How Thoughtful: Choose Your Perfect Gift With The 2023 Holiday Gift Guide
Colorado Expression’s guide to inspired holiday gifts and giving
Choosing the perfect gift can be a daunting task, leaving even the most seasoned shoppers feeling anxious. Look no further than our selection of curated gifts to simplify your holiday shopping. From world-class spas to beautiful jewelry and gifts for the home, there is something for everyone on your list. In the spirit of the season, we also showcase many worthy nonprofits in need of your support this year. Please give generously to these organizations that work tirelessly to improve our community. So, take a moment to unwind, and allow our handpicked gift and giving guide to simplify your holiday shopping experience, bringing joy to both you and you recipients.
NEVER A WALLFLOWER
Back in 2015, Denverite Dana Schoonover had a wild hair and jumped into the deep end of fashion design. Fast forward to today and her brand, Never A Wallflower, has a cult following from coast to coast. Using bright, bold colors, patterns and textures, the brand encourages women to infuse color into their wardrobe and have fun while doing it! Case in point, this long-sleeved, relaxed, 100% cashmere turtleneck sweater in lipstick pink. Add a custom embellishment and you’ve got yourself a standout gift any woman would love!
OSTER JEWELERS
Good things come in small packages, and Messika Paris—with its iconic Move collection in 18k white, yellow and rose gold—is just the ticket! With stylish, innovative jewels incorporating three sliding brilliant-cut diamonds, these designs are timeless with a modern touch.
251 Steele St., Denver
303-572-1111
JUNIOR LEAGUE OF DENVER
Enjoy a festive boutique shopping experience at the 44th annual Mile High Holiday Mart, Nov. 10-12, while giving back to the Denver metro community and supporting local businesses. Check the website for parking information, shopping hours and admission prices. Pick up the league’s award-winning cookbooks, including Centennial Celebrations, released in 2019. Other sought-after gifts include custom hats by Parker Thomas.
Holiday Mart at the University of Denver Gates Field House 2201 E. Asbury Ave.
303-692-0270
AVIATOR NATION
This 1970s-inspired California lifestyle brand creates hand-made classics that celebrate a time when music, surfing and a love for community shaped our culture. Not to miss are its kids’ winter jackets—they are favorites of parents and kids alike with their throw-back styles and vibrant colors.
JOHN ATENCIO
Discover New Bellagio by John Atencio. The latest Bellagio Collection is a symphony of elegance in 14 karat gold – blending a cascade of fine pave bead-set diamonds with John’s artistry and impeccable craftsmanship, making Bellagio a timeless diamond statement this holiday.
Locations in Denver, Lone Tree, Fort Collins, Broomfield and Boulder
HADLEY GIRL
You’re never fully dressed … without a bow, according to Hadley Girl of Boulder. Each bow is hand-sewn, pressed, tied, secured and then attached to an alligator clip to withstand the movements of wild babes who wear them. The gorgeous ribbons are 100% linen, super soft and hand- tied with love.
TRICE JEWELERS
Experience a new level of everyday luxury with Shy Creations’ exquisite two-toned collection. Crafted from 14k yellow and white gold, adorned with two rows of round brilliant diamonds, the stunning ring, bracelet and earrings complement any attire and every occasion. They are the perfect gift to celebrate life’s forever moments.
6885 S. University Blvd., Centennial
303-759-9661
SUMAQ ISBERIAN RUGS
Relax in comfort with Sumaq alpaca beanbag chairs, handmade in Peru by skilled artisan weavers of the softest Suri alpaca fur, which add whimsy to any room. Additionally, the alpaca throws come in a variety of colors and designs and are made of 100% Peruvian alpaca—the perfect gift for that special someone, a friend who has everything, or for that hard-to-shop- for person on your list!
890 E. Valley Road, Basalt
970-279-5672
THE LARK
This enduring, upscale retailer features traditional furniture, accessories, home décor and gifts including E. Newton gold-filled jewelry. These jewels epitomize craftsmanship, fusing a solid layer of gold, intricately bonded to a base metal. The gold products are exclusively crafted from 14k gold-filled materials, offering the freedom to wear them worry-free, anytime and anywhere—just like solid gold. Plus, the sterling-silver jewels are just as wearable. This year, Lark staff is loving the new classically chic diamond collection diamond bracelets—perfect for stacking or on their own.
1219 E. Fourth Ave.
303-744-7464
LANA’S SHOP
We love these 100% cotton tea towels for holiday gift-giving. The Making Spirits Bright tea towel, complete with painted cocktail recipes, is as functional as it is beautiful. Additionally, the Happy Challah Days tea towel makes for a thoughtful hostess gift during the Jewish holidays. Plus, all the whimsical wrapping paper designs from Lana’s Shop will be sure to make your gifts stand out.
HOMEFEST
Homefest is filled with delightful gifts for all. One stand- out we can’t wait to give is a luxurious faux-fur throw— perfect for curling up with in front of the fire this winter. Top it off with some cozy slippers and you’ve got the perfect present for creating lasting memories.
5912 S. Holly St., Greenwood Village
303-741-3920
WHITE PEACOCK
White Peacock is known for many amazing lines from across the world. For this holiday season the boutique is featuring an amazing Languedoc vase from Lalique. The lands of the Languedoc have inspired many artists, including René Lalique, who designed this vase with accentuated relief and generous proportions in 1929.
2440 E. Third Ave., Denver
303-954-8333
BIRDSALL & CO
Birdsall expertly designs outdoor and indoor spaces that inspire connections with nature. From indoor plants that add a little green during snowy months to outdoor fountains and statuary that offer tranquility to gifts to celebrate the everyday, the shop is a feast for the eyes. On our list this year is the Avery birdbath by Campania, made with aged limestone for a timeless look.
2870 S. Broadway, Denver
303-722-2535
COUNTRY CLUB FLOWERS
Located in the historic Denver Country Club area, this cute-as-a-button shop offers gifts for the home and garden as well as curated floral arrangements. Nothing is more thoughtful than sending gorgeous flowers put together with the recipient in mind, especially come January when we could all use a boost of natural beauty.
1712 E. Sixth Ave., Denver
720-479-8450
BLOSSOM & BRANCH
We can’t think of a better gift than spending an afternoon at a local flower farm learning about growing local blooms from flower farmers and creating stunning arrangements from florists. Blossom and Branch Farm grows native plants as well as specialty flowers such as dahlias, roses and peonies, plus the wooded area of the property provides a bustling habitat for pollinators and wildlife to thrive. The classes fill up fast, so make sure to get yours for your own gardener come spring.
WILD FLOWERS
Since 1996, the whimsical neighborhood shop that is Wild Flowers has been the go-to for terrariums of all sizes. Nestled among the unique items, home décor, jewelry, candles and gift cards are fanciful terrariums that make the most wonderful presents. These low-maintenance ornamental plants in glass containers are favorites of novice and expert gardeners alike. Plus, it offers classes where you can create a terrarium just for you.
1201 Madison St.
303-333-4050
CENTRAL CITY OPERA
For music lovers, a gift certificate to Central City Opera is paramount. Not only will your loved one enjoy special events and its festival orchestra, they also will be supporting a treasured and creative part of Colorado history.
124 Eureka St., Central City
303-292-6500
DENVER ART MUSEUM
Find unique art-inspired gifts, fun stocking stuffers and treasures from local artisans at the Shop at the Denver Art Museum this holiday season. Design lovers will appreciate the mid-century standing mobiles from Ekko Workshop; they’re a stunning addition to any desk, bookshelf or table. You can’t help but love mini wooden doll sets from Goose Grease Modern Artists, perfect for young artists or art lovers of all ages. Each doll is carefully hand-drawn and hand-painted from start to finish and includes representation from some of your favorite artists like Vincent van Gogh and Frida Kahlo.
100 W. 14th Ave. Parkway, Denver
720-865-5000
CORA SEXTON WHEELER
Colorado artist Cora Sexton Wheeler is heavily influenced by her heritage and upbringing in Durango as well as her experiences living in Denver. Her art tells a story–whether it’s a scene of roaming bison, a Colorado landscape, floral reliefs or American Indian headdresses. All are enhanced by her unique approach to working with resin and acrylic on canvas to create depth, beauty and connection to nature within each piece. “Starlight,” a mixed media sculpture on canvas featuring bison grazing under the stars, will be featured at the Young Guns Rhinestone Rodeo with Coors National Western Art Exhibit & Show on Dec. 7. For any true Coloradan, or a Coloradan at heart, a piece from Cora Sexton Wheeler is a must.
SAKS GALLERIES
Dedicated to bringing fine art to Denver for over 50 years, the family-owned Saks Galleries specializes in 19th- to 21st-century American and European oils, bronzes and watercolors. Additionally, the gallery acquires collectibles such as silver, art glass, furniture and textiles. It features artists of the American West, the Taos Society of Artists and Native American arts such as textiles, baskets, pottery and jewelry— perfect for the art collector in your life. We adore this Cartwheels acrylic painting by Peggy McGivern.
3019 E. Second Ave., Denver
303-333-4144
GARDEN OF THE GODS RESORT AND CLUB
Merging the rugged beauty of red rock formations with the relaxing ambience of a luxurious resort, Garden of the Gods Resort and Club offers the ultimate escape from the everyday. The unrivaled hospitality, wellness experiences, and majestic views have the power to restore and transform. Their newly renovated lodge rooms, each with a view of the Garden of the Gods National Park, tennis and pickleball courts, 27 holes of championship golf, Strata Spa treatments, and world-class cuisine make a weekend getaway at Garden of the Gods Resort and Club the gift that should be on everyone’s list.
3320 Mesa Road, Colorado Springs
719-632-5541
RANCHO LA PUERTA
Since 1940, Rancho La Puerta has provided a luxurious wellness experience, offering guests a unique reawakening and spiritual and mental escape each week to its 4,000 private acres of gardens, mountains and meadows. Offerings include visiting guest speakers, talented performers and workshop leaders—authors, politicians, musicians, artists, MDs and other leaders in their fields—plus over 60 fitness classes per day including TRX, yoga, pilates, Watsu and advanced hiking trails as well as spa treatments and therapeutic sessions. The 6-acre organic farm provides seasonal healthy spa cuisine in addition to cooking classes at the culinary school, La Cocina Que Canta, for truly a one-of-a-kind health experience.
Carretera Mexicali-Tijuana K.M, 136.5, Rancho la Puerta, 21520 Tecate, B.C., Mexico
A YEAR OF INSPIRATIONS
It feels almost lavish to spend time curling up with your favorite magazines. A yearly subscription to Colorado Homes and Lifestyles, Mountain Living and Colorado Expression means gifting inspiring stories filled with interior design, local go-getters and luxury style all year long.
ILONA
Ask almost anyone in Denver with beautiful skin which brand they use, and you’ll often hear the name ILONA— Denver’s international icon of skin care and beauty since 1971. For the holidays, ILONA Beauty electronic gift cards are reduced 15% (maximum $500) so you can easily share Ilona’s skin-caring rituals and products across town, or across the country. No gift code required.
3201 E. Second Ave., Denver
303-322-3000
5 STAR SALT CAVES
Give an unforgettable, unique spa experience at 5 Star Salt Caves, one of Denver’s premier day spa locations and home of Colorado’s famous man-made Himalayan salt cave. Day spa packages include massages for couples, individuals and groups, salt therapy, infrared saunas, footbaths and more.
722 S. Pearl St., Denver
855-578-2725
MICHAEL MOORE | MOORE FOR LIFE
Every woman aspires to discover her inner radiance. Lucky for us, the experts at Moore for Life strive to create new looks that inspire confidence and positivity. Treat yourself or a loved one to a personalized lesson from top makeup artist Michael Moore, who will share timeless beauty tips and techniques to achieve that ideal look for everyday moments and special occasions in the New Year.
3035 E. Third Ave., Denver
303-484-1857
EPICUREAN
The new cookbook from Epicurean is a culmination of recipes over the 40-plus years of the catering group’s history, drawing from traditional family recipes, innovative menu items crafted by its talented chefs, and guest favorites that have become a staple in the business. It is an excellent gift for foodies of all kinds.
THE VINEYARD
The Vineyard’s Wine of the Month Clubs are the perfect gift for the connoisseur in your life. The experts and sommeliers at the shop have hand-selected 12 different wine packages to choose from, including Old World classics, American beauties and bubbles to suit any budget. Choose from six or 12-month options for a gift that gives all year long.
261 Fillmore St., Denver
303-355-8324
THE FORT RESTAURANT COOKBOOK
A celebration of the history and recipes of the award-winning and iconic restaurant developed over nearly six decades, The Fort Restaurant Cookbook: New Foods of the Old West from the Landmark Colorado Restaurant is the quint- essential gift for all Colorado cooks. With over 150 easy-to-make recipes, including favorites such as Thomas Jefferson’s Green Chile Mac & Cheese Savory “Pudding,” Marinated Rack of Lamb with Couscous, and Mexican Chocolate Ice Cream Mud Pie. More than just recipes, the cookbook offers tidbits of history from the restaurant and offers shared experiences of Southwest, Spanish, Mexican, American Indian, African and early European cultures as they lived, worked and ate in the trading forts of the West.
DILLY’S FARM
A holiday gift basket from Dilly’s Farm is a true delight for the gourmand in your life. The mission of Dilly’s Farm is to provide the Denver community and its neighboring areas with the freshest, top-quality herbs and spices to elevate at-home culinary experiences. A sweet or savory gift basket from the farm will ensure memorable meals well into the new year.
BELLEVIEW STATION
Nestled between I-125 and East Belleview Avenue, Belleview Station is your one-stop shop for seasonal merriment. Stroll around the district, enjoy festive cocktails at Los Chingones or Belleview Beer Garden, and top it off with high-end, chef-driven dining at Ambli or Le French. Round out your experience with a visit to some of the best shopping in town at A Line Boutique.
Located at the intersection of East Chenango and South Olive streets
MONARCH CASINO RESORT SPA
Give the gift of time together with a Monarch Casino Resort Spa gift card. Your loved ones will enjoy access to award- winning upscale dining, world-class spa treatments and luxurious hotel rooms appointed with amenities designed for extreme relaxation and a memorable experience.
488 Main St., Black Hawk
303-582-100
SHERATON DENVER DOWNTOWN
Not only is the Sheraton Denver Downtown the city’s largest hotel, it’s also home to the Topgolf Swing Suite, with two simulator bays and a variety of virtual games—including signature Topgolf target games, Zombie Dodgeball, hockey, baseball, football, carnival games and more—paired with comfortable lounge seating, HDTVs and food and beverage service. Guests have the option to bring their own clubs or use the TaylorMade clubs provided for an interactive experience to remember!
1550 Court Place, Denver
303-893-3333
