The Gift Corner

The Picnic Basket: a Terrific Summer Gift

Summer's here and all sorts of "occasions" are happening around us: weddings, birthdays, anniversaries.  And what do all these occasions have in common?  Gifts.  That's right - gifts to be given, gifts to be received.

And we have a gift that would be appropriate for any of these celebrations: a picnic basket.

Now, this isn't any old little "cutesy" thing.  You know the kind - you can find them in a number of places but they are flimsy, with cheap plates, glasses, etc. inside.  They might look good - but they're not very usable.

We like the Highlander Rattan & Bamboo Basket from Picnic Supply World.  Priced at $134.99 (currently on sale) it holds a complete service for four: plates, wine glasses, utensils (stainless steel) even a handsome plaid picnic rug.  Check it out:

Go to Picnic Supply World for all the details, and get a terrific gift to give - unique and fun. 

Flowers & Hummingbirds - A Unique Gift

We're not advocating anyone going out and trying to catch little hummingbirds to give as a gift.  Oh no, that would not be a good thing.

But today, we have a gift that will attract the little creatures.  In fact, it's named The Hummingbird Annual Collection, and it's offered by White Flower Farm for $43.95.

Now, this is cool: you order a set of flowers for your giftee.  The kit contains six plants, including fuchsia, begonias, coleus, and an ornamental sweet potato.  The flowers are in shades of pink, coral and red - exactly the colors that attract hummingbirds. 

And if the recipient of this lovely collection wants any planting tips, they can go to the website to watch a video and get complete instructions.

Everyone likes to receive flowers; but this way, your gift will last a lot longer than 1-2 weeks!

We think this collection makes an amazing hostess gift, birthday gift, thank you gift.  Anyone who loves flowers, and picks up a spade even once a season, will enjoy this gift.

And the hummingbirds?  What a plus!

Gifts for Father's Day!

There's a sale going on at Bella Figura USA - a Father's Day Sale!

And who doesn't like to save some money? 

There's a good mix of products - and prices - from very inexpensive to a bit more costly.  And, of course, everything is artisan made, including luxe leather goods (now's the perfect time to be getting high-end travel accessories - but at a discount!) the eco friendly horn items (letter openers, cuff links) the lacquerware from China. (Just a sampling of what's availabe.)

For details, go to the boutique's On Sale page; and get started saving some money!

And if you think your Dad's special and unique, then get him a gift that's special and unique.  It only makes sense!

Gifts for Lovers of the Great Outdoors - Part II

In continuing with our outdoor theme from last week, we've got some more goodies that would make stellar gifts.

Call them candle lanterns, votive holders - whatever you prefer.  These are gorgeous creations that look like a million bucks outdoors (or indoors for that matter.)  Place on a dining table, side tables, porch steps - they bring a touch of romance, and beauty, wherever they're placed.

Two styles we're partial to: the Turkish Ceramic votives at Bella Figura USA, and the Camden Scroll votives from Frontgate.

Check these out:

    

       

Go to the Frontgate website for details and to purchase the Camden votives (top photo.)
Go to the Bella Figura USA website for details and to purchase the Turkish votives.