I just finished working on our annual holiday gift guide (look out for our packed December issue on newsstands any day now), so Christmas shopping is definitely first and foremost on my mind. What exactly am I looking for this year? Gifts that are experiential— like golf lessons, a bed and breakfast getaway or theatre tickets—for those family members who seemingly have everything. Gifts that truly say San Francisco, for those out-of-town relatives. One-of-a-kind presents for those trendsetting girlfriends who love getting the scoop. Or items that have proceeds benefiting a good cause for those save-the-world friends. Check out these local shopping events at some of my favorite stores that I’ll be scouting for those categories this season. Happy Shopping!

What: Kiehl’s World AIDS shopping benefit
When: Saturday, December 1
Where: Kiehl’s stores, 2360 Fillmore St., 415-359-9260; Westfield San Francisco Shopping Centre, 865 Market St., 415-644-0122
Why: In honor of World AIDS Day, Kiehl’s Since 1851 will donate 20% of all net sales to YouthAIDS, a non-profit organization that aims to stop the spread of AIDS among 15- to 24-year-olds in more than 50 countries. Spend more $100 or more and get a complimentary limited edition World AIDS Day t-shirt.


courtesy of Kiehl’s

What: Cathy Waterman Trunk Show
When: 5 to 8 p.m., Friday, December 9
Where: Metier boutique, 355 Sutter St., 415-989-5395
Why: Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres and personal appearance with jewelry designer Cathy Waterman, showing her new collection and one-of-a-kind pieces


courtesy of Cathy Waterman

What: Given Fine Jewelry Showcase
When: 1 to 4 p.m., Saturday, December 15
Where: Given boutique, 575 Castro St., 415-865-0353
Why: Jewelry show featuring collections by local artists Lauren Ramirez, Deborah Caperton and Tiffany Paige.