Hostess Gift Ideas and DIY Inspiration

How many times have you been invited to someone’s home and asked yourself, “what should I give the hostess?”  Proper etiquette states that we should gift something that “evokes a memory” but we want to be creative and thoughtful.

My first suggestion would be to consider the occassion.  Is this a housewarming party or game night?  Next, take inventory of small trinkets you already own.  Have you purchased a beautiful basket or set of mason jars?  Also, try to think of the interests or hobbies of the hostess.  Does she enjoy cooking or gardening?

Ultimately, giving the perfect gift can be delightful for both you and the hostess.  You’re adding a special touch to sincerely say, “thank you for having me at your home!”

Hostess Gift Ideas

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Photos can be found from Pinterest.com

The Pearl Source – Style Options for Wearing Pearls

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and it’s the perfect time to start your gift selection.  Whether it’s showing love to your mom or a romantic date, gifting a beautiful strand of pearls can bring a smile to anyone’s face.

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Rihanna wearing Pearls

 

I adore pearls because they’re simple, chic, and elegant.  A beautiful strand of pearls can be worn a variety of ways.  If you’re striving for a simple style, wear pearls with a business suit, blouse, or cashemere sweater.  Another option for a hip look is wear to pearls with a chambray top or leather jacket; and of course there’s always the traditional option of wearing pearls with a gown.  The point is that pearls can be worn to dress up or dress down depending on your personal style.

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Pearls and Chambray Shirt

 

Don’t forget to consider the length of your necklace in terms of the neckline and the size of your wrist (for bracelets.)  One never wants to look fashionable and their pearl bracelet keeps sliding or risk losing a family heirloom.

According to Jackie Kennedy, “Pearls are always appropriate.”  Visit The Pearl Source for exquisite pearls at an affordable price.

 

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Pearl Necklace Lengths

 

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The Pearl Source

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Valentine’s Day 2015 in DC – Specials and Gift Ideas

Treat that special someone to a Valentine’s Day they won’t forget. Up the ante this year by indulging in specials from Mari Vanna DC, Shinola, Union MarketDCanter and The Still Point. Whether it’s a relaxing spa day at The Still Point, decadent Russian caviar at Mari Vanna, luxurious leather goods from Shinola, delicious wines at DCanter or a heart-opening yoga session at Union Market, there’s something for every loved one this season.

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Mari Vanna (1141 Connecticut Ave., NW, www.marivanna.ru):
Spoil your sweetheart with an extravagant delicacy at Dupont hotspot Mari Vanna with their special Caviar Prix-Fixe Valentine’s DayMenu. On Saturday, February 14, guests of the Russian eatery will indulge in a menu of one cold appetizer, one hot appetizer and one hot entree for $125 or $150, depending on your caviar choice. Cold appetizer options include Olivier, Vinegret or Herring. Hot appetizers options include red caviar Blinis ($125) or black caviar Blinis ($150). Available entrees include Chicken Tabaka, Chicken Kiev, Sea Bass, Salmon, Beef Kebob or Beef Stroganoff. Diners will be treated to a bottle of champagne for two and a complimentary dessert.

Shinola (1534 14th St. NW, www.shinola.com):
Give a gift of timeless elegance with this Detroit-based luxury design brand, dedicated to producing handcrafted watches, bicycles, leather goods, journals and pet accessories – all made in America. Adorn wrists with the Valentine’s Bracelet in Lollipop Red ($125). Explore the city with The Runwell bike ($2,950) or make sure your sweetie never misses a minute with the Triple Wrap Runwell watch ($825).

Union Market (1309 5th St. NW, www.unionmarketdcom):
Open your heart – and your chakras – with an invigorating free yoga practice on Sunday, February 15 at Union Market’s Dock 5 with yogi Nya Alemayhu. The 90 minute session will channel the flow of love and compassion, bringing harmonious balance to mind, body and spirit. Bring a mat and an open mind.

DCanter (545 8th St. SE, www.dcanterwines.com):
It wouldn’t be Valentine’s Day without popping some bubbly, and what better way than with a champagne tasting? Make a toast with your sweetie on Saturday, February 14 from 6 – 7 p.m. ($65 per person). Sample 6 champagnes and nosh on artisanal cheeses. Take home a bottle of wine at a special discounted price. RSVP to reserve a spot.

The Still Point (1 Columbia Ave. Tacoma Park, MD | 12451 Clarksville Pike, Clarksville, MD | 10275 Little Patuxent Pkwy. Columbia, MD. www.thestillpointspa.com):
Pamper that special person all month long with luxurious treatments from the Maryland-based wellness spa, with three locations. Choose from two unique experiences, the Chocolate Sweetheart Facial ($55/30 minutes) and the Couples Massage ($218/50 minutes, $290/80 minutes Add on Cocoa Sugar Polish +$140/25 minutes. Price includes 2 guests). The facial includes cleansing and exfoliation treatments followed by a TOMA Skin Therapies #14 Hydrating Antioxidant Mask. The soothing facial is finished off with a blissful 10 minute massage over the neck, shoulders, arms and hands. The couples massage offers a full body exfoliation in relaxing rooms with heated massage tables and heated floors.

Gift Ideas:

 

Shinola’s Valentine EnvelopeDouble Wrap Bracelet or Contrast Dog Leash

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Ann Taylor Valentine’s Day Gifts and Outfits

Whether it’s for a glamorous night out or romantic date night Ann Taylor is the go-to destination for Valentine’s Day gifts and outfits. From skirts and dresses, to must have heels and sparkly accessories, you can find everything you need for the perfect night & beyond.

 

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Ann Taylor

DIY: Creating Inexpensive {Last Minute} Gift Ideas

I like to give holiday gifts to my kids teachers and special friends in the community.  Unfortunately, the budget doesn’t always allow for expensive gifts.  I would love to purchase (everyone) something special from Bloomingdales but that’s not always realistic.

Being a true southerner, I come from a family that loves arts and crafts and this time of the year inspires me to pull out the ribbon box.  I search for inexpensive gift ideas such as baked cookies, mason jar trinkets, or gift baskets.

Honestly, anyone (whether they love arts and crafts) can add a special touch to gift giving.  The trick to DIY gift ideas is figuring out what inspires you and those people in your life.

Below, you will find ideas from Pinterest that can be prepared in 10 minutes or less.

Steps for DIY Inexpensive Holiday Gifts:

1.  Create a budget for the project.

2.  Make a list of supplies.

3.  Locate your favorite craft store and ask for assistance (if that’s needed.)

4.  Set up your holiday craft station and create!

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Nice Laundry Men’s Socks – Stylish, Affordable, and Durable

Have you ever purchased a pair of socks that are recycled from your old socks or designs based on the seasons or moods? If not, today you have the opportunity to visit the men's site Nice Laundry.com

 

We all know that men's socks are made to be stylish, affordable, and durable. Nice Laundry provides all of those great qualities and customers can receive 15 – 20% off discounts. The most important detail to remember is that Nice Laundry sells their socks in packs of 6 pairs which is an easy way to update your sock wardrobe.

If you're searching for high quality, affordable socks visit Nice Laundry.com…I am pleased with their selection!

Mr. West updated his sock drawer – he was pleasantly surprised

 

 

Bluefly: Father’s Day Gift Guide

Bluefly has the perfect gift for every dad from modern to classic to preppy and cool. Whatever his interests and style, the site has the perfect gift for every type for guy. Below are some great gift options under $50 and under $100.

Also, feel free to browse the site