Beautiful lights on the tree, crackling fires glowing on the hearth, and scrumptious food on the table are sights and sounds of the holidays that I long for every year. It’s a celebration of the gift of life, and it’s a blessed time of family and joy.

In that spirit of joy and giving, it is my great pleasure to present to you a few notable titles from our 2014 Holiday Gift Guide that will be on my giving list this year!

FOR THE WELCOMING HOSTESS
The holidays are full of festive occasions and warm welcomes. Leave behind a gift that expresses a gracious “thank you” to your hostess with one of our entertaining books or special issues. They’re full of delicious dishes and inspirational ideas for future gatherings.

FOR THE AVID GARDENER
Even though there’s a chill in the air now, I know many of us are eagerly perusing the seed catalogues and anticipating the spring thaw for splendid gardening adventures. Give a treasure trove of inspiration and ideas for next year’s floral glory with the Cottage Gardens special issue. I like to wrap mine with a pretty ribbon and a few seed packets of my favorite blooming varieties.

FOR CHERISHED FRIENDS
A tiny bouquet, a kind word, or verses of inspiration—all make the perfect gift for the precious women in your life. Brimming with some of my favorite inspirational quotes and quiet thoughts, I compiled this sweet hardback volume to express my esteem and gratitude for some of the most treasured ladies in my life. I’d like to share it with you to do the same.

FOR THE NEWLY ENGAGED
The holidays are full of exciting beginnings in the form of engagements. Bless the happy couple with a trio of titles that will help give a head start to the wedding planning and exciting changes to come.

FOR THE GRACIOUS GUEST ROOM
One of the most important preparations I make for the holidays is to freshen up the guest room. Lovely flowers, a decanter of water, sweet treats, and some delicious reading material make the space feel like a retreat and a home away from home for my visitors. I also like to leave a little note encouraging my guests to take this bit of my home back to enjoy in their own homes as a reminder of the fellowship and memories we have together.

FOR THE STYLISH DECORATOR
William Morris was right when he said, “Have nothing in your houses that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful.” Every page of Southern Homes is full of the breathtakingly beautiful. Whether self-taught or formally trained, your favorite decorating maven Will enjoy these stunning abodes.

I’d love to hear the best gifts you’ve been given. Please share in the comments below.