Page 40 - The Hunt - Winter 2024

GOLUBOVY/STOCK.ADOBE.COM
Gift-giving, decorating, and entertaining are seasonal traditions, but they’re not necessarily always enjoyable. Social media and retailers have raised expectations. Instead of living up to Martha Stewart, we must match the talents of umpteen influencers.
We asked local business owners for tips to lighten the holiday load.
SAVVY GIFT-GIVING
Start by considering the
recipients’ inspirations,
hobbies, favorite animal
or color, says Mimi
Sullivan, owner of Bloom
in Greenville and Newark.
“This helps the gift-editing process,” she explains.
If you know where they shop, talk to the sales crew. “We can quickly look at
6 todaymedia.com I December 2024
previous customer purchases to see sizes, styles and preferences or see if they have a wish list on file,” says Amber Shader, founder of F+L Boutique and F+L Home in Middletown.
Shader recommends reviewing their social media pages to gauge style and interests. “Do they wear gold versus silver jewelry? Do they love the beach? Do they drink wine or love tennis?” she asks.
Certain items appeal to many people. According to Shader’s gift guide, hot
ideas include cozy slippers, blankets, luxury candles, coffee table books, earrings and cuff bracelets. Don’t know
the person’s size? Shader suggests a one-size cardigan, wrap or poncho.
F+L Home’s line of luxury candles and home fragrances are ideal for the person with everything. The shop also pre-wraps items such as a woven cardholder wallet with a gift card for easy grab-and-go.
“We ship worldwide so that anyone can use an e-gift card or physical gift card from shopfandl.com,” adds Shader, who keeps wrapped items at home for last-minute presents.
She says she avoids personal items such as lingerie for casual acquaintances or colleagues. Lottery tickets and alcohol are also a no-no in the office. Don’t
give food unless you know the person’s dietary preferences or allergies. Moreover, to avoid offending someone who doesn’t celebrate it, eschew products with a holiday theme, such
as Christmas.
DECKING THE HALLS
When it comes to holiday
décor, interior designer
Rosemarie Dodd Giroso
recommends incorporating
memorabilia. She has an original Elf on a
Holiday Tips from the Experts
Mimi Sullivan
Rosemarie
Dodd Giroso