Gracious Giving

Wish you were one of those effortlessly stylish people who always seem to be able to find the perfect gift for any occasion? We do, too. That’s why we asked Phoebe Howard, owner of Mrs. Howard and Max & Co., and Taylor O’Shields, floral designer at The Place for Flowers, to tell us what gifts they suggest we snag to impress at any occasion (for any budget).

Phoebe’s picks		Taylor’s picks
	If you have $10 to spend
"I love this triple-milled soap. I love the shape, the smell, even the box it comes in." Apiana Bee Soap, $6 3 French Hens 4219 Providence Rd. 704-366-1047		"This is a great little reusable shopping bag that folds up into a ball. It’s cute, easy to store, and comes in a bunch of fun colors." Flip and Tumble bags $8.95, Paper Skyscraper 330 East Blvd. 704-333-7130
	If you have a bit more to spend ($25-$50)
"This trio comes in interesting shapes and three different color palettes. They can be dramatic, feminine, or neutral, and they make ordinary flowers look extraordinary." Set of three ceramic bud vases, $16 each; $48 for set of 3 Luxe Home Couture 227 East Blvd. 704-370-2644		"These are festive for the holidays, but they are stylish enough to be left out year round. You can’t go wrong with a stop at City Supply Co. for a gift for any occasion." Glass and feather ornaments, $30 for set of three small or $40 for two large City Supply Co. 1219 Thomas Ave. 704-347-2489
	If you’re shopping at the last minute
"A white Phalaenopsis orchid in a terra cotta pot makes for a nice, long-lasting gift that is sure to enhance any environment." $40, Campbell’s Greenhouse and Nursery 209 McDonald Ave. 704-331-6959		"What a perfect, tasty little gift that anyone can appreciate. And Amelie’s is open twenty-four hours, seven days a week! It makes it so easy to just pop over and get something." Key Lime Tart, $4.89 Amelie’s French Bakery 2424 N. Davidson St. 704-376-1781
	If you need a hostess gift
"I love to give cookbooks as hostess gifts. Frank Stitt, from Birmingham, is my current favorite. The combination of local Alabama produce mixed with his background in French cuisine makes for an interesting and fresh combination." Frank Stitt’s Southern Table, $40, Amazon.com		"This definitely beats a bucket of ice, and it really does keep the bottle of wine cool, so you can drink the whole thing and never have to get up and go to the fridge." Fossil Marble Wine Cooler, $29.95 Crate & Barrel 4320 Sharon Rd. 704-362-4003
	If you want to splurge on someone special (or on yourself)
"This fabulous faux rabbit fur throw is so luxurious and soft—who wouldn’t love this kind of indulgence?" Faux Fur Throw by Bunny Williams’ Bee Line Home $1,885 Mrs. Howard 1001 E. Morehead St. 704-376-8900		"This package includes a thirty-minute massage, a customized mini facial, and a spa manicure, and it only takes two and a half hours. It’s perfect for us busy people who don’t have all day to spoil ourselves." Day Break Spa Package, $135 Georgetown Day Spa 1213 Thomas Ave. 704-335-0050