Season’s greetings from our Puck family to yours! As 2024 draws to a close, we’re grateful for another year of remarkable and market-moving reportage from our growing team of journalists across New York, Washington, and Los Angeles (with cameos from London, Paris, and Milan…). There’s so much in store for the year ahead, and we can’t wait to share everything we’ve been working on to make your membership even more valuable. More than anything, we’re especially grateful to you, our readers, who have joined us on this journey.
To celebrate the season, and to mark the start of this year’s holiday festivities, we’ve continued our tradition of asking our journalists, back-of-the-house operators, and some V.I.P. friends of Puck to share how they’re stuffing stockings; what they’re watching, reading, and drinking; and the big gifts they have their eyes on. (We may earn a commission if you buy anything!) Thanks to all our contributors, as well as our friends at Polestar, The Cocktail Collection, and Netflix for their support.
Featuring Marc Jacobs, Anthony Scaramucci & Michael D. Ratner
Mooch’s Man Bar
ANTHONY SCARAMUCCI, former White House communications director
My recommendations are twofold… First, who couldn’t use an extra dose of inspiration to start their day? This Life’s Little Instruction 2025 Day-to-Day Calendar is the perfect gift for everyone on your list. Also, trust me, every man needs a Man Bar in their stocking.
More Than a Tomato Candle
Sarah Personette, C.E.O.This candle has one of the most unique scents I have ever encountered. It has an indulgent yet purifying quality that makes a wonderful stocking stuffer and a great hostess gift! Plus, the French packaging is just stunning, and looks good well past the holiday season.
A Marc Jacobs Bathroom Essential
MARC JACOBS, fashion designer
The gift that everyone needs, Aësop poo drops. Get them at Selfridges; they don’t sell them in the U.S. anymore, for whatever reason.
An Inflation-Proof Classic
MICHAEL D. RATNER, C.E.O. and founder of OBB Media
Sour Patch Kids. The classic kids are preferable, and the watermelon are permissible, but absolutely never tropical. Don’t fix what’s not broken, and be careful when re-creating the classics.
A Mobile Lifesaver
The ChargeCard is a tiny, thin, magnetic portable phone charger, and the gift that keeps on giving. Perfect for all of your friends and family whose phones are permanently in the red!
An Indie Fragrance Sampler
Becky Aydin, social media managerShout-out to our Rachel Strugatz, who piqued my interest in indie perfumers. I’m dying to get my hands on Zoologist’s “Greatest Hits” sample set. It includes 18 of their animal-inspired fragrances (“Squid” features black ink and salty accords, “Chameleon” brings base notes of Opoponax and vetiver, and “Rabbit” marries clover flower and biscuit accords.)
Featuring Hali Borenstein, C.E.O. of Reformation
A First-Class Keyboard
This Donner keyboard kept me sane during the election. The keys are weighted, the sound is clear, and it looks like furniture. It’s also surprisingly affordable, given the quality.
Tim Cook’s Favorite Headphones
HALI BORENSTEIN, C.E.O. of Reformation
For those of us in need of a truly silent night!
Rejuvenating Spa Days
I love getting a post-holiday facial at Rescue Spa when it’s cold and dark. It’s so lovely and luxurious, and will cheer you right up. They’ve got locations in New York and Philadelphia, and hopefully more soon.
A Cigar Lover’s Dream
Phil Roth, director, engineeringA few years ago, I was looking for something to help me unwind and relax, and found that puffing on a cigar for an hour or so was the answer. For those avid cigar toters in need of a perfect way to store them, I’m in love with my humidor from Raching—the Spanish cedar interior lining keeps your cigars preserved in an optimal state, ready to deliver a rich, smooth smoke whenever you need.
The Perfect Canadian Retreat
One of my favorite places to decamp is Reflexion Charlevoix, an hour north of Quebec City. It’s not that expensive, and beautiful in the winter. In fact, I’m thinking of going here for my 65th in February.
A More Restorative Facial
Isabella Lichauco, brand designerMy face tends to get a little puffy after all the holiday festivities, so to remedy that, I like going to FaceGym for their Signature Sculpt facial with the Buccal Tension Release add-on. Not only does it slim my face back down, but the massage feels amazing, and is especially great for those with TMJ.
A Puck Guilty Pleasure
Isabella Lichauco, brand designer
Julia Baldyga, senior manager, accounts & revenue operations
Stacy Eisner, chief growth officerThe women of Puck HQ are not-so-secretly obsessed with Hulu’s Tell Me Lies. Set in 2008, it has all the makings of the classic teen shows we loved in the early aughts—nothing supernatural, just the drama that comes with being young and good-looking in college. Plus, the soundtrack is excellent (and very reminiscent of The O.C.).
Wall Street’s Favorite Hate Watch
Industry: The show that everyone on Wall Street loves to hate. They’re all awful—I especially can’t stand the young ones—but almost all the characters make my skin crawl. If there’s one thing Industry gets right, it’s that the turncoat backstabbing on the show is very resemblant of Wall Street. Extremely Darwinian.
For the Conflicted WWE Aficionado
Netflix docuseries Mr. McMahon brings you inside the mind of disgraced former WWE head Vince McMahon. Assuming, of course, that’s somewhere you even want to go.
A ‘Vampire’ Reboot
Michael Mantone, lead product designerMaybe I’m a hopeless romantic, but I couldn’t get enough of Jacob Anderson and Sam Reid as the two star-crossed vampires in Interview With the Vampire, a refreshing adaptation of Anne Rice’s famous novel. Lucky for us, two full seasons are available to binge on AMC+, and a third season is in the works.
Featuring Morgan Stewart McGraw, founder of Renggli
An Urgent Conversation Starter
Alex Bigler, V.P., creative strategy & client serviceNo one does entertaining like Rebecca Gardner at House & Parties… this champagne top hat should let people know what they’re in for with a Bigler party!
Fresh Shellfish On Demand
HALI BORENSTEIN, C.E.O. of Reformation
Keep it simple. By the time we get through Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and the madness that is the holiday shopping season, I’m ready for a cocktail and a nap. Late December/early January is one of the few times things are a bit calmer in our world, and I prefer to focus on quality time with my husband, kids, and friends versus hunkering down in the kitchen. I’m all about going out to eat or hacking hosting with delivery. I’m a Miami native, so Joe’s Stone Crab is a must for a special treat.
Instant Cocktail Euphoria
Danny Karel, general manager & deputy editorIn recent years, I’ve developed a new party mantra: Less prepping, more socializing. Enter the pre-mixed cocktails from The Cocktail Collection. These premium beverages are an essential addition to any social gathering—the perfectly curated and pre-mixed cocktails are delicious (my favorite is the Espresso Martini, made with Ketel One Vodka), and the collection has plentiful options to satisfy anyone who walks through the door. It’s kind of like having your own personal bartender always within arm’s reach.
The Ultimate Party Plate
For the person who already owns four pairs of Charvet slippers: I had a book come out this fall, and have too many people to thank. Most of them are the kind of people who want for nothing—and whenever they do want for something, they just buy it. My friend and Brigade Talent owner Max Stein suggested I give one of these characters a handmade Match pewter tray. Well, I did just that and the recipient used it to serve cookies that very evening.
A Snack Table Upgrade
Isabella Lichauco, brand designerI’m a big fan of Fishwife, not just because of the fun packaging, but because tinned fish has officially become one of my pantry staples. It’s so versatile—you can create dips and spreads to add to any charcuterie board or have the sardines on toast like you would have Spanish boquerones. And just in time for the holidays, for a limited time, they’re selling caviar now too!
A Better Gift Basket
For the holidays, I’m planning to give a few curated gift baskets from Casa Cara. The L.A. brand bills itself as “inspired by the relaxed and effortlessly cool California lifestyle,” but they’re mostly just fun. They’re gift baskets for the person who gets a lot of gift baskets.
A Classier Champagne Cooler
MORGAN STEWART MCGRAW, founder of Renggli
One must always have a filled champagne bucket over the holiday season to deal with those tough family members.
A Floating Knife Rack
It’s a well-known fact that the best way to store your knives and keep them sharp is to mount them on a magnetic strip, just like Julia Child. But magnetic strips are ugly and Julia’s kitchen, even though it’s in the Smithsonian, is more utilitarian than stylish. Enter, photographer Ilan Rubin’s combination magnetic knife rack, shelf, and peg for things like a good potholder.
Kitchen Composting With Flair
Any home chef worth their salt knows how to upcycle leftovers, but whether you’re peeling potatoes, prepping carrots, or cleaning out your oft-ignored vegetable drawer, tossing organics in the trash is still a big no-no. Earlier this year, I bought a Lomi 2, which turns those extra food scraps into nutrient-rich dirt in just four hours. It’s been an absolute boon in the kitchen and the garden, and it’s a perfect new kitchen accessory for the home chef or green thumb in your life.
Featuring Dr. Shereene Idriss, “It” dermatologist
Sleep That’s Worth the Price
DR. SHEREENE IDRISS, “It” dermatologist
Eight Sleep is a luxury I honestly didn’t know I needed. It’s a high-tech mattress cover that lets me heat or cool my side of the bed independently, and it’s been a total game-changer for me. Since I can’t do much about my husband’s love for overheating in the bed, I can set my side to stay comfortably cool all night, which has not only improved my sleep quality—it’s also saved my sanity!
A Meat Lover’s Master Class
Mark Healy, senior editorIf someone you love really loves barbecue, then there is no place on earth they would rather be than Mendoza, Argentina, this February 12-16, for an actual once-in-a-lifetime master class featuring Argentina’s God of Fire, Francis Mallmann, and Texas pitmaster legend Aaron Franklin. Over four days, your beloved carnivore will immerse themselves in the harmonic convergence of smoke, fat, salt, spice, and heat, quaffing incredible local wines, and learning the art of cooking with fire with two of the best there ever were. It’s like going into the studio with Rick Rubin and Don Was or to the atelier with Phoebe Philo and Rick Owen. Serious meat lovers only.
A Luxury EV Alternative
Jon Kelly, editor-in-chiefOn a perfect November morning, I took the Polestar 3 out into the country for an old-school leisure drive through the fall air. It’s the sportier model in the Swedish EV brand’s portfolio, with the kind of performance that stands out even in the suburbs. I’ll admit that a few other electric vehicle owners looked it up and down at stop lights.
A Dignified Briefcase
David Kobe, community engagement associateMy timeline was recently blessed with a photo of what can only be described as a trash pile of finance bro backpacks at an otherwise expensive and respectable New York restaurant. If you have an upcoming graduate in your life about to enter the financial service industry (or any industry, for that matter) a dignified briefcase like the Prada Saffiano Leather Work Bag will save them some embarrassment.
Don’t Call It a Golf Cart
This summer, I bought a Pilot Car lithium battery-powered low-speed vehicle. No, not a golf cart. It’s a low-speed vehicle, with turn signals, real bumpers, four seat belts, and rearview mirrors, and it’s street legal in L.A.—and anywhere in California—on roads with speed limits of 30 m.p.h. or less, which is pretty much everywhere except the boulevards and freeways. And unlike my boxy SUV, the LSV (we named it Jeffrey) is actually fun to drive. I haven’t pulled up to the Polo Lounge and tossed the valet my keys like Larry David, but it’s perfect for scooting around my neighborhood, hitting a screening on the Fox lot, or impressing the other dads at school drop-off.
Elite Ice Nirvana
Gaby Grossman, director, editorial operationsAt Puck HQ, I’ve developed a reputation as our resident Diet Coke addict. When the clock strikes 3 p.m. every afternoon, I get a caffeine headache that can only be cured by that sweet, sweet DC. The one thing we’re missing is fancy ice. Everyone knows pellet ice is elite, and this year I am asking Puck office Santa Claus (Jon Kelly) for a pellet ice machine.
The Sebastian Wrong Table Lamp
Good lamps make a space more than any other feature. But they’re hard to find. This 2020 Flos lamp is both classic modern and space-age futuristic. It will also throw some dramatic shadows.
An Entry-Level Van Cleef
It’s so important to buy a big gift for yourself every now and again. This year, I am thinking about treating myself to this reversible Alhambra ring from Van Cleef & Arpels.
Matchbook Objet d’Art
Alex Bigler, V.P., creative strategy & client serviceThis caught my eye during a recent perusal at Diptyque—a gilded matchbox case that adds an extra festive touch to the simple act of striking a match. Pair that with this year’s Diptyque carousel and every day is a holiday!
Diamonds À La Carte
Curtis Rowser III, assistant editorEach of my eight piercings is filled with some variation of Maria Tash diamonds. I have my eyes on this black-and-white diamond charm to add to one of my hoops.
An Espresso Martini Menorah
Gaby Grossman, director, editorial operationsChic Hanukkah memorabilia is hard to come by. In a world of gorgeous Christmas ornaments for every style and sartorial sensibility, Hanukkah options can often feel generic and limited. Enter Susan Alexandra’s Judaica. The Espresso Martini Menorah is fun, playful, and nontraditional—not to mention something I would proudly display in my home year-round.
Featuring Mara Roszak, founder of RŌZ haircare
A Can’t-Fail Fashion Gift
I’ve been an advocate for designer Alissa Zachary’s High Sport, maker of “the Pants”—a stretchy, wear-everywhere, kick flare—since pre-launch. But I have to say, I’m even more bullish on the Jules, a straight-leg version rendered in a shinier, dressier, engineered knit Alissa calls NSFW. Get it? The reality, though, is that the pant is very safe for work. It will look great on New Year’s Eve with dangly earnings. Available in black for the practical and garnet for the adventurous.
A Different Kind of Hermès Scarf
Jon Kelly, editor-in-chiefI recently bought my wife this stunning pique sellier shawl from Hermès based on a design by Cyrille Diatkine. The image, itself, is meant to evoke the notion of constant motion—a heavy if appropriate metaphor, since Rebecca just completed her first New York Marathon. Most casual Hermès shoppers opt for the traditional silk scarves, which are timelessly chic and pair with everything, but the heavier, larger shawl has so many more practical applications, while the sheer size alone allows the gifted to truly appreciate the nuances of the design.
Your New Signature Blazer
MARA ROSZAK, founder of RŌZ haircare
As I’ve gotten older, my style has changed and my work has gotten even busier as a brand founder. More and more, I find myself reaching for the essentials in my wardrobe that allow me to feel like myself—casual but chic. Argent is so easy to wear, and their signature blazer is something everyone needs in their closet.
A Red Velvet Refresh
I’m not typically one for musicals, but I do love originality, and wow, does Emilia Pérez have style, from the gorgeous cinematography, to yes, the drop-dead gorgeous costumes. (Clothes tell stories, after all.) Zoe Saldaña’s character Rita’s red velvet suit conjured a sense memory for me, taking me all the way back to 1996, the VMAs, and Gwyneth Paltrow (Google it). It also took me down an e-commerce rabbit hole. Zadig & Voltaire did a great version this season (blazer and pants sold separately) that you’ll wear to all the parties.
The Perfectly Fitted Pea Coat
If there’s one piece of clothing that I recommend every guy invest in, it’s a well-constructed, perfectly fitted pea coat. I’m loving Brunello Cucinelli’s wool double beaver cloth version, as it perfectly balances comfort and style and it brings a timeless, cool elegance to any outfit.
An Eye-Catching Collab
Lia Marabella, operations assistantI love the high-low combo of the New Balance x Miu Miu 530 Suede Sneakers. With a classic New Balance silhouette mixed with Miu Miu’s signature whimsy, these sneakers are the perfect blend of I woke up like this and I definitely planned this outfit.
The Peter Hamby Staple
Jack O'Connell, former Puck internNo matter where you’re going, J.Crew’s Slim Untucked Baird Irish Linen Shirt needs to come with you. It’s an all-season piece that’s suitable for any occasion. I knew I was onto something when Peter Hamby and I both wore it at our offsite/onsite this past September.
For the Dog That Deserves the Best
Isabella Lichauco, brand designerOur furry friends need to stay warm this holiday season. So if your Barbour is still on heavy rotation after all these years, why not also get your dog one? This one even has a corduroy collar.
An Elevated Bubbly
My family loves to drink champagne around the holidays (and the rest of the year!), so I will be buying a lot of Billecart-Salmon Brut Rose. It’s dry, crisp, and delicious!
Habit-Forming Mixology
Melanie Singer, marketing managerThey say smoking is bad, but the Cigarette Martini from Tigre is exceptional. As some things are best kept secret, they have yet to disclose the exact recipe, so my at-home bartender riffed something that’s pretty close to the real deal. Get all your ingredients as cold as possible; pour 1.75 oz of Empirical Charlene McGee, .25 oz of Truman vodka, and .75 oz Cap Corse Mattei Blanc Quinquina Aperitif into a mixing glass. Then stir over ice, pour into a frigid glass, and impress all your guests.
Fool-Proof Bourbon
Someone sent me a thank-you bottle of Colonel E. H. Taylor’s Small Batch Bourbon for moderating a panel, and it’s quickly become my favorite dark spirit. It’s slightly smoky and extra smooth with very minimal aftertaste, despite its 100 proof. It’s perfect for sipping while researching tomorrow’s podcast guest.
Canon for Cocktails
In my home, the Death & Co. series is the canon for cocktail recipes, and their “Dean Martin”—a martini sprung from a snow-covered pine forest—is the ideal holiday fireside libation. Herewith…
1.75 oz Tanqueray, .25 oz Clear Creek Douglas Fir Brandy, .5 oz La Quintinye Vermouth Royal Blanc, .5 oz Boissiere Dry Vermouth, one drop of salt solution, four sprays of après-ski tincture… (via Death & Co. in New York)
Featuring Nell Diamond, founder of Hill House Home
Ski Lodge Luxury
NELL DIAMOND, founder of Hill House Home
My 8-year-old son is obsessed with skiing, and I’m obsessed with finding ways to get my kids outside during the darkest months in New York. We’re taking our talents upstate most weekends this winter, and I’ve been angling for new skis since I demoed a pair of Black Crows two years ago. Aside from their logo and branding, I quickly learned that they’re the brand of choice for the ski instructors on the mountain—always a great leading indicator. I need them, obviously, in pink.
A Better Backpack
This summer I spent four days in the Oregon mountains, and carried it all in my weightless, ultralight ZPack. As a graduate of Outward Bound, I try to keep up my hiking habit, and this bag makes it much easier.
Coffee Table Hoop Dreams
Curtis Rowser III, assistant editorIf you even remotely like basketball—let alone if you love hoops—30 Years of SLAM: The Definition of Basketball Culture is an absolute must-buy. SLAM was recently inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame; this book chronicles their 30-year (and counting) legacy.
An Advanced Pickleball Hack
Stacy Eisner, chief growth officerIf you’re going to get a gift for the Pickleball fanatic in your life, may as well get them the best racket on the market. Dink in style in 2025!
A Courtside Advantage (Dress)
Sarah Personette, C.E.O.If you’re heading somewhere warm with a racquet bag, I highly recommend Court&Course’s Advantage Dress in this deep, rich, sort of dusky shade of green. When my business partner Ginger Whitenack designed it (yes, I own a female-owned, female-led racquet and golf clothing line as well!), she wanted everyone to look great on the court and feel great off. I think she nailed it.
For the Long-Suffering Orioles Fan
The Last Manager: How Earl Weaver Tricked, Tormented & Reinvented Baseball by John W. Miller. My favorite baseball team, the Orioles, hasn’t won a World Series in more than 40 years. This book, on the team’s legendary and mercurial manager, is a fun ride back to when the O’s were the best team in baseball.
A Space Age Survival Guide
HALI BORENSTEIN, C.E.O. of Reformation
Regardless of how you feel about Elon, this biography offers incredible insight into one of the wealthiest and most influential people in the world.
A Chilling Read
Phil Roth, director, engineeringIf you’re in the mood for a chilling, thought-provoking read, check out Rachel Harrison’s Black Sheep. A New York Times Best Horror Book of the Year, the novel follows a 20-something who’s pulled back into the dark embrace of her unconventional, staunchly religious family. It’s eerie and captivating.
An Anglophile’s Delight
Danny Karel, deputy editor & general managerI’ve been on a Graham Greene kick, and of the novels I’ve read this year from the British great—including Our Man in Havana, The Quiet American, and The End of the Affair—the most riveting and affecting was The Power and the Glory, which is perhaps his least British novel, and almost certainly his best.
Rich People Behaving Badly
One of the best books I read this year was Taffy Brodesser-Akner’s Long Island Compromise, a clever and enthralling novel about a wealthy family behaving badly on, uh, Long Island.
