eto Gift Guide 2024
14.11.24
•3 min read
14.11.24
•3 min read
We're all for creating new customs, especially over an impromptu glass of wine with family and friends. No fuss, no fret - just simple, welcoming rituals. We approach present-giving the same way: avoiding extravagance and focusing on thoughtful gifts, to inspire shared stories and make lasting memories. With that in mind, we sought out some seasonal ideas from a selection of our friends, colleagues and collaborators.
The master filmmaker on our 2024 campaign, Jack remains a fan of DVDs in the digital age. "I love physical media and owning something. Streaming platforms might have a film you like, but they could take it down at any moment, and sometimes those older classics are hard to find. So I love it when I receive a film, and bonus points if it has special features or a behind the scenes documentary. As for gifting, I like to give experiences, even if it’s a simple meal or a trip to the cinema. Time with people over material items is important, especially as I and the people around me get older.”
Pictured: The Grand Budapest Hotel - Criterion collection
If you’ve seen our Anderson Valley adventure with Chef Kevin O’Connor (Part 1, Part 2, Q&A, Recipes & Wine Pairing), you'll know that cast iron is essential cookware material. “Everyone needs a solid cast iron pan. My favourite is the all-in-one from Barebones. It’s high quality, it’s pretty, and it has a lid that fits perfectly, which is wonderful for outdoor cooking. All the lights and lanterns from Barebones are not to be ignored either - instant vibes!”
Pictured: Barebones all-in-one cast iron skillet (10")
Vinyl is one of life's enduring pleasures for Tom. “I love giving music-related gifts, especially Vinyl. There’s something about the tactile feel of records, the warmth of the sound, and the nostalgic ritual of dropping the needle. The cover art, the lyrics, and the artist's notes in the gatefold... When I gift a record, I like to include a handwritten note inside. Vinyl invites you to slow down, listen to every track, and enjoy the full album experience - without the urge to skip around. For myself (and if my family are reading) I'd love to receive some Dyson OnTrac noise-cancelling headphones!”
Pictured: Aldous Harding Warm Chris LP
For Dina, "cooking experiences are a great excuse to challenge yourself to make the food you love and enjoy quality time with someone who shares your passion. With a perfectly paired wine on the menu, to enjoy the fruits of your labour!" Classic boardgames have been a recent inspiration, too: "Our 11-year-old taught me Drafts on a family holiday, and next up is Backgammon." As for her own wish-list, "I want to get back into gardening, so some Niwaki garden tools to replace my old hand-me-downs would help!"
Pictured: PRINTWORKS - the art of backgammon set
Cate is a design writer championing simplicity and sustainability, and her gift suggestion embodies this. Katto kitchenware's garlic crusher is handcrafted in their Sheffield workshop from stainless steel, solid walnut and brass. “It's such a beautiful object, but perhaps not something you would necessarily buy for yourself," says Cate. "I think it's one of those things that elevate everyday meals."
Pictured: Katto steel and walnut garlic crusher
For food writer Olivia, For food writer Olivia the perfect gift lies in creating her own Christmas custom. “I have a lovely tradition of taking my nephew to the theatre every year, so that's what I'm looking forward to," she says - a simple ritual of creating memories that will last long after the curtain falls.