Stuff gift closet with treasures

When Hyland Justice needs a special-occasion gift, she doesn’t head for the store.

Instead, Justice first checks one of her three “gift” drawers in the guest bedroom of her Brookhaven home. The drawers hold a stash of always-changing items to give as birthday, hostess and holiday presents.

Justice knows she isn’t the only year-round closet shopper in the Atlanta area. She has heard of others who regularly shop and stash gifts on dedicated shelves or in closets. Many do it to save time and money.

“I plan ahead, but I am very intentional and personal in my gift buying,” said Justice, the mother of three 20-something children. “I don’t buy gifts in bulk or because something is on sale. I buy a gift because I believe someone will like it.”

Some of her recent gift-drawer purchases have included single initial plates, napkins and cups from Swoozie’s; boxes of stationery; funny cocktail napkins and colorful bracelets.

Whether she is in town, on vacation or traveling for her Web-based antique gift and accessories business, Justice keeps an eye out for special gifts. You can too.

Consider these suggestions for your holiday gift closet.

Put a cork in it

Made in Nashville, the decorative bottle stopper features a vintage billiard ball and a hardwood reinforced cork ($34). Other favorites include a glass doorknob ($36); and the fleur-de-lis ($22), crafted from actual iron-gate finials. The vintage golf balls ($29), which vary in brand and wear, will suit golf lovers to the tee. Besides wine, the stoppers can be used in oils or any kind of special bottle. Available at knobstoppers.com and The Scarlet Tassel, 6235 Roswell Road, Sandy Springs.

Spare change, plus

Here’s the buzz on the petite pouches: They are closer in size to a clutch than a coin purse. So there is room for your BlackBerry, keys, lipstick and credit card. Take it on dates or to the store. Each purse is made of cotton and leather and embroidered and bejeweled with owls, elephants or yellow jackets. Wouldn’t a yellow jacket purse be nice for your favorite Georgia Tech student or alum? Available for $28 each at area Anthropologie stores.

Book it

Simple recipes. Table-scape designs. Stunning photos. Be inspired to entertain throughout the year with “The Gathering of Friends,” Volume 1 and Volume 2. Edyth Shadburn of Charles Willis, a specialty store in Buckhead, said the store has sold more than 600 books since January. Available for $29.95 each at thegatheringof friends.com or at Charles Willis, 465 E. Paces Ferry Road, Atlanta.

Square off

Perfect for appetizers and bite-size desserts, the white porcelain plates work for every occasion. Use them alone for a classy cocktail party or mix and match them with your other colorful dishware. The flared rimmed edge helps keep food on the plate. A set of 12, 6-inch plates is $22.95 at area Crate & Barrel stores.

Dear journal

For wannabe writers, travelers and others who like to jot down thoughts and great ideas, give a vintage-inspired journal. The journals are 6 inches wide by 8 inches high. Detailed with elastic straps and interior pockets, journal covers themes include butterfly, Paris or world traveler. Available for $12.95 at potterybarn.com