As we head into the holiday season, I’m so happy to share a small collection of special things; beautiful books, thoughtful handmade pieces, travel helpers, and a few little luxuries that simply make life nicer. It’s a mix that reflects the worlds I love most: creativity, hospitality, meaningful experiences, and seeing the world with curiosity and wonder.

Whether you’re shopping for someone special or treating yourself to a little delight, I hope something in this guide sparks joy or becomes a new favourite.

And if you end up bringing any of these treasures home, I’d truly love to hear about it.

Wishing you the Season’s Best,
Carolyn

THE GUIDE

1) I’VE NEVER BEEN HERE BEFORE: Our Family’s Year of Budget Travel, Wandering the World, and Finding the Sacred by: Ashley Campbell

If you’re looking for a book that stirs your sense of adventure and love of travel, I’ve Never Been Here Before by Ashley Campbell is a great pick. Ashley, her husband, and their five kids spent a year traveling through more than twenty countries, carrying only what fit in their backpacks. The way she writes about their journey is honest and inviting, and her photography is truly beautiful. You can almost feel the warmth of Morocco or the laughter of her kids playing sports with locals in parks throughout their journey as you turn the pages.

Readers on Goodreads praise Ashley’s “joyful and raw honesty” as she reflects on parenting, culture, and faith. If you have ever wondered what it would be like to take a long journey with your family, a partner, or even on your own, this book is a sweet reminder that grand adventures like this are possible.

2) YOLIOO EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL:

If you’re looking for a truly special olive oil, the kind you drizzle over everything because it just makes food taste better, let me introduce you to Yoolio. It’s a beautifully balanced, organic Tuscan EVOO with that delightful little peppery “bite” in the back of your throat. Fresh, bright, full of character… it’s Tuscany in a bottle.

But my love for this brand goes deeper than flavor. Yoolio was co-founded by the son of my dear friend Orsa, the incredible woman who cooks for my Tuscany retreats and holds a doctorate in Tuscan food anthropology. Her family’s roots run deep in this region, and their commitment to traditional, sustainable production is the real thing. Because I know them personally, I can recommend this oil with complete confidence: it’s made with integrity, transparency, and so much heart.

Amazon is now distributing their EVOO for those who prefer to avoid the high shipping costs of shipping direct.

3) THE STUFF OF HISTORY BY STEVEN MOORE:

The Stuff of History by Stephen Moore is a delight for anyone who adores history, travel, and the satisfaction of uncovering a good story. Moore, an antiques expert beloved by many North Americans from his BBC Antiques Roadshow appearances and now the curator of one of Instagram’s most charming, curiosity-filled feeds, has a gift for weaving narratives that zig and zag in the most satisfying ways. You might think you’re reading about a grand boat, only to discover you’ve wandered into a tale of border disputes, ghost ships, and a world famous desk.

And if you enjoy a beautifull British accent, treat yourself to the audiobook. Moore reads it himself with a cultured, velvety warmth that feels like being guided through a cabinet of wonders by a gracious English host. He is utterly soothing and transporting.

4) AN ARTISTS JOURNEY: A Celebration of Colour, Creativity, Curiosities, Travel and Design by Tinystories:

If you love travel, art, and beautiful things, this coffee table book is one you will definitely want to check out. An Artist’s Journey is full of stunning photography and tiny details that spark curiosity and inspiration. Tiny de Vries (tinystories) takes us from the Netherlands to Morocco, Germany, Indonesia, France, and Australia, sharing the colors, textures, and little curiosities that have shaped her creative life.

It’s a gentle invitation to see the world a little differently, and maybe bring some of that inspiration into your own home. Truly a gift that is full of eye candy for those who love art and creativity.

5) NOTTE CANDLE by Officina Profumo Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella:

I love purchasing scents that will take me back to the moments and memories of my travels. Santa Maria Novella’s candle of the hour collection does just that as it guides us through the day. The one currently on my nightstand is Notte (‘night’) which evokes the notion of darkness, warmth and restful slumber through its base notes of rich amber, sandalwood and vetiver. In the middle, cinnamon, tuberose and black pepper combine, while jasmine and rose top notes leave a lingering floral hint.

If you, or someone on your gift list, loves boutique skincare, fragrance, and/or home scents, you will find countless beautiful options at Profumo Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella. (Free US shipping and samples for orders over $150USD)

6) EATING EUROPE FOOD TOURS:

If you’re planning a trip to Europe in 2026 and love exploring local food culture, I highly recommend the good people at Eating Europe Food Tours. Having enjoyed tours with them in Rome, Florence, and Barcelona, I can attest to the quality and informative nature of their tours. They are currently offering a limited time 25% discount on gift cards, which can be redeemed on any tour taking place after Jan 1 2026 and are valid for two years. Use code EATING25 when you check out. Tour destinations include: Rome, Paris, London, Florence, Lisbon, Amsterdam, Porto, Prague, Berlin, Naples, Venice, Athens, Milan, Palermo, Edinburgh, Dublin, Bologna, Barcelona, Madrid, Seville or San Sebastian.

7) MOODY BEE VANILLA & PEPPERMINT LIP BALM

This little tube has been a constant in my life for well over a decade. I first discovered Moody Bee’s Vanilla & Peppermint Lip Balm through the recommendation on a message board about 14 years ago, and after being surprised to find that it was manufactured in the same province where I live, it’s been in steady rotation ever since.

The vanilla–peppermint combo is unique and the formula is incredibly moisturizing without being waxy or heavy. Whenever I fly, I almost always have one tucked into the pocket of my jacket because my lips get incredibly dry in the air, and this stuff is a complete lifesaver.

It’s their best seller for a reason: smooth, nourishing, and made with a beautiful blend of natural oils and beeswax. And while this scent is my personal go-to, they have a whole collection of other flavors and tinted options on their website if you want to explore. (One quick note for my US friends: Moody Bee is Canadian, so the prices you see are in CAD, meaning once the exchange rate does its magic, you’ll pay about 30% less than what’s listed.)

8) CROSS ARTWORK BY GINGER LEIGH DESIGNS:

If you’re looking for a hand made art gift this season, I can’t recommend Ginger Leigh’s hand-painted pieces enough. I own one of these cross pieces with a cream background and its raised, textured cross adds depth and sculptural detail. Ginger paints them in a wide range of beautiful background colours, and each one feels like a little beacon of hope and beauty.

Ginger has been a guest at several of my retreats, and she is as warm, creative, and genuine as her art suggests. She also creates angels, original paintings, and other items, all with the soulful quality she’s known for. Supporting her feels like cheering on someone who pours kindness and imagination into everything she touches.

9) LLBEAN TOILERTY KIT IN MEDIUM:

I’ve been using my L.L. Bean Medium Toiletry Bag for over 15 years – it is no exaggeration to say that it has travelled hundreds of thousands of miles around the world with me.

The design is simple but brilliant: sturdy zippers, thoughtful compartments, and a built-in hanger so you can just open it up, hang it, and everything is right there with easy access (aka: no digging around for your toothbrush or lotion in a crowded hotel bathroom).

I finally bought a new one this year because my old one finally gave up on me, and I couldn’t imagine traveling without it. It’s a gift that is perfect for anyone who loves seeing the world with a little organization and ease. (Bags are available in multiple coulourways.)

(Please note: none of these recommendations are compensated or affiliate links. These are just things I really love!)