lexington Home Brands, alongside an assortment of luxury hand-poured candles, diffusers, one-of-a-kind shell and coral pieces, handblown glass in distinct shapes, blue and white ginger jars, signature picture frames, pillows, and throws, bar accessories, bathroom accessories, original art, baskets, totes, and more. Various prices; Mondays – Sundays, 10:00 am – 8:00 pm; 1 Pico Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90405; 866.527.6612

Sumi’s Handmade Jewelry, Gifts

Give the gift of unique, handmade pieces from Los Feliz favorite Sumi’s Handmade Jewelry and Gifts. For more than 15 years, Sumi’s has been selling unique jewelry and gifts ranging in price and style. Sumi’s is a store that “everyone could shop at.” Available for in-store and online purchases. $28+; Mondays – Saturdays, 10:00 am – 8:00 pm and Sundays, 11:00 am – 6:00 pm; 1812 N. Vermont Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90027; 323.660.0869

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