The Christmas Gift Edit with Jack Guinness
Jack Guinness is a British GQ Contributing Editor and author of The Queer Bible – an illustrated collection of essays from Guinness’ heroes about LGBTQ+ icons – but he’s also well-known for his hosting prowess. Having previously asked him to share his expert tips on how to set up a home bar, we thought he’d be the perfect person to impart some wisdom during the entertaining season too, with some choice Christmas gift ideas focused on hosting in style, from the pop of the cork to the perfect recovery set-up for the morning after. Here, he shares his Christmas ideas, peppered with his characteristic humour and inspirational tips to help you find the perfect presents for your loved ones.
The Karaffel Leather Table Lamp
“I hate overheard lighting. Lamps instantly create a controlled atmosphere. I remember watching a film once, probably starring Diane Keaton as a middle-aged woman who finds love in the most unlikely of places, and wondered why her home looked so effortlessly luxurious. Then I realised, it was her lamps. That’s the power of a great lamp; they can turn your life into a Nora Ephron film.”
The Fyli Vase
“One thing that I can’t get enough of, except the obvious, is a vase. Empty, they’re sculptures in their own right; add some flowers and you’ve brought instant joy into your home. I don’t wait for someone to buy me flowers – they never do – so treat yourself to a vase and then fresh flowers whenever you feel like it.”
The Tortoiseshell Glass Cocktail Set
“As a classy, discerning gentleman of taste – I’m not, but play along – I love nothing more than a cocktail. What could be more grown up and sexy than a stunning cocktail set to turn your own home into a speakeasy? A potentially dangerous prospect, but I’m here for a good time, not a long one.”
Set of Four Lavaux Goblets
“Whenever I accidently break a glass, I’m secretly relieved as I have way too many. Coloured glassware is very on trend and adds depth to your shelves. I like to mix and match to create a jaunty and welcoming tablescape. Apologies – that’s the most annoying sentence I’ve ever written.”
The Nostell Diamonds Tablecloth
“Ugly table? No dinner party chat? Bored of life? Well, spice things up with a new tablecloth. Tablecloths aren’t just for grandma’s house (although my grandma was cool-as); they’re back with modern twists, like this stunning print.”
The Grassetto ZigZags and Artemisia Cushion Covers
“Cushions are such great Christmas gifts and an easy home refresh. Buy quality furniture that lasts and update your space with cushions. These two are stunning. My tip – find one colour in your sofa that you want to bring out or contrast with and accent it with a corresponding cushion cover.”
The Manisa Floor Cushion
“I love a poof. Throw a tray on it and turn it into an occasional table to display books or candles, use it as a footrest, or do as God intended and sit on it. Kids and pets love these, but I wouldn’t let them near mine. They’re simply too beautiful to share.”
The Coleridge Armchair
“[The linen version of] this beautiful armchair sits in my parlour (it’s actually a small sitting room in a flat but let me live my fantasy) where I while away the hours reading my own book, The Queer Bible – another brilliant Christmas gift. The covers of my armchair are removable and washable, so you can buy new ones whenever you fancy, breathing new life into a beautifully made piece that will last.”
The Dice Box and Six Dice
“What on earth do you keep your dice in? Why, a giant dice of course! This is such a fun gift for the games lover in your life. Looks like a treasure inherited from a roguish uncle (or aunt).”
The Gonglin Tray
“I love a tray. Lean it against the wall to create instant art while not in use, add it to a cushion or trunk to create a table or simply eat your dinner off it every evening on the sofa while crying alone, like I do! The choices are endless.”
The Saddle Leather Maxi Bar
“I don't care if you purchase this for anyone – this is a public plea for someone to gift it to me this festive season. It's pure Great Gatsby, Brideshead glamour and indulgence. Like me, it's bonkers, beautiful and charming in equal measure. Beautifully crafted and perfect for that special someone in your life... me!”
