Ready, set, party! Thanksgiving is just the first of the season’s plethora of celebrations. So, what’s the secret to securing an invite to the very best holiday soirées? Show up with a great hostess gift. For inspiration, we headed to designer Noel Pittman’s new retail emporium on W. Lovers Lane — a cozy, cottage-like space with treasures at every turn.
“My dream was to open a shop where I could showcase my style. You walk in here and immediately understand my aesthetic,” Pittman said.
It’s a look Pittman describes as fresh traditional. “I source from all over the world. I’m always finding beautiful things that don’t necessarily fit into a job I’m working on. The shop gives me a place to share them.”
Among the globally-inspired offerings: vintage Moroccan ceramics, hand-painted Venetian dinnerware, glazed Spanish Lebrillos, Kalamkari tablecloths from India — each and every one, a stellar gift
Pittman recommends pairing something for the home with something edible.
Gourmet nuts with a Tamegroute nut bowl, for example, or a favorite wine with a wicker sleeve. “The idea is to include a pretty accent they can put on the table,” she said. “Hostess gifts are a really lovely way to thank someone for welcoming you into their home.”
Read on for our curated list of thoughtful gift ideas guaranteed to surprise and delight.
Pittman’s Picks
Ceramic Moroccan Nut Bowls. Adds a festive flair to any table.
Wicker Bottle Holder. Makes any wine instantly more giftable.
Basketweave Cheese Knive Set. Pair with your host’s favorite cheese and you’re good to go.
Budding Vine Platter. Handcrafted by potters in the oasis village of Tunis in Fayoum.
Celestial Side Table. Pittman’s pick for best splurge-worthy gift. Handwoven rattan with a natural varinsh.
2024 Desk Calendar. From artist Inslee Farris,12 watercolor designs in a collectible linen box.
Wicker Dog Bed. Comes complete with a custom upholstered pillow.
More can’t-miss gifts
Männkitchen Pepper Cannon. The crème de la crème of peppermills. This is the one that chefs are going gaga over, according to New York magazine.
Bread Warming Blanket. Unlike a cloth napkin, this has a removable heater to keep bread extra warm.
Espresso Martini Infusion Kit. Add the liquor of your choice to this steeping jar. It will infuse with espresso beans, cacao nibs, and cinnamon to create a base for ready-to-pour espresso martinis.
Noel Pittman’s eponymous boutique is located at 4915 W. Lovers Lane, Dallas; open weekdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
