gadgets

Valentine’s Day Gifts for Everyone

/ darphynia / Leave a comment

Valentine’s Day is in 4 days, and whether you are celebrating with your sweetheart or friends, gifts always add a nice touch.  They may not get them on the day, but (1) It’s the thought that counts, and (2) It’ll be a nice little extension of the day.  Gift cards & handmade gifts are always nice as well.  Anyway, here are some ideas for everyone. 

For the Gamer

Razer Naga Epic Chroma Mouse, $129.99

Image courtesy of razerzone.com
Add some life into your gamer’s set-up with this mouse.  Complete with a 12-button thumb grid and over 16.8 million colors, it works wonderfully alone or in conjunction with other Razer Chroma accessories.  It will also sync with other Chroma products, lighting a desk in a “wonderful world of color”.

Gunnars Gaming Glasses, $59.25 & up

Image courtesy of gunnars.com

The frames of the gaming glasses are specifically designed for headset compatibility.  Gunnars also makes outdoor and crystalline glasses.  The crystalline glasses are made for graphic designers and those who work with true color.  They can also be customized using your gamer’s prescription.  You can read their FAQ for more information.

For the Traveler 

LOOP:  World Travel Adapter, $19.97

Image courtesy of amazon.com
Does your loved one travel or do they have a trip coming up?  If so, this is the perfect gift to make sure that all of their devices are charged, no matter where they are.  This adapter is compatible for outlets in over 150 countries including, but not limited to:  Australia, China, the United States, and Canada.  Three devices can be charged at once.
Image courtesy of amazon.com
Airlines are becoming more strict with weight allowance.  This digital scale makes the perfect gift to ensure that the recipient’s luggage not only meets the weight requirement, but the measurement requirement as well.  Batteries are included, and the light-up screen makes the display easy to read.
SouthernGalSass on Etsy:  Monogrammed Travel Cosmetics Bag, $7.00
Image courtesy of SouthernGalSass
This 8 x 6, TSA-approved travel bag can be customized with any initials.  There are several initial colors to choose from, such as purple, black, and pink, to create a completely personalized product.  Gift it alone or fill it with little travel accessories or sweets.   

For the Makeup-Lover

Kevyn Aucoin:  Making Faces, $21.99 and Kevyn Aucoin:  Face Forward, $21.99
Image courtesy of sephora.com
Image courtesy of sephora.com

Years ago I purchased these two books.  Both helped me tremendously regarding techniques and color application.  Making Faces provides photos of makeup looks on one side, and the techniques, tools, colors, and tips for creating the look.  Face Forward does the same, and provides bios of the celebrities who Kevyn worked with.  The books are a great addition to the bookshelves of those who want to hone their makeup skills, learn the different ways that fundamentals can be used, and create more than just a smoky eye.      
bdellium tools:  Travel Basic 7 piece brush Set, $50.00
Image courtesy of nigelbeauty.com
Image courtesy of bdelliumtools.com

Great looks start with good skin and great tools.  Since aDesign is no longer in business, I have been using bdellium tools.  The quality is wonderful and they have lasted a long time, under harsh treatment.   This travel set contains one of each of the following brushes:  Blusher, Foundation, Slanted Contour, Tapered Blending, Shadow, Angled Brow, and Precision Liner.  Since brushes, even though they are named, can be used for multiple purposes & applications, the possibilities are virtually endless.  It also comes with a convenient carrying case, so it’s great at home and while traveling.  
Benefit Cosmetics:  Dandelion Wishes Set, $34.00
Image courtesy of sephora.com
Benefit has some great gift sets, and this is one that will finish off any “no makeup” look.  The colors in this set are light, perfect for spring and summer, and will add the perfect amount of color.  It also comes with the much-loved Roller Lash mini mascara, for flirty lashes.  This set contains mini versions of the following (set courtesy of sephora.com):  Dandelion Box o’ Powder Blush in Baby-Pink, Dandelion Ultra Plush Lip Gloss in Soft Pearly Pink, Roller Lash Curling & Lifting Mascara, High Beam Liquid Face Highlighter, and Posieblam Hydrating Tinted Lip Balm in Poppy Pink.
 

For the Skincare & Fragrance Guru

Caroline Chu:  Anti-Aging Starter Kit, $59.95
Image courtesy of carolinechu.com
This wonderful starter kit comes with an anti-aging eye cream, day & night cream, and serum.  While some may be offended at the thought, others will appreciate it.  For example, my friend’s mom loves trying out new anti-aging formulas because she wants her skin to stay as youthful as it possibly can.  This set is the perfect addition to anyone’s skincare routine.
The Art of Shaving:  The 4 Element
s of the Perfect Shave, $30.00  
Image courtesy of sephora.com
Make sure your recipient gets the perfect shave every time with this travel-friendly 4-piece set that contains:  Pre-shave oil, shaving cream, after-shave balm, and a shaving brush.  The products help to combat ingrown hairs and razor burn, and is perfect for sensitive skin.  There are no synthetic dyes or fragrances, and the products do not contain alcohol. 
Clarisonic:  Mia 2 Starry Night Set, $119.00 
Image courtesy of sephora.com
If you’re looking to indulge your loved one, this set has a little bit of everything.  Clarisonic is, personally, my favorite skincare device.  It cleanses and is travel-friendly.  This set includes a variety of skincare and the device.  It is everything your recipient will need for amazing skin at home and on-the-go.
Set contains (from sephora.com):
– Blue Moon Mia 2 Facial Cleansing Device with Sensitive Brush Head
– Blue Moon travel case
– pLink Charger
– 1 oz Clarisonic Sonic Radiance™ Brightening Solution Skin Renewing Peel Wash
– 0.17 oz Dr. Jart+ BB Night Beauty Balm
– 0.17 oz Algenist Genius Ultimate Anti-Aging Vitamin C+ Serum
– 0.7 oz Boscia Tsubaki Deep Hydration Sleeping Mask
Fred Segal:  The Blend Mini Kit, $29.00 
Image courtesy of sephora.com
This unisex 4-piece set of travel-sized rollerball fragrances are perfect for creating one-of-a-kind scents.  The set contains 0.09oz of the following fragrances:  Amber Vanilla, Tropic Bloom, Clean Musk, and Citrus Zest Pure Fragrance Oil.  Recipe cards are also included that contain some favorite blends.

For the Accessorizer

Enchanted Leaves:  Jewelry & Accessories, $4.99 & up
Image courtesy of enchantedleaves.com
Image courtesy of enchantedleaves.com
Image courtesy of enchantedleaves.com
Enchanted Leaves has some great eclectic and whimsical jewelry.  I have a few pieces from them, and I have purchased a few for my friends.  They have something for everyone.  From pendants featuring airplanes, wishing bottles, and miniature silverware, to brooches and earrings that make a matching set, Enchanted Leaves has it all.
Razer:  Nabu & Nabu Forged Watch, $149.99 & $199.99
Nabu Forged.  Image courtesy of Razer
Nabu Forged.  Image courtesy of Razer
Nabu Watch.  Image courtesy of Razer
Nabu Watch.  Image courtesy of Razer
These new watches are the latest wearables from Razer.  Announced at CES 2016, each watch is a fitness tracker, message notifier, timer, stopwatch, and has the option to sync alarms & display world times.  There is an app that the watch syncs to that includes a fitness section, sleep tracking, and more.  The difference between the regular and the Forged edition is the material.  The Forged watch is made of stainless steel, whereas the Nabu watch is made of polycarbonate.

For the Chocolate-Lover

Chuao Chocolatier:  Craft Beer & Chocolate Bar Set, $24.00

Image courtesy of chuaochocolatier.com

Anyone who knows me knows how much I love Chuao.  My dad introduced me to it awhile back, and I was so sad when they closed the only boutique close to me.  Now that they have a full online store virtually any combination of bonbons/truffles can be arranged, and they have several gift baskets & items.  This set contains 4 Potato Chip Bars OR 4 Baconluxious Bars & a bottle of Arrogant Bastard.

Chuao Chocolatier:  Milk Chocolate Bliss Tower, $64.95

Image courtesy of chuaochocolatier.com

This generous gift can be given to one person or broken up to provide several smaller gifts.  It contains a 9-piece bonbon set, 4 regular sized chocolate bars in:  Oh My S’mores, Ravishing Rocky Road, Cinnamon Cereal Smooch, and Strawberry Waffle Wild, and a 16-piece mini bar assortment in:  Potato Chip, Caramel Apple Crush, Baconluxious, and Pop Corn Pop.

** Get free shipping on orders of $60+ with promo code SWEETTHING OR $10 off expedited shipping on orders of $60+ with promo code HOTSTUFF **

For the Fitness Fanatic 


AfterShokz:  Bluez 2, $79.99 
Image courtesy of aftershokz.com
Image courtesy of aftershokz.com

 Everyone knows how much I love AfterShokz.  Their wireless Bluez 2 headsets provide wonderful sound without compromising safety.  The music is heard clearly, as are one’s surroundings.  Recipients can work out at the gym, home, or outside, without worrying about what is around them.    
Image courtesy of amazon.com
Gabor Fitness:  Shaker Bottle, $9.95
Image courtesy of amazon.com
 This shaker bottle makes a great gift for those who like to mix up their drinks.  It comes with a 6oz dry product container and divided container.  The containers can be used for protein powder (or any other drink mix), and the divided container is perfect for supplements, medication, or a small snack.  The bottle comes in the following colors:  black, blue, green, orange, and pink.

For the Kids 

Milk Jar Cookies:  Box Set, $15.00 & up 
Mint Chocolate.  Image courtesy
of Milk Jar Cookies
Birthday Cake.  Image courtesy
of Milk Jar Cookies
Chocolate Chip.  Image courtesy
of Milk Jar Cookies


Chocolate Covered Strawberry.
Image courtesy
of Milk Jar Cookies
If you’re not wanting to spend time baking, these cookies are the best I’ve had from any bakery.  Remember those awesome giant chocolate chip cookies from school?  Well, they no longer sell them, but these are the closest thing to them.  They are not as big, but the flavor is all there.  They also have seasonal flavors such as Chocolate Covered Strawberry, and everyday options, such as Birthday Cake and Mint Chocolate.  You can pick from popular and gluten-free boxes, or customize your own.  each box starts at a 1/2 dozen.  Kids will love them, and you will too. 
Image courtesy of activitiesforkids.com
This activity is labeled for kids, but it’s perfect to give to kids as well.  You can customize what each coupon says, or cut & create your own in a word document.  Include one-on-one parent days, a trip to their favorite place to eat, an ice cream, or something else they enjoy.  When I was little we had coupon books that included things like “One mommy & me day” or “One picnic in the park”.
*You may have to pay for string or whatever your use for binding and decorations, but if you have something around the house, then this gift is essentially free.*
DIY Gifts

If you are unsure what to give and don’t want to give a gift card, there are several other DIY creative options.  Adult-themed coupons can be a fun way to bring intimacy to the relationship.  They don’t have to be those kind of coupons either.  Sometimes all it takes is one day of not having to do the dishes or laundry.  Of course, if you are looking for those types of gifts, Hustler Hollywood has some great options.  Lingerie, shoes, adult toys, edible body paint, and more are both online and in-stores.  Their gift cards can be registered as a rewards card, too.  Each dollar is worth a point that can be converted into money that can be used in the stores.  Find out more by reading their FAQ.  Mason jars filled with your recipient’s favorite goodies, a handmade piece of jewelry, or a handwritten letter (because, who does that anymore, eh?) are also ideas to show you care.  

Stay beautiful!

CES 2016!

/ darphynia / Leave a comment

The top of my CES badge.

We are back at CES, and this time it’s (supposedly) bigger than ever, with even more drones & 3D printing areas.  Not that we really need more, but why not?  I am looking forward to seeing everything that will be coming out in the next year.  Over the week, I will try to post updates on what we experience.  I am especially looking forward to seeing what new products Razer and iHealth will be producing over the course of the next year or so.  Virtual Reality (VR) is another thing I am quite excited for, and not just for the gaming aspect.  With VR, you can be just about any place at any time.  Last year, we were chased by a T-Rex, we attacked a giant robot destroying the city, and watched two cute cranes play ball.  Oh, the future…

Stay beautiful!      

Gift-Giving Guide, Part 4: Technology, Gadgets, & Travel

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There are tons of gadgets available so it’s hard to pick just a few.  What is on your holiday list?

1.  ESPRO Insulated Coffee & Tea Press, $49.95

Image courtesy of brookstone.com

Know anyone who can’t live without their tea or coffee?  I must admit that I am one of those people.  I also don’t mind saying that I kind of want to buy this for myself.  Who wouldn’t love the perfect cup of their favorite fresh-pressed tea or coffee?  Whether it’s made ahead of time to enjoy on the way to the office or made so it’s ready to enjoy at the office, the tea/coffee will be amazing and stay hot for up to 6 hours.  Comes in black, stainless steel, and white.

2.  Perfect Bake:  App-Controlled Smart Baking, $69.99 (currently on sale, $49.99)

Image courtesy of brookstone.com

At CES 2015, we watched the demo for this “smart baking” set.  I think it’s a wonderful gift for those who are just starting to bake, as it does far more than weigh your ingredients.  You hook up the scale to your device, and it will auto-adjust the amount of ingredients necessary for whatever it will be put in the oven.  Need the recipe for half a dozen cookies instead of a dozen?  What if you need more?  That’s no problem either. 

3.  GoalZero Flip 10 Charger, $25.80

Image courtesy of amazon.com

I listed this in my post about gadget travel essentials, which you can read here, if you like.  This portable charger has saved me countless times.  I always take it, whether I am headed to the store or traveling here and there.  You can bring the power stick to a full charge on your computer.  Attach the USB cable, and charge away.  The link provided happens to be for the green charger, but they do offer other colors.

4.  ZUCA Pro Artist Case, $305.00 ($275.00 on amazon.com)

Image courtesy of zuca.com

If you are feeling extra generous this year, you can splurge on a ZUCA.  I LOVE mine, and have had it for ages.  It has been all over the world, and rolled through just about everything– rocks, snow, ice, gravel, etc.  The frame still looks new, and it still acts as a seat.  You can read more about my use of ZUCA here.  This makes the perfect gift for anyone who travels and is looking for a lightweight, durable carry-on.  The ZUCA Pro Artist Case also comes with convenient inserts for storage and organization.  

5.  Razer Kraken 7.1 Chroma, $99.99

Image courtesy of razerstore.com
Image courtesy of razerstore.com

The Chroma products from Razer are fun and functional.  I love that the Chroma line can be synced to change so all devices have the same colored light.  If you’d like, you can click here to read about what I have.  They can also change or be set on a static color.  The sound is amazing, and the noise-cancellation is comparable to Bose.  Each headset also comes with an enhanced digital microphone.  When it retracts into the earpiece the microphone will turn off.   

6.  R2D2 Kitchen Timer, $19.99

Image courtesy of bedbathandbeyond.com

No Star Wars fan’s kitchen would be complete without this adorable R2D2 kitchen timer.  He is the perfect addition to any counter top, and will ring when the time is up.

7.  iHealth Edge Activity + Sleep Tracker, $69.99

Image courtesy of ihealthlabs.com

iHealth is a wonderful company.  They have everything from glucometers to advanced scales, blood pressure cuffs, and more.  The products can all be linked to the app, so all stats are within reach.  The Edge is comfortable to wear, and there is no need to worry about burns or other issues.  It is not waterproof, though, so no swimming or showering with it.  All-in-all the Edge is a fantastic gift for those who are health/fitness savvy.

Gadget Travel Essentials, Vol. 1

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There are so many gadgets out there that it can be difficult to decide what to take, especially when we travel.  What items do I need to take?  Which cables will I need?  How will I pack them?  How much room will they take up?  These are a few items I like to take whether I am flying or driving to my destination.

1.  Macbook Air + Charger  ($899.00 and up)

Image courtesy of apple.com

I am so glad that I was able to purchase the MacBook Air.  It was awhile ago (mine is the 2011… I think), but it still runs as well as the day I purchased it.  I chose it for several reasons.  It has everything I need program-wise with ample storage.  Another big selling point was the weight.  It weighs next to nothing (~3lbs.), so I carry it with ease.  Since I have neck and back problems, it is difficult to carry weight.  If you are in the market for one, I suggest that you look at the refurbished section first.  Anything that needs replacing is fixed, so you pretty much get a new computer with the same warranty for less.  If you are in education or are a student, they also have educational pricing. 

2.  Western Digital MyPassport  (~59.99 and up)

Image courtesy of Western Digital

I love WD.  My friend gave me a MyBook awhile back, and it is what I back up everything to.  I do a lot of travel, and it was quite cumbersome to pack.  When I saw the MyPassport on sale at Target, I couldn’t pass it up.  This mini version of the MyBook takes up about as much room as an iPhone 6.  I purchased the one for Mac with 1 TB of storage.  They also make them for PCs in a variety of styles, colors, and shapes depending on the specs.  I can back up everything regardless of where I am, which allows me to have another back-up and clear up space on my computer.     

3.  GoalZero Flip 10 Recharger  ($29.99)

Image courtesy of GoalZero

This power stick is awesome!  I received mine at CES, and take it everywhere.  It is important that you know it does NOT come with a cable for the iPhone 6.  The cable is for Android phones.  That being said, it is compatible with any cable, and since I always have extra iPhone 6 and iPad cables in my pack, the lack of one is not an issue.  This power stick weighs 2.5oz, and has the following dimensions:  3.6 x 0.75 x 0.75 in.  The USB allows me to charge the power stick in the USB port on my computer and my phone simultaneously.  Charge it at night, and when you wake, unplug the power stick and toss it in your bag or pocket.    

4.  AfterShokz Blues 2  ($99.95)

Image courtesy of AfterShokz

Image courtesy of AfterShokz

If you haven’t already, check out my post on these Bluetooth bone-conduction headphones.  They are perfect for the gym, airport, plane, and anywhere else you are.  They are lightweight and have a continuous play time of 6 hours (standby time = 10 days).  The Bluez 2 will never hurt your ears since they rest just beyond the tragus.  They also allow you to hear everything around you.  Remember: Safety first!  Each pair comes with a charging cable, carrying bag, and reflectors that are perfect for the night.      

5.  Clarisonic  ($99.99 and up)

Image courtesy of Clarisonic

Okay, I know you are probably thinking that a skincare tool shouldn’t be in this list, but hear me out.  Plenty of men care about their skin, and if you don’t, you should.  Clarisonic helps you to put your best face forward by providing a deep clean with its oscillating brush.  They come with a carrying case (Mia 2), and one charge will hold for at least two weeks even with regular use.  Toss it in your grooming kit (charge it so you don’t need to take the cable), and ensure that your skin will always look its best.   
 

Mother’s Day Gifts, Vol. 1

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Mother’s Day is coming up.  Instead of the usual bouquet of flowers, why not surprise her with a a gift that will keep on giving?  Here are some of my favorite Mother’s Day sets.

For the Tea-Lovers:

Teavana

For the tea-lover, Teavana has created a wide array of gifts to suit several tastes.  Pictured below are the Radiant Flower Collection ($49.95) and In Bloom Collection ($69.95) gifts, on the left and right, respectively.  The Radiant Flower Collection contains:  One 14oz infuser mug, two tea tins, and 2oz each of Jasmine Dragon Phoenix Pearls & Strawberry Blush Rose Oolong teas.  The In Bloom Collection contains:  A 32oz teapot, two tea tins, and 3oz each of Flowering Pineapple & Lemon Marigold Blossom teas.      

Image courtesy of teavana.com
Image courtesy of teavana.com

You can also create your own gift.  Grab a tea maker or teapot, some rock sugar or honey; a teacup, teapot/infuser or mug, and tea tin.  Fill the tin with tea you know she will love, and arrange the items in a gift basket.  Wrap the basket in some cellophane and tie it all together with a ribbon.  You will have a customized gift your recipient is sure to love.  Don’t forget to pay using your registered Starbucks or Teavana card–you’ll get a star.

Tea Forte

Another one of my favorite tea companies, Tea Forte.  They have several gift options available.  If you are in the market for the tea gift, I suggest The Ultimate Tea Forte Experience.

Image courtesy of teaforte.com

It is definitely pricey ($174.95), but includes the following:

  • One Tea Chest: Two infusers each of: African Solstice, Black Currant, Blueberry Merlot, Bombay Chai, Chamomile Citron, Citrus Mint, Earl Grey, English Breakfast, Estate Darjeeling, Formosa Oolong, Ginger Lemongrass, Green Mango Peach, Hazelnut Truffle, Jasmine Green, Lemon Sorbetti, Orchid Vanilla, Raspberry Nectar, Sencha, White Ambrosia, White Ginger Pear.
  • Two wooden Oval Trays
  • Two porcelain Café Cups
  • One box of two orchid white Tea Trays
  • Two Creamer & Sugar Sets
  • One 20oz flute of Tupelo Honey

If you are just looking for a beautifully wrapped tea-only gift, the Teas for the Heart Box is a way to “I love you”, subtly.  The boxes come in two sizes, and host a variety of tea flavors.

Image courtesy of teaforte.com

 

Adagio Teas

Adagio Teas has a few Mother’s Day gift sets out.  This one (photo below) is titled Celebrating Mom ($34.00), and it is one of my favorites.  It comes with an ingenuitea teapot and two tins of loose-leaf tea (Bushel & a Peck and Pocketful of Posies blends)

Image courtesy of adagio.com

You can also create a custom gift by purchasing either of the tea sets below.  The only difference is that one is loose-leaf and one is bagged tea.  The Sunlit Blooms sets are both $24.00/set, and come with the following teas:  Bushel & a Peck, Pocketful of Posies, and a-Tisket-a-Tasket.

Image courtesy of adagio.com
Image courtesy of adagio.com

For the Beauty Queens:

Sephora

Everyone knows how much I L-O-V-E Clarisonic.  In my opinion, everyone needs one in his/her life, period.  They have come out with a couple of Mother’s Day sets, and my favorite is the Sunwashed Peach Mia 2 ($149.00).  The color will brighten even the gloomiest of mornings, and the face wash is (as it states) quite refreshing.

Image courtesy of sephora.com

   
Origins also has a gift set that will help in giving the best complexion your recipient has ever had.  The Rest & Recharge Mother’s Day Set ($51.00) contains the following products:

– 1 oz VitaZing™ SPF 15 Energy-Boosting Moisturizer with Mangosteen
– 1.7 oz High Potency Night-A-Mins™ Mineral-Enriched Renewal Cream
– 0.5 oz GinZing™ Refreshing Eye Cream
– 1.7 oz Drink Up™ Intensive Overnight Mask

Image courtesy of sephora.com

For the one who loves variety, there is the Sephora Favorites Beauty Closet ($99.00).  It contains several of Sephora’s best-sellers and most coveted products.  Whoever receives this gift will be pampered for sure!  This set is filled with lip, nail, and skincare, as well as makeup, fragrance, and the cutest little BeautyBlender ever! 

Image courtesy of sephora.com

The closet contains:

– 0.23 oz Algenist Complete Eye Renewal Balm
– 0.085 oz Anastasia Beverly Hills Mini Clear Brow Gel
– 0.04 oz Full-size Ardency Inn MODSTER Smooth Ride Supercharged eyeliner in Gold
– 0.15 oz bareMinerals Mini READY™ Touch Up Veil Broad Spectrum SPF 15 in Translucent
– Full-size Beautyblender® micro.mini sponge applicator
– 0.34 oz Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector™ in Opal
– 0.04 oz Bite Beauty BB for Lips in Flush
– 0.24 oz Elizabeth and James Nirvana Black eau de parfum rollerball
– 0.4 oz Full-size Formula X Nail Color in Fahrenheit
– 0.33 oz Hourglass Veil Mineral Primer
– 0.16 oz Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil
– 0.12 oz Julep Freedom™ Polymer Top Coat
– 0.10 oz Lancôme Paris Lip Lover in 355 Framboise Etoile
– 1 oz Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 20 in Nude
– 1 oz Living Proof Prime Style Extender
– 0.5 oz Ole Henriksen® truth serum® collagen booster
– 0.07 oz SEPHORA COLLECTION Colorful Mono eye shadow in #32 Pop Idol
– 0.25 oz Smashbox Camera Ready BB Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 35 in Light/Medium
– 0.07 oz Stila Convertible Color in Peony
– 0.11 oz Tarte Amazonian clay waterproof bronzer in Park Ave Princess™
– 0.17 oz Too Faced Better Than Sex masca
ra

For the Cook/Chef:

Williams-Sonoma

Williams-Sonoma is one of my favorite stores.  They have so much to choose from, and have put together sets that will please everyone.  For the baker, there is the Citrus baking Gift Set ($69.95).  It contains a Meyer lemon & poppy seed loaf mix, citrus-themed tin, spatula and towel.  All items are packaged in a wooden crate and topped with a ribbon.

Image courtesy of williams-sonoma.com

The VitaMix personal blender ($449.95) is another great gift, especially for those who love to blend.  Want a smoothie?  Sure!  Soup?  Yep, it will make that, too.  Your recipient will be able to take all of their creations on-the-go. 

Image courtesy of williams-sonoma.com

For the Fashionista

Scarves are functional and can bring together any look.  These Vincent Camuto scarves are on HSN ($38.00/each), and come in three colors.  They are lightweight, and the colors are beautiful.  The scarves will go with any ensemble regardless of the season.

Image courtesy of hsn.com

The Tarah Tote from Danielle Nicole ($88.00) comes in white and navy.  The sides can be zipped up (see photo on the right) if the whole width of the bag is not needed.  The handbag is a great addition to one’s handbag collection.  It is perfect for travel because it can fit just about everything!

Image courtesy of hsn.com
Image courtesy of hsn.com

This orb necklace ($23.00) from zusnA on Etsy is beautiful and fun.  It is definitely different that the typical diamond or pearl necklace, and is perfect for everyone.

Image courtesy of zusnA

Gifting on a Budget

Is it just me or is gifting become more and more expensive?  For those who are on a budget, here are a few ideas for creating the perfect Mother’s Day gift.  Starting a scrapbook can be a great way to show how much you care.  Start with what you have, photos that capture memories, and leave remaining pages blank.  You can add to them as new experiences arise, and make a continuous project out of it.  It is creative and interactive.  You could also get a shadow box, and fill it with items that will bring back all of the good times you have shared. 

I had a classmate years ago who said that she never bought gifts.  Instead she and whoever would go out to eat.  It didn’t have to be an expensive place.  She said that people remember experiences over gifts, and for the most part, she is right.  Making memories and food!  What could be better than your undivided attention?

Whatever you end up doing, remember that it’s not the price, but the thought behind the gift you choose.