Mar’s Holiday Gift Guide

1. Nest:  The Nest Protect

nest.com

I may not be a character from “T’was the Night Before Christmas,” but I do look forward to “settling in for a long winter’s nap” after this busy season. I know I’ll enjoy it even more securely thanks to this. No one likes the idea they’re not keeping their home as safe and secure as it could be–that’s why this is my ‘forward thinking’ “must have”. The new Nest Protect brings smoke and CO detectors into the future. It has an industrial-grade smoke sensor, tests itself automatically, and lasts up to a decade. It’s also the first home alarm you can hush from your phone without any extra hardware required. And just like the original Nest Protect, it tells you what’s wrong and can even alert your phone. Meet the all-new Nest Protect. The smoke alarm other alarms look up to.

2. Canine Styles: Dog Apparel

caninestyles.com

I felt like howling with delight when I discovered this emporium. The items I got for my fur-baby Violet — cashmere sweaters, stylish leashes, a sleek rain slicker — are fashionable and functional and such quality! Since I try to stay stylish, why shouldn’t she get the chance to stay current, too? Canine Styles, New York’s oldest and finest dog emporium, offers world-class grooming and an amazing line of products made only for them. The product designs are known for their attention to detail, a painstaking focus on fit and usefulness. They combine a traditional flair with an up-to-date design. They boast the best selection of dog toys, clothing, coats & sweaters, collars, leashes, harnesses, dog beds, carriers, bowls, dog ID tags, and every conceivable necessity and luxury for your dog. 

3. Bottle Light

suck.uk.com/products/bottle-light/

Two of my 6 core Casual Luxury design principles are “Embrace Light and Reflection” and “Repurpose”, so imagine how happy I was to find such a clever way to combine them? Light up your life with these clever bottle lights. They’re simple to charge — just plug into any USB charger. When the indicator light goes out, you’re all set. Cork any bottle and enjoy the light show. Perfect for a holiday table setting, picnic lighting or anytime you want to add a touch of light and reflection. Such a ‘brilliant’ way to add the ‘wow’ factor. My design tip: Group bottles of varying heights together in uneven numbers for the most desirable look. 

4. Marvis: Contemporary Toothpaste

marvismint.com

Okay, who thought that brushing your teeth could be so addictive? I know that smiles are a universal language, so no wonder this fabulous toothpaste has advocates around the world. It sure gives me a reason to smile a lot. These have really changed my morning routine into a pleasure. Classic Strong Mint, Ginger Mint, Jasmin Mint, Cinnamon Mint, Amarelli Licorice and Aquatic Mint are the headlining flavors for Marvis Contemporary toothpaste. It is a casual luxury item that anyone can enjoy. Elevate your daily ablutions with an uncommonly good toothpaste.

5. My Social Book

mysocialbook.com

Like many of us, I love looking back at my social media feeds, so when I found this fantastic way to virtually rewind what’s happened over the years I was a quick convert. For the past 5 years, I’ve gifted this to myself–and it’s aMARzing when I flip through these books how I discover things I’d forgotten, and get to see lots of pics of great friends and fun adventures. Your life deserves a book. My Social Book automatically captures your entire Facebook Life from your Facebook and Instagram and/or turns it into a Keepsake Book. Watch your life unfold before your very eyes as you relax and peruses the pages created to recall the last year’s moments, big and small.

And there you have it.