Gave That

Aromatherapy Interventions

2010-02-09T13:42:00.007-05:00

At the moment snow drifts are high and any thoughts of spring or even Valentines day seems worlds away. You have become old hat frostbite and bitterly cold winds! So, in an attempt to transport myself (and others) someplace else, on an olfactory level at least, candles have become a simple solace. That's how I slightly broke my nose... 30, 40, 50 (I've lost count) candles later and I give you some of my absolute favorites for spring:

When Aromatherapy Interventions candles contacted me about their line, I immediately remembered their delicious sense of style and tongue in cheek, chuckle inducing descriptions. The co-dependent candle for instance has two wicks and is infused with citrus essential oils to, "counteract passivity and self blame". These can get someone in so much trouble and, I adore that.

Still the main point is the scent. Thankfully these are good—very, very good. Earnest due to real essential oils being used and surprisingly pungent for soy wax my personal favorite is lighten up. A blend of fresh winter mint, grapefruit, orange and woodland pine to, "counteract obsessing on the unimportant", the result is a candle that actually smells rather sunny. Now to find a way to burn this 24/7. $21.95.

Image: MAM for GaveThat

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Reading Old Love Letters

2010-02-08T12:56:00.006-05:00

D., a New Yorker, kept this little missive for some 50 years after receiving it. Ever so often I reread it too.

Dec. 1954

Dearest D.,
I want to thank you for my very very lovely Christmas gift. When I wear it I will think of you and your sweetness. You shouldn't have bought me such an expensive gift. I know you love me and I love you too.

I hope you had a happy Christmas and that Santa was very good to you.

You must come to see me some time soon - tell me all about your sweet self - your job and all that you are doing.

I hope you have a very happy New Year, D. dear, for you certainly deserve it.

My many thanks, again, and my best love to you. —K.

Image: MAM for Gave That
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Red Velvet Chocolate Chip Pancakes

2010-02-03T19:06:00.005-05:00

These are so good... chocolate chips and raspberry syrup mingle with walnuts—if love turned to pancakes?

Red Velvet Chocolate Chip Pancakes Recipe:
Following directions on instant buttermilk pancake mix, doctor by adding:
1/2 Cup powder baking cocoa
1/2 Cup chocolate chips
A few teaspoons natural red food coloring
1/2 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Topping:
1/2 Cup walnuts
Raspberry syrup
Powder sugar (optional)

Following the directions on the pancake mix add in the extra ingredients and create your hot cakes. Use a heart shaped form if you're feeling extra artistic, sprinkle on nuts and swirl some raspberry syrup on top. This also works to create waffles a'la Mode!

Image: MAM for Gave That
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Wishing for Wishes Giveaway — One World One Heart

2010-01-25T13:05:00.016-05:00

Wishing for wishes

Here is to hoping your dreams and wishes for 2010 come true! To help bring this about I came up with the little theme, Wishing for Wishes and have these gorgeous kits of Flying Wish Paper and exotic journals by PaperBlanks to giveaway to you. Julia Lambie, the creator of Flying Wish Paper, was kind enough to send me her kits to share with you and a recent shopping foray netted these beauties from PaperBlanks illuminated manuscripts collection. Whether you pour out your hopes, wishes, or gratitude for the day, I know the winner will feel enamored to keep their dreams alive!

{Please Scroll Down To Enter}

2 Winners Will Be Chosen

About The Prize: Prize 1) A gorgeous embossed midi leather wrapped journal by PaperBlanks, part of their illuminated manuscripts collection. A Flying Wish Paper kit with 50 sheets of Flying Wish Paper, 25 Wish Platforms, Matches & Pencils. Prize 2) A Flying Wish Paper kit with 50 sheets of Flying Wish Paper, 25 Wish Platforms, Matches & Pencils.

How To Enter: Simply leave a comment with your name, e-mail address (very important so I can contact you should you win), and blog (optional). 1 entry per person please. You must comment on this post to enter. Open to everyone, US & World Wide!

Giveaway Ends: February 14th 2010. A random winner will be chosen and announced here at GaveThat.com. So hurry and enter today!

Giveaway Terms/Rules:
* This giveaway is open to our US & international audience. One (1) entry per person, per household, per email address, age 13 and up. Some restrictions apply and void where prohibited. In the event a winner fails to reply with his/her address for prize shipment we reserve the right to choose another winner based on existing entrants. Giveaway ends Feb. 14th 2010, 12PM EST.

The One World, One Heart project was created by Lisa Swifka, who has kindly orchestrated this event for another year! Thank you Lisa, this is an amazing way to meet and mingle... please let's all get together online and say hi! I look forward so much to meeting all the other ticket holders in this event and you. ♥ Marie

Again, thank you Lisa and Julia!

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My Crystal Romance — Lollia

2010-01-19T13:12:00.012-05:00

Pretending it's already spring I've been gathering together crystals of all shapes and sizes. One that simply could not be resisted was the bauble dangling from the wick of this Lollia petite candle by Margot Elena. The scent is Inspire. Even better it smells just as luscious as it looks... a soft floral that is totally unobtrusive. Notes include my favorite violet along with rose, lemon zest, vanilla and another favorite mimosa. Cutting the chandelier crystal from the cord, now that poses a problem. Good thing the scent livens a small workspace enough without the need to burn. Now about those Prada's... thoughts?

{Top to bottom: Lollia petite candle in Inspire, around $36.00 - antique chandelier crystals on my antique lace skirt - Prada SS10 Shoes - my mothers crystal necklace, love it!}

Image: MAM for GaveThat.com | Prada SS10 Lookbook via inFashionMedia & Carolina Engman x Fashion Squad

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Something Extra : A Most Cherished Gift with Jason Miller

2010-01-07T16:16:00.010-05:00

One of the most elusive, rare and cherished of gifts is also one of the simplest. This is why it is rather overlooked until something catastrophic occurs. It can not be bought but it can be given freely... true, honest friendship is the gem here.

During the new year many start to take stock and while many articles focus on a little house cleaning, this seems the perfect time to ask am I truly there for people? An even bigger question is who actually are my friends? Over the years things have become a tad murky but the good news is studies are now showing many people have the loving support system they need in place—you know, the people who get worried when they do not touch base every X amount of hours, yell when too much vodka is added to the screwdriver you are making, have all of your contact information and know your full name, will take care of Fifi in a blink of an eye when you have an unexpected business trip. For more, read this really superb article by Valerie Frankel on 4 types of friends and balancing their synergy.

Something I will keep my eye on in 2010 is making sure all the meaningful relationships in my life are being given the cultivation they require. This isn't as easy as it once was thanks to so many distractions not to mention long work hours but a must because the rewards are major and so is the raucous laughter.

Pictured: My favorite Jason Miller "Seconds" cups & saucers, tea for two

Image: MAM for GaveThat.com

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2010 : Get Ready

2010-01-04T16:57:00.008-05:00

What Have We Here?

Red Velvet Chocolate Chip Pancakes for guests (full recipe / HOW-TO here)

The Old Meets The New (more here)

A Few Luscious Gifts (D.L. & Co.)

Old Lace & Chandelier Crystals for Spring

Brown Packages Covered In Wax Seals

New Year Resolutions?

At first I was going to make the very cliché resolution to make no resolutions this year but then I thought why pass up an opportunity to publicly embarrass oneself? So...
- (and this is a big one) make choices and decisions that maintain strong connections, foster fun and exploration. This includes more activity based giving.
- Distill everything down to things I absolutely love (hear that massive vintage collection!).
- Reinvent
- Drink enough water and always take my vitamins so...
- I can show you everything as it comes at me.

These seem doable. What say you!? Thank you DaMag for such a lovely day!

Image: Magda & MAM for GaveThat.com

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Ten & Twenty

2010-01-02T14:41:00.007-05:00

It's 2010 already! I want to take a moment to say thank you to everyone who has come here... you have truly made my year delightful in so many unimaginable ways. For the new year I wish everyone a renewed sense of hope, spirit and craving for joy in life. I can not wait to start showing you so many new things!

Wishing you much peace, Marie

Image: MAM for GaveThat.com

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Enviius : Invitation Enclosed - Private Sales for Canadians & The US

2009-12-27T12:30:00.004-05:00

As many Canadians have sadly found out, often only after signing up, most of the popular members only private sample sale sites do no currently ship to Canada. There is light because a new private shopping site, based in Canada and shipping to both Canadians and Americans in the US, has opened its virtual doors! Enviius offers weekly boutiques at up to 75% off apparel and accessories including many designers exclusive to Canada. Recent offerings have included; Carrie Hayes, Dace & Nixxi.

Even better, when you sign up through our special invitation link you will receive a $10 credit added to your new Enviius account! Secret sites like these are a great trick to getting your gift giving needs met without breaking the bank... so add this site to your arsenal ASAP.

Upcoming '10 sales include:
Jan. 28th - Dace
Jan. 29th - This is J
Feb. 1st - pur Cashmere
Feb. 2nd - Wildcard

See you over at Enviius!

Also Read:
- Our Weekly Online Secret Sample Sale Gift Picks, Up to 90% Off
- Online Sample Sale Invitation Codes & Reviews

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Wishing Everyone A Very Happy Holidays!

2009-12-24T14:51:00.007-05:00

Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas, St. Stephen's Day and a Happy New Year! mazal tov to my friends! Can not wait for the ball to drop too and good old 2010 to ring in. Please be safe in whatever you do and I look forward to showing everyone here so many incredible new things. The little candy coated gingerbread house made from scratch is by my sister, whom I love to bits. It's darling and soon to be consumed. Thank you so much dear everyone for making this holiday season such a memorable one.

Wishing you much peace,
Marie
Follow on Twitter @GaveThat for more fun!

Image: MAM for GaveThat.com

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25 Last Minute Gift Picks $20 & Under

2009-12-23T14:57:00.017-05:00

Time is running out my friends and it's running out fast... sometimes all you really need is a little something, something and here are 25 of my favorites. All $20. & under and very sweet.

- Sephora created this special NARS eyeshadow for $9. called Silent Night. Love mine for some holiday glitter and the gold will look lovely on any skin tone.
- Essie Mint Candy Apple is a pretty alternative to now sold out Chanel's Jade. $7.
- Lollia makes darling little tubes of hand cream that will last all through these chap inducing winter months. $7.

(clockwise) - Bananagrams the squishy game easy to slip inside a stocking and ones pocket when dive baring and Christmas house partying. $14.95
- One of my favorite designers and capsule collections still going strong is that of Jonathan Adler x Barnes & Noble with his Words Umbrella. $19.95
- This Envirosax Leaf Printed Reusable bag is the prettiest design I've seen from the super strong yet thin line of totes which roll up nicely into your handbag or pocket. Find it at ASOS for $10.20.
- Paddywax makes really delicious candles for very reasonable prices. My favorite are their Lemongrass & Green Tea travel tin candles for only $5 bucks! Also give these pretty larger version in Classic Chamomile for $20.

Click to keep reading 25 Last Minute Gift Picks all $20 & Under>>

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Encore Versace Art Unite at Gilt Tue 12/22/09

2009-12-17T16:53:00.005-05:00

I wanted to give a quick heads up to everyone who missed out last time that the Versace Art Unite tote bag collection will be going on sale again this Tuesday, December 22nd online at 12pm EST on Gilt Groupe. This is the only authorized online venue selling these limited editions bags (also find them now in Versace boutiques).

A collaboration between Donatella Versace and the Whitney Museum of American Art's education department, 100% of proceeds from each bag sold will be donated to the Starlight Children's Foundation and the China One Foundation which helps children who have been the victim of natural disasters. The images on the bags were also created by children from these causes. Making each one-of-a-kind. $250.

Be sure to set your alam and get in fast as these bags sold out extremly quickly (within the hour) last time.

Image: Gilt Groupe

Also Read:
- Our Invitation Codes & Reviews of Online Secret Sample Sales

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World AIDS Day - Bloggers Unite - Give Twice

2009-12-01T20:13:00.009-05:00

Today in honor of World AIDS day and Bloggers Unite here is a collection of holiday gift ideas that give twice by giving back to AIDS/HIV causes and bringing awareness:

Designer Michelle Roy has created two gifts that give back--one is the Angel Wings collection of shirts, $76. with a portion of proceeds benefiting Project Angel Food, which delivers free and nutritious meals to men, women, and children suffering from HIV/AIDS or other life threatening illnesses.

Designers Against AIDS have created many more capsule collections in addition to the one with H&M featured in the past here at Gave That (which is still going strong). They now have an online store (based in the UK) found here and have also created a bedding line with Belgian Mistral Home Textiles and various artists. Look for them in Makro Stores in Belgium from September 9th 2009, 24,90€.

dolfilms.org has these amazing African bracelets benefiting and created by women coping with HIV/AIDS in the region. $15.

Margherita Missoni has joined forces Valextra to create cute little leather passport holders. Each one sold will benefit OrphanAid Africa. $290. at Barneys New York (212-826-8900).

Jimmy Choo is getting in on the act as well with a charity line of cute handbags perfect as a gift along with shoes (of course!) called Project PEP that will benefit the Elton John Foundation. Concentrating on AIDS a portion of proceeds will go to the Simelela Rape Centre in Cape Town, South Africa. As seen in WWD.

A long time favorite bastion of gifts benefiting AIDS/HIV is PRODUCT (RED) by the Gap. Be sure to check out their latest tee shirt design for the project by Stella McCartney, $28.

Converse has joined forces with (RED) and various artists to create its latest 1HUND(RED)s collection. One of these newest releases is the above 1HUND (RED) hands ShoeConverse sneakers remain one of those rare gift worthy shoes--we give these major thumbs up! Like all (RED) products, a percentage of sales of these trainers benefits The Global Fund's efforts to fight AIDS in Africa. Around $60. to $78.

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Finito! Cyber Monday Gift Guide '09

2009-11-29T22:52:00.010-05:00

Today marks Cyber Monday... the traditional end of the online holiday buying season if you want your parcels to come in time for Christmas giving without additional heroics (next day air shipping or store pick up). Here are my personal favorites from shopping destinations that actually come through:

Beauty Ticket: A secret cove brimming with YSL and Smashbox cosmetics in causes luxe enough to give unwrapped at 50% off along with lots of other obscure but pricey treats at deep discounts. Cyber Monday save an additional 25% off everything in the store when you use the code: "CYBER25".

Tarte: Home of the blush stain with a cult following this Cyber Monday get 40% off your entire order by using code: "CYBERMON9" and when you spend $25. or more shipping is free.

Philosophy: Up to 40% off select items online, no code needed, and free shipping on any order using the code: "holidays".

White House | Black Market: They may have a small selection and keep to the somber black and off white but I've been pleasantly surprised at how well made their pieces are. This Monday get free shipping on any order, 20% off your entire order by using code: "8002" and get a little key chain when you spend $100. or more.

Online Sample Sale Perks

Row | Nine: Cyber Monday through Friday Dec. 4th '09 get free S&H on all orders. Shop RowNine Fri. Dec. 4th and get a $50. credit added to your account after you make your purchase for use on a future order. This Monday shop their designer eyewear sale all at 80% off. Offerings include Tom Ford, Marc Jacobs, Gucci and Dior along with Mulholland bags and gifts starting at $25.

One Kings Lane: Is giving each new member who signs up through our link $10 to spend now until 12am PST/3am EST Dec. 1st '09 so hurry and join. This Cyber Monday you will find Lux candles, Zambaiti, Eduardo Garza, Dempsey & Carroll and Anne-Claire Petit toys.

RueLaLa: Is giving each new member who joins through our link $10 to spend now until the end of Dec. '09. This Monday find Cole Haan for men & women, La Fiorentina, TOYWATCH and A. Link.

Billion Dollar Babes: Check out their gift guide with most item under $50. and up to 70% off including MOR candles and lip balms, CC Skye jewelry and White + Warren hats and scarves along with Michael Kors and LA made women & children. Get free shipping on order $75. or more (down from the usual $150. or more).

For our full calender of online sample sale events visit THE LIST.

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The Give Twice Holiday Gift Guide: Fab Gifts That Give Back To Charity '09

2009-11-28T15:45:00.007-05:00

Giving Twice with Some of My Favorite Gifts!You can never go wrong with totes! Use them as the gift bag and watch them used over and over by your gift recipient. I've given so many of the LOOP Whatever It Takes bags, $32., and everyone who has received them, loves them... I love the quality and the designs. FEED bags, $35., are so classic now and I love all the sizes they now come in. Another favorite is the line of super soft tee's by OmniPeace. I have the classic design and wear it to death . Now you can give your Ed Hardy and be charitable at the same time with the Ed Hardy for OmniPeace tee, $69.

Click here to keep reading for our complete Give Twice Gift Picks!>>

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Blacking Out Online: Black Friday Gift Guide '09

2009-11-27T08:38:00.006-05:00

Bait and switch, door busters that are immediately grabbed up by the first five people in line, driving for hours only to come home empty handed... discounts which are the exact same sale prices from last week. Oh and less we forget pushing, shoving, yelling, cart wheels rolling over your toes. Score without the stress... here is our guide to some online Black Friday hot spots:

The Jelly Belly Shop: Their gourmet jelly bean sampler boxes are a classic alternative to chocolates and less fattening too. Save up to 20% off on select holiday gifts such as the 40 flavor Christmas sampler box, plus use the code: "MERRY" to get a free 10 flavor gift box with your $35. order. Orders over $50. automatically get free S&H.

W Hotels The Store: This is a favorite off the beaten path spot for finding great gifts at up to 80% off. Check out the Calypso candles, perfume and Jonathan Adler bud vase. Use their one day Black Friday code: "H2T9R" at checkout for an extra 30% off everything in the store online.

Red Envelope: Is holding a Black Red Sale for 3 days with great gifts, many of which can be personalized, at up to 85% off (the average is around 40% off). Check out the 20 Questions Game now $4.99, Diamond Initial Necklace now $24.99 and Fire Starter Kit now $34.99. Use Black Friday coupon code: "SRCHSave5" for an extra 5% off.

Hayden-Harnett: The NYC leather bag designers are offering up to 40% on select current fall bags... and I can vouch that their leather is gorgeous and will only get better with age! Special deals include an additional 10% off your order if you spend $300, 20% off for $500 or 30% off if you spend $700 or more plus get free S&H with orders of $250 or more. Along with bags find scarves, totes, luggage tags, and shoes.

Zoya Nail Polish: Love the more natural version of nail polish by Zoya and the fact it feels OK to give these to younger girls and those who are pregnant. These are vegan too. They can be a little hit or miss but their creamy colors seem to wear best. Zoya's Green Friday event will give you 6 free nail polishes (all in shades of green) when you spend $20 and use the code: "GREENFRIDAY". Also get free S&H on orders over $55. and free gifts when you spend over $30.

Sort Floor Books: A fab secret nook for finding deeply discounted books... especially coffee table gift faves and cookbooks which can normally be pricey. You never know what you'll find there so do searches often. Some can have remainder marks so plan on keeping those for yourself or donate them! Look for children's books, stationery sets and my personal favorite, Mega Mini Kits and Running Press Mini Kits. Use code: "Nov09" for an extra 10% off and get free S&H when you spend $14.99 or more.

Online Sample Sale Perks

One Kings Lane: Is giving each new members who signs up through our link $10 to spend now until Dec. 1st '09 so hurry and join. This Black Friday you will find tons of candles by CIR, Maxim's de Paris and Archipelago plus luggage by Tepper Jackson and Saltbox, toys, Fatboy beanbag chairs and more.

RueLaLa: Is giving each new member who joins through our link $10 to spend now until the end of Dec. '09. Michael Kors bags, Portolano hats and scarves, Vineyard 29 wines and Di Modolo Milano fine jewelry.

Gomatta Girls: This Black Friday they are offering a pretty sizable collection of silk and wool Raj scarves including some that were originally $300, $150, for $29. and $25.50. Many are $19. bucks. Also find lots of Tulle, Plastic Island, Jae Basilio and more. Now through Sun. Nov. 29th '09 get free S&H on any size order.

The Top Secret: Use codes: "LITTLELOVE" for $5. off $50, "BIGLOVE" for $10 off $100 spent or "HUGELOVE" for $15 off $150 on their Heys luggage sale which features the artist collection of rolling bags by Romero Britto. The 4 piece set is $499.00, down from $2,120.00.

For our full calender of online sample sale events visit THE LIST.

Image: Heys

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Mulling Things Over

2009-11-25T21:13:00.001-05:00

Wishing everyone a very Happy Thanksgiving!

A favorite all throughout the holidays is the scent of mulling apple cider filling the home and mingling with baked bread, mulled wine and hot chocolate. Simple to make it sets such a warm, welcoming tone for Thanksgiving and Christmas. This is the recipe I enjoy using:

Combine in a heavy pot:
5 Cups of Apple Cider
1 Cheese cloth pouch or tea ball of mulling spices (a favorite bland includes a cinnamon stick broken into pieces, whole allspice, whole cloves, 3 whole peppercorns, pieces of dried or candies orange peel)
2 Tablespoons of Buttershots (butterscotch liquor)
A couple slices of orange
A couple slices of apple

Bring to a boil and then reduce heat to lowest setting a let simmer (under careful watch) for a few hours. Add water if it becomes too concentrated. Serve warm with a cinnamon swizzle stick.

Also Read:
- The Gift of Gratitude

Image: MAM for GaveThat.com
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Kate Spade Redeems Herself - Holiday Collection '09

2009-11-24T15:42:00.007-05:00

On the Radar Gift Guide '09 Snap Shot: Not since her Par Avion bag collection has anything from Kate Spade caught my eye but now she has redeemed her line with these swank pieces that channel Maison Martin Margiela and Yazbukey for sure. The necklace is a bit much but love the flats for their good humor and pop of color. Pictured: Bourgeois Bow bib necklace, $125, Red Letter Day bracelet, $65, Fiona flats, $95, Bourgeois Bow ring, $65.

Image: Kate Spade.com | GaveThat digital studio

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Liz Lange : The "Birkin" of Diaper Bags?

2009-11-16T23:52:00.005-05:00

On the Radar Gift Guide '09 Snap Shot: When I first saw these Liz Lange bags I thought wow, what a bumpy take on the classic Birkin... it was a few minutes later that I realized that these were actually brilliantly constructed diaper bags. Since when have diaper bags become so chic? I actually pondered removing the contents (each bag comes with a matching bottle warmer, changing pad, little bags to hold goodies, etc.), tossing the shoulder strap and trying to pass off the supple leather carryall as a bag of tricks (sketch boots, portfolios...). No, this is a serious bag for a mum who wants a little anonymity so I'll leave it be. You mums have all the fun.

Right now Amazon has the bags at serious discounts, up to 75% off. Check out the luscious black Marlena and the bold pop of purple patent leather in the Rita.

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Holiday Gift Guide '09: For Him

2009-11-09T15:02:00.003-05:00

To be frank this is a guide based on givability. There are so many things, from a woman's point of view, that sound like it should be perfect but turns out to be a huge flop once given. I've flopped so you don't have to. {said flops have been left off this list}

1) Audio Technica ATH-ANC7B Active Noise-Canceling Headphones are perfect for the commuters or audiophiles in your life.

2) John Varvatos Artisan is one of my favorite releases of the year. The bust of orange is jolting in the morning and the bottle encased in rattan doubles as art on his sink.

3) Every guy should have a pair of TOMS shoes to wear around the house, to the beach or when kicking back. Best of all for every pair you buy, TOMS donates a pair to children in need around the world.

Click here to keep reading my favorite gift picks for guys>>

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Thoughts on Giving Well This Holiday '09 - Budgets, Lists, The Whole Shebang

2009-11-08T09:47:00.004-05:00

Thoughts on Giving Well This Holiday '09

Around this time of year it isn't surprising that one of the most requested bits of information is how to budget for the impending gift giving season? For more tips on how to specifically save and perhaps give more for less, please see my 20 Holiday Saving Tips. There are tons of tried and tested suggestions in those pages that I hope will reveal the answers you are looking for.

As for a philosophy on giving well this holiday I have come up with 3 personal steps that focus less on budgets, rules and spending money and more on celebrating the season, using the downtime to our best advantage, reconnecting with the people we love (and love us) and strengthening bonds. Here they are:

1. Turn the holiday gift giving tradition into reflection, not projection.
First: Take a piece of paper and write down the names of people who are closest to you... those who have supported you throughout the year, done incredibly nice things out of shear love... those who you know have your back (or did in a recent time of need). Think about how your gift can be one of thanks (either something they have long wanted, an invitation out to dinner, some time spent together, a heartfelt card or letter).

Second: Close relationships are the ones to focus and zero in on along with anyone you wish to show your sincere gratitude, and then, depending on your means and present situation, feather out to more casual friends, then charities and/or acquaintances. [To put this into perspective and for more on the 4 types of friendship you need to know about read one of my favorite Self articles, You Gotta Have Friends, here.]

Third: Resist the urge to give out of fear (e.g. if they do not get a gift from me they'll never speak to me again or what will they think!?) as relationships worth keeping and maintaining are not hinged on such things and entitlement is so 5 years ago. The same with gambling with futures (e.g. using gifts to sway someones affections and attention in your direction) as they rarely pan out. Instead giving out of gratitude celebrates those who have gone out of their way to be there for us. There is no need to keep tabs on who returns or gives "what" because the act of giving in this case reflects on what has already been. The gifts from them have previously come our way through their love and kindness... anything else is pure icing.

2. Stock up on little gifts and thank you cards for parties, unexpected gifts and invitations. These can be as simple (and inexpensive) as a little plant or showing up with homemade cookies. Always bring a hostess gifts or send a little gift along with your words of thanks. Private parties are going to grow in both popularity and importance for keeping us connected (and sane) in the coming years as people find their budgets for commercial entertainment slashed. Keep all the fantastic hosts out their motivated by showing your gratitude... and return the favor with your own bash when you can.

In the case of surprise gifts from people you never imagined would give you anything, have those thank you cards handy (even if you verbally already said thanks). Western etiquette says you're not obligated to automatically give a gift in return but you should make it a point to express gratitude with a physical card, note or if possible an invitation to a holiday party.

3. Be thankful and have fun. Be in the moment.

Wishing everyone the best social season possible!

- MARIE ANAKEE MICZAK

P.S. This, like everything, is an experiment. Thoughts, tips? Tweet: @GaveThat.

Image: MAM for GaveThat.com

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vlog: Wishlist Pick Headphones

2009-11-06T12:47:00.006-05:00

For the longest I've been wanting to share something that is topping many wish lists... old school style headphones that have the added benefit of being noise canceling. These are so helpful, especially for those who frequently travel or take mass transit, and are now seen hanging off many a handbags handles. After trying a bunch out I settled on a pair that I later found out might have quality issues, so far so good but when you plunk down $100. or more bucks for a pair you expect them to last and perform. The Audio Technica headphones above totally trounced mine in sound quality and were also amazingly more comfortable. Dr. M of Eclectic Sound made a great video about the latest Audio Technica models including the same one recommended by tech blogger Xeni Jardin (Boing Boing Video). I give them major thumbs up as well after putting them through the rigors.

Pictured: Rojas coat + Audio-Technica "ATH-ANC7b" headphones + Gryson bag + Vintage gloves

Vlog: Dr. M Image: Magda for GaveThat.com.

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Giving Fine Art to Children {Ida Pearle for The Mini Social + Art for Life}

2009-10-26T18:07:00.005-04:00

This is the last week that you will be able to purchase one of New York City artist Ida Pearle's gorgeous hand printed and signed works of art. The concept is a rather unique one... fine art for children. Bright and with major pop these prints are part of a series based on the alphabet and have been created especially for the online little ones boutique The Mini Social. At 22" x 22" unframed and $160. each (down from $212.) these are surely pieces that can transition into adulthood and/or be passed down to the next generation. I know the ones above could easily find a place in my art collection. Along with each piece of art comes Ida's book, "A Child's Day" and 25% of proceeds from this particular sale will be donated to the Art for Life Foundation. For more incredible art by Ida Pearle be sure to visit her website here.

Image: Ida Pearle via The Mini Social "Alphabet print series"

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The Best Candles for Under $30 - Give These

2009-10-20T18:06:00.005-04:00

REVIEW

Smelling new and hopefully pleasant things is a real treat for me so when a candle is seen sitting quietly on a shelf there I am snatching it up to give it a whiff. A few seconds later, if it is that good, images will appear in my mind. A face of a friend or loved one and then I'm off. These candles smell so luxe, unique and captivating but do not come with a $70+ price tag. Who knew? (they won't!). Onward (clockwise from top left):

1) Slatkin & Co. Fireside you sly devils... I bow to you! Talk about a hulking 14.5 ounces of pure masculine delight that's perfect for a smoldering undercurrent to those holiday parties. Yes it's smokey with burning woods, amber and leather... and that's the point. Smell it in person at Bath & Body Works. $19.50.

2) Paddywax - Eco Bergamot & Tobacco Flower candle, the secret needs to get out, Paddywax creates candles that are just as luxe smelling as the popular $60 and $70 models out there (Paddywax's start at 5 bucks!) and comes in special eco editions using recycled materials and natural inks. The personal favorite is their deep blend of Bergamot & Tobacco Flowers and their Lemongrass & Green Tea is gorgeous for the bath. Start at $5. for travel tins. [See my past review of Paddywax here]

3) Archipelago Botanicals Signature Series Bergamot Tobacco candle, this Bergamot Tobacco is a favorite and their most popular request. Love the wax seal touch on both candle and box. Along with the Bergamot Tobacco above be sure to also try their thoroughly modern Archipelago Botanicals A.B. Home Collection Soy Wax Candle in Lavender which has been a major hit with gift recipients. The swoon inducing scent mingles lavender with a hint of thyme. $27.99.

4) Le Couvent Des Minimes Lavender and Acacia Candle This is a case of Overstock.com really pulling through as these French candles from Provence are extremely hard to find in the US but oh-so-worth it. Around $22. each the lavender gives way to an almost creamy acacia and other woods, musk and a hint of vanilla. Not the least bit floral this is perfect for burning on those chilly nights and makes a fireplace completely obsolete. An added bonus... they've been made by nuns in a small convent since 1862 with a keen eye on being eco (some of their packing is made from seaweed harvested during cleaning of Venice waterways).

On The Radar: Royal Apothic which can be found at Anthropologie has my nose itching to give it a whirl. The story behind the finding of old recipes and their Victorian charm seem irresistible... let me at Distillation Of An Edwardian Fireplace and Attar Of High Tea. Unfortunately they come $2 over budget for this spot at $32. each, so maybe a review is in order next time?

Image: Slatkin & Co. via Bath & Body Works, Paddywax, Archipelago, Le Couvent

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Marilyn Minter at INTERMIX for Bright Pink

2009-10-20T06:50:00.003-04:00

The in your face synth-art by New Yorker Marilyn Minter seems only fitting to be transferred to a rather esthetically pleasing tote bag (yes I'd wear this constantly... my new fall/winter bag? We shall see) but the real icing is its support of Bright Pink, a breast and ovarian cancer non-profit. A portion of proceeds will be donated to the cause by INTERMIX where this bag (only $48.!) is an exclusive. A must give to any aficionado of Minter's art film, Green Pink Caviar, Madonna who has been using said film in her Sticky & Sweet tour or the make-up artist / salon owning pal in your life. As seen in Elle.

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