Interior designer Tiffany McKinzie is becoming regular on the blog. We’ve showcased her work, but now it’s time to get personal! Tiffany has kindly shared a whole slew of gift ideas, from items for your home, to charitable causes you can support and finally a great array of beauty products! And with that little preview, I’ll let Tiffany take it from here…

There are many things I love most this time of year. The family traditions, the ski vacation to Colorado, and time spent with family, but what I am most fond of is the almost palpable spirit and energy that is felt during the holiday season. People just seem happier. It’s a wonderful time to reflect upon all the good things I’ve been given throughout the year and the hope that I feel for the upcoming new year.

Philanthropy is so important to me, so I have to include one or two of the organizations most dear to my heart.

1. Compassion International
I have ten beautiful sponsored children all over the globe. We write letters back and forth to each other on average of about one every 2-3 months. This is a Christian advocacy organization that provides children thru sponsorship healthcare, education, food and love.

2. Homeless “Foody Bags” (as I like to call them)
Take brown paper lunch sacks and fill them with nonperishable food items such as crackers, protein bars, fruit gummies, etc. Staple them closed and seal with a small tag that has something inspirational written on it, like “You Matter!”, then pass them out to homeless people you encounter. Instead of giving a hand out, you are giving them something to eat and an uplifting word. I typically make a dozen or so bags and keep them in my car so I always have something on hand. You never know how far a simple gesture like this can go with someone who might just be down on their luck.

3. Heifer International
This is a really amazing opportunity to help families escape poverty by giving them a hands up, not a hand out.  Thru the use of “living loans” you can provide the chance for an individual to generate income in sustainable ways.

4. Conrad shades // E.C. Dicken
Available thru the E.C. Dicken showroom in the Design District, Conrad shades are one of my favorite things that I recommend to any client I work with that is in need of window coverings. Their beauty and quality is unsurpassed and their designs work with any style and aesthetic. I especially love to use them in conjunction with other drapery treatments. This would be a great husband/wife gift!

5. Electronic Reader // Apple, Barnes & Noble or Amazon
It took me a while to become a fan, and I actually returned my first Kindle, but once I purchased an iPad and started reading my books on it, I never went back. I am an avid reader and frequently went on vacation with anywhere from 6-10 books with me. Having an E-reader is so much easier than carrying a small library of books and I have found that I actually read more.

6. Wrap Bracelets // Chan Lulu
Of course, I have to include a little bling for the season. I love to wear wrap bracelets and this year I am buying all my lady friends and family members one. One of my favorite designers is Chan Luu.

Last, but certainly not least, is the “Beauty Bag.” Each year I compile a small sampling of my favorite beauty and skin care products and put them in a small basket or bag to give as gifts to my closest girlfriends. My staple items are:

1. DiorShow mascara

2. Crème de la mer hand and face cream

3. Aquaphor ointment 

4. L’oreal naturales concealer

Photos via SpenceSmith.com, Matter in Action