FROM THE MAGAZINE
The Ultimate
Holiday Gift Guide
With The Elements By K. Sorbe
"Got all my Christmas shopping done. Now it’s time to shop for other people."
– Conan O’Brien
After the last of the turkey is in a sandwich and the pumpkin pie is gone, it’s time to face an undeniable truth: the holiday shopping season is here. While some love the festive frenzy, others approach shopping with a mix of excitement and dread, wondering how they’ll find the right gift for everyone on their list.
Kathy Sorbe, owner and lead designer at The Elements in Storm Lake, believes the secret to holiday shopping isn’t about spending more - it’s about finding gifts that resonate with the people you love.
“Holiday shopping should be fun, not a chore,” says Sorbe. “When you walk into our showroom, you’re not just browsing - you’re in a holiday wonderland brimming with possibilities. We have gifts that range from budget-friendly treasures to investment pieces that will be cherished for years.”
The Elements has built its reputation on offering one of the most wide and sophisticated collections in the Midwest. From furniture, accessories and art to boutique clothing and home décor, the Storm Lake showroom is a destination for shoppers looking for gifts that are anything but ordinary.
And a trip to The Elements when it’s decorated for the holidays has become as much of a tradition as the parade on Thanksgiving.
“We hear that visiting our showroom is like exploring a museum … but here, we can wrap anything up and send it with you,” says Sorbe. “There’s always fresh coffee, wine and treats on the weekends and our team is here to help you find exactly what you’re looking for.”
While trends come and go, the Elements has some favorites this year - pieces that combine functionality, beauty and that all-important “wow factor.”
Ultimate Comfort: Recliners
If you’re looking to make a serious impression this holiday season, a recliner is the gift that keeps on giving. Today’s recliners have evolved far beyond the bulky designs of the past. The Elements features options that swivel, rock and recline while maintaining sleek, stylish silhouettes.
“We’re seeing recliners become statement pieces rather than something to try and hide,” says Mishelle Lalone, a member of the Design Team. “They’re comfortable, functional and ultra-sophisticated. It’s the gift that says, ‘I want you to be comfortable every day.’”
Trapp Candles: A Sensory Experience
Few gifts create atmosphere like a scented candle. Trapp candles are known for their sophisticated fragrances and exceptional burn time, transforming any room into a sanctuary.
“A Trapp candle isn’t just a gift - it’s an experience,” says Sorbe. “The quality is exceptional, the scents are layered and luxurious and every time it’s lit, they’ll think of you.”
If a no-fuss candle is a better option, the selection of battery-powered candles with realistic flames is second to none. (And at The Elements, batteries are always included.)
Holiday Decor: Festive and Fleeting
One of the largest and most eye-catching selections of holiday décor around can be found at The Elements. From stunning seasonal arrangements to lights, unique ornaments and holiday accessories, these pieces help transform homes into holiday dreamscapes. However, there’s a catch that savvy shoppers know.
“Our holiday inventory always sells quickly and, most of the time, once it’s gone, it’s gone,” says Sorbe. “We can’t reorder these items, so if you see something you love, don’t wait. That spectacular arrangement or new string of LED lights may not be here next week.”
Bamboo Luxury Towels and Sheets
Sometimes the best gifts are the ones we’d never think to buy for ourselves. Bamboo towels and sheets fall in this category. Incredibly soft, naturally antimicrobial and remarkably durable, these textiles feel like a 5-star hotel experience brought home.
“People don’t realize how different quality linens can be until they’re wrapped up in them,” says Lalone. “Bamboo towels are absorbent without being heavy, and the sheets get softer with every wash.”
After the last of the turkey is in a sandwich and the pumpkin pie is gone, it’s time to face an undeniable truth: the holiday shopping season is here. While some love the festive frenzy, others approach shopping with a mix of excitement and dread, wondering how they’ll find the right gift for everyone on their list.
Kathy Sorbe, owner and lead designer at The Elements in Storm Lake, believes the secret to holiday shopping isn’t about spending more - it’s about finding gifts that resonate with the people you love.
“Holiday shopping should be fun, not a chore,” says Sorbe. “When you walk into our showroom, you’re not just browsing - you’re in a holiday wonderland brimming with possibilities. We have gifts that range from budget-friendly treasures to investment pieces that will be cherished for years.”
The Elements has built its reputation on offering one of the most wide and sophisticated collections in the Midwest. From furniture, accessories and art to boutique clothing and home décor, the Storm Lake showroom is a destination for shoppers looking for gifts that are anything but ordinary.
And a trip to The Elements when it’s decorated for the holidays has become as much of a tradition as the parade on Thanksgiving.
“We hear that visiting our showroom is like exploring a museum … but here, we can wrap anything up and send it with you,” says Sorbe. “There’s always fresh coffee, wine and treats on the weekends and our team is here to help you find exactly what you’re looking for.”
While trends come and go, the Elements has some favorites this year - pieces that combine functionality, beauty and that all-important “wow factor.”
Ultimate Comfort: Recliners
If you’re looking to make a serious impression this holiday season, a recliner is the gift that keeps on giving. Today’s recliners have evolved far beyond the bulky designs of the past. The Elements features options that swivel, rock and recline while maintaining sleek, stylish silhouettes.
“We’re seeing recliners become statement pieces rather than something to try and hide,” says Mishelle Lalone, a member of the Design Team. “They’re comfortable, functional and ultra-sophisticated. It’s the gift that says, ‘I want you to be comfortable every day.’”
Trapp Candles: A Sensory Experience
Few gifts create atmosphere like a scented candle. Trapp candles are known for their sophisticated fragrances and exceptional burn time, transforming any room into a sanctuary.
“A Trapp candle isn’t just a gift - it’s an experience,” says Sorbe. “The quality is exceptional, the scents are layered and luxurious and every time it’s lit, they’ll think of you.”
If a no-fuss candle is a better option, the selection of battery-powered candles with realistic flames is second to none. (And at The Elements, batteries are always included.)
Holiday Decor: Festive and Fleeting
One of the largest and most eye-catching selections of holiday décor around can be found at The Elements. From stunning seasonal arrangements to lights, unique ornaments and holiday accessories, these pieces help transform homes into holiday dreamscapes. However, there’s a catch that savvy shoppers know.
“Our holiday inventory always sells quickly and, most of the time, once it’s gone, it’s gone,” says Sorbe. “We can’t reorder these items, so if you see something you love, don’t wait. That spectacular arrangement or new string of LED lights may not be here next week.”
Bamboo Luxury Towels and Sheets
Sometimes the best gifts are the ones we’d never think to buy for ourselves. Bamboo towels and sheets fall in this category. Incredibly soft, naturally antimicrobial and remarkably durable, these textiles feel like a 5-star hotel experience brought home.
“People don’t realize how different quality linens can be until they’re wrapped up in them,” says Lalone. “Bamboo towels are absorbent without being heavy, and the sheets get softer with every wash.”