Finding the perfect gift is akin to an intense session at Soul Cycle: it’s hard work, but always completely worth the effort.
And yes, we all know gifts should be personal, beautiful, practical and reflective of both the receiver and giver. But sometimes you find yourself at a loss, roaming Barneys and thinking “this spatula is really something” – right? While some spatulas are indeed something (Le Creuset has an excellent assortment) I’d prefer to give something slightly more substancial, unless you’re dealing with a regular Martha Stewart-type (in which case the spatula is beyond thoughtful).
With this in mind, on a recent jaunt up The Bowery I was pleased to discover John Derian‘s flagship store (at 6 East 2nd Street). The endless selection of hand-made (in NYC) coasters, paperweights and platters are beyond charming and make for the perfect gift on so many occasions. We’re talking coral platters for housewarmings, monogrammed paperweights for weddings, large skull bowls for dinner parties – you get the point. I finally settled on a large domed elephant coaster (because everyone loves a good elephant) – which can easily double-up as a trinket-holder.
Nicole Kidman may or may not be a fan too – just sayin’.
*A selection of John Derian coasters are available online. Click here for details.
