Holiday cheer begins when the clock strikes midnight on the first of December. Warm vanilla-scented candles, a frothy cup of steaming hot chocolate and classic cheesy rom-com movie marathons: it’s a lifestyle, really. 

Let the wintertime magic begin as you cozy up in a fluffy blanket and turn on your favorite holiday tunes while you browse through this catalog of treats for you or your loved ones. 

1. A Sweet Treat

Several studies show that eating sweets in the presence of someone else can make you view them through a sweeter lens. Sip on some hot cocoa from Tulane University’s beloved coffee shop PJ’s or indulge in their new Peppermint Bark Velvet Ice to embrace this season’s holiday cheer in a cup. Gift a sweet treat to yourself or your loved ones this winter to literally and metaphorically warm them up. Sweet treats have been proven to spark “interest in initiating a romantic relationship” as well.

2. Advent Calendars

Advent calendars are a great present to keep the excitement momentum going, and there is a wide variety to choose from. Some include makeup, popcorn or tea. Consider creating your own advent calendar, filling each slot with NOLA favorites for your friends or family. It’s a unique way to bring a taste of New Orleans culture to someone through a gift. 

3. Aromatherapy 

Fragrant gifts make a lovely present this holiday season. Warm someone’s space up with an aromatic raspberry butter, vanilla bean or fresh lavender candle. Essentially NOLA Soap Studio’s whimsical shop has some especially fragrant candles.

4. Jewelry

Regarded as a high-quality gift regardless of price, jewelry can also boost one’s self-confidence and self-expression. Shop local at New Orleans’ wide range of boutiques, including a personal favorite Fleur d’Orleans, which has affordable, trendy pieces inspired by New Orleans architecture. 

5. Self-care

Treat yourself or a loved one to the perfect gift for de-stressing as the holidays approach. Choose from silky lavender lotions to soothing crystal face rollers, among others. Rosalie Botanicals, also carrying a selection of tasty teas and unique tinctures, puts a fantastic New Orleans spin on skincare gifts this season. 

6. Skin care

Also embodying self-love, skin care gifts can be an essential for hydrating skin in the chilly months to come. Bourbon French Parfums and Earthsavers Spa & Store sell skin care options, as well as perfumes and colognes.

7. Clothing

A fluffy article of clothing may very well be the way to someone’s heart. Outstanding boutiques like Dolce feature a vast selection of clothing. At Buffalo Exchange, one of the popular thrift shops, you can find unique New Orleans style.

8. Makeup

The makeup industry offers many products to choose from, allowing the gift-giver to tailor the gift to specific preferences. Consider gifting a piece of the style of New Orleans by shopping locally for makeup. A safe bet to go with and staple of the makeup world is a shiny lip gloss. A velvety rouge, shimmery white or a rosy pink is a fabulous gift that can be a fun way to embrace the magic of the holidays. Local option Vibrant Market has a wide array of clean beauty options, including fun sparkly pink lip glosses, mango lip honey balms and more — to make yourself and your loved ones shine. 

9. Home goods

House — or dorm — warming gifts like succulents, glass trinkets, posters, vases and other decor can be  especially thoughtful gifts. Someone who loves nature may be thrilled with a charming succulent, which studies show can positively impact mental health as well as “increase happiness and life satisfaction.” Desk plants, jewelry dishes, trinkets and more all make wonderful gifts this winter.

10. A Personal Touch

Finally, my golden piece of gift-giving advice: open your ears and listen. Take note of topics your loved ones bring up often. Ultimately, the perfect gift varies from person to person. Follow this golden advice, along with this gift guide, and you’ll be all set to take on the art of holiday gift-giving with ease!