Archive for ◊ October, 2008 ◊

31 Oct 2008 Business Gifts: All about Function and Comfort – Complete Wrap

Business Gifts: All about Function and Comfort – Complete Wrap

Hey guys, up til now, I’ve posted ten posts on how to choose a satisfactory business gift. For your convenience, I’ve decided to combine them all in this post. Hope you’ll find my advice helpful. Enjoy.

Part 1: Traveling Kit / Utility Kit

Cutter&Buck Am Classic Shoe Shine Kit
Excel Utility Kit
High Sierra Overpass Wheeled Travel Pack

Part 2: Stationary

Icon PU Memo/Tape Flag Dispenser
Network Magnetic Multi Frame
Metropolitan Pencil Cup Clock

Part 3: Fun Factor

Gridiron Football Flip Game
Icon Marble Maze
Fortune Teller Game

Part 4: Here is Your Cup of Tea

Cool Gear Freezer Stick Bottle
Colt Vacuum Bottle
Horizon Polycarb Sport Bottle

Part 5: Electronics

3.5″ Digital Picture Frame
Cutter & Buck Desktop Charger
High Sierra Tahoe Computer Travel Set
Alibi 3-in-1 Web Cam, Speaker and Microphone

Part 6: Handy, Handy

Multi-Tool Corkscrew
Garrity 3C 4 L.E.D. Emergency Lantern
3 ft Tape Measure

Part 7: Kitchenware

Bosque 3-Piece Wine Set
Grill Mastertraditional BBQ Set
Wave Electric Pepper Mill

Part 8: Cool It, Baby~

Excel Sport Divided Lunch Cooler
Alpine Tailgate Cooler
C&B Deluxe Rolling Festival Cooler

Part 9: Health and Wellness

StayFit Wireless Heart Rate Monitor
StaySafe Deluxe Auto Safety Kit
Pedometer, pedometer, PEDOMETER~

Part 10: Tick Tock

Barlow Spinning Desk Clock
Swivel 4-Port Hub Clock
Metropolitan Pencil Cup Clock

31 Oct 2008 Business Gifts: All about Function and Comfort (Part 10) – Tick Tock

Business Gifts: All about Function and Comfort (Part 10) – Tick Tock

If you’re still plagued by which business gift to choose despite all my previous recommendations, then you might consider timepiece as gifts for your business contacts or associates. They are a handy and reasonable choice – all in all, an ideal business gift. One thing though, when dealing with Chinese, clocks are not a desired business gift idea because the phrase “giving out clocks” in Chinese is pronounced the same as something undesirable.

Barlow Spinning Desk Clock

This clock adds a personal touch with a photo frame on the flip side of the clock face. Available with optional vinyl panel insert. Button battery included. Elegant, isn’t it?

Swivel 4-Port Hub Clock

A built-in alarm clock makes this USB hub unique. Use it as an employee appreciation gift. Clock includes a timer function, special birthday reminder, and six different alarm rings. LCD screen with backlight and large display of time, date, day, and temperature. 3″ USB extension cord. Instructions and two button cell batteries included. Includes 1-piece gift box. Compatible with Windows Vista.

Metropolitan Pencil Cup Clock

Sophisticated 2-in-1 design. Clean and modern. Space for writing instruments, letter opener, or laser pointer. So Mr. Big-ish. Definitely will add a touch of elegance and style to your office.

28 Oct 2008 Love Actually

Love Actually

I can’t remember which movie once said “it is love that made life bearable”.  I can’t remember the name of the movie but I can’t agree with it more. And I really wish everyone, everywhere, will find their true love eventually. So, today, let’s take a look at a group of love-themed favors.

“Love Letters” Letter Opener in Personality Box

L is for the way you look at me
O is for the only one I see
V is very, very extraordinary
E is even more than anyone that you can adore

L-O-V-E. These for magical letters are combined into this unique LOVE letter opener. Made of solid silver chrome, these letter openers are romantic, practical, and elegant and make wonderful guest favors that your guests will appreciate for years to come.

LOVE Heart Compact Mirror in Black Velvet Pouch

Classic and sleek, these compact heart mirrors are a great way to “reflect” your appreciation to your guests. Each chrome silver heart compact has LOVE across the front and is packaged in an elegant black velvet pouch.

“Love Notes” Sticky Notes in Nostalgic Dispenser Gift Box with Dainty Heart Charm 

It’s true that action speaks louder than words. So, why don’t combine action with words and actually write your love one a love note? A step above the typical sticky-note pad, this unique note dispenser is a perfectly fitted box that offers one note at a time, each one delicately etched with “Love Notes” in pretty pink-ideal for exchanging words of passion with someone you adore. The perfect favor for Valentine’s Day parties, wedding showers, anniversary parties and more, your guests will love you for it, and they’ll remember your day fondly whenever they “make note” of their emotions.

27 Oct 2008 Green is the New Fashion

Green is the New Fashion

Green stands for nature, harmony, organic, environmental friendly. What can be more “IN” than green when everyone is crying out loud “We Love Green”? So, are you prepared for a breath of fresh air?

Topiary Photo Holder/Place Card Holder

A breathtaking topiary-always the stunning showpiece of an exquisitely arranged garden-is the inspiration for this dramatic design. The Topiary Photo Holder/Place Card Holder will bring the same engaging charm to your wedding reception tables. Nobly rising from a well-crafted, dark-wood planter is the finely manicured, round, rich green foliage-an artisan’s hallmark. Every topiary can hold a cherished photo of the happy couple or a place card.

Butterfly Garden Gift Baskets with Wildflower Seed

The butterfly gift basket was lovingly designed to remind your guests of a springtime garden in bloom, with a dainty butterfly frame and charming mesh lining. Each basket comes with a little paper “grass” filling and a wildflower seed packet. These adorable favors will make your event just a little bit sprightlier!

“New Beginnings” Plantable Petal Cones Kit

Let your wedding day be a breathtaking new beginning – for you, and for the bounty of natural beauty you present to each of your guests. Who else but Kate Aspen could design a favor that’s elegant, eco-friendly, versatile and able to be personalized? She’s done it magnificently with her “New Beginnings” Blooming Petal Cones. They begin their journey as convenient flower-petal holders, so your guests can shower you with Mother Nature’s confetti as you leave for your honeymoon. Next, the petal cones travel near and far to the gardens of your guests, who can plant the favors so they can grow and blossom as a lasting reminder of the love that brought you to your special day. If you’d like to personalize your cones, Kate suggests vellum, and she provides a convenient, downloadable template that enables you to print whatever you wish on the vellum sheets. Simply insert the vellum into the cones for an even more dazzling presentation. To complete the impressive look, a lovely, matching organza ribbon enhances the front of the cone.

26 Oct 2008 Fairytale Themed Weddings

Fairytale Themed Weddings
By Ashley Rader

Most young women grow up with visions of their wedding day already conceived. We dream of that day when all eyes are on us as we walk down the aisle towards our knight in shining.. uh, tuxedo!

So when that special day arrives, you may want to live out your dream of a fairytale themed wedding; princess dress and all. Here are some fairytale wedding ideas to look over before making important planning decisions for your big day.

Cinderella

As the fairytale goes, Cinderella is oppressed by her wicked step family before blossoming into a beautiful princess. Of course, you will want to buy that perfect princess dress, complete with ruffles, lace-up back, and all of the accouterments that make it exquisite.

Cinderella would surely end off this display at her fairytale themed wedding with dazzling diamond accents as well. And we can’t forget glass slippers that will be seen as the bride is walking down the aisle.

Want to go over the top with your fairytale wedding ideas? Instead of the traditional walk-in from the back, put on a little “skit” towards the back of the church or venue involving the Cinderella theme. Have a wicked step mother and sister yelling orders at the bride, who will at first be dressed in raggedy clothes (preferably over her actual dress). Add appropriate music and sound effects over the sound system to complement the scene. Then cover the bride as she goes through her transformation and is revealed in her stunning new wedding dress.

We’re talking about a fairytale themed wedding here-bring out all the sprinkles and glitter necessary to make this an eye-catching production. This is a great idea for a bride who actually went through a struggle in life that people would recognize, and rose above it to glory.

Fairytale wedding favors that would go with this theme are sparklers and silver snowflake ornaments. You might even go so far as to purchase “magic wands” for all of your female guests, and ask them to point it towards you before you go through your “transformation” in the fairytale skit, or at some other point in your fairytale themed wedding. All of this will not come cheap, but it will definitely be memorable for guests. Think outside of the box when brainstorming fairytale wedding ideas.

Marie Antoinette Wedding Theme

Another fairytale themed wedding idea plays on the infamous Marie Antoinette and her life of excess. Again, you will need a very elaborate dress with wide panniers underneath to create the full effect, but this time it will be a little more on the gaudy side. Keep thinking excess when considering this fairytale wedding theme. A thick application of rouge is necessary for the bride and/or bridesmaids.

Marie Antoinette was known for her love of clothing, shoes, and shopping. Pick wedding favors that reflect these items. One example would be a stilletto keychain. What about giving all of your female guests a lacy garter belt as a wedding favor? Sparklers are also a nice touch to this fairytale themed wedding. Fairytale wedding ideas are plentiful. Let your imagination go wild as you piece all of the elements of your fairytale themed wedding together like an intricate puzzle.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ashley_Rader

24 Oct 2008 Business Gifts: All about Function and Comfort (Part 9) – Health and Wellness

Technorati Profile
Business Gifts: All about Function and Comfort (Part 9) – Health and Wellness

Health is one’s biggest chip and THE most important gift from God. Thus, all the following gadgets that help you stay healthy and well are definitely the perfect business gifts for your clients or business associates.

StayFit Wireless Heart Rate Monitor

What I love about this kit is its colorfulness and youthful sporty feel. This combination heart monitor and FM radio will absolutely encourage employees to enroll in corporate fitness programs. Clear digital display for easy reading of measurements, including time and date. Alarm and timer function. Belt clip. Two AAA and one button cell battery included.

StaySafe Deluxe Auto Safety Kit

Eight-piece kit includes case, 100-amp booster cable, cotton gloves, Mylar blanket, flashlight, screwdriver, pliers, and StaySafe Compact First Aid Kit. Convenient mesh pockets keep all accessories separate and organized. Integrated reflective warning triangle displays upon unzipping the case. Such a handy and carefree little helper.

Pedometer, pedometer, PEDOMETER~

Go for color (pink for women, blue for men), functionality and a touch of class and style.  Happy walking! No games, just sport.

24 Oct 2008 Business Gifts: All about Function and Comfort (Part 8) – Cool it, Baby

Business Gifts: All about Function and Comfort (Part 8 ) – Cool it, Baby

Coolers are a must-have for picnic, thus made it a perfect business gift for your business associates.

Excel Sport Divided Lunch Cooler

Interior compartment includes divider and holds 6 twelve-oz cans. Flap closure with quick-release buckle. Comfort grip handle. Attend to your every need. Great design, quality product.

Alpine Tailgate Cooler

Multiple storage compartments keep accessories and snacks readily available. Four-person accessory kit includes plates, tumblers, utensils and a frisbee. Accessory kit packaged separately. Leak proof main compartment holds 36 twelve-ounce cans.

C&B Deluxe Rolling Festival Cooler

The ultimate cooler for those who are looking for class and guaranteed satisfaction. Motivate a sales team, thank board members, or reward top fundraisers with this 32-piece deluxe picnic set built for four. The rolling cooler features a leakproof insulated main compartment and detachable insulated wine duffel. PEVA lining. Multiple pockets and compartments for storing all picnic accessories. Heavy duty trolley and grab handle. Cutter & Buck striped lining. Rounding out the set are: four 9″ melamine plates, four wine glasses, four stainless steel knives, forks, and spoons, one cutting board, one stainless steel cheese knife, one set of salt and pepper shakers, one waiter-style stainless steel corkscrew, one bottle stopper, four napkins, one cotton tablecloth.

22 Oct 2008 Business Gifts: All about Function and Comfort (Part 7) – Kitchenware

Business Gifts: All about Function and Comfort (Part 7) – Kitchenware

Kitchenware is a fabulous choice for business gifts that helps your life easier and TASTY~~ (Hmm, yummy!) So, let’s have a look (or should I say – to have a taste).

Bosque 3-Piece Wine Set

Use the wine coaster in this set as part of an enticing invite to a special meeting. Explain that the recipient will receive the other part of the set at the meeting. Also includes the Bosque wine opener and a wine stopper.

Grill Mastertraditional BBQ Set

Eleven-piece BBQ set includes spatula, brush, fork, and cleaning brush (all with wooden handles), six skewers, and zippered carrying case.

Wave Electric Pepper Mill

Give this gift free with purchase or raffle this prize off at the annual cookout. Holds approximately 3 oz. of unground pepper.

20 Oct 2008 Candle Wedding Favors – Unique and Practical Gifts

Candle Wedding Favors – Unique and Practical Gifts

(By Ashley Rader)

Weddings and candles go hand-in-hand. The unity candle is an age-old symbol associated with weddings. Candle light creates a romantic atmosphere at a daytime or evening wedding.

Candles can really enhance the décor of your wedding because they come in so many shapes and sizes. They also make the perfect wedding favor because they can be used in so many different places. Plus, it’s a gift you can be sure most guests will enjoy.

Here is a guide to choosing candle favors for your wedding.

Use the season as inspiration. Here are some candle inspirations for winter, spring, summer and fall.

Winter Wonders

Snow in Love Tea Lights – These adorable snowmen candles can be a great gift for a chilly wedding. Warm up the reception hall with these blue and white man and woman snow people.

Snowflake Gel Candle – Need something new and blue for your winter wonderland wedding? These candles will set the scene for your guests all winter long.

Spring Fling

Daisy Candle – Nothing speaks spring like daisies. Celebrate in true daisy style with these yellow gingham ribbon and silk daily embellished favors. The soy candle comes with a cotton wick and vanilla scent.

Plumeria Candle – This blush-colored candle will be the talk of your wedding guest tables with its intoxicating floral scent.

Summer Nights

Frosted Glass Tea Light Candles – These elegant sailboat tea light holders with included candles will set the scene for a cruise or destination wedding. Great for nautical themes as well. Set sail with these great favors.

Shell and Sand Tea Light Candles – These beachy candles make great parting gifts for your barefoot guests. Set them out at your beach front reception and watch them glow as the sun sets on your beautiful night.

Autumn Ambiance

Fall in Love Tea Light Sets – These tea lights give guests a decorative item for their home that speaks fall. With an assortment of leaves, these warm colors brighten up any fall wedding.

Petit Merlot Wine Gel Candle – This gel candles delivers a rich harvest grape scent that is sure to please. Wrapped in a pretty box with wine and grape illustrations, this is the perfect favor for a fall wedding.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ashley_Rader

20 Oct 2008 Business Gifts: All about Function and Comfort (Part 6) – Handy, Handy

Business Gifts: All about Function and Comfort (Part 6) – Handy, Handy

Hey guys, I’ve recommended some business gifts for your choice. Then I just realized, there’s this whole aspect I haven’t covered yet – home organization tools. What can be more handy than those little life helpers?

Multi-Tool Corkscrew

Celebrate a holiday by branding this multi-functional tool. Pair it with a vintage bottle of wine and offer it to board members, key customers, and faculty members during the holiday. Stainless steel tool includes a corkscrew, small and large knife blades, screwdriver, wine foil cutter, scissors, and durable bottle opener. Convenient, strong carrying pouch with belt loop.

Garrity 3C 4 L.E.D. Emergency Lantern

Features four L.E.D. lights – the brightest and whitest L.E.D.s on the market and a SmartLite five-function switch with settings for high/medium/low and slow/fast flash. Battery power meter. Rubberized top and bottom for added protection.

3 ft Tape Measure

Three foot tape measure on a key ring. Reads in both standard and metric units of measure. Eye-catching white decorating area.