Nothing compares to the feeling of nailing the perfect present.

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Since interior designers make a living shopping for other people, they’re pretty great at thoughtful gifting. For instance, Experts like Marianne Brown of W Design Collective and Maureen Ursino of Ursino Interiors recommend this under-$150 Sharland England vessel to delight holiday hosts and hard-to-please in-laws alike: “I’d pair it with a small herb like rosemary or thyme and wrap it in cellophane topped with a big ribbon for my mother-in-law,” says Marianne.

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From pieces for the friend who has everything to the perfect treat for yourself (cause you deserve it!), our Experts’ gift guide is here to make your holiday shopping merry and bright. Shop their 18 favorite picks for the upcoming season.

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The Best Under $250 Gifts

For the dinner party enthusiast

“I love these napkins from Filling Spaces. They nod to the holidays, but can be used year round. They would make a great gift for anyone!” —Maureen Ursino, Ursino Interiors

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For your cold climate friend

“A great throw is a welcomed gift that people always appreciate and will remind them of you every time they wrap up in it.” —Christina Pollastrini Samatas, Park & Oak

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For the low-lighting fanatic

“These candlesticks have a refined, architectural design that adds height and elegance to any space. I recommend pairing them with taper candles in a neutral shade, like ivory or soft taupe, for an understated yet sophisticated look.” —Kate Marker

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For the coastal grandmother

“It’s so fun to find a unique and fun twist on a shell catch-all. This would make for a fun surprise gift that could be styled a few different ways. I’d probably have it filled with some sweets at the holidays, but year-round I could see it on a stack of books on a console or bringing some color to a bedside.” —Jess Weeth, Weeth Home

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For the sweet tooth

“I love having a candy dish out during the holidays on a console or coffee table. This would make a great hostess gift paired with candies or chocolates!” —Maureen Ursino, Ursino Interiors

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The Best Gifts for the Host

For the organizer

“I don't know a friend who doesn't find value in a beautifully made tray. This one is beautiful in form as well as function, making it the loveliest gift for someone you love.” —Melissa Oholendt, Oho Interiors

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For the friend who loves a coordinated set

“I’ve used this tray in a few projects for bathroom or make-up vanities and it is so pretty. I love the color and texture it adds. I’d pair it with pretty hand soap and hand lotion to make a really thoughtful gift.” —Marianne Brown, W Design Collective

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For the gardener

“This vase beautifully enhances any table or corner of the home during the holidays when filled with freshly cut flowers. The sterling silver adds an elegant and festive touch, making it perfect for this season!” —Brittany Zwickl, Studio LIFE/STYLE

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For the best snacks in town

“I could see this versatile platter as a decorative tray on a coffee table, a dinner platter, or a serving vessel for breakfast in bed. This is the perfect gift for impressing the person who has everything.” —Zoë Feldman

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The Best Gifts for the Homebody

For the one who lights up your life

“I love the Lucca candle holder because anyone can use it to add warmth and charm to their home. Gift it in a pair, or on its own with some pretty taper candles.” —Marianne Brown, W Design Collective

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For the stoneware lover

“I'm a sucker for unique and beautiful pottery. A vase topped with beautiful flowers is the best —especially for the person who has everything!” —Christina Pollastrini Samatas, Park & Oak

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For a year-round essential

“I love how this throw from Saved NY had this beautifully playful pattern and subtle holiday color that can live on into the New Year. It would make an instant and impactful update to any living room.” —Jess Weeth, Weeth Home

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For your favorite earth sign

“I adore the fringe detail on this pillow. Green is both seasonally fitting and calming, bringing a nature-inspired vibe that layers beautifully with neutrals and natural textures during the holidays.” —Kate Marker

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The Best Over-the-Top Gifts

For the art aficionado

“This vintage José Luis Sánchez sculpture makes a perfect gift and is an ideal addition to any bookshelf or coffee table. I love incorporating sculptural pieces with books, art, and ceramics to create added interest and depth.” —Shannon Wollack, Studio LIFE/STYLE

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For equine elegance

“The easiest method of finding a gift for those hard-to-shop-for people is to think of something that they use everyday and buy the leveled-up version of that. This throw blanket fits the bill and is also a stunning piece of craftsmanship and design.” —Melissa Oholendt, Oho Interiors

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For an olfactory treat

“This incense holder makes a thoughtful (and stunning) holiday gift, perfect for creating a cozy atmosphere during the colder season. Filling the home with comforting scents invites relaxation and warmth, ideal for celebrating moments with loved ones.” —Brittany Zwickl, Studio LIFE/STYLE

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For a modern heirloom

“I audibly gasped when I first saw this handmade candy jar, which is a statement in itself from a designer who has seen a lot. Treat yourself to this incredible piece of art that you will (and should!) pass down to generations to follow.” —Melissa Oholendt, Oho Interiors

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