In search of the perfect host or thank you gift for the holidays? Here are our favorite gift ideas — perfect for teachers, co-workers, hairdressers, and hosts — that you can find at stores throughout Chicago and the North Shore.
Rare by Chalet, Price Varies
A Best of 2022 Winner – Best Home & Garden Store, Suburbs
3132 Lake Ave., Wilmette
Head to Chalet to select a beautiful houseplant from their RARE collection, for a truly unique and beautiful gift that any plant lover will appreciate.
In the Company of Women: Inspiration and Advice from over 100 Makers, Artists, and Entrepreneurs by Grace Bonney, $35
Papersource, 2100 Central St, Evanston
This book by Design*Sponge’s Founder, Grace Bonney, is full of practical, inspirational advice for those “looking to forge their own paths.” It includes interviews and portraits from 100 exceptional leaders across a diverse range of races, ages, backgrounds, and industries.
Hudson Grace HG Winter Candle, $65
339 Park Ave, Glencoe
A perfect scent for the season, no one would be sad to receive this beautiful candle crafted by a master perfumer. The scents include rubbed sage, Canadian balsam, Moroccan cedar, and bay laurel, plus a nostalgic hint of firewood.
Vosges Haut-Chocolat Ultima Materia Collection Gift Set, $125
Based in Chicago, woman-owned Vosges creates the most delicious and unique chocolates around. This Holiday 2022 gift set will wow anyone, and includes a beautiful scarf.
Clare V. x Giffords Canvas Tote with Pins, $65
939 W Armitage Ave, Chicago
For the friend who fights for gun violence prevention, gift them this canvas tote with meaning: 30% of the purchase price will be given back to former Congresswoman and Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient Gabrielle Giffords. Espoir et Courage translates to “Hope and Courage,” the rallying cry Gabby Giffords uses when spreading her message of unwavering hope in the face of adversity.
Schafer’s Wines, Foods And Spirits: Bollinger Special Cuvee Champagne, $69.95
A Best of 2022 Winner – Best Wine Store, Suburbs
9965 Gross Point Rd, Skokie
A staff favorite, this champagne from France has very fine bubbles and a beautiful aromatic complexity.
Jeni’s Ice Cream Holiday Party Collection, $105
A Best of 2022 Winner – Best Ice Cream, City
Nothing says thank you more than a heap of ice cream, especially from our Best of 2022 winner, Jeni’s. This collection features nine signature and holiday flavors like boozy eggnog and white chocolate peppermint, plus bowls, spoons, and an ice cream scoop.
