Top 10 Heartfelt Treasures: A Curated Valentine's Day Gift Guide from Angela Mia
Explore My List of Unique Gifts and Cherished Stories, Crafted with Love and Artistry!
Valentine's Day is approaching, and in the spirit of heartfelt gestures, I've crafted a curated gift guide brimming with treasures that are close to my heart. From handpicked creations of my own to cherished gifts and memory-evoking pieces, this guide is a celebration of love, art, and the joy of giving.
Let's dive right in!
Here are my top ten gift suggestions for your special someone this Valentine’s Day:
A few years back, a cherished friend surprised me with the most delightful gift – a MacKenzie-Childs tea kettle. Fast forward to today, and it stands proudly as the cheerful centerpiece atop my kitchen stove, radiating warmth and charm in the center of my kitchen! Garnished with hand-painted butterflies and flowers, and crowned with an exquisite crystal knob on top, it is truly a piece of art.
What makes MacKenzie-Childs so enchanting is the unique touch each piece carries. No duplicates here – every item is handmade by a dedicated team of artisans toiling away on a picturesque farm in New York.
From handmade ceramics and enamelware to glassware, furniture, and a myriad of home accessories - MacKenzie-Childs is a one-of-a-kind gift for any lover of art, aesthetic, and putting love into their home.
I was inspired to create this cuff by the design of my original full-figure bronze sculpture, aptly named "She Moves The Stars." The sculpture portrays a young girl brimming with empowerment, capable of influencing the very cosmos.
This is one of my most versatile pieces— seamlessly blending glamour into various outfits, whether dressed up for a special occasion or a casual day. Despite its dramatic and sophisticated appearance, the underlying narrative is one of pure joy and childlike wonder.
The “She Moves The Stars” cuff not only serves as a striking accessory but also invites those who wear it to embrace a sense of empowerment and marvel at the beauty of life with the same wonderment as a child gazing at the stars.
Liana Yarckin, a truly gifted watercolorist, channels her love for color and the beauty of flowers into each stroke of her art. Now, her skillful hands have given life to a mesmerizing collection of scarves featuring her designs, meticulously crafted on luxurious materials such as wool challis and silk.
These scarves, decorated with Liana's vibrant, imaginative designs, effortlessly elevate any outfit to a new level of sophistication. Whether draped elegantly over the shoulders or tied with a graceful knot, each scarf becomes a statement piece that resonates with the wearer's unique style.
Liana has been a dear friend of mine for more than a decade, and witnessing her artistic evolution has been a source of joy and inspiration for me.
In Liana’s art, I see not only her talent but also the warmth of a deeply good soul that adds an extra layer of meaning to her remarkable work.
I designed these earrings after my sculpture “Tea and Lilies”. Much like the sculpture's embodiment of poise, patience, and gentle joy, these earrings exude a similar sense of grace.
The delicate design —plated with 18k Gold— is mesmerizingly detailed, and the thoughtfully shaped form allows them to reflect light, adding a luminous touch to each side of the face. The result is an effortless elegance that complements any attire!
Not only are these earrings aesthetically pleasing, but they are also lightweight, making them the perfect choice for everyday wear. Their versatility allows me to carry a touch of sophistication and artistry with me, enhancing my daily moments with a subtle yet impactful glow.
Brad Oldham and Christy Coltrin, a harmonious husband-and-wife duo, seamlessly collaborate to bring art to life. In this creative partnership, Brad takes the lead in sculpting, while Christy adds to the enchantment by crafting captivating backstories.
From the ambiance of their studio emerges the magical "Tiny Sparks Travelers" Collection. These pocket-sized wonders, cast in 14k gold-plated pewter, come adorned with story scroll pendants, ready to be worn or displayed as a cherished reminder of your unique "Tiny Sparks" narrative.
Christy's touch extends beyond the tangible, infusing each sculpture with a narrative designed to resonate personally. The "Tiny Sparks Travelers" were born from a desire to facilitate communication when words prove inadequate. These tiny masterpieces are imbued with thought and heart, each telling a story that transcends the ordinary.
The inspiration behind the "Arise" Jewelry Collection comes from my sculpture bearing the same name, and I hold a special affection for the necklace within this collection.
Picture little clouds delicately suspended around your neck and chest – there's something undeniably dreamy about it!
The way this piece gracefully adorns creates a visual poetry that resonates with the dreamlike quality of the clouds it emulates.
It's not just a piece of jewelry; it's a wearable reverie, evoking a sense of enchantment with every delicate movement.
My sweet son surprised me with a thoughtful Mother's Day gift – an everything dish, mine taking the form of a cluster of flowers coming together to create a unique space for my personal items.
Placed on my bathroom counter, this special dish has become a cherished spot where I keep my favorite earrings, always ready and at hand for me every day.
For your sweetheart, a lovely catch all tray by Michael Aram can become the perfect spot to store rings, earrings, mints, trinkets— anything!
The beauty of this gift is that it is both decorative and practical. Who doesn’t love that?
Another piece from my “Tea & Lilies” Collection, the large earrings in a captivating Tiffany Blue and plated with 18k Gold, are nothing short of a statement.
The sculptural elements incorporated into the design, featuring swans gracefully gliding through ponds and delicate lily pads, evoke a sense of an age-old romantic story. Wearing these earrings is like dressing oneself with a piece of art that whispers tales of timeless elegance and enchantment.
The choice of Tiffany Blue holds a special significance, drawing inspiration from the breathtaking rooms I've had the privilege of visiting in places like Versailles and Vienna. The color not only mirrors the rich history and opulence of those spaces but also reflects the gilded gold ceilings and the distinct hue of blue that left an indelible impression on my senses.
These earrings, therefore, are more than adornments; they are a wearable testament to the beauty and grandeur of art history.
About five years ago, I took a mother-daughter trip with my oldest to Santa Fe, New Mexico. Our chosen retreat was a charming boutique hotel with a delightful gift shop filled with feminine treasures. Amidst the treasures, we discovered a fragrance so enchanting that it became an instant favorite.
The Maison Francis Kurkdjian Grand Soir Eau de Parfum, a captivating blend of warmth and spice, originated from the heart of France. As if distilled from the very spirit of the City of Lights, each spritz of Grand Soir carries the alluring notes that transport you to cobblestone alleys, charming bistros, and the enchanting glow of the Eiffel Tower at dusk. The craftsmanship behind this perfume—a collaboration between Francis Kurkdjian, a renowned perfumer with scores of successful creations to his name, and Marc Chaya, co-founder and president of the fragrance house—mirrors the artistry of Parisian perfumery, capturing the essence of sophistication and timeless beauty.
Even today, my daughter and I passionately champion this scent, and whenever we wear it, those around us are beckoned to inquire about its origin, as if inviting them to experience a piece of Paris wherever they may be.
My dearest friend bestowed upon me a Celine wallet for my birthday, and let me tell you, it's the epitome of practicality. This little accessory effortlessly accommodates everything I need—it's a true gem among the many wallets I've owned over the years. Boasting quality craftsmanship and a classic design, it seamlessly complements any handbag it graces.
And did I mention it's a Parisian design? Pure elegance that stands the test of time.
I hope that through this gift guide, you've discovered inspiration, warmth, and possibly the perfect token of affection for your special someone.
May your Valentine's Day overflow with joy, deep connections, and the beauty of shared moments.
Happy gifting!