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’Tis the season for entertaining at home, and we’ve chosen a few of our favorite gifts that will delight the host and hostess on your list.
Cause for Comfort
That's only $1 per issue!
When it comes to cozy couch time in front of the fire, there’s no such thing as too many pillows. These handmade creations (pictured above) from Mend Creative are twice as nice—bringing comfort to the recipient and the crafter. Mend Creative is part of the nonprofit Hope in Our City, and teaches refugees from Somalia and Ethiopia the art of sewing. Executive director Dara McCabe relies on volunteers (and their sewing machines) to teach the women sewing and alteration skills, resulting in a collection of charming home accessories. Like the historic sewing circles of America’s past, these women find community with each other and Denver-at-large while creating beautiful crafts for the home. Prices start at $22; local orders placed by December 18 will be available for Christmas delivery. mendcreative.com
Photo by Jerilyn Forsythe
Sweets for the Sweet
The first rule of being a good guest is never show up empty handed. This party season, make your host happy and arrive with a box of Temper Chocolates. Handcrafted in-house at Denver Central Market in RiNo, Jon Robbins creates these divine chocolates, which are definitely gift-worthy. Best known as Bistro Barbés’ owner and executive chef, Robbins utilizes chocolate techniques he learned in France and delights in creating unique flavors (we can’t choose between the honey-touched Bee’s Knees or the Salt’n’Pepa). While Temper’s 14 signature flavors rotate, delicious options are always available for you to create a personally tailored box. Prices start at $3 each; box of 12 for $30; Denver Central Market, 2669 Larimer St.
Courtesy of Michael DiPaulo
Everlasting Evergreen
Put down the Poinsettias and step away from the Christmas cactus. This year, deliver a blooming gift that will delight for holidays to come: A custom silk floral arrangement from Greenwood Village’s HomeFest Decor. Get creative at the shop’s adorable floral shed, and collaborate with the in-house designer who’ll craft your whimsy. Or choose from the many pre-made seasonal arrangements always available on the shop floor. (The designer is on site Tuesdays and Thursdays.) Prices for arrangement shown start at $275; HomeFest Decor, 5912 S. Holly St., Greenwood Village; 303-741-3920; homefestdecor.com
Courtesy of Revampt Goods
Rock Solid Service
Who doesn’t love setting out a gorgeous cheese board? Created from Colorado granite, “Serving Slabs” from Cherry Creek North’s ReVampt Goods will please any host on your list. Handmade locally and offered in a variety of stones, you’ll easily find one to match any kitchen’s decor. Frankly, we wouldn’t fault you for picking up an extra one for yourself. Prices range according to size, $78 to $189; ReVampt Goods, 2601 E. Third Ave., 720-536-5464; revamptgoods.com
Courtesy of Rosy Rings
Spark the Senses
There are candles and there are candles. When it comes to gifting, we love sharing a candle that our friends might not normally buy themselves. This year we discovered Denver’s Rosy Rings Candles. Rosy Rings has been making these exquisite creations for more than 20 years here in Denver. Featuring natural elements from fruits and berries to cinnamon and flowers, these hand-poured candles bring lovely seasonal elements to any decor and burn for hours. Prices vary; the Bay Garland (pictured) available for $165; The Shop at the Gardens, Denver Botanic Gardens, 1007 York St.; 720-865-3501; view the full collection at rosyrings.com
Courtesy of The Local Deck
Pick Up the Check
Even the most prolific home cooks enjoy a night off. Give them an excuse to explore the local scene with either of these discount packs: The Local Deck or the EatDenver Deck. The Local Deck is a handcrafted box filled with 26 coasters. Each coaster offers a discount to a local restaurant/distillery or outdoor brand, totaling $300 in savings from bikes to beers. The EatDenver Dining Deck, produced by our local independent restaurant association, EatDenver, resembles a deck of cards and includes $10 discount coupons for 56 of your favorite local restaurants. (Coupons must be used for minimum purchases of $25.) The Local Deck, $30; EatDenver Dining Deck, $55, available at all Tattered Cover bookstores and online