Owner: Whirled Events URL:http://www.whirledevents.blogspot.com Join Date: Tue, 22 Aug 2006 20:50:16 -0500 Rating:1 Site Description: Whirled Events is a complete gift giving resource. Visit daily to view the latest on new products, gift trends, and ways to make gifts more personal. With features like Gift Book of the Month and Destination Gifts, you'll have a steady supply of ideas f Site statistics:Click here
On the Eighth Day of Christmas, My True Love Gave to Me... 1970-01-01 00:59:59 Clockwise, from top left: Art Home household cleaning kit; Bravo Slammers moon pie milk (available at your local grocery store); Jatta Lavi milk jug vase; Tocca sweet milk and honey candle; The Apron Book, by EllynAnne Geisel; Eight maids Krinkles cow figurine Read more:Christmas
, True Love
, Eighth
2007 is going to be a big year... 1970-01-01 00:59:59 How do I know this? Because I spent a big chunk of yesterday working on building out our 2007 plan...and it's exciting! For some evidence of my hard work, here's my very first mind map.This is supplemented with about a hundred computer files, lists in my trusty notebook, memos in my Palm Treo, and mental notes. Group this all together, and like I said, 2007 is going to be a fantastic year for all of us working together to redefine the art of gift giving. Here is a smattering of current projects going on behind the scenes at Whirled Events, and of course you're invited to join in on any one of these:- We're building a brand on elegance and creativity, with the help of talented graphic designer Joy, from Oh Joy! Studio.- We're improving our website, so be on the lookout for some fabulous changes in the months to come. Some of the new features will include personalized webpages for custom orders, a build-a-gift feature (think Build-A-Bear for presents), the ability to add voice
Paris to the Moon 1970-01-01 00:59:59 In gift giving, it's important to build upon your personal or organizational style, your "brand." I'm fine tuning this myself with Whirled Events, and have even written it into my 2007 action plan.When developing your gift giving style, understand what you are all about and what you (or your company) stand for. Sophistication? Innovation? Humor? Incorporate these qualities into your gifts, cards and correspondence. Like I've discussed previously, communicate your message in everything that you sign your name to.Today I discovered Paris
to the Moon, a boutique in Costa Mesa, California, that executes branding and style like the rest of us can only hope to. Owned by Darren Calkins, the store creates a mood that inspires creative gift giving. Paris to the Moon's business cards are printed on a roll of tickets, the displays are absolutely breathtaking, and a number of their products are handmade by local artists. It's a theme that is carried out to the finest detail, and as a result t
Ornament Exchange 1970-01-01 00:59:59 Here's a photo of a recent gift I wrapped for a gift exchange. Unfortunately I forgot to take a picture of the ornament inside... Read more:Ornament
, Exchange
The New Beginning Begins Today! 1970-01-01 00:59:59 Congratulations to all of you reading today, because you are getting to personally witness the mutation of the fantastic Whirled Events blog to the out-of-this-whirled, over-the-top, makes-you-want-to-shout-"hoody-hoo!" Whirled Events blog. We're changing, and it's all happening before your very eyes. Before you start to get all sweaty-palmed and teary-eyed, let me personally promise you that you are going to LOVE this change. It's fresh, it's new, and it's like nothing that exists out in the blogosphere.Our goal has always been to give you great ideas on gift giving, so now we're taking it full circle, building out gifts, writing cards, and making some great suggestions on the side. Each day will include a letter to someone about something - it could be news related, it could be personal, or it could be an amazing product we found that deserves to be featured so we created a hypothetical reason - along with a corresponding gift. It's about communicating a message, sharing Read more:Today
The Gift of Giving 1970-01-01 00:59:59 As a member of the Covenant House Guild, I opted to be the "secret Santa" for a nineteen year-old girl, Kelly, who is currently residing at the Covenant House here in Houston. For those of you who aren't familiar with this organization, it's a nonprofit group that provides shelter, healthcare and counseling to homeless and at risk youth. I was given Kelly's Christmas wishlist, from which I purchased the following (plus a few extras):Radiohead (OK Computer) and Goldfrapp (We Are Glitter) cds.Harry Potter hardcover book series, books 1 through 6.6-piece contemporary towel set in red.$20 Starbucks gift certificate.Isaac Mizrahi cashmere v-neck sweater.Notecard by William Arthur.In this season of giving, look around for some way to give back to your community, either through time or donations or even just a kind note. In all of the holiday chaos, it's easy to lose sight of how lucky most of use are...plus (selfishly) it just feels good to do something for others! Read more:Giving
Toys for the New Year 1970-01-01 00:59:59 New year greetings card; Silver crystal swizzle sticks, set of 6; Colored mirrored balls, set of 12; Jumbo holiday crackers, set of 4; Champagne cork candles, set of 4New Year's gifts are often overlooked, as we're all still recovering from the Christmas and Hannukkah shopping frenzy. Surprise someone with a package in the mail filled with festive finds to welcome in the new year. Include anything from noisemakers to holiday decor - the louder and brighter, the better. If you can't be there to celebrate with them, make sure they have lots of fun on your behalf. This is a simple, cheap way to bring a smile to someone's face when they're least expecting it.
Resolution #1: Write to good friends more often. 1970-01-01 00:59:59 All of the "experts" say that you should communicate your goals to those close to you in order to garner some support, so this year I'm doing just that. One of my New Years' resolutions is to send more written notes to friends to let them know they're on my mind. This note is for my old college roommate, Christa, who is currently living in Scotland (and is as big a fan of little trinkets as I am). Since she's getting her PhD, and as a result is writing lots of intellectual things all day long, I thought these scented pencils and silver plated pencil sharpener would make the perfect accompaniment to the profession of my resolution to keep in touch. I wrapped the pencil tin in the sky blue dot icon Midori ribbon to help tie in the gift with the notecard, and to add that extra little touch. I'd also recommend wrapping the gift in a coordinating light blue metallic gift wrap, accented with a rich chocolate velvet ribbon, which will add an elegant touch to even the simplest of gif Read more:Resolution
, Write
Farewell, Bandit 1970-01-01 00:59:59 Yesterday my brother and sister-in-law put one of their two dogs, Bandit
, to sleep, which was sad news to all of us, as Bandit and Taylor hold a special place in our family. This 12-inch peanut butter flavored dog bone would make a lovely gift for Taylor, Bandit's closest friend and partner in crime, along with a card for my brother, sister-in-law, and nephew offering words of sympathy. While gifts of sympathy don't do much in the way of easing the loss of a loved one (either human or pet), I've found it's always best to show that you're available if and when your support is needed. Read more:Farewell
Keep a Gift Journal 1970-01-01 00:59:59 Now that the gift giving rush has eased a bit, take a moment to look at the gifts you've exchanged with those around you. By logging all of the gifts you have given and received, you can identify common themes that pop out. For example, if you find that someone consistently gives you sweet treats when you don't have much of a sweet tooth at all, it's likely that they find them tempting themselves. So return the favor by putting together a set of gourmet hot chocolates for them. On the flip side, if you realize that you've been giving rather generic gifts to someone for several years in a row, shake things up and spend some extra time and effort making their gift a personal one.Build out a template by including five columns, with the following headers:ToFromDateOccasionGift descriptionIt's easiest to keep it organized on your computer through a spreadsheet program like Excel or a database program, but if you prefer the old-fashioned way, then select a pretty journal that will k Read more:Journal
Happy 2007! 1970-01-01 00:59:59 Happy New Year! Thanks for your continued support, and may you welcome 2007 with open arms. Sip some Dom Perignon with these lovely flutes or nibble on delectable delights with these hors d'oeuvres picks from Crate & Barrel. Don't forget those resolutions... Read more:Happy
January 2007 Calendar 1970-01-01 00:59:59 One of the new features of Whirled Events in 2007 is to distribute a monthly calendar of events and gift ideas to help you develop and evolve in your own gift giving. I'm working on getting these uploaded directly to the website, but in the meantime, if you'd like this calendar and future calendars emailed directly to you, just leave a comment or send me an email at info@whirledevents.com. Read more:January
, Calendar
First Day of Work 1970-01-01 00:59:59 My friend and fellow blogger Stephanie Quilao just got a new job with Microsoft as an Enthusiast Evangelist, so I thought she was in need of some fun toys for her first day on the job. This Work-to-Play bag from Chelsey Henry will help her as she mingles with those in-the-know and goes from work to play and back again. For those occasions when a little sarcasm and humor are needed (anyone who's ever worked knows what I'm talking about), these cubicle notes should do the trick. The "Blah, Blah, Blah" notepad is perfect for taking notes while listening in on conference calls. And last, but not least, the 8-Days-a-Week planner, as Stephanie will need an extra day in her schedule as she continues her current work in addition to working for Microsoft. Check out Stephanie's blog and wish her good luck in her new gig - I honestly couldn't think of someone better suited for the position! Read more:First
, First Day
Calling All Brides... 1970-01-01 00:59:59 2007 is the Year of the Client here at Whirled Events, and as part of our gift to you, we're offering free wedding consultations for five lucky brides. Here's exactly what you get:- Unlimited consultations either in person or over the phone (it depends on where you're located) to discuss save-the-date cards, invitations, wedding favors, bridal party gifts, welcome gifts for out-of-town guests, shower gifts, and any other gift related item that you want.- Everything you purchase will be given to you at cost, which can range anywhere from 10% to 50% off retail prices (that means a whole lot of savings!)- Free labor. We'll slave away and create some fantastic items for you, as highly customized as you desire.We're building up a fantastic portfolio of wedding ideas to showcase to future brides, and we'd love your help! If you're interested, send an email to info@whirledevents.com with the following information:Your name and contact information (email, phone number and address - w Read more:Calling
, Brides
Virtual Connections 1970-01-01 00:59:59 Liz Strauss over at Successful Blog (which I highly recommend reading) is running a series on B.A.D. bloggers, where she spends an hour a day connecting with people from around the world, discussing anything and everything. It was such fun, getting to talk to the author of a blog I read on a daily basis, and who has such a resonating voice.Since Liz keeps up with so many blogs at once, I thought this coffee mug by Magenta would be a wonderful gift to help her stay alert. Of course, sometimes it's nice to get out of the house for a cup of coffee, which is why I included a Starbucks gift card.
Stirring Things Up 1970-01-01 00:59:59 Last Friday, my old group from JPMorgan got together for a mini-reunion. Without fail, we always have a fabulous time over a cocktail (or two or three, depending on the weather). To show my appreciation for such fun friends, what could be more appropriate than The Ultimate Bar Book, by Millie Hellmich, along with some cocktail picks? I selected a variety of picks, based on each person's personality. For Jeff, who is always up for a good party, I chose these contemporary light party picks from Plum Party. Curt is the classic martini type, so I selected olive picks. Classic geometric cocktail picks are fitting for Jason, who is a classic but high end kind of guy, and galaxy cocktail picks for Todd, who is one of the funniest people I have met (and lives on another planet). And last, but not least, wedding picks for Nataly, the newlywed of the group. This is an easy way to personalize an otherwise generic gift for any group of people.
Happy Anniversary, Kara and John! 1970-01-01 00:59:59 Today is the first anniversary of my good friends Kara and John, so I'm sending along some tasty treats to celebrate the big day. Berry Gourmet packages their chocolate covered strawberries beautifully, which is only fitting for such a sweet and beautiful couple.There are a few couples out there that I truly admire, because they represent what every husband and wife should aspire to: friendship, love, support and encouragement in all that they do. For those couples, I get as excited for another wonderful year as they do! Read more:Happy
, Anniversary
, Happy Anniversary
Styling Sniffles 1970-01-01 00:59:59 My friend Claire is sick in bed for the fourth day in a row, so when I came across this chic Triple Pill Box from Coach ($58) [via Outblush] I couldn't think of a better gift for such a stylish girl. The pill box is made of lightweight leather and lined with signature fabric, combining practicality with fashion. The box includes three pill bottles, secures with a zip around closure, and is available in black, doe and red.I wrote a short note wishing Claire well on a Stacy Claire Boyd gift tag, and wrapped this gift in a pale blue metallic wrap with a chocolate and green ribbon. Hopefully this bright color scheme will cheer Claire up and add a little life to her sleep-filled days!
Gifts of Encouragement 1970-01-01 00:59:59 Now that we're well into Week 2 of 2007, your friends, family and colleagues are probably starting to question their resolutions. Help them keep on track be sending out small tokens to let them know you believe in their ability to follow through on their commitments. Include a note with encouraging words, and drop your gift on their doorstep or in the mail. Knowing that someone is holding them accountable will do wonders in helping them accomplishing their goals.In case you're creative cap isn't on, here are a few ideas to get you going. If the resolution was to...- Lose weight: Send a basket of fresh produce. Whole Foods has some beautiful pear varieties right now, and apples are always a good choice. Having healthy food right in front of you makes the potato chips and cookies not quite as appealing.- Be more punctual: Day planners are on sale now, so help someone plan their day better with a nice new calendar.- Spend more time with friends: Drop off a Starbucks gift certific Read more:Gifts
Girls' Weekend in Palm Springs 1970-01-01 00:59:59 My friends Kristen, Mercedes, Lane and I, along with my sister and some of her friends, are planning a trip to Palm Springs
in March to kick back and get away for a while. Since we had our first planning session on the phone last night, I thought I'd drop them a note and a little inspiration to get them geared up for the trip.I found this double palm frame at Z Gallerie that was meant for the occasion, so I'm including some pictures of palm trees inside the frames. Afterwards, we can put our own photos in there as a memento of the vacation.I'm wrapping this gift in Peculiar Pair Press Trellis gift wrap, because the colors coordinate so nicely with the desert color scheme of yellows, browns and a hint of green. To top it all off, I tied an antique copper dupioni silk bow from Midori Ribbon. Read more:Girls
, Weekend
, Palm Springs
Pam Garrison's Blog is Turning One! 1970-01-01 00:59:59 It's Pamela Garrison
's blog's first birthday (now that's a mouthful!), and nobody likes to celebrate a birthday like we do. Pam is so incredibly creative and has some wonderful works of art that she showcases on her blog, so if you aren't familiar with it be sure to stop by and see some of her creations. I thought this hand stitched journal from K Studio would be a great place for her to sketch out some new ideas or write fun notes, and it has that vintage feel that Pam is famous for, so happy birthday, Pam! Keep up the fabulous work!!!
Congratulations! 1970-01-01 00:59:59 Congratulations to the five winners of the Whirled Events wedding consultation contest! I am delighted to be able to work with Sarah, Sarah (there are two!), Noa, Karen and Maria on creating some fantastic gifts, invitations, and more for their upcoming weddings. We'll be sure to keep you updated as things progress, and of course I'll be sharing photos of the big events as they occur. Thank you so much to all who entered - there were some amazing stories and it was honestly so hard to choose only five of you! Read more:Congratulations
Moving Day 1970-01-01 00:59:59 My old neighbors just announced that they're moving back into the city, which excited me beyond belief! They tried out life in the 'burbs, but much to my delight, realized it wasn't for them. To celebrate the exciting news and to ease their stress, I selected this moving kit from Buttoned Up. The kit includeschecklists and forms to help you plan everything from hiring a moving company to sending out change of address cards, and stickers for labeling your moving boxes will make your packing and unpacking a little less haphazard. This is also a great gift for companies to give to new hires that are relocating, or as a not-so-subtle hint to encourage your archrival to move to Burma. I'm loving this notecard from Stevie Streck... Read more:Moving
New York Winter 1970-01-01 00:59:59 Sorry for the lag in posting...I've been traveling to Dallas and New York
for the past week, and getting enough time together to post has been a little more difficult than planned. The good news is that I'm accumulating some really good stuff for next week!So I'm in New York right now, and it is FREEZING cold here. Being a Texas girl, I am so completely unaccustomed this weather, and my friends have had the joy of watching shiver my way across Manhattan. With winter on my mind, I thought this scarf by Renee's Accessories, available at Bluefly, would be a great gift for my friend Laura, who I haven't seen in years and who recently moved to New York. Given the ridiculous wind chill here, the penguin card from Sarah LeClere is highly appropriate. To wrap it up, I chose the Flex/Zen pattern from EIEIO, which ties in nicely with the black and yellow.This weekend, the New York International Gift Fair starts, which I am so very delighted to attend. I just got back from the Dallas g
Cupcakes and Polka Dots 1970-01-01 00:59:59 I'm visiting my friend Katie for tea tomorrow afternoon, and I told her I would bring some of her favorite cupcakes from Magnolia Bakery here in New York. What would make a better hostess gift to accompany those sweet delicacies Larabee Road Tidbit plates from Kate Spade? Boatman Geller's polka dot card matches the plates perfectly, so I couldn't resist. Read more:Polka
, Polka Dots
Back in Houston 1970-01-01 00:59:59 It has been far too long since I've posted, and thanks to all of you who dropped me emails in my absence. I got myself organized this weekend, cleaned out all of those old papers, and created a most delightful work space. I am exhausted, and the week has just begun, but I'm also motivated to test out my new system, so I'll be posting regularly once again.Today's gift is for Craig, the creator of True candles from Joseph Thomas. If you haven't seen them (or smelled them), run to your nearest Neiman's and buy one asap. They are honestly the best candles on the market, in my opinion. He has a keen eye for design and the boxes can all be reused. I've actually blogged about them before, but like all great creations, they are timeless.Craig and I had drinks while I was in New York for the NYIGF last week, and he has been so helpful in advising me on a new line that I'll be launching in May at the National Stationery Show. Since he just moved into a new loft, and I know from pe Read more:Houston
Gifts for the Interviewee 1970-01-01 00:59:59 My sister, who is a junior in college, is currently in internship mode, and has started the arduous process of interviewing with several companies. I remember how exhausting it was balancing the job search with the already stressful course load, so I thought I'd wish her luck by giving her a little something to send her off in style.I am a personal fan of these leather portfolios from Graphic Image. They're available in a variety of textures and colors, and Graphic Image has some of the finest leather products I've seen, at a reasonable price.Because it's customary to send a thank you note to those who take the time to interview you, and also to those who have put you in touch with various contacts, I selected these personalized notecards from Crane with her monogram on them. They come with maroon lined envelopes, which is fitting since she's studying at Texas A&M. Read more:Gifts
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