KATIE KENNEDY

Holiday Gift Guide: Coastal Grandmother

Holiday Gift Guide: Coastal Grandmother
đź“Ť Rowayton, Connecticut

Oversized Blanket || Fresh Scented Perfume || Large Festive Candle || Dutch Oven || Ginger Jar || Cable Knit Sweater || Wine Glass Set || Monogrammed Bath Towels || Needlepoint Pillow || Rattan Tote Bag || Cozy House Slippers || Maine Cookbook & Hamptons Cookbook

Oversized Sweater || White Jeans || Chelsea Boots || Wool Topcoat || Beanie || Similar Handbag || Earrings || Lip Color

Is being a Coastal Grandmother still a thing? Since I think it’s more of a lifestyle than a quickly cyclical trend, it’s a style that I’ve brought to the end of 2022 and beyond. If you have a like-minded loved one who loves cozy sweaters, hosting dinner parties, and relaxing days at the beach, this is the gift guide for you. Here are 12 gift ideas for the Coastal Grandmother: a girl who strives to channel their inner Martha Stewart, Ina Garten, or Nancy Myer protagonist.

Oversized Blanket

The need to snuggle with an oversized blanket gets stronger and stronger as the weather gets cooler. Add a fun movie and a big bowl of popcorn, and I’m in heaven! Chappy Wrap is a woman-owned, New England-based company that I have long admired. They have a rainbow of cozy blankets to match countless design styles. Gift a blanket that matches the holiday season, like Carly Riordan’s collection, or pick an option that matches their personality.

Fresh Scented Perfume

Since the Hamptons seem like the epi-center for the Coastal Grandmother movement, it only makes sense to highly the women who call that slice of the coastal home. Aerin Lauder is one of those women, and I can’t help but love her AERIN perfume collection. Each scent is unique, and I often swap them to match my mood or event. A current favorite is Ikat Jasmine. With a combination of tuberose and honeysuckle, it will become an instant classic. 

Large Festive Candle

I think candles always make for the perfect last-minute gift idea. They’re truly a crowd-pleaser and come at any price point. If you go this route, make it a tiny splurge and pick a high-quality candle, preferably made from all-natural ingredients. NEST is one of my favorite brands, plus you can use the glass jar long after the candle is gone. 

Dutch Oven

With the colder season here, I have a long list of soup and stew recipes that I’m dying to try. Many of them recommend having a Dutch oven in your kitchen just for the task. This enameled French/Dutch oven by Le Creuset is dishwasher safe, meaning it moves from prep to cooking to cleanup without a hitch. They come in a rainbow of colors and are seriously a work of art. You’ll want to keep it out on display long after the dishes have been put away.

Ginger Jar

It’s just a fact. Every Coastal Grandmother has an ever-growing collection of blue and white ginger jars. As I write this, I have at least five pieces at my desk. Help add to the chinoiserie shelf by gifting a memorable piece this holiday season. You can find many options via Etsy, but don’t be afraid to do some thrifting in your town.

Cable Knit Sweater

A cozy cable knit sweater, especially in a cream color, seems like the ultimate Coastal Grandmother piece. I mean, I can totally see Diane Keaton wearing it in Something’s Gotta Give. Year-round, this a piece that belongs in their closet, from breezy summer days at the beach to evenings gathered around a warm fire. This particular sweater from J. Crew is absolutely stunning and will be an instant crowd-pleaser.

Wine Glass Set

Founder and owner of Estelle Colored Glasses, Stephanie, is inspired by her grandma, who loved antiquing throughout South Carolina. From stemware to cake stands, her glass pieces are absolutely stunning and come in a rainbow of colors. It seems like a loving nod to dinner parties from years ago when the tablescape was everything. I can’t decide between the wine glasses or the champagne coupes.

Monogrammed Bath Towels

Thoughtfully monogrammed pieces don’t have to blow your budget. Weezie Towels is one of my favorite women-founded companies to work with. While I practically live in my Short Robe, a set of Bath Towels is a perfect gift. Whether it’s the newly engaged friend, college students, or anyone in between, this customized gift is sure to delight the Coastal Grandmother.

Needlepoint Pillow

Needlepointing has taken the Coastal Grandmother world by storm and has seen the greatest resurgence. My grandma taught me how to crochet and cross-stitch, but in 2023 I hope to give needlepointing a try. If time isn’t on your side, but you still love the tongue-in-cheek sayings, gift a pre-made needlepoint pillow to freshen up your loved one’s home.

Rattan Tote Bag

You all probably know my penchant for straw bags. I think they are the perfect summertime accessory and make for an even better gift. Breck and Grier was created by two Connecticut-based sisters to bring Moroccan straw bags to the masses. They can be personalized to match the style of your mom, friend, sister, or any woman in your life. This Large Becky Tote is perfect for a day at the farmers market or the beach. AKA, a Coastal Grandmother’s best friend!

Cozy House Slippers

After a night of hosting, everyone deserves to kick up their feet and relax. Especially if you live in a colder climate, these classic house slippers from Sarah Flint would be such a thoughtful and often used gift. There are a few different color options: girly pink, neutral navy, or versatile black. Make your best guess on size, but a gift card is always a great backup plan if you aren’t very confident.

Maine Cookbook & Hamptons Cookbook

As someone who spends a lot of time in the kitchen, cookbooks are one of my favorite gifts to send and receive. After all, food is love! With cookbooks, you can help a novice refine their cooking skills or add something new to someone’s already impressive repertoire. As I was shopping, so many new editions caught my idea! The Hamptons Kitchen is on the list because it has so many crowd-pleasing recipes. This book is even prettier in person, allowing the recipient to display it proudly in the kitchen. 

I know in my heart that the Coastal Grandmother style isn’t a trend, but more so a lifestyle! I promise you it’s here to stay. Shopping for the traditional set in your life couldn’t be easier. Who knows, you’ll probably end up loving something for yourself! Happy gifting!

Love from New York,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.

NYC Christmas Packing Guide

NYC Christmas Packing Guide
đź“Ť Upper East Side, NYC

Sweater || Jeans || Ballet Flats || Coat || Handbag || Earrings || Bracelet || Lip Color

I will always love Christmas time in the city. The festive spirit creates such a unique buzz that is nothing short of infectious. On the most recent trip to Manhattan, I packed up my favorite warm outfits and was ready to take on the city I love so much. From exploring the Christmas markets to enjoying dinner and a show, you’ll relish every minute of it. If you’re planning your own holiday trip to New York City, here are some of my favorite outfit ideas to pack.

Puffer Jacket || Cable Knit Sweater || Bootcut Jeans || Chelsea Boots || Cashmere Beanie || Cashmere Scarf || Oversized Leather Tote Bag

Exploring Christmas Markets

Nothing gets me into the holiday spirit faster than wandering through a festive Christmas market. Each year, there are at least ten to choose from. My personal favorite may be the Union Square Market, but I know Bryant Park Winter Village is always a crowd-pleaser. With an ice skating rink and a view of the Empire State Building, it’s truly hard to beat. To stay comfortable all afternoon, be sure to bundle up. A warm cable knit sweater with oversized puffer jacket will do just the trick. Wear a pair of Chelsea boots for comfort while you walk from stall to stall. Finally, this leather tote bag is perfect to hold all the goodies you buy along the way. 

Plaid Event Dress || Black Wool Coat || Black Heels || Feather Clutch || Leather Gloves || Red Lipstick

Dinner and a Show

There’s so special about a dinner and Broadway show date night, especially during the holiday season. While most theaters have a relaxed dress code, be sure to double-check, I vote to dress up for the occasion. Pick a restaurant close to the theater, such as Le Rock or Casa Lever, so you don’t have to rush after dinner. When I first spotted this stunning tartan midi dress from J. Crew, I knew it would be perfect for a festive night with David. Because this wool top coat is fitted, it will help elevate your look. Don’t forget to add a pair of leather gloves and a feathered clutch for fun accessories that are perfect for winter! Afterward, the show, grab a cocktail at Pebble Bar to round out a perfect evening! 

Striped Robe || Nutcracker Pajamas || Striped Eye Mask || Relaxing Face Mask || Fuzzy Slippers

Cozy for a Lazy Morning

Need a little more time to rest after a fun night on the town? No worries! With this pajama set from LAKE, let yourself have a cozy, lazy morning in your hotel room. The Pima cotton feels so luxurious, you’ll be tempted to relax in them all day long. Treat yourself to some room service while you apply a face mask to help your skin recover from the cold NYC air. If you’re feeling particularly brave, run out for a cup of coffee and a breakfast sandwich from the nearest bodega. The point of the morning is to take your time and have relaxation in a city that never sleeps. 

Turtleneck || Wool Skirt || Wool Jacket || Ballet Flats || Leather Handbag || Wool Beret

Window Shopping on 5th Avenue

Get ready to take on the street of Manhattan with this classic look. I love this French-inspired outfit for window shopping on 5th and Madison Avenue. A simple black turtleneck is always a staple but looks even better with a grey wool skirt. Pick a pair of ballet flats that will be comfortable despite the miles, but remember to wear a pair of tights if the temperatures get too chilly. Take advantage of the window displays at Saks 5th Avenue, Bloomingdales, and Bergdorf Goodman. From there, you’re just a quick jaunt to the Plaza, which always deserves a visit during the holiday season. You’re already perfectly dressed to dine like Eloise at the Palm Court. 

And, just like that, you have four easy and effortless outfits to pack during your Christmas stay in New York. The beauty of these pieces is that they can be mixed and matched with whatever favorites you already have in your closet. You too can dress like your favorite Upper East Side or downtown it-girl without breaking the bank. Happy packing!

Love from NYC,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.

Holiday Gift Guide: The Jetsetter

Holiday Gift Guide: The Jetsetter
đź“Ť Downtown St. Pete, Florida

Packing Cubes || Moisturizing Face Cream || Packable Tote Bag || Comfy Walking Shoes
Travel Steamer || Cashmere Travel Wrap || Jewelry Case || Travel Book || Passport Cover
Chic Pajama Set || Travel Pillow || Vintage Suitcase

Dress (Similar) || Ballet Flats || Similar Handbag || Earrings || Lip Color

Maybe it’s because I’m just a few weeks away from flying North for the holidays, but I definitely have travel on the brain. New York, Vermont, Montreal… I’ll see you soon! If you’ve been following me for even a short time, you know that’s not really anything new. Planning trips, even ones that aren’t scheduled, is my form of relaxation. Researching new destinations fuels me and inspires me to see the world. Do I consider myself a “Jetsetter”? Not by any means, but I know what shopping for one can be like. With this next guide, you’ll find 12 gift ideas for your favorite world traveler. Whether that’s your friend, your sibling, or even yourself, happy shopping! Let’s meet back here in 2023 to discuss more travel!

Packing Cubes

As a chronic over-packer, I am always the girl who needs to sit on the suitcase even to close it. If that’s your character flaw, too, consider that a thing of the past. I have these packing cubes from Paravel, and they have made my life so much easier. Consider it an additional layer of protection from over-stuffed travel bags. These packing cubes are perfect for travelers who go on longer trips and need to fit as much as possible.

Moisturizing Face Cream

Even the shortest of flights can wreak havoc on your skin. I began using Summer Fridays Jet Leg moisturizer while surviving NYC winters. My skin was miserably dry and comfortable, but this stuff was such a tremendous help! Ever since, I have kept this in my travel bag to save my skin on a flight. Especially while wearing a mask, just rub a layer on your face for skin salvation.

Packable Tote Bag

Only only are Longchamps the perfect travel tote bag, but they are also incredibly packable to bring along. You never know when you have a score of souvenirs and local vintage pieces to bring home! The Longchamp also tends to be the personal item when flying. The zipper enclosure keeps my valuables safe while still fitting everything. There are a few sizes to choose from, so pick whichever works best for you.

Comfy Walking Shoes

Although have heels for every day of the week, I typically forgo all of them while traveling in leu of a great pair of sneakers. Especially your trip entails going straight to the airport and on to site-seeing, you want a pair of kicks that will be with you every step of the way. My Vega sneakers are my absolute favorite. They go with everything and are chic dress up or down.

Travel Steamer

Nothing’s worse than finishing a full day of travel only to find everything you packed to be incredibly wrinkled! What if you have a work function or special dinner to get ready for? So panic doesn’t ensue, be sure that a travel-sized steamer is one of the first things you pack in your suitcase. This one is a personal favorite because of its mini size. It also doubles as a portable iron, perfect for having crisp lines and cuffs.

Cashmere Travel Wrap

Even though I tend to run warm, I always freeze when I fly. Because of that, I always travel with an oversized wrap to help me stay comfortable. This cashmere travel wrap from J. Crew is extra roomy and as soft as a cloud. I love to wrap in it while still having enough to use a little cushion while attempting to get some sleep.

Jewelry Case

If your loved one likes to pack their jewelry when they travel, it helps to have it organized! This jewelry case is made from pebbled leather and has compartments for all of the baubles and bits. Hellenic Aesthetic does an incredible job of sourcing Greek crafts and goods. Shopping with them alone is like a bit of vacation. Plus, you’re supporting a woman-owned small business. Win-win-win!

Travel Book

Has anyone had a serious case of wanderlust since the year, well, 2020? Daydreaming about travel keeps me sane and happy all year round, but it gets heightened closer to the new year. A new calendar, a whole opportunity to schedule wonderful trips! These coffee table books from Assouline are inspired by some of the most incredible destinations in the world: Tuscany, Palm Beach, Mykonos, the list goes on and on. Gift a favorite to your most jet-set of friends and start their very own collection.

Passport Cover

I’m so proud of my little passport. Each time I add a new stamp, I feel an incredible sense of pride. Still, I like to dress it up so that my passport can hold all of my essential travel documents: tickets, luggage information, and more! This passport cover is simple, I love the navy color, but it holds everything. It’s also RFID protected to keep any card or personal information extra safe!

Chic Pajama Set

On particularly long flights, it’s so tempting to just slip into a pair of your comfiest pajamas. Because this pajama set from J. Crew is so chic, you may want to consider giving in to temptation. The TENCEL fabric is extremely comfortable and melts onto you as you sit on a trans-continental flight. This particular set comes in a full rainbow of colors and can even be monogrammed for an extra personal touch!

Travel Pillow

An excellent travel pillow was long on my list of things to get. I did a decent amount of flying around in the year 2021, and it seemed like it was time to invest finally. The best thing about this supportive pillow is that it can completely conform to your sleeping style. Priced at under $35, it’s very much worth it for a good ride of sleep.

Vintage Suitcase

Last year I treated myself to a similar vintage suitcase, and it was the best decision I’ve ever made. Without fail, I get at least one compliment every time I use it. Better still, the Anthropologist Carry-On from Steamline is surprisingly roomy. Despite its small size, I have easily fit enough clothes for four days, plus outfit changes. It has such an incredible elegance that you typically don’t associate with air travel anymore. It’s perfect for the traveler with an old soul or penchant for mid-century style.

Even though 2022 is almost entirely in our rearview mirror, it’s never too early to help prep for the upcoming year—a new 365 days of adventures and travel. For your globetrotting and jet-setting loved ones, consider passing along a gift that will help them go boldly to that new destination.

Love from Florida,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.