FOR MUM: SCENTED CHRISTMAS CANDLES

Infused with the finest fragrances, Best Kept Secrets range of specially scented Christmas candles are guaranteed to cement mum’s Yuletide cheer with over 50 hours of candle sniffing fun.

The 3×3” candles feature flavours ranging from Spicy Satsuma to the aromatic and spicy Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh all of which have been custom created to compliment that Christmas feeling.

Starting from £7.99, this thoughtful gift is easy on the purse strings and a sure fire way to your mother’s heart.

FOR DAD: POWER TOOLS

Jesus was a carpenter, so why not Dad? SIPUK offer a wide range of workshop tools, saws and just about everything in-between to make sure that somebody gets a poorly made spice-rack this Christmas.

SIPUK also offer free delivery on orders over £100 so if you’re feeling generous, or just desperate for Dad to fix the shed, order online for quality savings.

FOR BRO: COMPUTER GAMES

Being an avid gamer, I can assure you that big retailers never give the most competitive deals on games. Check out Grainger Games for cut throat prices and free delivery on all Xbox 360 games within the UK.

And with so many games scheduled for release this November there won’t be any trouble in making a decision, but if you’re looking for a recommendation I would suggest either Modern Warfare 3 or Battlefield 3.

FOR SIS: RUBY NECKLACE

What’s the fastest way to a woman’s heart? QP Jewellers range of Ruby Necklaces of course. This unique series of necklaces are made from real Rubies and come in variety of different styles and shapes.

If that’s not her cup of tea there are plenty of other jewels available at QP and all at competitive prices.

So if you’re like me and you like to do all your Christmas shopping online before the madness ensues we hope that these suggestions will make Christmas shopping that little bit easier and if you have any further ideas on what to get the family we’d love to hear them below.

Gift cards are the perfect last minute gift and you don’t even have to wrap it! If you still have time to pick up a gift for a loved one you’ll be seeing after Christmas, consider getting them something unique and wonderful like a Double Wrap Bracelets with Multi Sized Studs!

Ever been annoyed by the straps on your handbag slipping right off your shoulder? How many times have you been carrying too much to handle only to have your bag or your purse strap slip off your shoulder and down to the crook of your elbow? Or those days when you are wearing a bulky sweater or a coat and the strap on your handbag just don’t stay put and you have to keep slinging your purse back up on your shoulder over and over again.

StrapDiva is a no-slip purse strap cover that snaps on to a single purse strap or two handles together. It is made of super soft and luxurious leather with a suede lining. On the outside, there is a special material to prevent slippage and help keep your straps where they belong. And the best part of all? It works!!!

Both the Lambskin and Grain Leather straps are $24.95.  If you’ve got a handbag lover in your life, the StrapDiva is a great gift idea.  If you’re giving a purse as a gift or know that a lucky lady will be receiving one, this is a perfect pairing!  In fact, get one for all of your friends, sisters, daughters, and other lady friends and start the new year rolling in gratitude.

Don’t forget to check out The Fashionable Housewife’s StrapDiva Giveaway (ends 12/20)!

“Our Mission and Vision

Since 1989, Women’s Bean Project has been dedicated to helping women break the cycle of poverty and unemployment.

Our Mission: To change women’s lives by providing stepping stones to self-sufficiency through social enterprise.

Our Vision: Women’s Bean Project strives to break the cycle of chronic unemployment and poverty by helping women discover their talents and develop skills by offering job readiness training opportunities.

With this stepping stone toward success, the women will be able to support themselves and their families, and create stronger role models for future generations.

Our History

Jossy Eyre founded the Women’s Bean Project in 1989 as a result of her volunteer work at a day shelter for homeless women. Eyre saw that while the shelter kept women safe, if could not help them make lasting changes in their lives. Eyre bought $500 worth of beans and put two homeless women to work – the first step in building the social enterprise we are today. Our training opportunities have expanded dramatically over the years, and annual operating budget has grown from $6,100 to over $1.5 million.

In 1993, King Soopers became the first grocery store to carry our products.

In 1995, we purchased former Fire Station #10 from the City and County of Denver, and moved to our new home the following year, giving us permanent roots at 3201 Curtis Street.

Today our product offerings have expanded to salsa mixes, spice rubs, coffee beans, and jelly beans in addition to our soups and chili, along with gift baskets, baking mixes and much more.”

Treat Your Sweetheart Bundle ($19.25) contains:  Jelly Beans, Chocolate Covered Espresso Beans, Brownie Mix.

Soup Lover’s Bundle ($35) contains:  Toni’s 10 Bean, Marian’s Black Bean, Sarah’s Spicy Split Pea, Old Fashion Chili, Firehouse #10 Chili, Certified Organic 6 Bean.

2 Chili & Cornbread Bundle ($17.25) contains:  Firehouse #10 Chili, Old Fashioned Chili, Golden Cornbread Chili.

Soup & Spice Rub Bundle ($16.50) contains:  Toni’s 10 Bean Soup, Marian’s Black Bean Soup, Uncle Bob’s BBQ Rub, Malaysian Spice Rub.

I had the opportunity to try some delicious products from the Women’s Bean Project earlier this year.  I’m particularly fond of the cornbread; it’s perfect!  I think I ate an entire pan myself…  Another big hit was the iced tea; I’m partial to the Mango Peach flavor.  I haven’t tried the dip mixes, but I think they’re another great gift idea – last year I paired dip mix with an inexpensive whisk or spatula and gave the sets!  Great for hostesses, teachers, parents…  Anyone who likes delicious food, really!

]]> http://www.fashionableholiday.com/2009/12/09/womens-bean-project-gifts-that-give-back/feed/ 0 http://www.fashionableholiday.com/2009/12/09/pinder-laptop-accessories-for-geeky-friends/ http://www.fashionableholiday.com/2009/12/09/pinder-laptop-accessories-for-geeky-friends/#comments Wed, 09 Dec 2009 12:00:15 +0000 Laney Knapp http://fashionableholiday.com/?p=212

When you’ve got a bunch of technology addicted friends like I do, it can be difficult to find gifts for them!  True geeks seem to already have amassed all the latest and greatest technology.  My little brother is a computer addict and already has the special keyboard, headset, gamer mouse – you name it, he has it.  So what’s left?

Surprisingly, he doesn’t have a laptop bag.  Something so simple, and yet it’s missing!  I find this to be the case with a lot of my tech friends; they’ve got high end equipment but they’re tossing into their backpacks or tucking it under their arms, rather than storing it safely.

When I got a new laptop in the fall, the first thing I did was start looking for a bag for it!  Probably because I’m so addicted to purses…  Pinder was kind enough to send me their GiddyUp bag (pictured above) in Black & Lime.

Best.Bag.Ever.  It’s so functional and convenient that I often toss a few vital items into this bag and skip bringing my purse altogether.  A bag that’s replaced my purse?  Seriously, you know it’s got to be good.

“Are you looking for a laptop bag that has room for files/folders, lightweight, protective, water repellent and doesn’t look like a traditional laptop bag? Then the new GiddyUp laptop tote is ready to be your new best friend. With a durable ballistic nylon exterior and 100% cruelty-free faux leather trim, the GiddyUp will keep you and your laptop looking snazzy. It offers one zip compartment to carry your laptop and another compartment to carry all that other stuff like your power supply, mouse, folders, files and magazines.”

The GiddyUp comfortably fits my Mac, laptop charger, cellphone, wallet, planner, two notebooks, a folder of press releases, pens, lip gloss, and whatever else I know I’m going to need during the day.  That’s actually more than my purse holds – by far! – so you can see why I’ve started carrying it all the time.

The GiddyUp is incredibly well made, stylish, and durable.  Currently, it’s on sale for $40 and offered in a wide range of colors.  I love the big handles, but there is another style available with a much smaller handle as well.  You can also visit sister site Gut Cases for a range of cases for hand held devices sch as Blackberries and iPhones.

Hanky Panky Original Signature Lace Thong in a Candy Rolled Package Panty – $18

Biatta Holly Cheeky Boyshorts Panty – $3.99

Hot Sox Women’s Novelty Capuccino Casual Socks – $6

K. Bell Women’s Footsies 6-Pack – $10

Forever New Delicate Fabric Wash – 32 oz – $15

I received the K. Bell Women’s Footsies for review and think they’re adorable!  I have a lot of black flats that need a little pop, and these do the trick.  I love the bright colors that I can match to my outfits, or spruce up plain outfits with when I need it!  They’re soft and stretchy, and are a great quick fix if you don’t want to go bare foot but aren’t in a full on sock or stockings kind of mood.  They come in a tiny package are are sweetly rolled up and nestled together, which makes them a perfect stocking stuffer or gift that you can easily palm or pocket and surprise someone with!

Bare Necessities has an amazing selection of gifts, so make sure you explore the whole site after you check out my picks!

As much as I love getting whimsical gifts and pretty trinkets, my true favorites are the most practical.  A practical gift doesn’t have to be “un-fun” or boring – I’m not talking a set of spatulas or monogrammed hand towels.  There’s a huge middle ground, where practicality meets fun; no matter who you’re shopping for, you find items they need AND want!

One of my favorite gifts this season is a stylish coffee mug!  Whether you’re shopping for a business woman, a student, a mom with errands to run – or really, just anyone who leaves the house – a coffee mug is a gift that will be used over and over again.  And each time your lucky lady pours in her favorite blend, she’ll think of you’re fabulous gift giving sensibility!

Aladdin is a brand that immediately caught my eye due to their huge range of products and the gorgeous graphics.  I was sent some fab products to review, each and every one of which is a perfect gift for the ladies on your list!  Let’s check out some of my faves.

16oz Create-Your-Own Mug, $13

“Consider this mug your blank canvas. It can display just about anything you can dream up– original artwork, photos, even your beloved sticker collection.”

What a genius idea!  If you’ve got a doodler on your hands, this is a great gift for them.  I think that teen girls will like this mug a lot as well; they’re always writing each other notes and writing on end of the year tees & yearbooks is a big deal.  So how about giving them a DIY mug that their friends can design for them (probably during a boring math class)?

16oz Hybrid Stainless Steel Travel Mug, $10

“A classic everyday item, this mug is made with a mix of stainless steel and plastic so you can enjoy durability without sacrificing style.”

This is a totally chic option for moms, aunts, and anyone else who likes a little pop but not a lot of flair.  Totally streamlined, this mug is perfect for travel and the wide handle will make grabbing your mug while navigating your morning routine perfectly simple! The top trend purple makes this a total winner, but there are also gorgeous shades of blue and grey available.

12oz Artist Series Insulated Mugs, $20

“The worlds of art and coffee collide in the new Aladdin Artist Series that puts art in your hands! This first-edition collection features the orginal artwork of six different artists.”

These fun insulated mugs immediately made me think of my graphic design major friends!  They’re such a great update from the usual, boring silver/grey mugs.  These are really fun for kids that like to take hot chocolate with them in the morning, or ones that go camping (even if it’s just in the backyard).

20oz Artist Series Insulated Art Bowl, $20

“Spend your lunch hour savoring beauty with the new Aladdin Artist Series that puts art in your hands. This first-edition collection features the orginal artwork of six different artists.”

Another great graphic piece!  Mini fashionistas can take their lunches, while big girls will be happy to do the same.  I love the color coordination between the bowl, lid, and graphic design.  Last night’s leftover’s are suddenly much more appealing in one of these beauties, and so are those healthy soups and salads that weren’t much fun to eat before.  Oh and did I mention that these bowls remain cool to the touch, but are microwave safe?  Score!

10oz Recycled & Recyclable Snack Container, $7

“Do your part for the planet (and your wallet) with this fun recycled snack container. Make your own munchies (or buy in bulk) and pack it all to go so you can snack wherever, whenever.”

Now that’s affordable!  This is one piece I’m definitely keeping for myself; it fits perfectly into my purse or laptop bag.  I’ve been filling mine with trail mix, dried fruit, or nuts for healthy snacking.  The vending machines on campus are so much less tempting when I know I’ve got a delicious option with my already – plus it’s a lot cheaper to bring snacks from home!

24oz Clean & Clever Water Bottle, $12

“Don’t be fooled by its good looks. This water bottle is good for you, too! It’s made with Bisphenol-A free Eastman Tritan copolyester plastic, which is durable, crystal clear and dishwasher safe.”

This is the same bottle pictured at the very top; it’s my favorite piece!  I buy water in 3L jugs, which aren’t exactly portable.  However, they’re much cheaper and more eco-friendly than buying 8oz bottles in bulk.  I have a stash of water bottles, but a lot of them get “gross,” and don’t seem to get clean enough when I wash them.  The Clean & Clever Water Bottle is a real gem; it’s big and see through, so I can remember if I’m drinking water or ice tea and not top off with the wrong beverage.  It also fits perfectly into my purse or laptop bag, even when I’ve got the Recycled Snack Container in there as well.

For more Aladdin products, check out their website.  There’s are four main sections:  Drink It Hot, Drink It Cold, Do Lunch, and Kiddos.  Each are chock full of products you are your loved ones will use all year long!

Burt’s Bees Tingling Treats Gift Set

“Nothing says holidays like peppermint! So we combined a few of our favorite minty little things in this gift collection that pampers from head to toe. And even better, this set offers a $4.00 savings compared to items purchased separately. Give this invigorating collection or just enjoy it yourself!  $19.99″

CONTAINS:

Beeswax Lip Balm
Fabulously Fresh Peppermint & Rosemary Body Bar
Fabulously Fresh Peppermint & Rosemary Body Wash
Peppermint Foot Lotion

Burt’s Bees Polka Dot Perfect Mani-Pedi Gift Set

“All the full-sized products and tools you need for a luxurious mani-pedi are wrapped up with an adorable polka dot carrier this holiday season.   You’ll save $7.00 compared with purchasing these products separately, and even better, you also get an adorable bag stuffed w/ 2 cuticle sticks and a nail file!  So hands and feet can look perfectly polished, wherever your holiday travels take you. Treat yourself or a loved one to this pampering gift!  $19.99″

CONTAINS:

Almond Milk Beeswax Hand Creme
Coconut Foot Creme
Lemon Butter Cuticle Creme
Replenishing Lip Balm with Pomegranate Oil
Bee Nail File
2 Cuticle Sticks
Red & White Polka Dot Bag

Burt’s Bees Favorite Things Gift Set

“We have so many favorite things, it was hard to pick just four for this gift!   This festive holiday kit includes the top-rated favorites to cleanse, moisturize and protect skin from winter weather–and enjoy, all year long.   Plus, you’ll save $7.00 with the purchase of this set compared to purchasing the products individually. Our favorite thing is that we’re passing along an even better value to you! $19.99″

CONTAINS:

Beeswax Lip Balm
Lemon Butter Cuticle Creme
Naturally Nourishing Milk & Honey Body Lotion
Soap Bark & Chamomile Deep Cleansing Cream

Burt’s Bees Mini Lip Gloss Set

“Drench your lips in moisture and beautiful sheer color gloss. These hydrating natural lip glosses are flavored with citrus oils for a kiss of fresh-squeezed flavor. $12.99″

Burt’s Bees Natural Skin Care For Men, Essentials Travel Kit

“Look and feel your natural best wherever you go with skin care formulas sized for travel. Take them with you to cleanse, moisturize, shave and invigorate your skin with natural botanicals including Sunflower, Coconut, Cyprus and Fir oils, Aloe and Vitamin E.  $13.99″

CONTAINS:

Natural Skin Care for Men Cologne
Natural Skin Care for Men Aftershave
Natural Skin Care for Men Shave Cream
Natural Skin Care for Men Bar Soap
Natural Skin Care for Men Body Wash
Burt’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balm

I was sent a sample for review.  I’m a long time fan of Burt’s Bees products and will be including them in my holiday gift-giving this year, as always!  The lip balm with pomegranate is a favorite, and the peppermint foot cream is a close second!

Whether using a simple point-and-shoot camera or an advanced SLR (single lens reflex) model, the Grimms’ new book takes you through the steps to improve, display, print, and preserve your digital images.  The authors answer all our questions about the mechanics of digital cameras so you can become more creative and have pride in all your pictures.

You’ll learn how to print your own photos, pt together a snazzy slideshow, show off your pictures on the Internet, shoot successfully with a cell phone camera, and back up favorite images for posterity.

Whether you are new to digital photography or have been shooting for several years, you’ll discover ‘The Basic Book of Digital Photography’ is the most comprehensive and readable reference for all your photographic pursuits.”

This is an amazing resource for the photography lover in your life – maybe someone you gave a camera to last year?  Or if you know of someone who’s going to be gifted a camera this season (like a sibling), this will be a great “part two” gift; just make sure yours doesn’t get opened first and spoil the surprise!

I love the clear illustrations this book uses, as I’m a total visual learner.  There are even photographs of where certain buttons and features are on the camera, which is super helpful if you or your loved one is a novice photographer.  The color photos are incredibly beautiful, and make the book even more of a treasured reference.

Another cute idea is to pair this book with a Sharper Image Digital Photo Frame, 2.4″ Portable Viewer or Sharper Image 16310 Digital Photo Frame, Keychain!  Then the lucky recipient can not only take better pictures, but then show them off in a tech savvy way!  Good old fashion Nexxt by Linea Picture Frame, 27.5″ Shim Collage and a ream of photo paper will be a thoughtful accompaniment as well.  And of course, don’t forget your OWN camera so you can snap a few shots of your thoughtful gifts being unwrapped!

The Basic Book of Digital Photography: How to Shoot, Enhance, and Share Your Digital Pictures

I was sent a copy for review.

Not just for active gals, Lucky Legs has done wonders for reviving my stiff legs after a long day of sitting at the computer.

This is the jackpot of rescue remedies to help relieve your hard-working legs and feet when they are just exhausted, swollen, heavy and in need of intense refreshment. A mini-spa treatment that glides on to instantly cool and ease weary limbs from knees to tippy toes.

Clinically tested ingredients leave you with feather-light legs, reducing discomfort and helping circulation. You will also notice a super-subtle sparkly-shimmer on your shins; this is the ultimate knees-up for your knees down!

I was so happy to get the opportunity to review Lucky Legs and couldn’t wait to receive my complimentary tube. It sat on my desk for about a week before I remembered it was there, and I finally noticed it and decided to give it a try last night.

The subtle sparkle is fabulous… I wanted to slather this all over my whole body after I saw how pretty my legs looked all shimmery!! It felt lovely on my legs for a few moments… enough to give me the sense of calming relief. And the scent is what relaxed me the most I think… although it did remind me of toothpaste. Overall I did notice a sense of relief in my legs that were, quite frankly, sore and tired from not getting enough activity that day. Sitting at a desk all day isn’t as relaxing as it sounds…

I think this would make a great stocking stuffer this Christmas or a great addition to a gift basket. It’s also nice to have on hand for when you feel like relaxing and treating yourself to a little “me time”.

$19.50 on mamamio.com