Holiday by Tori Gwin
My Favorite Holiday Tradition
Growing up, Christmas Eve in our family was nothing short of epic. We’d kick off the day with breakfast at a family friend’s house—always bringing Dunkin’ Donuts and exchanging funny, silly gifts. (One year, my dad, a science enthusiast, got a shirt that read: “On a cellular level, I am really quite busy.” He still wears it 25 years later.)
From there, we’d head to my grandparents’ home in Salem, MA, for lunch and presents, then rush back to get dressed in our sparkliest outfits for Christmas Eve Mass—followed by a lively neighborhood party.
But one year, when I was about 17, everything felt rushed and tense. We were running late for church, and frustration was high. In that moment, I suggested we skip church just this once and sit around the fireplace instead, taking turns sharing something we appreciated or were proud of in one another.
That night, a new tradition was born.
Our annual holiday fireside chats have continued ever since—growing louder and more joyful as our family expanded from four to eight (soon to be nine!). Taking the time to pause, connect, and celebrate each other remains the most meaningful part of the season for me.
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Step into the Holiday Magic at The Peninsula Chicago!
Want to meet Santa without the long lines and pricey photo packages? Stop by The Peninsula after one of their Christmas teas—Santa and Mrs. Claus are often still there, ready for photos and a quick chat before heading back to the North Pole.
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The iconic lobby, decked out in dazzling holiday decor, instantly puts you in the spirit. And don’t miss the complimentary candy shop run by cheerful elves—it’s a whimsical treat for kids and adults.
No kids in tow? Head upstairs to Z Bar for a festive cocktail and stunning city views. You’ll catch skaters twirling across the rooftop rink below—pure winter magic.
Wrap up your visit with a stroll down Michigan Avenue, soaking in the sparkling lights and popping into beautifully decorated shops for a few last-minute gifts.
Women Owned Stores I'm Shopping at This Holiday
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Pyar&Co. (Lincoln Park)
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Foursided (Lakeview & Andersonville)
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Alice & Wonder (Lincoln Park & Lakeview)
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Neighborly (Lincoln Square)
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Semicolon Bookstore (West Town)
Gifts for the Host with the Most
Whether you’re stopping by for cocktails, staying for dinner, or spending the weekend, show your gratitude with a thoughtful gesture. These picks go beyond the usual bottle of wine—each one is a little luxury your host will actually use (and appreciate).
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A Fancy Hand Soap
The perfect mix of indulgent and practical—looks good by the sink and smells amazing.
Top picks: Ouai, Aesop, Salt & Stone, and Flamingo Estate
Budget-friendly option: Dr. Bronner’s Organic Sugar Soap—feels luxe without the price tag.
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A Beautiful Bottle of Olive Oil (Bonus Points for a Fresh Baguette)
Skip the wine and gift something delicious and design-forward:
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Galantino Fantasia – Hand-painted ceramic bottles in fun colors and patterns (available at Sur La Table & Bloomingdale’s)
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Pineapple Collaborative – California-sourced in a chic tin (Amazon)
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Le Marké – Elegant and countertop-worthy (Crate & Barrel or Williams Sonoma)
A Kitchen Upgrade They Wouldn’t Buy Themselves
Little luxuries always make great gifts:
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Salad servers, elevated dish towels, or napkins
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Art Effect (Lincoln Park) – A well-curated shop with modern, stylish kitchen finds
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Pyar & Co (Lincoln Park) – Beautiful textures and globally inspired pieces
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Anthropologie (Various locations) – Fun seasonal designs + holiday wrapping available