Curated by Mel

BETTER THAN PUMPKIN SPICE LATTE
Hotel Chocolat just launched its all new thermodynamic Velvetiser. Engineered for both hot and cold drinking chocolate, the specialty carafe melts chocolate flakes at an optimal 155-157 degrees Farenheit for velvety smooth sips. And for chilled drinking chocolate? The cycle begins with a series of pulses, which melds the finely milled chocolate with chilled milk. The starter kit comes with assorted varieties of shaved chocolate, such as classic, orange, and mint. Or—try autumn flavors like Black Forest or pumpkin.
Info: us.hotelchocolat.com

DIY MOOD LIGHTING
The folks at Sculpd have managed to create a DIY mood lighting kit. Whether that was the intent or not, this Filament Lamp Pottery Kit serves as two dates in one. First, plan a cozy night around making the DIY pottery base lamp, then plan a second night, using the light for a romantic dinner, which may or may not involve some belly laughs, depending on your artistic creation. Either way, it’s perfect for a quiet autumn weekend night. Info: sculpd.com

AUTMN GOLD FOR UNDER $50
I love a sneaker splurge, but I’m also down for any cute kicks, especially when they’re uniquely versatile. The Leo Retro in Sage-Berry delivers quiet rose hues with earthy sage and metallic gold—just waiting to be paired with autumn’s mossy greens and beyond. The platform lug sole provides all-day comfort for meandering the city, vacation excursions, or lingering days at the cider distillery. Plus, it boasts a serious tread, so you’ll be sure footed even in the rain. Info: famousfootwear.com

WISH CARDS
Sometimes the simplest ideas are the most impactful. Case in point: Wish Cards. Each little work of art includes a single match and an itty-bitty wick, embedded in a dollop of wax—just enough for one, quick wish. The sentiment and artistry combine for a truly memorable gift, and the studio offers wish cards for birthdays, love notes, and best of all—for no reason whatsoever. Buy a few at a time and stash them away for when a moment arises when you need something special. Info: wishcards.studio

ORCHARD STOVETOP SIMMER
I find most reality shows rather tedious, but I’d watch Joanna Gaines decorate a porta-potty if I came across it on TV. Luckily, her creations are everywhere, and the Magnolia Spiced Orchard Stovetop Simmer outshines any candle when it comes to seasonal aromatherapy. The fall-inspired potpourri comes in its own glass simmer pot. It’s a great gift, and also available in a Forest Hearth scent (think apples and pinecones)—perfect for the upcoming holidays. Info: magnolia.com

WOOD FIRED DREAM
With just an armful of wood, AlumiTubs promise all-day heat, and the brand’s quality promise basically proclaims, “to hell with planned obsolescence!” The craftsmen behind these beauties are thinking about usage and weather factors 50 years from now and promise of durability remains. It reaches prime heat in just 90 minutes, even in sub-zero conditions. Warm up a hot toddy and settle in for some dreamy stargazing sessions.
Info: alumitubs.com

HOLIDAYS? PLAN AHEAD
Elms Puzzles can take four to six weeks to ship, and they’re absolutely worth the wait. The brand is known for its customized, hand-cut wood puzzles. Clients may choose a traditional framed edge or an irregular edge, and therefore more difficult puzzle. Each puzzle piece is artisan cut, one piece at a time—no computers, and no lasers. Further refine the nuances by selecting some tricks, many tricks, or very few tricks—false edges, trick corners, and other deviations from traditional puzzles. In short, each puzzle is a masterpiece.
Info: elmspuzzles.com

COWBOY COFFEE + LEAF PEEPING
Let’s set the scene. It’s a chilly autumn Sunday, and you bundle up a bit to head out for a long leaf-peeping walk. Instead of your typical Yeti full of coffee, level it up to Pendleton Whisky’s Cowboy Coffee. Combine 1.5 oz Pendleton Original, 2 oz hot coffee, .27 oz butterscotch schnapps, and top with fresh whipped cream. The Pendleton Whisky delivers a rounded blend of warm spice, and the hint of butterscotch adds a depth similar to that of a hot buttered rum—only better.
Info: pendletonwhisky.com/drinks/cowboy-coffee

TINNED FISH BLISS
Tinned fish is the little black dress of the foodie realm. Hear me out. You won’t find a more versatile protein, and it can be dressed up or down with equal ease. If I’m backpacking, you can bet I’ve got tinned fish. Hosting an elegant soiree? Tinned fish. I’m over the moon for Fishwife because I feel like in addition to the dedication to quality, they understand that the packaging makes for a perfect hostess gift. Try the Rainbow Smoked Trout, Mussels in Basil Pesto, or Albacore Tuna with Spanish Lemon. Info: eatfishwife.com

NEW YORK APPLES
Fun fact: Yes! Apples are New York Apples. Behind the flashy grocery store brand you’ll find 50+ New York-based family farms growing over 20 varieties of apples—some 3.6M bushels of apples every year. You can look for them in the store or ship what’s ready now from their website. The packaging is gorgeous. So, if you’re looking for a replacement for the usual fruit basket, Yes! Apples checks all the boxes, plus represents the state with a bite of the big (tasty) apple. I’m sorry. I couldn’t help it.
Info: yesapples.com

CHEEKY FALL DINNER PARTIES
Create the invite list for this dinner party with an extra degree of consideration. You’ll want only your cheekiest friends in attendance. The napkins from No Reservations are utterly hilarious and pair well with any wine—but not with whining. Choose from the superlatives napkin set, seen here, or the “please leave by 9” version, which are my personal favorite. You can choose the thread color to ensure the napkins match your décor or the season.
Info: shopnores.com

THE DREAMIEST CHRISTMAS ADVENT
Each year, Vosges Haut-Chocolat crafts an advent calendar so over-the-top spectacular, it’s become one of the most treasured traditions in our home—a worthy splurge. This year, the luxurious chocolate advent has a whimsical jungle theme. And, as always, it’s structured like a large house that opens to surprise holiday goers with music, twinkling lights, and the most dazzling array of gourmet chocolates each day. The closer we get to December, the higher the risk the advent will sell out, and this is a not-to-miss holiday luxury.
Info: vosgeschocolate.com