As we move into 2019, I plan to be more vocal about my mission as designer and realtor – to keep you informed about the value of all things home – homeownership, home values and ways to find and create a space for yourself to best feel supported and cared for. 2018 has not been year of kindness, and I gotta say that 2017 wasn’t so great either. The more we focus on what really matters in our lives, the more we can detach from consumerism for the sake of consumption. I encourage all of us to be thoughtful with our gift giving. Give what you can, support small businesses and charities that are meaningful to you through time or monetary donations, and give of yourself by being kind. Here’s to a Holiday Season filled with authentic connections and meaningful gifting. 

Personally and professionally, I favor things that are handmade. Not only are they often made more responsibly, and by small maker-run businesses, but the handcrafted-ness inherently imbues each item with a more individualized vibe therefore making it feel more personal.

The coming weekends offer several opportunities to find GORGEOUS handmade items. The ever popular @EPCF is 12/8,9+10 at Mack Sennet Studios. There you can count on finding a trove of great gift ideas including one of my favorite, hand painted ceramics by @rebekahmiles all while fully immersing yourself in that East side vibe. But do not overlook the lesser known shows and open studios. I will be going to @frenchgeneral ‘s Holiday Pop-Up this Sunday 12/1 from 11-4 (2009 Riverside Drive) and will also be paying a visit to @katandroger ‘s open studio on Saturday 12/1 from 3-8pm (4171 Verdugo.)

Anyone who knows me, knows I am an eater. I always order dessert and have never skipped a carb. #proud As much as I love holiday baked goods and homemade hot fudge or whatever other sweets I am fortunate enough to receive, there is really only so much I can eat…or hoard. So here’s an idea – wouldn’t you love to receive a quart of your friend’s famous chili or Marcella Hazan’s bolognese to freeze and save for a night when you just cannot deal with dinner? I know I would. Consider making a huge batch of your favorite one pot meal, dividing it into freezable containers, and delivering it accompanied by a cute wooden spoon or dish towel (from the fairs and studios you visited or from my friend’s cozy new store +Coop on Larchmont near Melrose,) and then cross a whole bunch of folks off your list.

Changing gears. Any shopping or gift guide in my book has gotta include jewelry. Getting it is great. Giving it can be a real challenge. I can’t comfortably recommend many jewelry designers whose work is as  loved as much as that created by Ted Muehling. I’ve been collecting his pieces since forever. The gentle curves, the finishes, the simplicity are the epitome of well, everything I love about the handcrafted. The only place in LA to find Mr. Muehling’s work is @AugustLA, one of my absolute favorite spots and the perfect location on Third Street to do some holiday shopping. Pick something out for a friend like these oxidized bronze chips or like these large egg chains I’ve selected for myself, then call your friend/sibling/neighbor/me and have them tell that special someone special in your life. You won’t break the bank and you’ll thank me forever.

By making even some of our gifts this season, being more mindful of our consumption, and spending even $5 less each on “required,” er I mean, lovingly given gifts, savings can be pooled to Adopt a Family or give to a cause that you believe in. We’ve all been asked to give a lot this year; natural disasters, party politics, separated families, schools and clubs, are all regularly asking us to give. It feels louder than ever. It makes me long for the simpler, less tumultuous times, of yesterday or even last month. So I’m asking you to think about what you give this year. Think about who you give to. Is this something your child’s teacher needs, or are you checking a box to stay in their good graces? Give the teacher cash or a gift card. S/he needs it and will appreciate it. I guarantee you the teacher doesn’t need that cute plastic thing from Target. (No offense, Target.) And those obligatory, office/friend/book club gift exchanges? I love ’em – don’t get me wrong. I did get an awesome Kiehl’s hand lotion at the one I went to last year. But this year, suggest to your friends that you get together to visit and reconnect instead. It’s in our hands. Be mindful of your consumption. That’s the best gift of all.

Happy Holidays.