2012 Gift Guide: Girlfriend Gifts

    Express your appreciation for a favorite teacher, holiday hostess or BFF with these nifty little presents that are thoughtful, functional, creative and fun. Mariposa Little Piggy Napkin Box A whimsical way to display cocktail napkins—perfect for a hostess who already has the mostess. $48, Peachtree Place. Caravan Dreams 2013 Desk CalendarThis compact, glittery easel-style […]

Winter Fashion Survival Guide

Keep looking cute when the temperatures drop with stylish but functional winterwear. These items also make great gifts if you’re still on the hunt for last-minute ideas. Hot Heads Whether you call it an infinite scarf or a snood, this versatile piece (at right) can be worn as a scarf, hood, or combination of the […]

What's in The Box?

Need ideas for everyone on your list?   These local retailers have the gifts that will get a “wow!” Open publication – Free publishing – More giving

Mother’s Day Jewelry

Most mamas love receiving jewelry, but even more touching are pieces that remind her of her loving kiddies.   For an extra special gift, we found items that both mothers and daughters can wear and cherish. Whimsical The birth of her daughter Hannah Rose inspired Chicago jewelry designer Amy Draper to create the Hannah collection, […]

Massage Therapies: Great Gift Options for Mom (or Yourself!)

Massage—the very word includes “ahhh.” Americans love the bliss and benefits of massage. Each year, we dole out nearly $12 billion on massage and related therapies, according to the National Center for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine. With Mother’s Day just around the corner—as well as yard work and spring cleaning—we thought it was a good […]

Joan V. Recommends: 10 Great Graduation Gifts

It’s nearing that time of year: diplomas, graduation gowns, tearful goodbyes, new frontiers.   And you need to find a fun, thoughtful, personal and perfect graduation gift. No worries, we’ve got you covered! But a word to the wise … many of these gifts are “custom made” for your special recipient, so you should order […]

Valentine’s Day Idea: Homemade and Heartfelt

It’s a challenge to give your Valentine an original gift. This year surprise your honey with something personal and homemade. It’ll be meaningful, yet cost you less than $20.     Frame of 14 Type or handwrite 14 detailed reasons why you love your loved one. A decorative font or lovely piece of paper will […]

2010 Holiday Gift & Entertainment Guide

We’re all searching this time of year: for the perfect holiday cookie recipe, the most gorgeous trimmings for our home, the ideal gift for everyone on our list.   And after all that is accomplished, we might even search for a little serenity. We’ll leave the serenity to you, but meanwhile, we’re helping by giving […]

Gift Ideas for a Music-Loving Man

It’s Father’s Day this weekend and “Get a Present” still hasn’t been checked off the “to-do” list. If you’re short on ideas—and time—this week, here’s a few suggestions from Val Haller of Valslist that are certain to tickle his musical mojo: 1. Playlists for Dad’s iPod: Here’s something even younger kids have already mastered—how to […]

Bring Home the Bacon for Dad

Are you looking for a trendy Father’s Day gift? There’s nothing hotter than BACON. Everyone’s favorite pork product has inspired everything from breath mints to belts. Here are some local bacon finds that sizzle.   If you can’t venture to the city before Father’s Day, most of these products can also be procured using the […]