Five Small Luxuries Bringing Me Joy This December
December always feels like a month of contrasts—crisp air and warm fires, long to-do lists and quiet winter evenings, festive plans and stolen moments of stillness. And while I truly love the grandeur of the season, it’s the small luxuries that have been grounding me lately. The simple little things that make everyday life feel softer, cozier, and more comforting.
Here are five little luxuries I’m reaching for on repeat this month.
1. Fancy Saddle Pads (Because Beautiful Tack Does Spark Joy)
There is something deeply satisfying about unboxing a beautifully made saddle pad, especially in winter when riding feels both invigorating and restorative. I’ve been rotating a few favorites lately:
Sixteen Cypress — polished, elevated, and quietly elegant
Le Mieux — reliable classics with that crisp, structured look
Dapple Bay — bold, fun, and spirited designs for a little barn-side cheer
Even on days when the weather is brisk and the rides are short, choosing a nice saddle pad (bonus points for matching my top and jacket!) feels like giving myself a small treat.
2. Loose-Leaf Tea for Slow Evenings
I end almost every winter night with a cup of Plum Deluxe’s loose leaf teas, beautifully soothing loose-leaf blend that taste like a long exhale. My go-to over the past couple of months has been Welsh Dreams… It’s lemony and minty without being bright, cozy without being heavy, and it pairs perfectly with a long book or a quiet moment before bed.
It’s become a tiny nightly ritual I look forward to all day long.
3. Magnesium Body Butter for the Dreamiest Sleep
I don’t know if it’s the magnesium, the scent, or simply the pause it gives me before bed, but magnesium body butter has been a game-changer for sleep. I massage a small amount into my shoulders and wrists every night and it helps melt away tension. It’s a tiny luxury that feels like a spa moment at home.
4. Wines From My Favorite Local Virginia Wineries
I love supporting local vineyards year-round, but something about December makes it even more special. This month I’ll be reaching for bottles from:
Barboursville Vineyards – especially their elegant reds
The Winery at La Grange – cozy, rustic, perfect for holiday evenings
Trump Winery – sparkling selections that feel celebratory
Opening a bottle from a place I’ve actually visited feels meaningful — and distinctly Virginian.
5. Wool & Cashmere Socks (The Unsung Heroes of Winter)
It sounds simple, but slipping into a pair of soft wool and cashmere socks completely changes my mood on cold mornings. They’re one of those small luxuries that genuinely improve daily life—whether I’m working from home, heading out to the barn, or just padding around the house with a cup of tea.
Warm feet = a better day. Every time.
