Usher, known for his charismatic performances, brings a unique perspective to holiday entertaining and thoughtful gift selection, rooted in genuine connection and personal taste.
During his acclaimed Las Vegas residency, Usher became recognized for a charming gesture: descending from the stage adorned in a plush overcoat, offering ruby-red maraschino cherries to his audience. This playful act, which quickly gained viral attention, subtly hinted at his deep appreciation for giving meaningful gifts. In a recent conversation, Usher delved into his home bar preferences and holiday hosting strategies, revealing that his passion for thoughtful gifting extends beyond the stage. He shared his affinity for bourbons, cognacs, and single malts, listing Blanton's and Japanese whisky among his favorites, and expressed his enjoyment in experimenting with various drink preparations, especially those incorporating theatrical elements like smoke. When it comes to cherries, he enjoys both premium Luxardo and simple classic maraschino varieties. For cherished guests, he adapts drinks to individual tastes, noting his wife's preference for mocktails, which he sometimes disguises with cherries to soften the alcohol's flavor. His holiday drink repertoire includes an innovative eggnog ice cube method, where frozen eggnog is topped with liquor, and, of course, champagne for New Year's celebrations, with Krug, Veuve Clicquot, and Ace of Spades being his top picks.
Usher's thoughtful approach extends to his gift-giving, as evidenced by his collaboration with Baccarat on a limited-edition Harmonie tumbler. He explains that his long-standing appreciation for the tumblers, which he collected globally and even featured in his stage performances, naturally led to this partnership. He views these tumblers, priced between $200 and $300, as a profound gesture of respect and a lasting reminder of appreciation, creating a memorable experience for the recipient long after the conversation has ended. Beyond luxury items, Usher reveals a fondness for high-quality stationery, drawing parallels to the meticulous selection seen in "American Psycho." He meticulously chooses the perfect cards, recognizing the enduring value of a handwritten note. His search for unique stationery often leads him to antique shops, particularly in Paris, where he uncovers rare and humorous vintage pieces. For holiday entertaining, Usher, now a parent, emphasizes slowing down and cherishing analog traditions. He fondly recalls his grandparents' influence on his aesthetic, highlighting the importance of simple pleasures like record players, classic books, Polaroid cameras, and engaging in games such as dominoes, spades, charades, and Connect Four. His family's ultimate favorite game, Monopoly Deal, underscores his belief in the power of shared experiences and human connection.
Usher’s insights underscore the profound beauty of intentionality and the lasting impact of genuine gestures, whether it's through a carefully chosen drink, a thoughtful gift, or the warmth of shared experiences. His philosophy encourages a return to the simple, analog joys of life, reminding us that the most meaningful celebrations are those enriched by authentic connection and enduring appreciation.
