Category Archives: Gifts

It happens every spring.  The weather gets lovely, you’ve been hibernating all winter, and want to show off all of the new things blooming in your yard or interiors that you’ve recently updated and you find yourself in the middle of a full fledged impromptu cocktail party.  Here are all of the items we think you should keep on hand so that you’re always prepared for a fabulous little fling and seem like the effortless hostess!

Bar snacks are a must, and Schermer Pecans make the perfect munchie.. They have an amazing Cinnamon Glaze or you could the Roasted and Salted version and add your own fresh Rosemary!

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Callie’s Biscuits and Pimento Cheese or their Cheese Crisps are a must for something a little more substantial (to soak up the booze!)

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An old college roommate of mine is making the most delicious dip.  Big T’s crab dip and shrimp dip (made from local seafood) and you can’t go wrong with either. They go well with ANY kind of cracker! Even the jalapeno version is awesome. They also have some great recipes on their website- Coastal Provisions.

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For a sweet treat, try local Grey Ghost Bakery cookies.

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You could even pair these with Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream for some amazing ice cream sandwiches!

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For drinks, I like local Westbrook Brewery and favor their White Thai.

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Highwire Distillery makes a Gin called Hat Trick that is divine. Even those who don’t love Gin will become fans. It’s so light and they use different herbal blends from local sources.

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4.10.15   |   TARA GUÉRARD
Charleston, Entertaining, Food and Drink, Gifts, Parties, Recipes | Comments >>

I think one of the most thoughtful and thought provoking gifts one could give or receive for their wedding is artwork. This could kickstart a young couples collection or ignite a passion in them as a couple that they can continue for many years. We are so blessed to have such an artists community here. I’m sharing some of my favorites.

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I’m a long time fan of Jill Hooper’s fan portraits and still lifes (I have a portrait by her in my home). Available through Ann Long Fine Art.

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John Duckworth‘s landscapes can be seen adorning the walls of some of Charleston’s favorite restaurants and published homes.

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Kate Long Stevenson‘s modern figures would be a lovely statement piece in a powder room, dining room, or over a mantle.

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Beach scenes are somewhat expected in the Lowcountry, but this one is just really lovely. By Dee Schenck Rhodes through the Charleston Artist Collective.

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There are so many color palettes in the abstracts by WayWay Allen it would be easy to find one to fit any home.

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Elizabeth O’Neill Verner’s  etchings of Charleston are hauntingly beautiful. A must have for any Charleston connection. Available through Ann Long Fine Art.

4.06.15   |   TARA GUÉRARD
Art, Charleston, Gifts, Interior Design | Comments >>

Most Charleston locals know about the South Windermere Antique mall. It’s a haven for mid century, traditional, and offbeat/funky items for the home. I’ve collected items for the Soiree office, my home, photo shoots, and many gifts over the years. They also have a sister store that focuses more on the high end traditional antique market called 17 South.   I wanted to show some of my favorite finds and they are just venturing into the social media world, so be sure to check them out! On Instagram: @antiquessouthwindermere and @17southantiques and Facebook (South Windermere and 17 South)

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Little lumbar pillow made from Schumacher in the Le Jardin fabric -LOVE!

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Killer mid century mirror and lucite ice bucket

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Lucite bar stool covered in python (there are 2)

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Feathered mirror, this would be so interesting on a gallery wall

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I love, love, love bar carts (we have a great one in our office) and this was a steal! Perfect for entertaining

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There is quite a mix of artwork, both framed and not, and all one of a kind.

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Perfect for seating in a Charleston garden.

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These amazing gilted floral sconces were on sale!!!!

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Vintage Louis suitcase- one of a kind and in great condition

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These campaign chests were a gorgeous shade of green- so many uses for these, I want!

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Little spoon collection, could be a lovely wedding or baby gift

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Taxidermy!

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Another chest/sideboard in a lovely shade of peacock blue

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Vintage dough bowl- we have incorporate these into wedding decor – on food stations, for holding flowers or favors, etc.

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pretty design elements on these brass side tables

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this gilt serving table is awesome- 3 tiers and would be a perfect home bar. One shelf for glasses, another for accessories, and the top shelf for the bottles

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really loved all of the colors in this oil.. could be so lovely over a mantle, a bed, etc.

4.03.15   |   TARA GUÉRARD
Art, Charleston, Entertaining, Event Design, Gifts, Interior Design, Shopping | Comments >>