“Giving gifts is a joy – once you figure out what truly delights the recipient,” says Emmakaisa Kirves, Marimekko’s Design Director for Ready-to-Wear. Her gift-giving philosophy centers on high-quality design, and she shares her favorite picks along with the story of her most unforgettable Christmas.
Hi Emmakaisa! How are you?
“Hi! Despite the darkness, fall and early winter are my favorite seasons, so I’m feeling excited. Both work and family life are quite busy, but it’s the kind of busy that’s full of wonderful and inspiring things, so it doesn’t feel stressful. I’ve also made the most of this year’s mild autumn in Helsinki – spending time outdoors every day, enjoying the change of seasons, and shooting hoops outside with my child.”
What kind of Christmas memories do you have?
“For me, Christmas – and the whole dark season, really – is filled with ever-changing traditions. I start embracing the cozy vibes early: lighting candles, enjoying tea and mulled wine in the evenings, and, of course, spending time with loved ones.
As a child, I absolutely loved Christmas. Familiar traditions still hold a special place in my heart, but I also enjoy introducing new elements to our celebrations. We’ve spent Christmas at my grandparents’ house, in a hotel, and even at home with friends. Last year, we celebrated in Tallinn with a family of friends.
“Familiar traditions are important, but it’s also fun to introduce new elements to Christmas celebrations.”
I also remember the first Christmas in our current home. We had just returned from the maternity hospital with our son, and I had prepared a Finnish rutabaga casserole in advance and frozen it. That Christmas is undoubtedly the most memorable and dearest to me. We received the greatest gift imaginable.
This year, my husband, child, and I are heading to Rome. I’m excited to experience Italian Christmas traditions, it’s going to be something completely new. Who knows, maybe our Christmas dinner this year will be pizza or pasta!”
What brings the Christmas spirit to life for you?
“For me, it’s the classic things that have been part of my life since childhood: friends and family, various celebrations, and, of course, food and drink. We always build a gingerbread house, though these days I let my child design it first by drawing, and then we try to bring his vision to life.
Winter also comes with more game nights. It’s clearly a time to slow down and enjoy being at home in a different way. Making and giving gifts is another highlight. It’s such a joy when you can figure out what will truly delight someone else.”
Gifting tips by Emmakaisa:
Vaarnii: 003 Stilts side table
“My husband and I bought Vaarni’s 001 dining chair for our fifth wedding anniversary, and it’s absolutely my favorite chair. I’d gift the sturdy 003 Stilts side table to my husband – I’m pretty sure he’d love it as well. The wood is beautiful, locally sourced Finnish pine.”
• All side tables >
Marimekko: Unikko candle holder
“Spending dark evenings on the balcony is such a treat: wrapped in a blanket, sipping mulled wine, and surrounded by candlelight. Maija Isola’s Unikko is one of Marimekko’s classic patterns, and these ceramic Unikko candle holders make the perfect gift for a friend.”
Vitra: Akari 3AD table lamp
“Akari lamps create such a soft, atmospheric glow in a room, and they’re often described as modern paper lanterns. I’d gift the 3AD lamp, part of Vitra’s collection, to my son. I think he’d love the dynamic pattern on the paper shade.”
• All lighting >
PELATA pieces: Prikka backgammon
“This is what I want! Games are a big part of the winter season, and the Prikka backgammon set from the new PELATA pieces brand is so beautiful it deserves to be on display all year round. The best part is that the game board doubles as a tray if you like, which is such a clever idea from the designers at TAF Studio.”
• All games >
Santa & Cole: Tatu table lamp
“A few years ago, I visited Santa & Cole’s headquarters near Barcelona with some friends. Ever since, I’ve been even more intrigued by the brand’s products. This striking Tatu lamp would make a wonderful gift for a close friend or family member, offering a stylish alternative to the traditional poinsettia.”
• All table lamps >
See also:
• More gift ideas at Finnish Design Shop >
• More products from Marimekko >
Text: Design Stories Images: Mikael Niemi and manufacturers
Please note that some products may not be available in all regions.
Gifting made easy
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