Sunday, September 30, 2007

Shower Gifts-It's the thought that counts



It's a very common scenario -- you are busy and you've forgotten about that wedding coming up, and before you know it, there's a bridal shower invitation in your mail.
Not to worry. Even without having saved up for the unique gift of the century to blow away the bride-to-be, there are still ways to give a thoughtful gift without breaking the bank.

A good bridal shower gift is one that the bride-to-be would never buy for herself. That doesn't mean you need to spend a fortune on your shower/& or wedding gift, just give it a little thought.
My biggest piece of advice is get something personalized. It is always a perfect fit & becomes an instant heirloom.
Monogrammed his-and-her bathrobes, bath wrap sets & pillowcases are just a few ideas.
A shower is a good opportunity "to go off the registry." Think out of the box. Make a memory, not just clutter.
Consider constructing something creative -- like making a cake from a set of monogrammed towels. Buy the towels at your local linen store.



Take it to a monogrammer like Initially You Too-personalized presents plus (in Cleveland, Ohio)or visit http://www.names2u.com/ . They will monogram on YOUR items. They often know of local experts who could put together the towels in a unique presentation that will make you a stand-out at the shower.



Don't panic. In the midst of all the chaos and flying wrapping paper, the bride most likely will be grateful for any shower gift she receives.
Remember it's the thought that counts. Personalized gifts say, "I thought of you & what only YOU would want." It's a win-win. You thought enough to give her a personalized gift, and to join in the celebration. That's the meaningful part.

A FRIEND is a GIFT you give yourself


A friend is a gift you give yourself. When you must "gift" your friend for her birthday, handle it with panache.

I feel that the best gifts are PERSONALIZED ones. If you want your friend to love your gift, think about what would make her happy. Ask yourself - What kind of a person is my friend? What are her favorite hobbies? What particular item does she need currently? Does she love gifts that are funky & artsy or conventional & useful? Did she mention that she'd ripped her old bag recently? I have a great suggestion.... Replace her ragged bag with a brand new, personalized, embroidered "monogrammed tote". This will give her something she probably would not buy for herself, but she will surely use often.
Need more suggestions? Visit http://www.names2u.com/ for lots of other options.

Please comment & tell us about YOUR best present to a friend or the present you loved the most & why!

Friday, September 14, 2007

A New Start


All of us need a new start.... This is the time of year for Jews to "start a new year"..... (Rosh Hoshannah) & be forgiven by those whom they have not treated in an honorable way (Yom Kippur). At Yom Kippur , Jews ask G-d to place them in the "Book of Life" for the next year. They are supposed to ask forgiveness from the people they have treated unfairly. Then.... they start a "brand new year" to be a good person, treating people the way they want to be treated.......... This is a superb idea for ALL people (regardless of their religious persuasion).


Everyone needs a new start... to lose weight, to reconcile a problem, to "make up" with a good friend, to apologize? to begin better business habits, to change ANYTHING you think you can improve. January 1 is only one time to rethink your habits. Here is a free pass for all of us to "start over".......


Tell me what you will "re-do" or improve. Your suggestions can help others.
Comment on this question. It can do a lot of good!

Sunday, September 2, 2007

Back to School


Summer is almost over..... Fall is just around the corner....

The kids are going back to school & we need to make sure they are prepared. Each student (from pre-school through college) needs a backpack & lunch bag. Initially You Too-personalized presents plus (216-831-0007) offers embroidery on YOUR item (for a small fee) or FREE EMBROIDERY on items purchased at the store or online at www.Names2U.com .

We "strongly" encourage using INITIALS instead of a name on items that children (especially young ones) carry to & from school. "Stranger danger" is an unfortunate, but relevant thing to remind your youngsters about. If you do choose to use a full name, please REMIND your child that someone who calls him/her by name, may only be reading the name on the backpack. Another solution to the problem, is to have the name embroidered on the back of the pack (that rests against the child's back-not exposed to the world when worn.) Feel free to leave your comments & let us know what hints you have for making "back to school" , the exciting & safe "experience" it should be.