Take this article from Time.com.  It has some real doozies about things to avoid.  A glass of champagne, dinner and learning about how animals get it on? The true meaning of a beast with two backs. No thanks.

If extravagance is what you’re after, check out these over the top gifts, including a bottle of perfume that goes for $215k!  Did you know that Angelina once got Brad a 200 year old olive tree for $18k?  It must be a really bad fight if you can’t just extend the olive branch and need to buy the whole tree.

According to this survey courtesy Bustle.com, men usually go the tried and true route (did we need a survey to figure this out?) choosing jewellery, chocolates and flowers, the latter which tops the list for most ages and wage levels.

As for what men want, you may want to read this chat on reddit. Or, maybe you don’t.  One idea these guys had is replacing Valentine’s day with a second Thanksgiving. And let me guess who has to do the cooking on second Thanksgiving too!!!

I’ll be honest, I do like to give and receive a little something on Valentine’s day. Not flowers, they’re so overpriced it stinks.  What I’d really love is for my honey to bake me a cake.  He never cooks, let alone bakes, so this would be a seriously grand gesture.  I’m thinking about sending him some inspiration like Nutella stuffed brownies or this red velvet oreo truffle cake. Now that’s what I call love.

XO,

Kristina

Crosley Portable Turntable $104.95
[$78.95 US]

Mongolian Faux Fur Pillow $99.50 

Alexandra Von Furstenberg Acrylic Zebra Printed Cocktail Tray $330 

Bashful Bunny $14.95

Big Love Ball $65 – $85

EAT

Plenty More Cookbook By Yotam Ottolenghi $19.95
[US]

ESPRO Press Coffee Maker from $79.95

Chocomize Custom Chocolates 

Gilded Rim Vintage Coupe Champagne Glasses $38

VMatter Chef’s Knife $400

(Made from high tech metal alloy. Keeps its edge longer than steel!)

ESCAPE

Fujifilm Instax Mini 8 Camera $79.98

Pink Floyd’s New Album, Endless River. Deluxe CD Bluray 2 Disc set $30
[US]

Air Canada Gift Card starting at $25

Personal Drone starting at $325

Bison Made iPhone 6 wallet $75

PRIMP

Skull Cashmere Infinity Scarf $300

Stuart Weitzman Hitimes Pony Hair Bootie $725

Gap Toddler Plaid Flannel Shirt $26.95

Men’s Common Projects Achilles Sneaker $485

J Crew Polka Dot Flannel Pajamas $120

Dior double pearl earrings $240

(Less expensive and more precious versions of this idea abound!)

THRIVE

Anthropologie Magic Carpet Yoga Mat $98 (Keep your Oms from turning into Zzzs)

Nike Flash Women’s Running Tights $150 

UV Couture sun protective clothing $89

(Canadian made!)

Nourishing IV Drip gift certificate (to refresh, revive or detox from a holiday hangover. Call your local naturopath)

Tatcha Gold Face Massager $195

(Relieves holiday tension!)

Magazines. Buy one, wrap it, and then fill out the subscription card for a year’s subscription and pop that it in the mail. Or buy 10 magazines and include a card saying this is the perfect way to relax this holiday season.  I got this for my birthday one year, with a selection of magazines I don’t usually buy, and really enjoyed going through them after the holiday hubbub subsided.

Greeting cards. Choose a selection of either blank greeting cards or ones to suit a variety of occasions.  It’s always convenient to have a bunch on hand for when a birthday or event comes up.  Tie them all up together with a nice bow.

Picture Frame.  Select a picture frame but also go the extra mile and print off a picture at home.  Option two, email the photo to the drugstore’s photo lab. (London Drugs is great for this).  The last time I did this the photo was ready in an hour. 

If the grocery store is still open:

Gift Cards. Check out the gift card racks. Stores like Safeway have a huge selection of gift cards for everything from iTunes to restaurants to big block retailers.

Food Basket. Pick out a selection of fancy foodstuffs. So artisanal crackers, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, chocolate, jam…  Put it in the basket or box and wrap.  A perfect hostess gift or something for your in-laws.

If only the gas station is still open:

Lottery Tickets. Get a few. I like a selection of quick picks and scratch and wins.  Lottery tickets also make great stocking stuffers if you’re looking for some last minute additions.

If everything is closed but you have access to the Internet and a printer: 

Donations: Make a donation to a charity that the gift recipient supports or likes. 

Experiences.  Look for tickets to sporting or cultural events or spa certificates.  You can also book a weekend stay at a local hotel or plane tickets. A gift like that and there will be no need to spend time in the doghouse this holiday.

If you still don’t have everything purchased by Christmas morning, some Starbukcs are open (coffee makers, fancy coffee beans, mugs, etc) and most movie theatres are open (gift cards.)

And now it’s final time to relax! (Unless you’re making Christmas dinner. Then we suggest you better get on it.)

Happy holidays from, 

A&K 

So that might mean you pick yourself up some new lingerie and practice your strip tease, or it could mean making a reservation at that new hot spot she’s been wanting to go to, just to show you’ve been listening.  

If you’re looking for gift ideas that send the right message, here are a few suggestions that’ll help set the mood:

Jewelry

Money’s no object: Dolce & Gabbana gold-plated coin necklace.  $1900 (USD).  For the woman who is trendy, sexy, strong, Italian. 

We just started dating and I’m in serious like with you: Tiffany’s black onyx bracelet. $360.  What girl doesn’t love seeing a little blue bag with her name on it?

Lingerie

My lover’s a little kinky: Heart pasties. Agent Provacateur,  $90.  Requires a sense of humour.

My lover’s a class act: A silk and lace slip. I like Stella McCartney’s Clara Whispering Silk version.  $300.  Silk is never boring.

Fashion

I thought this through: Sexy shoes.  Which pair can only be decided by you, but I like the Saint Laurent Tribute two suede patent pumps, $795, at Holt Renfrew. You’ll have to find out her size, which is sexy in and of itself.  Deliver them the day before with instructions on where she should be on Valentine’s Day and for her to wear the shoes.  Sexy shoes is a very sexy gift.  It screams confidence on the part of the giver.

Body

My lover works too hard: A day at the spa.  Let us know what city you’re in and we’ll recommend a local spa.  A few suggestions:  

• Vancouver: Fairmont Pacific Rim
• Calgary: Newbury Spa

Food

My lover likes the finer things: Champagne. Charles Heidsieck Rose. $82.  Liquor stores.  If you’re good maybe she’ll share it with you.

My lover appreciates the experience: Make a special dinner!  This never fails.  Go the extra mile to set the mood with candles and music and don’t worry too much about getting the food exactly right.  It’s supposed to be about the journey.  Crack open some nice wine and get her involved in the cooking, making it something you do together.  There’s nothing worse then one person stuck in the kitchen when the other’s alone on the sofa.  Doing it together is sexy.  This gift is my personal favourite and it never hurts to combine it with something from above!

And whatever you do, don’t buy your Valentine Lululemon pants.  I love them for going to the gym, but when an old boyfriend gave me a pair for Valentine’s Day, to me it screamed: “Your butt’s too big! Go to the gym!”  So I went to the gym, but somehow on the way there, I lost his number.  

What about you?

What’s the worst present you ever received on February 14th? Thanks to everyone who entered our giveaway! Use the comments below as inspiration what NOT to give your sweetheart this year. Happy Valentine’s Day!

 Congratulations to our winner Helen C.! She won an ILIA Make-up Gift Pack featuring four of our favourite products! 

L-R: Femme Fatale lipstick, These Days lipstick, Cheek to Cheek multi-stick, Polka Dots & Moonbeams multi-stick

 Retail value approximately $116 CAD. Enter by Friday, Feb. 8, 2013!

#VDayGiftFail: Brief Jerky Edible Underwear

Top main image used courtesy Marcus Jolly Photography

Got the best present ever in 2008: Ruby!

To make it easier yet, I supply a list. It started when I was a kid writing a letter to Santa. All these decades later, my family still requests one. I even include photos and web links to where the purchases can be made. Sometimes I even pick it up myself. No wrapping required! Just call me considerate.

My fellow book-loving dad got me an e-reader for Christmas 2009.
It was on the list, of course.

For my boyfriend, I take photos in the stores and email them, along with pricing and any size and colour specifications. Unromantic you say? Maybe. But I don’t love surprises. Unless they come in little blue boxes.

Dec. 1, 2012

Dear Santa,

Here are the items on my Christmas wish list this year:

• Birch Tray from Provide on Beatty St.
• Book: Rough Luxe Design: The New Love of Old
• Chain link napkins (in taupe) from The Cross Design
• A long-sleeved running top from Lululemon in a bright colour

Thank you!

-K

Frankly, I hate having too much stuff. I’m constantly purging, consigning, donating or simply leaving things in the back alley – my neighbourhood’s extremely efficient recycling program. So I’d rather get something that I really want or need.

Finished opening presents, Christmas 2010.
Got the TNA hoodie I wanted. Thanks!

I only offer my list to those who ask. And trust me, many jump at the chance of relinquishing the decision-making process. Anna is one exception as she never asks what I want. But she has the gift of, well, gift giving. I leave my presents in her very capable hands.

I don’t remember what I got for Christmas 2007,
but having Anna join us for Christmas Eve dinner was a nice present!

My friend Judy takes all this a step further. She literally buys her own gift and her boyfriend buys his. She says it all started for her one year when she found herself single right before Christmas, so she treated herself to a great gift, and continued the custom for each special occasion after.

Then a couple of years later, she had a brand new boyfriend and a birthday on the horizon. Well, let’s just say he’s wonderful in many ways, but not so great at gift-buying. “When Christmas rolled around, I took a chance and suggested I buy myself this KitchenAid Stand mixer I really wanted “from him”, and that he could buy himself whatever he wanted “from me”. He thought it was a great idea and he was actually quite relieved! And that’s how our non-traditional tradition started.”

(Note to guys: only buy an appliance for your gal if it’s on her wish list!)

Have you ever bought your own presents? If you have a unique spin on gift giving, we’d love to hear from you!

My mom got me a beautiful painting by Athena Bax for Christmas 2011.
It was on my list, but I never thought I would actually get it. I cried!

But luckily, finding the perfect gift doesn’t have to be all business.

From the Ryan Gosling Coloring Book on our gift guide, to the fine folks at Buzzfeed’s hilarious list of 33 exceptional gag gifts for all shapes and sizes under $50, there is lots of help to make sure you don’t let this whole gift buying thing get you down or stress you out!

Because at the end of the day, who wouldn’t love a runny nose soap dispenser or salts made from tears!?

EAT 

It’s not the holiday season until you’re feeling stuffed with delicious food and good cheer on at least one occasion. Try these ideas for gifts that give all year.

Hot Chocolate Kit by Beta 5
Yum. Need we say more? Milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or milk + dark combo. $30 CAD (+shipping, Canada only) Available from Beta 5 Chocolates (Vancouver)

Geoffrey Lilge Walnut Cutting Board
Made in Canada by designer Geoffrey Lilge, it’s beautiful piece that is utilitarian but also chic enough to use for charcuterie at your next dinner party.  $150 Available at On Our Table, Atkinsons of Vancouver

PRIMP

Give the fashionistas on your list style that will stand out from the crowd. No ties, socks, or underwear under the Christmas tree this year. (Unless, of course, they’re Magic Horse Socks!)

Penfield Jacket
A stylish classic, this down jacket will keep him looking hot and feeling cozy this winter. $325, five colour options. Available at Penfield USA.

 

Stella McCartney Magic Horse Socks
How adorable are these? We love her children’s line. (And her women’s line too, for that matter. Hint hint…) These unique Magic Horse socks will be cherished by any little girl on your holiday list. $30 Available at Stella McCartney Kids

 

Bee Bracelet by Kiki McDonough
When money is no object, we’re all abuzz about this bracelet! Gold, diamonds, citrine. $1995 CAD or £1300 Available at Holt Renfrew or directly from the designer at kiki.co.uk

 

Peter Jensen Fox Sweater
Wear your love for animals on your chest instead of on your sleeve! 100% wool, intarsia. $290 at Gravity Pope

 

Chuck Taylor All-Star Canvas Sneakers
A classic staple for hipsters of any age. This mono-chrome style adds a touch of polish to an otherwise casual shoe.  $98 Available at Mr. Porter or Converse

DWELL

At holiday time, all roads lead home. The perfect gift can be part of cherished holiday memories for years to come. Here are a few of our favourite home items this season:

Wood Print Photos
Set those precious memories in wood! A unique, warm, conversation-starter, these wood canvas prints add dimension and texture to any room. Sizes range from 8″ x 8″ to 30″ x 40″. $40 – $330 USD  Available at Woodsnap.com

Gold-Plated Martini Shaker
Worthy of 007 himself! An elegant, classic design in a strikingly distinctive material.  $90-100 CAD (small-large).  Available online or in person at Atkinsons of Vancouver

 

Rough Luxe Design: The New Love of Old
An inspirational interior design book that’s very au courant. “It reinvents the past by redefining luxury today.” $125-200 Available at: Amazon.ca, Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble

 

Klippan Blankets
These beautiful throws add a touch of luxury to any room. Cuddle up and get cozy! Better buy two because you won’t want to give it away. $120-300 Available at Fjorn, Scandinavian Design Centre

 

 

Jawbone Jambox Wireless Speakers
Small, portable, and great sound. Hook up to any bluetooth-enabled device. Also a speakerphone.  Around $200. Multiple colours available.  Available at Amazon.ca, Amazon.com, Best Buy (USA)

ESCAPE

For a big surprise under the tree this year, these gift ideas are sure to inspire creativity, laughter and delight.

Beats Solo HD Headphones
Still the best on the market. Great sound, but we also love them for their noise cancelling properties. Lots of fun colours to choose from. $220 CAD Available at Amazon.ca, The Source Amazon.com, Best Buy (US)

 

La Sardina Lomo Camera & Flash Grand Cru
Create artful photos with this stylish and inexpensive camera. Wide-angle lens captures all the action. (Requires 35mm film.) $109 CAD Available at Lomography.com

 

Soundtrack: Nashville
A killer soundtrack from one of this fall’s hottest new TV shows. $17 CAD Available Dec. 11, 2012. Pre-order at: Amazon.ca Amazon.com

 

Ryan Gosling Colouring Book
We’ll take any piece of Ryan we can get.  “Use your felt tips to colour in Ryan Gosling driving, eating, kissing, sitting, standing, walking, and all manner of handsome activities!” 17 images. About $20 CAN (incl. shipping from the UK) Available at ILoveMel.me

 

Underwater Dogs
This photo book is sure to make you crack a smile.   $20 CAD Available at: Amazon.ca, Amazon.com

 

THRIVE

From sexy to cuddly to downright hilarious, these gifts are set to nourish mind, body, and soul.

Recycled Sweater Stuffed Animal
Like a warm hug on a cold winter’s night. Adorable, environmentally-responsible, and one-of-a-kind! Choose from a zoo-full of options, from dog to flamingo, giraffe to crocodile. $86 CAD Available at Mint Interiors

 

Agloves Original Smartphone Gloves
Now you really can do two things at once: text while walking! (But please do watch where you’re going.) $19.99 Available at Agloves.com

 

Skinceuticals
One of our favourite skincare lines, Skinceuticals offers a wide variety of products for all skincare needs.  Available online at Skinceuticals.com

 

Go the F–k to sleep
Your friends with kids will appreciate this one.  About $13 Available at: Chapters-Indigo, Amazon.ca, Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble

 

Public Myth Teaser Mesh Workout Pants
Give your workout clothes a sexy makeover with these mesh-paneled leggings. Eye-catching and functional! (Just don’t wear spike heels on the treadmill, please.) $110 USD Available at Public Myth

 

• For Foodies
• Great Gets Under $50
• For Tots
• For Teens
• For the Fashionistas
• For Dudes
• For a Special Someone
• For a Host
• For Your Furry Friends

1.	Nespresso Citiz with Aeroccino Milk Frother $349-369 This compact little number makes the perfect espresso drink every time, while Aeroccino frother adds the finishing touches with flair and flavour.
		Amazon.ca	Amazon.com
2.	Sodastream Starter Kit $99-145 Make your own fizzy drinks at home with the touch of a button. Adjust flavours to your preferred taste and gasification (bubbles). No more bottles to lug home or recycle.
		SodaStream.ca	Amazon.com
3.	Handcrafted Wooden Spoons $10-30 A pleasure to use, hand-carved wooden spoons are such versatile cook’s tools. Artisan-designed spoons like the Berard line at Williams-Sonoma can easily go from stovetop to tabletop.
		Cookworks.ca Williams-Sonoma	Amazon.com
4.	Domenica Fiore Olio Novello $20 Pure Extra Virgin Olive Oil direct from Italy. Robust, smooth, and full of flavour.  Ask for it at your local gourmet food store or Italian deli. Also look for it at Zara and Ciofe in Vancouver.
		GourmetWarehouse.ca
5.	Modernist Cuisine:  The Art and Science of Cooking $450-600 This 6-volume set is not for the faint of heart. It is, however, for someone who is wild about cooking and really wants to bring inventiveness to their cooking.
		Chapters-IndigoAmazon.ca	Amazon.com Barnes & Noble

1.	Gosh Light & Shine Lip Glaze $20-25 A sweet stocking stuffer. Not only is the gloss good, there’s a little mirror on the side and a light in the applicator to help illuminate your pout. Great for a night out! Look for this at the cosmetics counter of your local drug store/pharmacy. (E.g. Shoppers in Canada; Walgreens in the USA)
2.	The Marriage Plot $16-22 The first book from Pulitzer Prize-winning author Jeffery Eugenides in 10 years. A great read! The author of The Virgin Suicides and Middlesex is now diving into the middle of marriage.
			Amazon.ca Chapters-Indigo Kobo Audible	Amazon.com Barnes & Noble Audible
3.	Bodum Pavina Double-Wall Glasses $20-40 (set of 2) Whether it’s chilled eggnog or mulled wine, these double-wall glasses help maintain temperature, warm or cold. A variety of sizes and types are available, from shot glasses to tumblers to mugs.
			Amazon.ca Chapters-Indigo	Amazon.com Cooking.com
4.	Lollia Shea Butter Handcreme $24-29 (4 oz) A rich, indulgent cream in a variety of fragrances that moisturizes without being greasy, while also looking good on your nightstand.
			Organize.com	Amazon.com
5.	Linen Way Tea Towels Starting at $18 Gorgeous kitchen linens in a wide array of colours and patterns for a reasonable price. www.linenway.com
			Chintz & Company	Pioneer Linens SueFisherKing

1.	Blabla Dolls $38-55 A reborn classic available in a multitude of animals and styles. Makes us want to be a kid again! Sure to be a treasure.
			Blablakids.com  LussoBaby	Amazon.com Blablakids.com
2.	Educo Healthy Gourmet Salad for Green Eaters $25-35 If you have a burgeoning chef in your midst, these felt kits make for easy clean-up. And that’s always on the menu at our house!
			LussoBaby JackAndLola	Amazon.com
3.	PrintaKid $17-37 What kid wouldn’t want to be the hero of his or her own story? Many exciting adventures to choose from.
			www.printakid.com
4.	Big Bag of Science (Be Amazing) $40-50 More than 70 activities in one place. Now that’s what we call the right formula for hours of learning and fun.
			Amazon.ca	Amazon.com
5.	Ark Kreations (Ark Imports) Animal Hats $25 Junior can go out like a lion, or a lamb! Matching mitts on a string available too.
			www.PebbleBaby.com

1.	iPig Docking Station & Speakers (Speakal) $99-150 For the iPod, a fun and unusual way to enjoy music, this docking station is available in a variety of colours, and also a fun selection of animals and characters.
			Amazon.ca	Amazon.com Barnes & Noble
2.	Rock-it Portable Vibration Speaker (OrigAudio) $25-50 Make anything hollow into a speaker! Cardboard boxes, coolers, cups, tables, garbage cans, lamp shades, you name it. Plug in any audio device with a regular 3.5mm headphone jack. Great for on-the-go tunes, or a fun new way to enjoy your music.
			OrigAudio.ca	Amazon.com
3.	Harry Potter Complete 8-film DVD collection $99-165 A timeless, epic collection for die-hard fans (both adults and kids). Available in regular DVD and Blu-Ray.
			Chapters-Indigo Amazon.ca	Barnes & Noble Amazon.com
4.	OPI Nail Lacquer Muppets Collection Not just for kids! This 12-colour collection has fabulous names including Meep-Meep-Meep, Animalistic, and Wocka Wocka. Rich colours full of sparkle, they’re fun for everyone. Our favourites are Fresh Frog of Bel Air, and Rainbow Connection. Available at your local nail salon.
5.	Daff Felt iPad Cover $52-60 One of these beautifully-designed cases will keep your electronics safe and stylish. Lots of colours to choose from.
			Provide	Luminare

1.	Faux Leather Leggings $100-500 A rock and roll look that’s all the rage this season. Faux versions are available at many stores, including Club Monaco. Fab and affordable.
2.	Diane von Furstenburg Clutch $325-500 The Minaudiere is definitely making a comeback. This offering from DVF is spot on.
			Saks 5th Avenue
3.	Shereen de Rousseau Jewelry De Rousseau’s use of less common semi-precious stones gives her jewelry line weight and edge. We love the howlite beads on necklaces like the Agnes ($375) pictured here.
			ShereenDeRousseau.com
4.	Wool and the Gang Sweater ‘Tis the season of the sweater. Why be limited to what’s already out there when you can use your imagination and whip up your own? (Pre-made options also available.)
			WoolAndTheGang.com
5.	Jeffrey Campbell Booties $198 Kick things up a notch with a sweet JC suede bootie that’s far from basic black. Look for it in stores like Holt Renfrew in bright colours.
			Revolve Clothing

1.	A Bag from “The Property Of” $194-276 As a work bag, gym bag, or carry-on. So cool, we want one too!  Wallets, cardholders and more also available.
			www.thepropertyof.com
2.	A Bow-Tie by Turnbull & Asser $85 For Grandpa, or the ultra-chic hipster. Only the truly stylish need apply.
			www.mrporter.com
3.	Sex: Our Bodies, Our Junk $15-25 A coffee table book aimed at improving sexual communication. Diagrams and a good dose of humour included.
			Chapters-Indigo Amazon.ca	Amazon.com Barnes & Noble
4.	Mougin & Piquard for J.Crew Grande Seconde watch  $495 In tan or black, luxurious real leather. A classic that will stand the test of time.
			JCrew.com
5.	Chan Luu Men’s Bracelets Take a cue from Johnny Depp. These uber-trendy bracelets are now available in men’s styles.
			chanluu.com Zappos.com Amazon.com

1.	Devore Gold Rustic Zebra Pattern Cowhide Rug $895 A new twist on a decor staple. Expensive, but how gorgeous is this? Also comes in traditional zebra print. Available at The Cross Decor & Design
2.	Hermes Blue d’Ailleurs Earthenware $180-1800 The whole set is stunning. A gift for the person who has everything. Each piece stands strongly on its own, from bread plates to platters,  from tureens to teapots. Available at Hermes, Bergdorff Goodman (in-store), and Barney’s (in-store).
3.	Bogner Ski Jeans: Mabel $849 In blue denim, these ultra-stylish ski pants are sleek and slimming, a far cry from the girth-adding puffy pants of yore. Great both on and off the slopes. Available at Bogner.
4.	David Yurman Cable-Wrap Ring $1450 A gorgeous, versatile ring that can go from corner coffee shop at 2pm to cocktail hour at 5 without batting an eyelash. Available at David Yurman.
5.	Nobis Puffy Jackets for Men & Women  Down outerwear that gives you warmth without the bulk. These sleek designs take you from the slopes to the city with ease. Available from Nobis.

1.	Michael Bublé Christmas CD $11-16  It doesn’t feel like “the season” until you’re listening to a smooth-voiced crooner singing traditional Christmas melodies.  Like dark chocolate for your ears!
			Chapters-Indigo Amazon.ca	Amazon.com Barnes & Noble
2.	Jonathan Adler Frame $58-78 This designer’s latest collection in enamel is sleek, curvy, and colourful. Available at JonathanAdler.com
			JonathanAdler.com
3.	Kusmi Tea Made in Paris for over 140 years, Kusmi Tea has a wide variety of flavours as well as tea accessories. Plus, the packaging is especially cute. Makes a great stocking stuffer too! Available online at KusmiTea.com. Check out the store locator for independent sellers in your area.
			KusmiTea.com
4.	Thomas Haas Ginger & Chocolate Good quality chocolate is always a crowd pleaser. (But seriously, who wants to share?) Spice it up with these ginger chocolate treats, or any of Haas’ unique flavour combinations. In one word: Yum. ThomasHaas.com
			ThomasHaas.com
5.	Frasier Fir candles by Thymes $30-50 These elegant candles in a variety of festive glass holders bring the sweet smell of the holiday season to any room in your home.
			Chapters-Indigo Amazon.ca	Amazon.comBarnes & Noble

1.	Skull Striped Hoodie $50 Even furry friends get chilly at this time of year. This style will keep your pooch warm without compromising his street cred at the doggy park. For 1-22lb pooches. Available at BarkingBabies.com
2.	Best Bully Sticks $5-10 Available at most pet stores, these all natural chewy sticks are treats with ulterior motives. Great for teeth cleaning and keeping your sweetie occupied for a little while.
			Petsmart.ca	Amazon.com BestBullySticks
3.	Hudson’s Bay Company 4-Ball Boxed Set $10 Designed by Harry Barker, 100% natural rubber for 100% dog park fun. Available at  The Bay (Canada only).
			The Bay
4.	Furhaven Cat Cave $25 The royal treatment for the king or queen of the jungle– er, home. Furhaven.com
				Amazon.com
5.	Yeowww! 100% Organic Catnip “Stinkies” Sardine Tin $12-15  Stinky to us, golden delicious to our feline friends.  Meow!
			NipAndBones	Amazon.com Natural Pet

1.	The iPad $500+  Our favourite electronic gizmo of the year! With apps galore (including plenty of free ones), the iPad is great for him, her, or the kids. Related links: Anna’s Bag Blog: Bon app-étite, iPad Kristina’s Bag Blog: My new favourite pal Available at The Apple Store, Best Buy, Future Shop, and London Drugs.
2.	Nars Limited Edition Vintage Nail Shades $16 each On-trend colours include Full Metal Jacket (gunmetal grey with shimmer), King Kong (copper infused with gold), and Mash (army green with shimmer). Available at Holt Renfrew, The Bay, Nars.com, andSephora.com.
3.	Barefoot Contessa Cookbook Collection For the home chef in your life, a box set of three cookbooks by one of our favourite chefs and cookbook authors, Ina Garten. $79 Includes her first three cookbooks: The Barefoot Contessa Cookbook Barefoot Contessa Parties Barefoot Contessa Family Style Available at Chapters-Indigo, Amazon.ca, andAmazon.com.
		Amazon.ca Chapters-Indigo	Amazon.com
4.	Golden Goose Super Star Sneakers $500 A deluxe alternative to those ubiquitous Converse runners. Available in high top or low top in a variety of colours and patterns. For him or her. Look for these kicks at TheCorner.com, and Ssense.com.
5.	Alexander McQueen’s Hummingbird Cushion $985  Part of a rug and pillow collection designed by the late Alexander McQueen, the Hummingbird Cushion is entirely handmade in Nepal using traditional tapestry and needlepoint techniques. For more information, visit Avenue-Road.com, or contact the sales team at 416 548 7788 or sales@avenue-road.com. (Delivery available around the world.)
6.	SunFX White Out Self Tanner $36 Add some colour to your winter white skin with White Out self-tanner, a great, non-greasy formula that goes on smoothly. Spotted at Beautymark in Vancouver, and available at spas and beauty boutiques. Check the SunFX website forlocations.
7.	UGG Australia’s Dakota Moccasin Slippers $100 Warm up those toes with these genuine, sheep-skin lined, leather-upper slippers with non-slip rubber soles. For her or the kids, in a variety of colours. Available at Shoes.com, Zappos.com, Amazon.com, and a variety of stores across North America. (Check the UGG Australia website for locations.)
8.	Love Heals Jewelry $150-450  This is one of our favourite jewelry lines. We both have a few of these pieces, and are always looking to expand our collections! Plus, this is a gift that gives back. For every piece sold, Love Heals commits to planting 10 trees through Greener Ethiopia, and protecting one child from blindness through Vitamin Angels. (More info…)  Available directly from LoveHeals.com, and also atselect stores in Canada and the US.
9.	Thermomix TM31 $1600  The new “do-everything” kitchen appliance! About the size of a coffee maker, it weighs, cuts, kneads, stirs, emulsifies, grates, and heats, all in one pot. Popular with both home chefs, who appreciate its convenience, and Michelin-starred chefs, who appreciate its precision.  Available from easycooking.ca (call toll-free 1-866-267-6831) with free shipping, and there’s a special gift, a Thermo Server, with holiday 2010 orders. (And ask about the easy payment plans for Canadian residents.)
10.	The Complete National Geographic since 1888! $80 Over 121 years of National Geographic magazine on DVD-rom in full colour. Maps, photos, articles, everything an NG-addict could hope for!Plus, each year there’s another DVD added to the collection that covers the recent issues. Great future stocking stuffers! Available at the National Geographic Store and booksellers across the country.
11.	Xbox 360 with Kinect $300+  Xbox jumps into the realm of motion-gaming and takes it one step beyond the Nintendo Wii by turning YOU into the controller! If you haven’t yet jumped on the Wii bandwagon, this new Xbox system brings some competition! The Xbox 360 bundled with the Kinect sensor and start-up game is available at a variety of stores, including The Source, Amazon.ca, Amazon.com, Best Buy, Future Shop, London Drugs, and more.
12.	Tequila Don Julio $80-150 / 750 ml bottle  Smooth as silk, this is definitely a sipping tequila that could be savoured neat in a snifter. There are a range of varieties by Don Julio. Our favourite is the Don JulioAñejo (“aged”), which has a golden hue and a robust, smoky flavour with overtones of citrus and honey. Available at liquor stores across the country.
	(Note: all prices above are approximate and in Canadian dollars.)

Need more inspiration?

Check out our picks from previous years, and a few of our shopping tips and other favourites:

• A & K’s Top 10 Gift Lists for Holiday 2009
  • For Her
  • For Him
  • For Kids

• Anna & Kristina’s Grocery Bag Cookbook Reviews:

• Bag Blogs from 2010:
  • Kristina: A few of my favourite things
  • Anna: Ma nouvelle bicyclette
  • Anna: The ‘C’word (chardonnay picks)
  • Kristina: My newest travel companion (Sony eBook Reader)

• A & K’s Top Gifts & Stocking Stuffers for Kitchen Lovers
• A & K’s Top 10 Must-have Kitchen Tools
• A & K’s Top 10 Ways to Save over the Holidays

If your love-friendly occasion calls for bringing out the big guns instead of cupid’s little bow and arrow, make sure you do your research first.

Diamonds

Typically a big ticket purchase, diamond-shopping isn’t a spur of the moment activity. Be prepared with these tips:

• Understand and memorize the 4 C’s of diamond shopping: Cut. Colour. Clarity. Carat. (Note: “carat” means something different for diamonds than it does for gold.)

• Buy a stone before it’s put into a ring since a ring setting can hide flaws.

• To spot a fake, hold the stone above a newspaper. If you can read the print, don’t buy it.

• Do more homework on diamonds.

Jewelry

Buying jewelry for someone else is can be tricky since it is such a personal thing. However, knowing face shape is half the battle, especially when it comes to earrings and necklaces.

For women’s earrings, think opposites:

• Long, oval earrings work best for a round face, while studs and round hoops work best on a long face.

• Oval-faced women can wear almost anything.

• Heart-shaped and square faces should think similar to round faces: long and oval, or chandelier shapes, which help draw attention down and away from the width of the face.

For women’s necklaces, it’s all about placement:

• If she has a large bosom, the pendant should land an inch or so above the start of her cleavage, or a few inches below (not quite belly-button range). Avoid anything that lands right in the cleavage.

• If she has a short neck, stay away from chunky items and chokers. Think pendants and length to give the illusion of more space between her chin and her chest.

• If she has a long neck, she will look fabulous in chunky pieces and chokers. 

Colour and style: gold, silver, or other?

• Pay attention to what she or he is already wearing. If she wears a lot of gold or silver, you can be sure that buying her something in the same metal will score bonus points for you.

• If you’re not sure, think about colouring. A warm complexion (e.g. yellow undertones, dark hair, tans well) looks great in gold. A cool complexion (pink/blue undertones, medium to light hair) can rock the silver style. If all else fails, ask! (After all, it’s only a small part of the big surprise.)

For men, we like a little bling on a guy, but the key is subtlety.

• A thin chain necklace with a small pendant can be worn relatively inconspicuously, either inside or outside of a shirt. It should be long enough not to choke him, but not too long that it dangles beyond armpit level.

• A bracelet is also an option for guys. Look for thicker chains for a masculine look. Or try leather, which is a great way to ease your man into trying out accessories.

• If your guy has pierced ears, a nice sparkly stud will give him a bit of flash. Even better if it matches his blue or green eyes.

• If you want to play it safe, a watch is always a good option. And functional too!

Do more homework on jewelry:

• Choosing jewelry to accentuate your assets
• Style tips for men (includes jewelry)
• Vintage jewelry
• Watches
• Rejuvenate your old jewelry

Lingerie

If you’re new to buying lingerie, or are buying it for someone else, ask the sales people for help, especially with sizing and styles.

• Guys! Don’t go with the “she’s about your size” line at the shop. Check your honey’s underwear drawer for sizes before you head to the store. Remember, many items of lingerie are non-returnable.

• Different styles of lingerie include camisoles, corsets, baby dolls, slips, teddies, chemises, bustiers, boy shorts, thongs, and g-strings.

• For a little extra “umph” in the chest area, consider a push-up bra.

• Bargain hunter alert! Shopping for lingerie after Valentines can land you some great deals on a range of hot and silky red items.

Learn more about buying lingerie:

• Bra fitting tips
• Push-up bras
• Lingerie

Play it Safe

What’s Valentine’s Day without a little extra-curricular activity? But if you’re going to play, play it safe. In the bedroom, that is.

Condoms

• Regular size condoms fit most men. Be aware: a condom that’s too big can actually slip off.

• Choose “thin” condoms for the best sensitivity.

• Be sure to check the expiry dates on all condoms.

• Lubrication is important in condom use, both for comfort and to avoid breakage.

• Novelty condoms are just that – a novelty. They don’t offer the same protection as regular condoms.

Read more about condoms to find out our top pick.

Personal Lubricants

Keep things moving comfortably with your partner by introducing personal lubricants into your bedroom repertoire. 

• Lubes are formulated based one of three main ingredients, water, silicone, or oil/petroleum.

• Each feels different and reacts differently. You may need to try out a few kinds to find one that works for you and your partner.

• Many specialty sex shops offer free samples of different brands for customers to try at home.

• Some lubricant formulations are not safe to use with condoms (i.e. they break down the latex), so again, read instructions before use.

Get the full scoop on personal lubes.

Vibrators

For an extra-arousing time in the sack, vibrators are fun by yourself or with a partner.

• Vibrators come in a variety of materials. For most people, softer is better, but it’s up to your personal preference.

• Some stores allow you to try a demo model on your hand before you buy. This is a good way to get a feel for the intensity, material, and size.

• If you’re too chicken to go shopping by yourself, take a friend with you. It’s a fun experience, and definitely not as taboo as you may think.

• Most adult stores also sell special cleaning products. Cleanliness is important to reduce bacteria growth on your toys. If you’re not sure what to buy, ask for help, since some toys require special cleaning products.

Read more buzz on vibrators.

Set the Scene

Alone or with a partner, nothing beats nestling into a comfortable, warm bed, whether it’s before and after you partake in your extra-curricular activities. Here are some tips for creating the ultimate snuggle suite:

Mattresses

• Don’t trust manufacturer ratings for firmness and softness because they differ from store to store. The only way to get a good feel for a mattress’s firmness is to try it out.

• Be prepared to spend some time lying around in mattress stores. Don’t feel embarrassed or rushed when trying the beds. You need to make sure it feels good, no matter what position you’re sleeping in.

Get the jump on more mattress shopping tips.

Duvets

• Duvets are available in a range of materials, including down, synthetic, and wool.

• Down lasts the longest but will be most expensive. Synthetic material like primaloft mimics the qualities of down, and is less expensive.

• Synthetic and wool duvets can be machine-washed, but down duvets must be dry-cleaned.

Wrap your mind around these duvet-buying tips.

Pillows

• A pillow should fully support the space between your shoulder and your head.

• You can find pillows made in a variety of materials, each providing a different type of support. But don’t depend much on labels like softness, firmness, “side sleeper” or “back sleeper”. These designations are relative and vary from one manufacturer to the next.

• If down pillows make you sneeze, consider a primaloft fill, which is a polyester microfibre.

Get your head into more pillow information.