Lifestyle

The Consummate Host

By Colin Cowie

Model-wearing-black-dress-in-front-of-crystal-tree-boxes-and-shopping-bags

Model Bella Barbosa wearing a Dolce & Gabbana dress with Graff jewelry. Photo by Michael Setton.

If you’ve had a chance to visit Bal Harbour Shops this month, you’ve likely been enchanted by the sparkling holiday installation illuminating the Central Courtyard. This shining crystal beacon is the handiwork of Colin Cowie, event designer extraordinaire. The Miami Beach-based award-winning designer and author is among a handful of event planners with a household name, thanks to luminary clients like Jennifer Lopez, Oprah Winfrey, Jennifer Aniston, and Tom Cruise. We tapped the indefatigable Cowie to curate our first-ever BHS Living Gift Guide, loaded with accessories and gifts for the home, all available at Bal Harbour Shops.

  1. Diptyque Baies Candle with Gold carousel on top

    Diptyque

    I have always loved the fragrances by Diptyque; my all-time favorite is Baies. During the holidays they produce some gorgeous special editions—and don’t forget to ask for their exquisite gift wrapping.
  2. Christofle martini shaker and martini glass

    Christofle

    A martini shaker is a must-have gift for any cocktail aficionado. To personalize it for a birthday or wedding gift, have it engraved. If you would like to expand the gift, consider adding a silver tray or a set of martini glasses, and the book “The Martini Field Guide” by Shane Carley.
  3. Michael Aram silver bunny piggy bank

    Michael Aram

    I love this brand for its chic and practical gifting ideas for the entertainer at all price points. You can find anything from a $100 Bunny coin bank to a full cocktail bar setup, and shagreen serving pieces.
  4. Buccellati silver bowl shaped as a leaf

    Buccellati

    I have been collecting Buccellati candy dishes for years. They can be used decoratively or practically. For gifting, fill with your favorite candy or chocolate, and gift wrap. This is a great way to start a collection.
  5. Frette throw blanket with chain print detailing on a couch with pillows

    Frette

    The Chains throw is made from pure virgin wool and comes in three fabulous colors. Even in Miami, I have throws at the bottom of every bed. I have them draped over the arms of sofas and side chairs. There’s nothing more comforting than wrapping yourself in a sumptuous throw.
  6. Lalique glass tumblers

    Lalique

    For the whisky aficionado, you can’t go wrong with these Wingen tumblers paired with a great bottle of Japanese whisky, from Hibiki (Harmony 100th anniversary) to Yamazaki 18-year-old single malt.
  7. Assouline wooden “The Impossible Collection of Wine” coffee table book

    Assouline

    We love all the Assouline books. However, for wine enthusiasts, “The Impossible Collection of Wine” stands out. With its fabulous wooden wine case packaging, this is probably on every wine collector’s wish list.

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We can definitely commit to wearing Graff’s pear-shaped 40.01-carat diamond promise ring, featuring heart-shaped diamond shoulders for a total of more than 44 carats. Pair it with the house’s Threads collection necklace, bracelet, and earrings featuring oval emeralds and round and baguette diamonds for a match made in heaven.
All the glory, all the Balmain. The French house’s B-Buzz Dynasty bag in strawberry-embroidered satin is so sweet on the eyes, it might just melt her heart. Find it—and a slew of other desirable gifts—here, at Bal Harbour Shops.
New holiday tradition: Lobster roll brunch at Avenue 31 Café. Whether you’re with friends, family, or just need some me time on your own this season, it’s sure to be a good thing.