Creating Luxury in Everyday Life: The Maine Gift Edition
Words by katrine west
Photography by Stephen Davis Phillips
Admittedly, I start thinking about Christmas in September. The crisp chill in the air, the woodsy smell of fall leaves, pumpkin carving, and hot apple cider are all just foreplay for the main event of the year—and for me, that’s Christmas.
I have fond memories of marching through the snowy woods of Brownfield with my grandfather hunting for our very own Charlie Brown-esque Christmas tree. They were always a little quirky, but it never mattered. Once adorned with twinkly lights and cherished family ornaments, the tree radiated a festive cheer that made the house feel magical. And of course, I would spend ages rattling parcels under the tree trying to imagine the contents before getting to open them on Christmas morning.
As an adult, I crave that same feeling of childish wonder and delight. We shop at local farmstands for the freshest, most vibrant, aromatic trees possible. When traveling, Mr. West and I are always on the lookout for local Christmas tree ornaments and have amassed a collection from around the world. Decorating the tree is now also a walk down memory lane as we reminisce about where each ornament originated.
And it’s not officially the holidays at our house until we have watched The Sound of Music and sung along with Maria, “Bright copper kettles and warm woolen mittens, Brown paper packages tied up with strings, These are a few of my favorite things …” (In truth, I secretly always wanted to be the Baroness!)
The holiday season is also a time of gifting. No longer rattling packages from under the tree, I get to create my own brown paper packages tied up with string and get great satisfaction from finding gifts that hopefully spark joy—and add a little luxury in everyday life.
I want to share with you the Mrs. West Approved Holiday Gift Guide—a selection of items that I regularly gift to friends and family from near and far, who all have a love for Maine. I am also excited to support local businesses, and these are brands that I personally shop year-round, with an eye on holiday gifting naturally! I hope they offer you a bit of inspiration and land under someone’s Christmas tree, received with joy and wonder of the season.
SoPo Seafood and Market
For the seafood lover on your holiday shopping list, this is your one-stop shop. From oysters, scallops, and mussels pulled out of the water that day, to luxe lobster and caviar, to sushi-grade Maine uni and bluefin tuna, SoPo Seafood delivers—quite literally, as they offer next day delivery nationwide. For friends and family “from away” who crave the taste of Maine, I love to send the classic Maine Lobster Roll Kit that includes fresh lobster meat and brioche buns from Little Spruce Baking Co. I added their caviar for an extra dash of indulgence. I also suggest exploring SoPo’s impressive gift box section for more delicious ideas.
the maine lobster roll kit for four $97.99 | soposeafood.com
La Marée Art Serving Boards
These stunning serving boards are perfect for those who love to entertain, and they never fail to dazzle. They offer an elegant canvas that uplevels any tablescape. Each one is handmade by Meghan Surette in her Brunswick workshop and is a unique piece of functional art. Meghan’s work is inspired by the depth, complexity and serenity of the ocean. New to the collection this season is the lobster claw board (pictured with the lobster rolls).
la marée art serving boards
from $80 | lamareeart.com
SKORDO
For the home-cook enthusiast, SKORDO is a mecca of culinary delights. I am especially smitten with their extensive spice collection. Spices have long been prized for adding exotic luxury to the everyday and have transformative powers to evoke different cuisines, cultures, experiences, and even memories. This holiday season check out the Barton Seaver X SKORDO Wine Pairing Spice Rub collab.
barton seaver x skordo wine pairing spice rub | two for $29 | skordo.com
Marin Skincare
This is my go-to stocking stuffer for everyone. The Marin lip treatment is not only powered by marine glycoproteins that hydrate, repair, and protect, but they also come in the most addictive flavors like Blueberry French Toast and new this season is Gingerbread. Cranberry is my favorite and incredibly kissable. (Just ask Mr. West!)
marin skincare lip treatment
$19.99 each | marinskincare.com
Michel Design Works
These soap bundles make a lovely hostess gift that keeps on giving long after the party is over. I adore these sumptuous soaps year-round but especially during the holiday season. As the days get colder, the rich shea butter and aloe vera formulation gently cleanse and, importantly, moisturize. The holiday fragrances boosts our merry mood all season long.
michel design soap bundles
price varies | stonewallkitchen.com
L.L. Bean’s Monogrammed Boat and Totes
I am absolutely wild about the new mini Boat and Tote. It’s everything you love about the enduring original but cuter. To be fair, all the sizes are an essential year-round accessory that wears well for those in need of a smart looking catch all, but for me adding a monogram, initial, or saucy word makes it an especially thoughtful gift.
l.l. bean boat and tote
from $35.95 | llbean.com
Maine Needs
A tribute gift is a wonderful way to honor your friend or family member plus give back to the community. I am particularly inspired by the important work Maine Needs does to provide essentials so individuals and families can focus on fulfilling and pursuing higher needs. The holidays can be particularly challenging for some and there is no better time to volunteer or donate.
