holiday gifts
‘Tis the Season McCaskill & Company has jewels that will be treasured forever by Jessica Holthaus Badour
T he tradition of gift-giving at Christmas dates back to ancient times, originating with the Roman festival of Saturnalia, where people exchanged small tokens of goodwill. Early Christians later adopted this practice, linking it with the biblical story of the Magi bringing gifts to the baby Jesus. Over time, the tradition of gift-giving evolved, becoming central to holiday celebrations around the world, regardless of whether one celebrates Christmas, Hanukkah or Kwanzaa. Today, the exchange of presents symbolizes generosity and love, with figures like Santa Claus (e.g., Father Christmas, Père Noël, Sinterklaas) further popularizing the tradition. And if that present happens to be small, there's always the chance that something sparkly is inside. "Giving jewelry as a Christmas gift carries deep symbolism, rooted in personal and cultural meanings," explains Elizabeth Campbell, co-owner of McCaskill & Company. "The sparkle of jewelry evokes the magic of the holiday season, reflecting themes of light, joy and celebration, making it a timeless gesture." Elizabeth and her husband Bill opened McCaskill & Company in 1999, after starting with a small freestanding kiosk in Seaside. Their Destin storefront has since become one of the most prestigious jewelry stores in the country, with a loyal customer base that spans nationwide but is especially concentrated in the Southeast. Now, alongside their daughter Carolyn Campbell Brigman and a team of 18 associates, they continue to provide a one-of-a-kind experience. "People come here because we are a designer gallery with the finest designers all under one roof," says David Kirk, McCaskill's
collection, whether that be a diamond pendant, stud earrings or line bracelet,” Kirk says. Jewelry has long symbolized love, commitment and status, making it an ideal token of affection. The precious metals and gemstones used often represent enduring qualities—gold signifies wealth and warmth, while diamonds and other gems symbolize eternity and strength. "Gifting jewelry at Christmas adds a layer of sentimentality, as it often becomes a cherished keepsake, marking a special moment in our lives," Elizabeth adds. Christmas is the
McCaskill & Company offers a wide variety of pieces, but their niche lies in unique gemstones and settings.
perfect time to start building a jewelry collection for your children, whether through something new or an heirloom passed down within the family. McCaskill & Company offers a wide variety of pieces, but their niche lies in unique gemstones and settings. "Pearls are always timeless, and we see many people getting a special child in their life their first piece of David Yurman— whether it's a
Brigman notes. "And men get excited to get that little box, too! We carry such a variety—different styles, different price points—so we truly have something for everyone." First-time customers will find the elegant yet inviting atmosphere at McCaskill & Company to be a refreshing departure from the typical jewelry store experience. The team, guided by their knowledgeable and supportive staff, showcases different designers and styles, helping customers navigate their decisions with ease. "In talking with our customers, there is something very intimate and special when it comes to jewelry," Kirk reflects. "That’s why I love this industry so much; I’m grateful to share these experiences with our customers – at the holidays and year-round."
The sparkle of jewelry evokes the magic of the holiday season, reflecting themes of light, joy and celebration, making it a timeless gesture. - Elizabeth Campbell, co-owner of McCaskill & Company
pendant, bracelet, or small set of earrings," says Carolyn Campbell Brigman. "We also offer a diamond stud
Sales Manager with over 35 years of experience in the industry. "Each case
holds treasures from around the world, many with one- of-a-kind exotic gems. When you leave here, you truly are leaving with a unique piece of jewelry." For those on your list whom you’re stumped over, Kirk reminds: Diamonds are a girl’s best friend (so you can’t go wrong). “It’s the cornerstones of every woman’s jewelry
upgrade program where you can start small and upgrade over time, paying the difference and growing with the diamonds." The store's men's jewelry collection is also gaining popularity, with women excited to find something special for the significant men in their lives. "These are such emotional and touching gifts,"
McCaskill & Company 13390 Highway 98 West, Destin Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. 850-650-2262 info@mccaskillandcompany.com Follow on Facebook, Instagram and Yelp
24 | THE THIRTY-A REVIEW | NOVEMBER/DECEMBERR 2024
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