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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Get ready to wear them with everything. Miu Miu’s patent leather sandals don’t just look good in an array of colors, they look great with an array of outfits. Find them here, at Miu Miu at Bal Harbour Shops.
All of the colors of the Gucci rainbow. The Italian house’s bamboo collection of handbags may be available in a range of stunning colors, but they aren’t available just anywhere. You won’t find them online, but you will find them here, at Gucci at Bal Harbour Shops. 

See it, like it, need it? Contact personalshopping@balharbourshops.com to make it yours.
It catches the eye—it captures the heart. Versace’s satin open-toe mules with kitten heels are embellished with crystal tops and central enamel Medusa hardware, and they’re the perfect match for the Italian house’s crystal La Medusa mini bucket bag. 

See it, like it, need it? Contact personalshopping@balharbourshops.com to make it yours.