Great Holiday Gifts To Give And Receive This Year
Colorado Expression’s curated guide to gift giving
Finding the perfect gift can be challenging, even for seasoned shoppers. Instead of spending hours searching through stores or browsing online, we’ve put together a curated selection of delightful gifts for everyone on your list. Take a moment to relax and let our suggestions make your holiday shopping easier, ensuring joy for both you and your recipients.
Couture Connoisseurs
Enjoy a festive boutique shopping experience at the 45th annual Mile High Holiday Mart, Nov. 15-17, while giving back to the Denver metro community and supporting local businesses. Pick up the league’s award-winning cookbooks, including Centennial Celebrations, as well as other sought-after gifts like stunning pieces from Denver jeweler Ashley Schenkein.
The Holiday Mart is at the University of Denver’s Gates Field House, 2201 E. Asbury Ave., Denver
303-692-0270
Photo courtesy of Brooke Austin Photography
BuxieJo makes bags that turn heads. Its Wild & Wooly collection is a prime example of a decade of curated craftsmanship. These unique, durable and lightweight bags blend traditional techniques with vintage styles. Made from hand-picked Tibetan sheep hides treated with chromium dye for softness and durability, the bags come in a variety of colors and can be paired with woven, leather or chain straps to compliment any outfit. The stout size is particularly popular.
Online only
970-470-0235
Denver designer Jill Hibbeln has traveled to the most fascinating corners of India to develop her collection of hand block-printed dresses, tops and handbags. Inspired by her grandmother Nina’s garden and her own beautiful flower cutting garden, Jill has created timeless, versatile garments that never go out of style. We love the Jacqueline kaftan, which offers a generous fit—perfect for your next sunny vacation, outdoor luncheon or casual look around town.
Online only
Photo courtesy of Balefire Goods
Talk about one-of-a-kind gifts to cherish: Balefire Goods in Olde Town Arvada specializes in custom jewelry. Balefre’s artisans work with clients, listening to the intricate details of their stories and transforming those elements into unique handcrafted designs, each with the highest quality materials. Its jewelry is more than an accessory; it’s a wearable testament to love and remembrance.
5777 Olde Wadsworth Blvd., Ste. R500, Arvada
720-479-8434
Photo courtesy of Obermeyer
Klaus Obermeyer started Sport Obermeyer in 1947 in Aspen with the goal of making skiing safer and more fun by using his skills as an engineer. With the help of his wife, Nome Obermeyer, Klaus’ brand celebrated the self-expressive nature of skiing through fashion-forward product design. Vibrant colors, flattering silhouettes and design innovations like the one piece ski suit and high design alpine sweaters all began what is a historic portfolio that continues today.
Online and in outdoor retailers
Photo courtesy of Cowboy Up Hatters
Since 1992, Coleen Orr, “The Hat Lady,” has been creating bespoke rabbit and beaver felt headwear tailored to suit each client. Orr’s keen eye and attention to details will offer a custom experience for all the hat-loving folks on your list.
By appointment only
303-520-1023
Experience the refined elegance of the Orion Diamond Collection by John Atencio this holiday season. Crafted in 14-karat white or yellow gold, each piece reflects John’s contemporary styling, signature brilliance and impeccable craftsmanship, making an undeniable statement for day and evening.
3000 E. First Ave., Ste. 181, Denver
303-830-7733
Photo courtesy of The Lark
A Curated Life
A Denver institution, The Lark features traditional furniture, accessories, home decor and gifts including Enewton gold-filled jewelry. These pieces fuse a solid layer of 14-karat gold that is intricately bonded to a base metal. Just like solid gold jewelry, these pieces offer freedom to wear them anywhere without tarnishing. This year, we are loving the new jewel-tone bracelets that can be worn on their own or stacked for an elevated look.
1219 E. Fourth Ave., Denver
303-744-7464
For 92 years, this iconic company has brought world-class opera and musical theater to the Front Range through its flagship summer festival. Treat your loved ones to an unforgettable experience with a gift certificate to see a show in one of Colorado’s most treasured and historic landmarks next summer. It’s the perfect blend of culture, history and spectacular performances!
124 Eureka St., Central City box office
303-292-6500
Find unique art-inspired gifs, fun stocking stuffers and treasures from local artisans at the Shop at the Denver Art Museum this holiday season. Design lovers will appreciate the selection of Art Deco pastel coupe glasses, which will enhance any holiday get-together. For the fashion lover, look at the beautiful silk scarf inspired by the artwork “Midnight in the Meadow” wallpaper by David Weismann, topped off with hand-painted, eco-friendly hair clips. An admission fee is not required to visit the Museum Shop at the Denver Art Museum.
100 W. 14th Ave. Parkway, Denver
720-865-5000
Photo courtesy of White Peacock
The Harmonie Colors of Joy double old-fashioned glasses from Baccarat, available at White Peacock, not only elevate your entertaining experience but also embody the spirit of celebration with their vibrant hues. Each glass is a stunning blend of artistry and luxury, perfect for toasting unforgettable moments with loved ones. Delve into the ultimate expression of elegance and joy this season and make your gatherings truly memorable with these exceptional additions to your tableware.
2440 E. Third Ave., Denver
303-954-8333
Colorado native Brown W. Cannon III is an award-winning photographer and global traveler, covering stories for editorial and commercial clients like Travel & Leisure, Conde Nast, National Geographic Adventure and Outside. A surfer for more than three decades, Cannon was inspired to compile images that capture the powerful allure of the surf culture on the North Shore of O’ahu, Hawaii. His latest book, Brown W. Cannon III: North, showcases studio portraiture of surfers, lifeguards, surfboard shapers, photographers, bodysurfers and bodyboarders, plus action shots of his subjects catching and flying down the line on 40-foot waves. Focused on the specific stretch of coast known as the Seven Mile Miracle, his images paint a stunning portrait of big-wave watermen and women.
ALPINE STYLE: BRINGING MOUNTAIN MAGIC HOME
The definitive designer guide to creating a mountain-inspired home with jaw-dropping imagery of alpine interiors with throwback shots of celebrities living large in the great outdoors, Alpine Style by Kathryn O’Shea-Evans is a collection of exquisite mountain interior design projects. Whether storybook and classic or sleek and modern, these alpine interiors from across the globe are tailor-made for après-ski fondue fun. With residential projects in Utah to ski-in, ski-out hotels in France, the exposed beams, shearling rugs and stone fireplaces provide all the warmth and hygge-factor to curl up with this winter.
Photo courtesy of Unseen Bean
Lively Libations Creations & Culinary
Gerry Leary has been roasting coffee beans and brewing the perfect cup in Boulder since 2003. While other coffee roasters use their eyes to monitor the look of the beans, Leary, who has been blind since birth, roasts with his sense of smell and his passionate drive. A CE staff favorite, Miz Susan’s Blend is a versatile, medium dark roast composed of full-bodied African and South American coffees that offers hints of citrus, blackberry, nuts and dark chocolate. Other standouts include the Costa Rica Honeybee Microlot, Via Lattea and Devon’s Blend.
Starting as a family-owned operation with a talented group of devoted team members, Epicurean Catering in Centennial has grown into an outstanding food service and hospitality company. Its new cookbook showcases recipes from the past 40-plus years, including traditional family dishes and innovative menu items that have become guest favorites. Recipes from a Lifetime of Fine Food and Celebrations from the Epicurean Experience is an excellent gif for foodies of all kinds.
Photo courtesy of Locke + Co
For the fly-fishing, whiskey-loving person in your life, this gif set features a pair of brown trout old-fashioned glasses with a hand-drawn brown trout and flies from RepYourWater co-founder and artist Garrison Doctor, as well as a bottle of Locke + Co.’s award-winning Big Catch Bourbon featuring one of Doctor’s gorgeous brown trout watercolors. This bourbon boasts strong honey, caramel and vanilla notes with hints of dried berries, maple syrup, walnuts with rye spice and peppercorn to round out the palate. The collaboration between RepYourWater and Locke + Co. celebrates the best of Colorado.
Since 1963, The Fort in Morrison has revealed in historic Western dishes, and its cookbook brings them to your own kitchen. Complete with 150 localvore recipes—including Tomas JeFferson’s green chile mac & cheese savory “pudding,” marinated rack of lamb with couscous, and Mexican chocolate ice cream mud pie—it’s the perfect gift for the gourmand in your life.
Connect with local farmers, ranchers and artisans to curate seasonally inspired meal kits that celebrate the best of Colorado through Spade & Spoon. The chef-designed recipes are crafted not only to tantalize your taste buds but also to introduce you to the rich tapestry of local flavors and ingredients. With minimal waste and weekly options (no subscription needed), get ready to beef up your culinary skills with these completely customizable, delicious delights.
Photo courtesy of Pollinator Chocolate
Made in Carbondale, these chocolate bars are as beautiful as they are delicious. We love the Harvest Bar, a 70 percent dark chocolate blend with cranberries, raspberries, strawberries, salted cashews, almonds, pecans, brazil nuts and macadamia nuts. Available online and at the Denver Botanic Gardens Gift Shop.
Photo courtesy of 5 Star Salt Caves Wellness Center
Revived And Refreshed
5 STAR SALT CAVES WELLNESS CENTER
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
Photo courtesy of Oakwell Beer Spa
If you haven’t been to Oakwell Beer Spa to experience a bubbly, beer-infused hydrotherapy bath, run—don’t walk—to treat yourself to this divine spa experience and take home the healing benefits of hops and malted barley in its new Oakwell Cosmetics line. These skin, hair and self-care products are packed with nourishing and rejuvenating antioxidants, vitamins and minerals—perfect for everyone on your list.
MICHAEL MOORE | MOORE FOR LIFE
Doesn’t every woman want to feel her personal best? Moore for Life’s experts teach you a simple way to be the best and most unique you, sharing timeless beauty tips and techniques to achieve that ideal look for everyday and special occasions in the new year. It’s a simple approach to makeup that gives you so much Moore.
3035 E. Third Ave., Denver
303-484-1857
New Tricks
Whether you have a budding artist on your gif list or someone who’s curious about learning a new artistic medium, the Art Students League of Denver allows anyone to study with regionally and nationally recognized working artists in a wide selection of media. From introduction to watercolors to weaving, printmaking to pottery, the gif of learning a new artistic medium is the gift that keeps giving.
200 Grant St., Denver
303-778-6990
Photo courtesy of Sara Ford Photography
If you haven’t noticed, mahjong is having a major moment. Grounded in tradition and its inherent social nature that encourages community, friendship and good fun, it’s no wonder this is the current “it” game for all ages. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to boost your skills, Shaw Morris and Kelly Warren of Denver’s Mahj Squad are your go-to for mahjong parties, private lessons or even large events. It’s the perfect gift for that friend or family member who has everything!
In the heart of the Baker neighborhood on Fourth Avenue and Broadway is a creative space that offers a vast array of art workshops and classes on stained glass, natural dying, block printing, sand-cast jewelry making and woodworking, all led by local makers. You can gift specific classes or monthly or yearly memberships.
13 E. Fourth Ave., Denver
720-507-7158
Adventure Awaits
Nestled between I-25 and East Belleview Avenue, Belleview Station is the perfect place to visit for seasonal merriment. Enjoy an evening stroll, festive drinks and a view of the Front Range at the Kimpton Claret’s Halo rooftop bar, and explore seasonal menus at high-end global cuisine and chef-driven spots like AMBLI and Le French. Fill a day with a visit to some of the best shopping in town at A Line Boutique, and pop into the many other pet, beauty and health-related stores.
Located at the intersection of East Chenango and South Olive streets, Denver
Photo courtesy of The Benson Hotel And Faculty Club
THE BENSON HOTEL AND FACULTY CLUB
Long considered the gateway to the Rockies, Aurora has evolved into Colorado’s biotech hub and a health and life sciences research center, with the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus and The Benson Hotel and Faculty Club at the epicenter. This hotel not only serves CU Anschutz medical community leaders and influencers but also welcomes locals for events like its classic Thanksgiving dinner, Christmas and New Year’s Day brunches, monthly Supper Club dinner and even romantic getaway packages that include a top-floor mountain-view suite with a fireplace, a bottle of chilled bubbly and a charcuterie tray upon arrival. Now that’s a gift!
13025 E. Montview Blvd., Aurora
720-627-5958
Winter adventures await at the award-winning C Lazy U Ranch, packed with invigorating outdoor pursuits such as trotting through snow-covered trails on horseback and exploring the sweeping mountain vistas via snowshoeing, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. Snow tubing, ice hockey and skating on the pond, sleigh rides and trap shooting are also available. Top off your getaway with a signature massage and a foot rub and soak, then finish with a cold plunge, sauna and free-side hot tub. If that isn’t enough, check out the ranch’s upcoming events like the Winter Wine & Dine weekend, March 6-9, 2025, when guests can savor epicurean delights from chef Robin Stotter featuring local- and ranch-grown ingredients paired with wines and whiskeys.
3640 CO-125, Granby
970-887-3344
Photo courtesy of Monarch Casino Resort Spa
A gift card to Monarch Casino Resort Spa in Black Hawk is the gift of quality time. Each of the 516 luxurious rooms and suites is appointed with gorgeous canyon views and mountain chic decor. Spa Monarch, voted the No. 2 hotel spa in the country, offers the perfect escape for some relaxation and rejuvenation with signature treatments and immersive spaces like the Brine Room and Aqua Lounge. Top off with five distinct dining options serving up Southwest fusion and classic steakhouse dishes for a luxurious getaway experience close to home.
488 Main St., Black Hawk
303-582-1000
Discover the perfect holiday getaway at The Brown Palace Hotel & Spa, where stunning architecture and rich history create a magical stay in downtown Denver. With many dining outlets, a culinary journey will entice your taste buds including lunch at Ship Tavern, a not-to-miss iconic afternoon tea in the atrium and an upscale dining experience at Palace Arms or Ellyngton’s. Top of your experience with a day of relaxation at the luxurious spa, the ultimate indulgent gif for you and your loved ones this holiday season.
321 17th St., Denver
303-297-3111
Photo courtesy of Bezel Cocktail Lounge
Treat the cocktail connoisseur in your life to the gif of expertly crafted libations. BEZEL is a sophisticated and timeless cocktail lounge that specializes in handcrafted cocktails and seasonal bites. Sip on a classic, or try an innovative seasonal offering. Pair your drink selection with a savory small bite or indulgent dessert.
1550 Court Place, Denver
303-835-2159
Photo courtesy of Grand Hyatt Vail
In the Cascade Village of West Vail, Grand Hyatt Vail brings the wonder to your winter getaway. Vail’s only resort featuring its own open-air chairlift with direct ski-in, ski-out access to Vail Mountain, Grand Hyatt is a special destination for your dream ski vacation. Ski concierge and valet services, alpine-inspired accommodations, and walking access to Chair 20 make it so you don’t have to get in your car to get to the mountain. Enjoy personalized amenities, spa treatments and a variety of local and global dining options after your day on the slopes.
1300 Westhaven Drive, Vail
970-476-1234
