Holiday Gift Guide 2025

A Curated Mix of Luxury + Affordable Favorites for Everyone on Your List

 This season, I’m focusing on elevated, timeless gifts—pieces that feel thoughtful, luxurious and practical. From chic beauty essentials to dreamy home upgrades, this guide blends high-end indulgence with budget-friendly gems your loved ones will adore.

Don’t forget: creating a personalized gift basket filled with a mix of luxurious and affordable favorites is always a crowd-pleaser. And if you prefer shopping in person, The Westchester Mall has endless options for everyone.

A lovely detail to add is that Creed offers complimentary bottle engraving on their website, making each gift feel more personal and thoughtful. And of course, their packaging is absolutely breathtaking- luxurious, timeless and truly special. It's the kind of gift anyone would be thrilled to receive. 

Gifts for Mom

Luxury Picks

• Creed Fragrance – Aventus for Her or Carmina (This one is my new favorite scent from the brand) (both timeless, sophisticated, unforgettable).

• YSL Beauty – Libre Intense, Rouge Volupté Shine lipstick.

• Dyson V12 Detect Slim or V15 – Chic, powerful, and truly life-changing for home care.

• Slip Silk Pillowcase & Sleep Mask Set – The ultimate beauty sleep duo.

Affordable + Chic

• L’Occitane Shea Butter Collection Gift Set – Hydrating, classic, and beautifully packaged.

• PIXI Beauty Holiday Glow Set – Perfect for the makeup lover who loves soft glam.

• Nordstrom Cashmere Gloves or Scarf – Soft, cozy, and always appreciated.

Home & Wellness

• Jo Malone Candle or Diffuser – A luxurious home moment.

• Vitruvi Stone Diffuser – Minimalist and elegant.

• Body Luxuries Collection

Gifts for Dad

Luxury Picks

• Creed Aventus – A masculine, rich, iconic fragrance.

• Montblanc Sartorial Wallet – Understated luxury.

• Bang & Olufsen Wireless Earbuds – Sleek design + premium sound.

Affordable + Practical

• L’Occitane Men’s Grooming Gift Set – Clean, classic, and high-quality.

• Nordstrom Tech Gloves – Stylish and functional.

Home & Lifestyle

• Ember Temperature-Control Mug – For the coffee lover.

• Theragun Mini – Compact relief for sore muscles.

Gifts for Teens

Luxury Picks

• Dyson Airwrap – The teen favorite (perfect for glam lovers).

• YSL Beauty Teen Starter Glam Set – Lip gloss + perfume.

• UGG Tasman Slippers – Trendy and cozy.

Affordable + On-Trend

• PIXI Eye + Lip Sets – Soft, natural glam.

• L’Occitane Mini Hand Cream Trio – Cute and practical for backpacks.

• Stanley Mini Quencher – Still a teen essential.

Tech & Lifestyle

• Polaroid Instant Camera – For creative memories.

• LED Vanity Mirror – For makeup or skincare lovers.

Gifts for Kids (Boys & Girls)

Luxury Picks

• Burberry Kids Scarf – A mini old-money moment.

• Dior Baby Perfume (light & gentle for special moments).

Affordable + Fun

• Lego Sets – Always a win.

• Craft & Activity Kits – Creativity boosters.

• Tonies Storybox – A screen-free favorite.

Cozy & Practical

• Nordstrom Kids Pajama Sets – Soft, warm, and high-quality.

• L’Occitane Gentle Shea Baby Set – Soft and safe for little skin.

Gift Basket Ideas

Create a thoughtful mix using:

• A L’Occitane gift set as the base

• A luxury fragrance (like Creed or YSL)

• A cozy accessory from Nordstrom

• An affordable beauty treat from PIXI

• A personal handwritten note or ornament

Baskets make even simple items feel ultra-luxe.

Adding a few favorite baskets below 

- Light Woven Oval Tray 

- Orchidleaf 2 set baskets

- Woven Basket

Hot Summer Style with Wrangler

New York has been showing off lately with this gorgeous weather and I've been waiting to pull this number out my closet. This gorgeous denim corset is by Wrangler and so are the shorts. I love the length of these as they're mid leg, not traditional but it gives it a nice relaxed feel.. while the corset elevates the look a tad. Now that I'm looking at the outfit, I wish I would've gone strapless. I guess next time! The shoes are by Alexandre Birman. What do you think of this look?

 

 

Maisonette Memorial Day Sale

Biggest sale of the season!

 Maisonette Memorial Day Sale Up To 70% Off + Extra 15% Off $100 + Sitewide OR 20% Off $150+ In-App. 

PROMO CODE - SUMMER15

The Secret to perfect Grilled Ribeye: Golden Steer Bowtie Seasoning Makes All the Difference

Sometimes the simplest meals make the biggest impact. This grilled ribeye paired with citrus couscous is a perfect example. The star of the show? Golden Steer's Bowtie Seasoning. This lemon-pepper blend with a subtle cayenne kick transforms any dish into something special. 

Inspired by the timeless elegance of the Golden Steer Steakhouse, this seasoning adds sophistication to every bite. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, it's the perfect way to elevate your cooking. 

Johnnybell Sanchez Featured on The Iconic Nasdaq Screen in Times Square

 

Yesterday was nothing short of surreal. I had the absolute honor of attending the Opening Bell Ceremony 

at Nasdaq in celebration of International Women's Day and the experience was one for the books. 

Standing in a room filled with brilliant, trailblazing women, ringing the opening bell and then seeing myself on the Nasdaq screen billboard in Times Square- wow! It was a pinch-me moment, one I'll cherish forever! 

See the highlights on Instagram or watch on TikTok. 

What an epic way to kick off International Women's Day! I'm incredibly grateful to celebrate alongside such strong, inspiring women- all of us driving transformation, breaking barriers and shaping the future together.

A huge thank you Gabie Kur, Sehr Thadhani and Nasdaq for making this moment unforgettable. Let's continue to lift each other up, support one another and celebrate our wins- big and small! 

Happy International Women's Day! 

Family Brunch at The Peninsula Hotel

 

 Over the weekend, my family and I had the chance to experience the brand-new brunch at The Peninsula, it was such a treat! Surprisingly family-friendly too. Watch Instagram reel here.

From the moment we arrived at the Clement, the hotel's restaurant, we were warmly greeted at the entrance. After checking in our coats, we walked right into a breathtaking dining room where a live pianist was playing. It was such a calming way to step into brunch- because if you know anything about NYC brunch, you know it's usually anything but calm. The fact that we could actually hear each other speak while still enjoying at the music in the background? A rare luxury. 

Beyond the beautiful space filled with fresh, vibrant flower arrangements (which you know I love!), the buffet was incredibly satisfying. They had an entire bakery cart full of bread and if you know me, you know I'm the biggest sucker for bread and butter. Along with the buffet and my personal little carb heaven, they also take made-to-order egg requests, serve up fresh coffee and hot chocolate for the little ones. Let's not forget the most delicious peach Bellini I sipped on. 

One of my favorite bites? The chia seed pudding and my made-to-order mushroom omelet, which was absolutely perfection. My son, on the other hand, went crazy over the wall of homemade Peninsula fresh donuts and the cake pops! Basically, a kid's dream! The Peninsula's pastries were just as impressive. From the key lime bites to mini chocolate tarts. & of course, no brunch buffet is complete without a spread of fresh fruits and cheese. 

If you're looking for a new family-friendly brunch spot that feels elevated yet cozy. The Peninsula is definitely the place to go.    

Read The Green

 

My instagram followers are probably so over me talking about this brand, but I can't help it- I'm completely obsessed with Read The Green. 

I first came across them a few weeks ago while putting together a Valentine's Day gift guide for men, and I had to place an order. To be honest, I wasn't expecting much. But when I tell you my order exceeded every expectation, I mean it. 

The quality? Top- tier. We're talking premium- and not just "good for the price". I mean, better than what you'd find from major designer labels. And if you've been following me for a while, you know I don't just throw recommendations around. I do maybe 3-4 paid partnerships a year because I want this platform to be built on trust. If I share something, it's because I genuinely stand behind it. 

And this brand? One thousand percent worth it. No, this isn't a sponsored or gifted post. I bought these pieces with my own money and I'd do it all over again. 

If you love a well-made pullover or a perfectly structured hat, you have to check them out. The hats come in 16 colorways and designs and the pullovers are available in three classic colors. What really sold me on the pullover-besides the quality- is the adjustable drawstring waistline... which makes styling so effortless. I grabbed mine in a size Medium for a relaxed fit (for reference, I'm 5'2" and 125 lbs.) and it was perfect for today's spring- like 52-degree weather. 

Trust me, this is one of those small brands you'll be seeing everywhere soon! Get in early. 

Super True: A Snack Parents Can Finally Feel Good About

Let's be real- finding a snack that kids love and I actually feel good about giving them? Practically impossible. Either it's packed with sugar, full of mystery ingredients or just... not something my kids want to eat. So when I came across Super True, I knew I had to give it a try.

Bathroom Inspiration: Honoring the Past, Elevating the Present

If you've been following our home renovation journey, you know we're taking our time with every detail- because rushing through a space with so much history just wouldn't feel right. Now, we're onto the bathrooms. And with 4 1/2 of them to transform, let's just say my Pinterest boards are working overtime. 

The goal is to preserve the dignity of my early 1900s home while embracing timeless simplicity. I want each bathroom to feel bright, elegant and calming- like stepping into a luxury retreat in the 1900's that just happens to be in your own home.

The Fixtures:  Lefroy Brooks Love Affair

When it comes to plumbing fixtures,  Lefroy Brooks has completely stolen my heart. Their pieces look like they were made for this house- classic, substantial and effortlessly chic. Think polish nickel, cross-handle faucets and clawfoot tub fillers that whisper 'old money elegance' without trying too hard. Quality and durability are non-negotiable and   Lefroy Brooks delivers on both.

Balancing Old & New

My new home has so much original charm and I refuse to erase it. Instead, I want to enhance it. That means: Neutral, muted tones- soft creams, warm whites and natural textures to keep things serene.

Classic lighting- sconces with a vintage feel, keeping that early 1900's magic alive.

The powder room will have its own little moment- maybe a moody wallpaper moment? We'll see!

The Takeaway 

Bathrooms should feel like a pause, not an afterthought. Whether it's a quick morning routine or an end-of-day unwind, I want these spaces to feel just as intentional as the rest of the home.

Now, tell me- what's your dream bathroom aesthetic? Would you go full vintage or mix in modern elements? Let's talk in the comments!

Best Valentine’s Day Gifts: for Him!

 Valentine's Day is the perfect occasion to show the special man in your life how much he means to you. Whether he's your partner, a father or simply someone you want to pamper, finding the right gift can be a game-changer. Here's a curated list of gifts that combine elegance, utility and a touch of timeless luxury- all the perfect ingredients to make this Valentine's Day unforgettable.