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  Issue #36, December 1, 2006

Skin Deep With Samantha Altea

Thanksgiving is finally over, all the cooking, the organizing and the coordinating done. But not so fast, don’t get too comfortable, don’t even think about sitting down and relaxing, because you’ve probably got to do it all again and in a matter of only weeks or days. The only difference this time is that the turkey is accompanied by presents and an old fella called St. Nick.
Yay! My favorite time of the year! That is unless I’m stuck as to what to buy for both the special people, as well as the “essential” people in my life. By “essential” you know what I mean. Your boss, colleague, secret Santa gift, etc. We all aspire to give unusual and thoughtful gifts to those we love, and ones that are cost efficient (but don’t look it). But year after year, with our busy schedule and crazy lifestyles, we often need some inspiration. So relax, because, as usual, I’ve got some great gift ideas you may not have thought about.
Custom Jewelry can be a wonderful and completely unique gift. There’s nothing like going to a party and having everyone there ask you where you got your earrings from and knowing that NOBODY else will have a pair like them. Or a necklace that people can’t seem to take their eyes away from…cufflinks that stand out in a crowd. If you want to give someone something utterly unique, try calling Guy Rozenstich. He works with semi-precious, and some precious, stones, in silver and in 14-carat gold. He’s made custom designs for Gwen Stephanie (and me) and his prices range from about $190-400 for earrings and $250-650 for necklaces. You can consult with him on the phone about what you’re looking for, or check out his website at www.phoenixroze.com. and order something you like. Or, Rozenstich, aka Phoenix Roze, will even visit you and eleven other jewelry-lovers for a party, where he’ll bring custom items for your viewing pleasure, or discuss one-of-a-kind designs that you would like to order from him. If someone in your life would appreciate delicate, dainty pieces with a minimalist modern twist, this could be a perfect gift. Rozenstich can also design heavy metal for the rock stars among us.

Another incredible custom jewelry designer is Tatiana Pages – you can view her website at www.laioart.com. Pages works with precious materials, like silks, leather, silver, and unusual beading like bone, pearl, coral and gemstones. These are stunning statement neck pieces like you’ve never seen before and definitely worth checking out. Contact Pages now for your unique gift before she gets inundated… she’s my secret weapon who is just making it BIG! Call (646) 318-6451 for more information.

Soap is always a charming and safe gift for those we HAVE to buy for, but can’t necessarily spend a fortune on. Citrus-infused soap is always a nice gift. Purchase Gianna Rose Atelier Limonade & Citrus Vert Soaps for $29.50 and visit their website at www.giannrose.com.
Personalized smell. Another completely unique gift idea is a hand mixed, one-of-a-kind perfume. Le Labo, (212-219-2230) can do just that for you, adding “her” name and an expiration date to the bottle. How unique would it be to give mother, lover, or special friend the gift of her very own scent? The personalized perfumes range from $80 for a 3-ounce balm to $115 for a 17-ounce spray.

Shaving is always nice for him – when he has a chic shaving set. How about the Muhle-pinsel, brown, leather travel case with brush and razor? $180 at www.smallflower.com. My favorite shaving kits and accessories can be found at www.eshave.com where design is at a premium.

Ski equipment is always appropriate at Christmas, but on the pricey side. If you’re going all out and there’s a hard-core skier in your midst, get her a pair of Emilio Pucci Skis!
LV. If she’s a Vuitton fan, the new mink bag embellished with their multicolored logo on white background is a great idea. This one is a steal at $7,500.

Stuck for Secret Santa or stocking fillers? Visit www.ballmania.com for fun and dazzling lip glosses and balms, $4-6. They also come in golf ball, football, and other fun shapes for him. Even he has to wear lip balm in the cold!

Take note: To give something unique and personal, but not too expensive, how about personalized stationary? It’s easy to find online and varies in price dramatically. But you can get something classy and chic that will show you’ve thought of them. Try visiting www.finestationary.com for starters.

Christmas is my favorite time of year, not because of the presents, (though they are a bonus), but because of the feeling of love and togetherness with my family and friends. So remember, it’s the thought that counts when giving and receiving a gift.

 


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