In the case of sourcing presents for individuals who seemingly have every thing, Katrina Aleksa has mastered the artwork. Because the founding father of Roxy Wraps, a luxurious gifting enterprise that specialises in turning presents into experiences, Aleksa spends her days monitoring down extraordinary objects, forging relationships with London’s most unique boutiques, and guaranteeing each present feels deeply private.
Her method isn’t about selecting one thing costly for the sake of it, it’s about discovering an merchandise with that means, fantastically introduced and not possible to neglect.
“An ideal present ought to really feel prefer it was made for the recipient,” she says. “It’s the mixture of thoughtfulness, rarity, and presentation that makes it really particular.”
London, with its distinctive mixture of heritage and fashionable luxurious, is her final searching floor. From grand shops to discreet personal showings, Aleksa is aware of precisely the place to go and who to know. Right here, she shares her 5 favorite locations to buy extraordinary presents within the capital.
1. Harrods, Knightsbridge
To Aleksa, Harrods is the undisputed epicentre of luxurious gifting.
“It’s apparent, sure – however important,” she explains.
Its huge choice means she will be able to supply every thing from cult candles by Celine, Loewe, and Trudon to area of interest dwelling sprays, elegant hand washes, and shiny coffee-table books that double as décor. What she loves most is Harrods’ skill to shock. At some point she may be choosing up a field of Ladurée macarons for a last-minute hostess present, the following a limited-edition Baccarat vase that seems like a collector’s piece.
“I hardly ever go away empty-handed,” she says.
2. Fortnum & Mason, Piccadilly
If Harrods is about scale, Fortnum & Mason is about custom and refinement. Stepping inside is like getting into a world the place each element is taken into account, from the signature turquoise and gold packaging to the gleaming shows of artisanal food and drinks. Aleksa depends on Fortnum’s for the discerning foodie or the host who has all of it. The baskets are legendary, however she typically curates bespoke variations tailor-made to a recipient’s style. Their in-house merchandise, from preserves to teas, are considerate luxuries that really feel indulgent with out ever attempting too onerous.
3. Selfridges, Oxford Road
Selfridges is Aleksa’s “stealth weapon” for luxurious procuring. Its streamlined format, environment friendly service, and shorter queues make it a surprisingly fast place to safe big-ticket objects.
“For Cartier or Hermès, I can typically get items quicker right here than wherever else in London,” she notes.
It’s her go-to when she wants a showstopper in a rush. Whether or not sourcing an engraved watch, a signature Hermès scarf, or an ultra-rare perfume, Selfridges constantly delivers with ease and polish.
4. Bond Road & Sloane Road Boutiques
For critical gifting, the type that includes uncommon purses, positive jewelry, or couture trend; Aleksa turns to London’s most well-known luxurious procuring streets. Right here, the magic lies in relationships.
“One of the best items by no means make it to the store ground,” she reveals. “They’re supplied privately to loyal shoppers, typically by way of WhatsApp.”
By constructing connections with gross sales associates, Aleksa ensures she’s the primary to listen to about and safe essentially the most coveted objects earlier than they’re formally launched.
5. Liberty London, Carnaby
When Aleksa is searching for one thing sudden and totally stunning, Liberty is her vacation spot. Recognized for its mixture of heritage appeal and fashionable curation, the shop is a treasure trove for distinctive finds. She delights in exploring its eclectic choices, hand-painted ceramics, cult skincare, area of interest perfumes — every bit carrying a way of artistry and discovery.
“It’s a goldmine for aesthetic, considerate gifting,” she says.
The Artwork of the Good Present
For Katrina Aleksa, the worth of a present isn’t simply in its price ticket.
“The thing is just a part of the story,” she insists. “It’s in regards to the thought, the non-public contact, the best way it’s introduced. That’s what turns a gift into an enduring reminiscence.”
Her 5 favorite London locations replicate that philosophy, every providing one thing past the plain, one thing that speaks to each the giver and the receiver. In Aleksa’s palms, luxurious gifting turns into much less in regards to the transaction and extra in regards to the expertise and in a metropolis like London, that have might be nothing wanting magical.
