VALENTINE’S DAY GIFT IDEAS 2013
Mr. X and I have been together so long that we prefer practical gifts to the flowery ones of earlier years. Who needs more candy or flowers? I’ve actually always thought that flowers are a bad gift, especially for me, because they just die and didn’t serve any real purpose.
Sidebar: once, long ago, when I lived in my own apartment, Mr. X and I had a bad fight, and to make-up for it, he sent me so many flower arrangements my house looked like a mob funeral!!! I hated to not have them anymore, so for awhile after they died–a long while!–I had a dead flower collection! I know—TMI.
So, here’s my guide to fun, thoughtful, and useful presents, all of which I can personally vouch for, to bestow on your loved on—or anyone—this Valentine’s Day. I’ve included something for everyone, regardless of age and gender, romantic and otherwise, so you don’t have any thinking to do. That’s my Valentine’s Day gift to you!
[Note: I discovered the first four at the recent GBK Lounge, and, if you keep up with my Gifting Suites columns, you know that they feature only top-drawer products.]
GIFT OF BEAUTY
Jose Eber Infrared Blow Dryer—OMG! This dryer is super-powerful! I had heard that it dries hair in half the usual time, but I was skeptical. So, I got one to try for myself, and guess what? It worked! Even on my ten thousand pounds of hair. No fooling around, I usually have to wash my hair the night before and sleep on it wet because it just takes too long with a dryer. But, with this Jose Eber one, I now wait till the morning to do it all, and am out the door in record time, from shower to gorgeous, shiny hair. (Even if I do say so myself!) Mr. X even mentioned it to me. (Now, I just have to get one of Jose’s famous flat-irons to pair with the dryer and I’ll be set for life!) A bonus is that the dryer is very attractive, so it will dress-up even my messy bathroom counter. And, since it comes with two different-size nozzles, I can easily share with Mr. X because one of us has less hair than the other. I’m just sayin’. www.joseeberhair.com
GIFT FOR THE DOG
Couture By Sophie—Mr. X and I didn’t dress Clarence up often, (because he hated it,) but when we did, we did it in style. I sure wish I had known about this couture company for dogs when he and I were still doing my show; I loved him to look glam! They have coats, bags, leashes, and such, but I was most taken with their velvet-and-Swarovski-crystal collars. I ordered a red one for a pal’s dog, but when it arrived, it was so gorgeous that I’m thinking of wearing it myself! And red is perfect for Valentine’s Day, so I’m sure Mr. X will be happy that I’m his bitch! www.couturebysophie.com
GIFT OF ROMANCE
Michel Germain’s Sexual Perfume—As I walked into one of the suites at the GBK event, this light, beautiful fragrance greeted me. I assumed it had to be a candle because it smelled so romantic and sensual. I asked the room greeter where it was coming from, and she smiled knowingly and said, “It’s the perfume!” I seriously couldn’t believe it because I usually can’t stand perfume. And not just because of my asthma. They’re usually all overwhelming, and not in a good way. People just don’t realize. But I don’t think one can overdue this perfume because it was getting sprayed constantly, in a small space, with no problem.
So, as much as I eschew traditional romantic gifts, like the aforementioned flowers and candy, perfume is one that lasts. And this stunning pink bottle will look beautiful on a dresser or vanity, which is almost more important than the actual aroma itself! If you really want to spoil your loved one, try a gift sets. In addition to the perfume spray, you get a mini, and body wash and lotion. No matter what you choose from this upscale fragrance company, you won’t go wrong. (Hey ladies–they have a men’s line, too.) www.michelgermain.com
GIFT OF HEALTH
SmartSilk Pillow Protectors—As both an asthma sufferer and a pillow lover, (Mr. X and I sleep with about ten of them!,) I can tell you what a thoughtful gift this is. This company makes all kinds of bed linen products, (for pets, too!,) but the one that attracted me most is the pillow protector, especially because every day there seem to be more and more allergens in the world. And no kidding, I would even suggest bringing them when you travel. With all the gruesome hotel stories that come to light, one can never be too careful. www.pawsnsilk.com
GIFT FOR THE NEW MOM
Cover My Heart Breast-Feeding Cover—It seems that all my friends have been having babies right and left nowadays. (I guess they’re trying to capture my attention now that my beloved trio of Hazel brothers from Rhode Island are almost grown-ups, and therefore much less fun than when they were carefree kids. Aren’t we all?) So, I’m much more familiar with breast-feeding covers than I ever wanted to be.
When I discovered this Cover My Heart one, I realized it was a cut above the rest. It has a pillow back support, so that the mom can lean back and not be uncomfortable, on both ends! With my back problems, I find this really appealing. (Don’t worry Mr. X—I still don’t want kids. We’re enough work for each other!!!) Several of my young pals even have back issues since they gave birth, and I’m sure they’d be grateful for the support. It’s a very clever, thoughtful, and I’m sure welcome, gift for the new mom. And her baby, too! www.CoverMyHeart.com
GIFT OF PAMPERING
Burke Williams Spa Packages—This one has my name all over it!!! I seriously never need one more material gift in my life, for any occasion; but luxury services are another story! And what could be more luxurious than a day of pampering at a Burke Williams Spa? Nothing!
When I was there recently, (you can read the full review here: www.itsnotaboutme.tv/news/2013/01/31/healthbeauty-burke-williams-spa,) I noticed some signs suggesting a gift card for Valentine’s Day, and I immediately knew I had to suggest it to those of you who wouldn’t have thought of it otherwise. And they have three special packages for this occasion, at certain locations, with discounted services. (You don’t have to use them on the 14th.)
Just one warning, if you want to call to inquire about them: no matter what location’s number you think you’re dialing, you’ll get the headquarters in Nevada, where it seems that the heat has fried some of the personnel’s brains. So, make sure that you get real answers to your questions, and not just “I think that…”s. And if you beg, and are willing to give them your phone number, they may put you through to your chosen location. But that’s the last un-relaxing thing you’ll have to go through with them. Once you arrive, it’s all paradise from then on! Just practice sighing a lot. www.BurkeWilliamsSpa.com
