For her, for him, for them, for your loved ones or for your guests… Here are 10 decorative objects to offer as gifts at Christmas.
I did the exercise last April for Mother's Day (see the article here ) , I had to repeat the experience for the holiday season.
When making my choices, I had in mind to present decorative objects in different price ranges that would appeal to young and old, with a preference for ecological and local products. Note that several of them can be offered as hostess gifts - to make something different from the traditional bottle of wine.
I also had in mind to present everyday useful objects, which are found in all homes, but which we do not necessarily think of when it comes time to offer a gift. I suggest a scented candle (a safe bet), but why not… a doormat?
Come on, let's play designer Santa!
1 – A salt or pepper mill: the ASTA model from Arbol cuisine
Made in Kamouraska by the cabinetmaker at the head of Arbol cuisine , Stéphane Dumont, the ASTA mill is minimalist and focuses on the unique characteristics of the wood (from here) from which it comes. A GPS tag even tells you the exact location where it was picked! Dimensions: 2 ½ x 2 ½ x 9 ¼ in. Price: $170 to $200 depending on the mechanism.
Photo credit: Arbol cuisine
2 – A hand soap: the KIND HOME collection by BKIND
The bottle is pretty… but what’s inside is even better: a hand soap made with natural, vegan and biodegradable ingredients. BKIND , founded in 2014 by Maryline Bouchard (bachelor’s and master’s degree in microbiology), designs products that are good for you and good for the planet. Everything is made in Montreal. The soap, with a grapefruit and eucalyptus scent, is also available in bulk at several locations. Size: 475 ml. Price: $20.
Photo credit: BKIND
3 – An aromatic candle: Happy Blend by Linen Vale at Pilimpikou
“Handmade with love by local women” is the slogan of the Montreal company Pilimpikou (a word that means “butterfly”). Its mission: to be a showcase for Quebec and Canadian artisans. On its website, you can find beauty products, decor, clothing, etc. and candles. Including this one, Happy Blend, by Linen Vale, handmade in Montreal from soy wax and 100% natural essential oils. Size: 8 oz (up to 45 hours). Price: $30 (on special at $25 at the time of publication).
Photo credit: Linen Vale
4 – A doormat: Simons’ whimsical bouquet
A doormat, really? Oh yeah! Who doesn’t need one—or won’t need a new one soon? I chose this bouquet for its beauty, but also because the idea of welcoming guests with flowers seems more than appropriate. Several other designs (fir trees, foxes, hearts, winter sports, mushrooms) are available at the same price. Top made of 100% coconut fiber, PVC bottom. Dimensions: 16 x 27 in. Price: $18.
Photo credit: Simons
5 – A knife holder: the Hazaki block at Doyon Després
The person you are giving a gift to loves spending time in the kitchen? They have beautiful knives but they are not visible? This new magnetic block made of walnut, handmade in Canada, will show them off with panache. The block has two magnetic strips (one on each side) and can hold 8 to 10 knives. Wood is sustainably sourced. Price $149 (on special at $112.49 at the time of publication), knives not included.
Photo credit: Doyon Després
6 – A dish towel: the Bagel at Magasin Général
With its vintage look from the last century, this dish towel almost deserves to be displayed on the wall! Plus: it contains the famous (and very simple) recipe for smoked salmon bagels – which always makes me salivate. You can order it online on the Magasin Général website, but you can also go to the boutique located in Old Montreal and then take a ride on the Ferris Wheel (it's right in front) to admire the city from 60 meters high… 100% Canadian design. 100% cotton. Dimensions: 18.5 x 29.5 in. Price: $16.50.
Photo credit: General Store
7 – A recipe book: Always hungry! by Laurent Dagenais
You don't know Laurent Dagenais?! He's the new gastronomic darling of the web, and he's a Quebecer. He has more than two million subscribers on Tiktok, and almost as many on Instagram. His recipes are generous, maybe even a little decadent, but they really make you want to cook. Go watch his videos (plan for 30 minutes to 1 hour, you won't want to stop), they are inspiring and more than entertaining. His book, published by Éditions de l'Homme, presents 70 recipes on 224 pages. Price: $39.95.
Photo credit: Editions de l'Homme
8 – Coloring placemats for children: Funny Mats from DeSerres
My 3-year-old son doesn't know it, but he's getting some for Christmas. He'll color with washable markers, I'll clean with a damp cloth, and we'll start again the next day and the day after. Also great for when little friends come over. The themes (I counted 21) are very varied: the underwater world, insects, pirates, space, dinosaurs, means of transportation, the farm, unicorns, the alphabet (illustrated), jungle animals, and so on... Made of recyclable polypropylene. Price: $7.99.
Photo credit: DeSerres
9 – A notepad: Liligraffiti’s creations
I pass on the notepads of real estate brokers in my neighborhood to my boyfriend. I can leave mine lying around on the counter or the dinner table without any hesitation… A favorite: Liligraffti’s creations. Marie-Laure Plano, graphic designer and illustrator, launched her company in 2015. Her inspirations: Montreal, animals and nature, “the simple details of everyday life that
Photo credit: Liligraffti10 – A poster: reproductions by Artza&Co.
Artza&Co., a Montreal company, offers eco-friendly wallpapers and wall stickers (which I have tested and recommend), but it also offers posters, which are very affordable. Portraits, country landscapes or still lifes, the reproductions of often century-old works will breathe soul into any decor. The hardest part is choosing just one… Which one would please the person you want to give it to as a Christmas gift? See here . Dimensions: from 8 x 10 in. to 18 x 24 in. Price: from $22 to $45, frame not included.
Photo credit: Artza&Co.
Opening photo: William Renaud Studio for Laurent Dagenais
Julie Deslauriers is an actress, stylist, interior design columnist and eco-friendly mom. You've probably seen her on Chambres en Ville or other shows? Alongside her acting career, Julie has developed another passion: interior design.
We are happy about our brand new editorial collaboration and her valuable advice. You can follow her on her Instagram feed @lejuliebazar .
Stay tuned for more decorating tips from Julie!
