Gift List: How Jenni’s Checking Everyone Off Her List

Rip & Tan: In your opinion, what makes the difference between a standard present and a truly thoughtful, stand-out gift? 

Jenni Kayne: To me, a standard gift is a candle or incense—something that you have in your home that you love that’s pre-wrapped and serves as your go-to gift that anyone would love. A truly thoughtful gift is something that feels personal or reminds you of the person you are giving it to. 

I love both kinds of gifts, but giving truly personal gifts always feels special and gives me a lot of joy to put together. When I see something that reminds me of a close friend or family member, I buy it even if it’s not close to their birthday or holiday because I know it’s special and worth the wait to give it to them.

I also think handmade gifts that you put together are incredibly thoughtful. My friend Molly once gave me a beautiful farm basket filled with handmade pasta, cherry tomatoes, basil, garlic, and delicious olive oil—accompanied by a great recipe for a summer pasta. It was one of the best gifts I ever received. 

Rip & Tan: When in doubt, what’s the perfect gift for that person who doesn’t know what they want?

Jenni Kayne: A gift basket with beautiful food, olive oils, and a recipe card. I also love gifting a basket with bath and beauty products. There’s something so nice about curating your own personal favorite products for a friend or loved one—it makes it extra personal.

Rip & Tan: As a veritable expert in the subject, what are some gift-minded tips for a season of gatherings? Any go-to host’s gifts you like to keep on hand? 

Jenni Kayne: I love bringing fresh eggs from our chickens at home or honey from our bees. I package them up nicely with labels I made on Etsy and bring a note. You also can’t go wrong with a candle! 

I also love a beautiful bottle of tequila, wine, or olive oil—and dark chocolate is always a great idea.

Rip & Tan: What are a few things you’re most looking forward to this holiday season?

Jenni Kayne: I’m looking forward to entertaining, spending cozy time with friends and family, and watching my kids’ faces on Christmas morning when they open gifts. This time of year is so special and I love to savor every moment.

From the Jenni Kayne Collection

Oak Essentials Body Routine—I’m gifting everyone on my list the Body Routine. I couldn’t be more obsessed with this new collection.

Cedar Glass Candle—I love our Cedar scent because it works well in any home. I always have this on hand for easy gifting!

Amelia Crewneck and Jet Turtleneck—These new sweaters are so luxurious. I think they make the best gift for any woman in your life.

Men’s Sweaters and Kids’ Cashmere Sweaters—I’m planning on gifting my husband, sons, and brother-in-law matching sweaters this season.

Cashmere Beanie, Fingerless Cashmere Gloves, and Cashmere Socks—You can’t go wrong with some cozy essentials, especially this time of year.

Other Curated Favorites

Stephanie Dawn Matthias Candle Holders or Small Dishes—My go-to gifts recently are pieces from Stephanie. Her work is simple and beautiful.

BDDW Ceramics—BDDW pieces are ones you treasure forever. They’re pieces of everyday art and make such a good gift for someone special.

Victoria Morris Ceramics—Everything Victoria makes is perfection. I think any of her pieces are the ultimate gift.

A basket filled with goodies from LA Home Farm—I love gifting friends a basket of fresh goods from LA Home Farm.

A basket filled with Sweet Laurel goodies—I love everything from Sweet Laurel, and a basket of treats from her store in Palisades always does the trick.