The Unofficial 2020 Goldman Sachs Holiday Gift Guide
By: John Lefevre
Tags: Gift Guide, Lifestyle, Finance, Holidays, Christmas

It’s been a unique year to say the least. And undoubtedly, it’ll be a unique holiday season. However, we shouldn’t let COVID or political turmoil dictate our lives — how we celebrate, how we socialize, or how we give.

This year’s list (our 7th edition) is packed with all the things a man wants but feels guilty buying for himself, as well as the things he probably doesn’t even know he wants. Regardless of how deep your pockets are, this is the only holiday gift guide you’ll need — from the practical to the fantastical.

In years past, we’ve focused on the notion that Santa loves rich kids more. While it’s important to unapologetically enjoy the fruits of our success and appreciate the finer things in life, it’s also important to embrace a sense of empathy — now more than ever — as well as optimism with respect to an eventual return to normalcy.

For His House:

No matter how big your house is, it got a little smaller this year, but there are a few things I’d recommend. For starters, adding a few American artifacts to your house is always great, like this sword from the War of 1812 ($42,000), this Signed Letter from Martin Luther King Jr. to Sammy Davis ($54,000) or this Bible signed by Trump ($37,500). Feel free to have these items placed in the background of your Zoom call to give yourself something else to talk about besides this “new normal”. Also, stop saying “new normal”.

While everyone rushed to buy Pelotons that they’ll only get a few months use out of before turning it into an overpriced coat rack, I purchased this sauna ($1,700), something I knew I would actually use. Lastly, if you haven’t improved your coffee set up yet, go with this alarm clock coffee maker ($445) and be sure to get a Breville milk frother ($130), this coffee grinder ($32), and these Death Wish Coffee beans ($19). If you’re still using Keurig pods then I can’t help you.

For His Closet

Like most, I’ve had a slim rotation of clothes worn this year. I recommend spending your days wearing the pants from Birddogs ($95), which are perfect for the office, on the golf course, our lounging around the house, along with a James Perse Polo ($265). Looking beyond COVID, now is the perfect time to refresh your top drawer with these Brummell Boxer Briefs ($23) and Undershirts ($25). Even if we’re stuck inside, they make ideal comfort ware. And post-COVID, Brummell’s basics are the perfect foundation for all occasions. And if you do go outside, go with these Paige Denim ($209) or Tom Ford Jeans ($720).

For His (WFH) Office:

Your guess is as good as mine for how long this work from home will continue, but now is an excellent time to build the ideal home office. Start with some inspiring artwork ($200,000), an antique desk ($12,500), a Bamboo Plant ($195), and either a dartboard ($140) or golf simulator ($26,000) to keep you entertained while being muted on conference calls. Although I hate being on video, this Logitech camera ($99) and Lume Cube Video Conference Lighting ($69) have helped more than I thought it would. And of course, this Targus Webcam Cover ($9) — no need to pull a Jeffrey Toobin.

For most of us who spend too many hours staring at screens, I’d recommend the Tom Brady-designed Christopher Cloos Glasses ($179) with blue light protection lenses. They will literally save your eyesight; your older self will thank you. Finally, while you’re not paying attention to your Zoom calls, it’s fun to check out what your favorite celebrities, VCs, and industry titans are investing in with Public.

For His Bar Cart

With Corporate America getting rid of the bar cart culture, go ahead and tap into your inner Don Draper and build one in your home office. I’d start with this Mid Century Bar Cart ($4,500), a proper Copper Ice Bucket ($1,300), this Baccarat Decanter ($1,315), and these SOHO Crystal Whiskey Glasses ($196 — set of four).