My Basket

Our Ultimate Guide to Gifting for a Showstopping Festive Season

Written by: Mark Holloway

|

Published on

|

Time to read 5 min

The joy of festive gifting lies in finding that perfect something for a loved one and seeing their face light up with excitement when they unwrap it. Hunting for a present that feels personal, thoughtful and beautifully made can be tricky. Whether you’re looking for a design-led piece for the home, a statement accessory for someone with an eye for style or a treasure that will be cherished for years to come, we’ve got you covered.


In this guide, we’ve curated our ultimate selection of gifts to help you celebrate in style. From the design devotee to the style conscious, the entertainer to the gardener, discover ideas from our favourite designer brands to surprise and delight every person on your list. This Christmas, make gifting an art form!

For the Style Conscious


We all know someone who loves keeping up to date with latest trends. HAY is an excellent place to start, with their contemporary and easy to style designs. The HAY Barrow Plates and Bowls make an excellent addition to a modern kitchen or dining space.


Make them think you’re in the know by gifting a pair of the trending Addison Ross Bobin Salt & Pepper Mills. Choose contrasting colours for extra points, adding some appreciated playfulness to their kitchen.


The &Tradition VP9 Flowerpot has become a coveted item, seen in the home of influencers and style bloggers. This portable, rechargeable version of the classic can be placed wherever needed, even outdoors, becoming a much-loved companion around the home.

A collection of plates and bowls in a cream white colour  called the Barro range
Featuring the Barro Collection by HAY

The Music Lover


Undoubtedly cool, the Transparent Speaker would get the approval of any music lover, with its exceptional sound quality and impressive technical specs. The sleek design is made from tempered glass and aluminium, giving it a minimalistic edge. The wireless Bluetooth connection gives the speaker endless possibilities, with the capability of synchronising two for stereo sound.


For something even more special, the Transparent Turntable brings the classic vinyl player up to date with its modern aesthetic. Designed to be completely modular, the turntable pairs perfectly with the Transparent Speaker, offering your music lover a space to listen to their cherished vinyl records in style.


Shop our Gifts for Music Lovers category for more ideas.

The Design Aficionado


For someone who appreciates and recognises design classics, the Vitra Ball Wall Clock is sure to impress. Part of acclaimed designer George Nelson’s iconic 1950s collection, this wall clock is a symbol of design excellence. Double up your gifting with the Vitra Hang It All for a co-ordinating mid-century surprise.


Another mid-century classic is the Artemide Nessino Table Lamp. This one is perfect for gifting someone who loves retro décor. A recognisable piece, the Nessino was designed in 1967 by Giancarlo Mattioli and affectionately named the “mushroom lamp”. Its warm glow is guaranteed to delight even the pickiest of design lovers.

A home office featuring the Vitra Ball Wall clock which sits above a creative desk
Featuring the Vitra Ball Wall Clock

For the Entertainer


An excellent gift to show your appreciation to that loved one who throws the best dinner parties, is the Audo Copenhagen Deluxe Wine Breather. No need for lengthy aeration, this clever carafe infuses bottles with 10 times more oxygen in under 2 mins, ensuring they get the most from their favourite bottles of wine.


Coloured cocktail glasses turn regular drinks into a special occasions. Gift a pair of Astoria Martini Cocktail Glasses or choose the whole set (Belfry Gin and Tonic glass & Lexington Cocktail Glasses) for seasoned mixology enthusiasts.


Browse our Coctails at Home selection for gifts sure to impress.

The Homebody


This person loves nothing more than a cozy night in. Add to their comfort with a pair of HAY Dot Cushions, available in a huge range of colours to suit any personality or décor scheme. Treat them to a warm Throw made from supersoft 100% merino wool, for keeping snug whilst they spend the evening watching their favourite shows.


The HAY Fineline Long Nightshirt is the perfect gift to relax around the home in, but for pure indulgence, gift with the matching Fineline Duvet Cover and Fineline Pillow Cases. This set adds a touch of luxury and class to bedtimes, guaranteeing a sound night’s sleep.

The Gardener


For that friend or family member who loves their plants, the gift them beautifully designed gardening tools. Audo x Pallares Plant Tools are collaboration between Spanish toolmakers Pallares and Audo Copenhagen, including three gardening essentials to ensure potting, planting and maintaining the garden is done with ease.


Kitchen gardeners will appreciate the Design House Stockholm Botanic Herb Box proving ample space for growing herbs. Gift the Hubsch Flora Watering Can, designed to take pride of place alongside their green displays.

The Herb box by Design House Stockholm on a kitchen counter
Featuring the Herb Box by Design House Stockholm

The Coffee Connoisseur


We all know someone who is particular about their morning brew. Upgrade their coffee ritual with the Tom Dixon Brew Mill and Tom Dixon Brew Expresso Maker: a beautiful stainless steel coffee mill and stovetop percolator designed to recognise coffee making as an artform.


If they prefer a longer brew, the HAY French Press comes in two different colours, brightening up the kitchen. A coffee inspired gift would not be complete without something to enjoy it from. Choose HAY Brew Cups to tie in perfectly, or gift a set of Tom Dixon Bump Coffee Cups for something more opulent.

For Dog Lovers


Our furry friends are just as important! HAY have created a co-ordinated range of pet accessories to delight both dogs and their owners. The HAY Dogs Bed is made from durable recycled polyester and offers a comfy place for your pooch to snooze. For a full set, the HAY Dogs Leash, Collar and Harness make sure daily walks are not only fun, but super stylish.


For more, check out our Designer Pets category.

Stocking Fillers


Shopping for the little extras can sometimes be the most fun! These are the gifts your loved ones didn’t even know they needed. Here are some of our favourite suggestions:


The Conran Shop Santorini Glass Straws

HAY Pattern Candles

AVOLT Square Power Extension Lead

Smart Diffuser Lamp


As the festive season draws near, the joy of giving takes centre stage. Finding a gift that feels just right is one of the most rewarding parts of Christmas. Whether it’s a design classic for the aficionado, a cosy essential for the homebody, or a playful surprise for the pet lover, each present has the power to make the season a showstopping one.


We hope this guide has inspired you to find something truly special for everyone on your list, but if you’re still undecided, visit out our Gifting category for even more ideas for perfect presents!


For more festive reading, check out our Holloways of Ludlow guide to Christmas Hosting & Gifting.

Written by Mark Holloway
Founder and CEO of Holloways of Ludlow. With a lifelong passion for exceptional design, Mark has built the business from the ground up, curating a collection that reflects both integrity and innovation. He doesn’t just sell design - he lives it - with many of the pieces he champions proudly featured in his own Wimbledon home.


A proud Salopian at heart, Mark splits his time between the energy of London and the tranquillity of Ludlow, embracing the best of both worlds. Outside the showroom, he’s a devoted father of two, a lover of fine wine, and a regular face in the live music scene.