Wednesday, May 12, 2010

Unique Anniversary Gift Ideas.

Anniversaries are special occasions; no matter whether it's in celebration of a marriage, or a celebration of two people meeting one another for the first time, remembering these special days are what life is all about. After all, although we cannot revisit these treasured memories in order to experience them again, we can remember them fondly.

Whether or not you're buying Wedding Anniversary Gifts for your partner, or for the anniversary of a friend or family member, there's a lot to be said for being a little bit different. After all, when it comes to Anniversary Gifts, there's nothing worse than adhering to the same old tired clichés.

First anniversaries are probably the most important for any relationship, and irrespective of whether or not it's your partner you're buying gifts for, there are at least five must-have Anniversary presents to choose from. Given that the first (wedding) anniversary is usually associated with paper-based Anniversary Gifts, why not treat either a partner or a special couple to an original newspaper from that special day one year ago?

Alternatively, why not go for a beautiful Personalised Anniversary Calendar? An ideal gift for far more than simply a first anniversary, the Personalised Anniversary Calendar features a new picture every month that can be personalised with a name of your choice.

Sticking with first Wedding Anniversary Gifts, the third of our ten Gifts suggestions that signal a break from the norm is the First Anniversary - Red - Polished Glass Keepsake. Featuring a beautiful combination of hearts, together with the words "First Anniversary", the First Anniversary - Red - Polished Glass Keepsake measures 75 x 75 x 19 mm and looks great at home and at work.

However, if you're looking for presents that are very much for him, you could do far worse than treating him either to a pair of Happy Anniversary Cufflinks, or even a bottle of Luxury Personalised Champagne - For Him. Our Happy Anniversary Cufflinks are beautifully hand-decorated and feature a loving and happy couple on one cuff, together with the words "Happy Anniversary" on the other. The bottle of Luxury Personalised Champagne -For Him is not only made up from a delicious blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Meunier grapes - all taken from the premiere cuvee, or first pressing - it also features a unique personalised label; it's the ideal way of giving your gift the personal touch.

After the all-important First year Anniversary, the next most important is arguably the 25th year. Traditionally associated with silver, 25th Anniversary Gifts should always offer something unique and special. In tune with the occasion's silver theme, one of the most stylish Wedding Anniversary Gifts for a loving couple could be a pair of Silver Wedding - Engraved Silver Plated Flutes. Lovingly personalised with the couple's name, together with the all-important date, these Engraved Silver Plated Flutes make a great accompaniment to any personalised bottle of champagne.

For silver-themed Gifts with a slightly sweeter edge however, why not treat a partner to either an Engraved My Last Rolo, or an Engraved Love Heart Sweet? Crafted from silver and engraved with a beautiful message of your choice, both the My Last Rolo and the Love Heart Sweet hark back to the more innocent romances of childhood; a time when giving away a last sweet was something very special. The Engraved My Last Rolo is also available in both traditional and pink gold.

Alternatively, why not treat either a partner or a loving couple to either a Silver Wedding Anniversary Plate, or a Silver Wedding Paperweight? The paperweight features the words "25 years", together with a beautiful heart design, and looks great anywhere. Conversely, the Silver Wedding Anniversary Plate can be personalised with a message of your choice, and is finished off with a beautiful heart design. As an optional extra, it can be presented with a stylish gift box. It's one of those Anniversary Gifts that clearly comes from the heart.

Written by John Smith co-founder of GettingPersonal.co.uk

Do's and Dont's of Wedding Gifts ...

Do You Have Wedding Gift Worries? So you have just received an invitation to a wedding. One of the firsts things that will pop into your mind, is what to get the bride and groom for their wedding gift. How much you should spend is also a big question. The gift registry can be one place to start, but it can also be frustrating because by the time you get there the options are limited. There is the $300.00 candles stick left or the $5.00 whisk. There is a fine line between breaking your bank account buy being over generous and giving a gift that is well...cheap.

The wedding gift is a noble gesture. It is a tangible reflection of the love and support you offer to assist the married couple get off to a good start. For guests that are not that close to the bride and groom or who are on a tight budget, here are some thoughts to ponder.

How much should I spend on a gift? The amount you should spend on a gift is one of those gray areas that vary based on the wedding location, your age and your budget. A typical amount, says Betsy Goldberg, features editor at Modern Bride magazine, is $75. If you bring a date, expect to give a present worth double that. Don't be afraid to ask other attendees what they plan to spend to get a better sense of what people within your social circle are giving, she says.

Though the gift amount is somewhat arbitrary, Summer Kecked, deputy editor of WeddingChannel.com, offers a few guidelines based on the guest's relationship to the bride or groom: If it's your co-worker's wedding, you should spend $75 to $100; a relative or friend, $100-$125; and if it's your close friend or close relative, anywhere from $100 to $150 or more is acceptable.

Most brides and grooms don't want you to go broke as a result of their wedding. You also need to take into consideration the amount of money that you will also need to spend just to get to the wedding. If you are attending a destination wedding and there are several travel expenses involved, it is proper etiquette for the bride and groom to expect your presents at their wedding your gift.

You should not have to consider the elaborate arrangements that the bride and groom have made for their wedding dinner should suggest how much you need to spend on the gift. Martha Woodham, author of "The Bride Did What?! Etiquette for the Wedding Impaired." Says, instead, think about it this way: You're not expected to pay for your meal at a friend's dinner party, so why should you be expected to pay for a night of dinner and dancing at a wedding? A gift is separate from the party itself and should not be considered "the admission price to the wedding," says Woodham.

What if I am not attending the wedding, do I still need to offer a gift? Even if you are not attending the wedding, a gift should be considered. The gift is to commemorate the bride and groom starting out a new life together. It is not in exchange for attending the festivities. Your gift shows you care about the couple and is not given because you were invited to the wedding.

Wedding Couple Snowglobe  $17.95













Is it best to buy the gift from the registry? Registries are quite wonderful because they take the risk out of buying something that someone else has bought or something that the bride and groom do not want. The registry tells you what the couple is looking for so you do not spend the entire day of shopping trying to guess what they would like. With the registry, you will have the confidence in knowing that they will be happy when they receive it.

Buying from a registry may seem impersonal; however you can personalize it by adding a note inside the box from that reflects a personal touch. If you choose the gift registry option, you will want to get in early while there are still many choices. Those that procrastinate are often disappointed to see that there is little left to choose from and the only things left are a bit too far out of the budget.

What is the protocol for delivering the gift? If your gift is cash or a check, it is very acceptable to give your gift at the wedding. It has always been more appropriate to send other gifts to the bride and groom, rather than bring them to the wedding. Hauling wedding gifts home from after a reception is not an easy task. This is especially true for the couple who is not getting married in their hometown. Simply send the gift to the couple or one of the parents home address a few weeks before the wedding.

Some think that it is fine to send a gift after the wedding, just remember that the bride is going to be sending out all of her thank you notes with in 30 days after the wedding so you would not want to extend your gift giving more than that.

Your gift giving obligations can really add up if you are going to be invited to all of the surrounding celebrations like the bridal shower and engagement party. So plan ahead and spend wisely.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robin_R._Buckley

Friday, April 30, 2010

Mother's Day Gifts for a Mom who has Everything!

I have a mother who has everything! Getting a  gift for a mom who has everything can be a challenging task. Don’t stress yourself out. Listed below are a few "do's" and "don't" that should help make your gift giving process a little easier. And remember, no matter what you buy, it’s the thought that counts!

Do buy something that is personal and within your budget. Your mom or wife will not feel as good about your gift if they know you over-extended yourself to give it. The most valuable gifts come from the heart not the wallet. Many things fall within the personal and inexpensive category:
  • Books -- find your woman's favorite topic and buy a book. Do a little back door research to find out what she likes. Then help her find the time to read it.
  • DVDs Or CDs -- find your woman's favorite movies or music genre and buy them a disc! They will love getting a gift of one of their admired artists. Or give them something to to expand their library.
RUAsaver.com  "24 Hours Seasons 1-6"  $119.95













  • Event Tickets -- find the recipient's favorite band, team or musical and get them tickets. Women often times will not find the time or money to do this for themselves -- it's a luxury.
  • Sports Memoribilia -- any mom or girlfriend has a favorite sports team -- especially if you are a sports fanatic. Find their favorite team and give them a memento (i.e., cup, travel mug, candy dish, etc.). Once again it is a luxury they wouldn't normally purchase for themselves.
RUAsaver.com  NFL Logo Duffle Bag   $39.95















Don't buy anything related to the everyday and mundane.  You mom or wife doesnot want to be reminded of things they have to do for a regular routine.  They want something different. Also do not buy something that is imtimately personal. Your woman knows what she likes for herself in terms of jewelry, perfume, clothing, etc. Things that fall under the categories of mundane and too personal are listed below:
  • Edibles -- while giving chocolates, cookies, cheese baskets and wine may seem like a good idea people have dietary issues or allergies that may not make the gift practical for them.
  • Perfumes -- most of the women I know have 1-2 parfums and powders that they perfer. You may not know what they are. Buying something different may leave it in the giftbox for a long time.
  • Jewelry -- once again every woman has a preference -- gold, silver, rings, bracelets.  There may also be health and religious restrictions that limits a woman's enjoyment of jewelry -- i.e., arthritis.
  • Flowers -- while they look great in the picture many baskets and bouquets are not as advertised when delivered. Additionally, like food, flower alllergies can once again be an issue.
These are just some starting points for mother's day gift ideas. Take 'em and run for the one who has everything. Check out listing for gift ideas in the left hand column; or, check our links in this blog for unique gift ideas from http://www.ruasaver.com/ Online Gift Store.

Author: Michelle Duszynski
http://www.ruasaver.com/

Five Key Ideas for Mother's Day Gifts

Mother's Day is a week from Sunday. It's on May 9th, so that means it's time to stop procrastinating and choose a gift for your Mom or your wife. To help guide you toward accomplishing this goal, I have listed FIVE great gift ideas from across the web. The store banners listed in the left column link you directly to some great gifts and greats stores so all you have to do is  click a link and whip out that credit card, and you are home free!

1. Flowers--by far the most given gift on Mother's Day is flowers. There's a reason for that; they are easy to order and women love them. Listed on the left are links to my favorite places to order flowers. You can order a bouquet for as little as $19.99 with free delivery. Just choose one and go to town, guys!

2. E-cards--my suggestion, if you decide to send your mom or wife an e-card, is that you don't consider it to be their actual Mother's Day gift, but that's just me. Sending an e-card is a great way to say "I Love You," often without spending a dime. Take a little time and find a special card you know the one you love will appreciate.

3. Spa Treatment--As a female I can attest to the fact that a smart gift for the woman in your life is a spa treatment. And no, this gift of relaxation and beauty is no longer reserved for the well-to-do. For instance, you can buy a half-hour massage for as little as $25. Just go to Wayspa.com or Spafinder.com and order a gift card from the salon/spa of your choice for the amount you want to spend. Pamper your mom or wife this year by giving her the gift of pampering herself.

RUAsaver.com "Spa In A Basket"  $34.95





















4. Department store gift cards--It's a fact of nature that women love to shop, so give your loved one the ability to splurge on herself this Mother's Day by buying her a gift card to her favorite department store. You can order a discounted gift card from department stores such as Macy's, Nordstrom's, Target, Walmart, Nieman Marcus, and many others at Mercardi.com and have it in time for Mother's Day, IF YOU ORDER NOW! We also offer gift cards from American Express in the left column.

5. Lunch or Dinner Out--I don't know of a woman who doesn't love to go out to eat. Splurge on Mother's Day and take your mom or wife to Olive Garden, Red Lobster, Chili's, Applebee's, or one of dozens of other restaurants which MERCARDI.COM sells discounted gift cards to. (and make sure and spring for dessert!)

Of course there are plenty of other gift ideas for Mother's Day, these are just the top 5 I know for sure your mom or wife will love. The most important thing is just to not forget to express your love on Mother's Day!

Author Unknown
Posted From Mercardi Gift Cards

Tuesday, February 2, 2010

Teaching Our Childen The Purpose of Giving

Over the past couple of months I have (in)directly observed two situations on opposite ends of the giving spectrum. The first is a current event and is positive and inspiring. The generosity demonstrated by Americans in donating money and material goods to the victims of the Haiti earthquake has been amazing. There have been endless examples of adults leading and assisting our children with projects of giving. Big or small they have combined in genuine efforts to ease the suffering of the Haitian people.

On the other hand I was party to a large family discussion before Christmas about what  children should receive gifts based on age and relationship to other extended family members. There were many nieces, nephews, godchildren and grandchildren in this family and most were present for this discussion. The big issues were the spending limit per gift given these tough economic times, the number of gifts a child could receive as a matter of fairness at the main holiday dinner and the cutoff age of the gift recipients.

The conversation got so heated between the six siblings involved that one member walked out of her sister's 50th Birthday Party. I was appalled by the overall behavior of the group generally but especially in front of the children they were trying to be "fair" to. I was also greatly distrurbed by the commercial aspects of the entire conversation towards Christmas.  Friends or not, these people had completely lost sight of the spiritual meaning of the holiday.

If you have an extended family, you probably have had some kind of experience like this. So as a general public service there is an article below written by Ray Horner. It lays out a pretty good summary of what values we should try to instill in our children that we should also adhere to ourselves as adults in the practice of giving and donating. Remember, the true value of a gift comes from your heart not from your wallet ...

Life Lessons Teaching Children the Value of Giving:

Its common knowledge that who we are as adults is a result of what we were taught as children. In these materialistic times, it’s of paramount importance for us to teach our children the important virtue of giving. We can do that by molding our gift ideas in a way that would automatically show our children how much fun giving can actually be. In other words, instead of just giving the children gifts we can add some spin to our conventional gift ideas and gear it towards inculcating the noble virtue of giving.

Here is how a mother came up with one such gift idea:

Jessica is a 12 year old girl who wished for a chance to read stories to the chilren living in a homeless shelter. For her 13th birthday, her mother came up with the brilliant gift idea of asking the guests to only gift little Jessica story books. After the birthday party when the guests had left, Jessica had about thirty odd books that were gifted to her. Her mother, drove Jessica to the nearest homeless shelter and arranged for her to read out stories to the little children there. At the end of a good 3-4 hour story reading session, Jessica then distributed those books among the children there. Now, although Jessica did not end up with any gifts; she had the best and most memorable birthday of her life. These are the kind of childhood gift ideas that mould a person into caring and generous adults.

By far the best way to teach your children the value of giving is to practice giving and generousity yourself. Taking this thought further, another good value based gift idea is to have your children spare a certain percentage (ideally 10 percent) of their pocket money for the less fortunate children. There is nothing better than having your children give out a percentage of their pocket money with their own hands. If the children prefer to give things then you can also take your kids along with you to the markets and malls and let them buy whatever they want for the less fortunate children.

Another very effective value-driven gift idea is to have the kids donate their old clothes and toys to the homeless shelters. Get them into the habbit of packing up their old clothes, shoes and toys every six months and donating it – the bottom line here is to get them involved.

Get the children to donate not only money and things but time as well. Make it clear to them that donating money is no substitute for donating time. Encourage them to help out at the homeless shelters and reward them with tokens of apprecition everytime they do so. Also, encourage them to help out their elderly and sick neighbours, relatives and family friends. Its important to constantly make them feel good every time they act out of a sense of gratitude and kindness.

When coming up with value-driven gift ideas, its important to let the children decide how they want to donate their time and money. Our jobs as parents is to encourage that sense of philanthrophy in children and let them choose the manner in which they want to give.

Be creative and design gift ideas that are geared towards your child’s prefered modes of giving. Its also imperiative to allow children to give their time and money all year around rather than just during the holiday seasons.

The World Institute for Development Economics Research at the United Nations University did a study which indicated that the richest 1% of the world’s adults owned 40% of all global assets and that the top 10 % owned about 85% of all global assets. The study further tells us that the world’s bottom 50% (adult population) owned just about 1% of all global assets. I would disagree with anyone who says these are economic, political or social problems. These are spiritual problems – it’s a question of learning how to give and share – ensuring a more balanced future depends on our ability to teach our children the value of giving.