The Pineapple: What and When to Bring Host/Hostess Gifts?

Written By: Va Va Voom (Katrina)

So, who isn’t baffled when it comes to gifts for a host/hostess?  This may be a tricky situation with our ever changing modern social standards.  Here are some guidelines which will help you determine if a gift is necessary for your next event. 

Are you attending an event or party hosted in honor of another person, such as a baby shower, bridal shower, engagement party, etc.?  Then a host/hostess gift is absolutely not expected.  It is more than likely you are bringing a gift for the mother-to-be, the engaged couple, or the bride –to-be, focus on them instead.  The host/hostess won’t be upset!

Are you attending a cocktail party, casual brunch or bonfire?  Host/hostess gifts are completely optional.  If you know the person well, and wish to be overly generous, then feel free to bring a gift.  A bottle of wine or selections of gourmet cheeses are perfect gifts for a cocktail party.  If you are bringing a dish to pass or specialty drinks, then this gesture is a gift in its own right and will be much appreciated by the host/hostess.

Are you attending a dinner party?  This would be the time to think of a creative and personal gift for the special host/hostess, especially if you know them well.  However, if you are preparing entrées, appetizers or purchasing liquor and wine, these contributions most definitely qualify as a gift to the host/hostess.  If you still feel obligated to bring a gift, choose something personal for the person or couple, but keep your spending below $25.00, this isn’t suppose to be equivalent to a birthday gift!

Are you attending a weekend at their summer home or lake house?  This is most definitely the appropriate time to bring a gift to show your thanks!  Keep it personal and within a reasonable price range, such as everyone chipping in for a spa or restaurant gift certificate.  If you are purchasing a gift on your own, arrive with a bouquet of flowers, a selection of Brazilian coffees, a box of Godiva chocolates or a basket with favorite movies, popcorn and candy.

If you are having a difficult time deciding what to bring, just remember, keep it simple.  It is the thought that counts!  Even a handwritten mailed thank you note is such a special treat.

Remember to say thank you to the host/hostess when leaving the event, if you forget, then you should definitely mail a thank you card.  If you did say thank you, but would like to express it again, then a quick email or text can be appropriate.  However, an email is not appropriate if you did not express your thanks when leaving.

Here are a few additional gift ideas for that special host/hostess:

·         A Woodwick candle, www.woodwick.com

·         A small porcelain dish (for serving or decoration)

·         The latest bestselling novel (for an avid reader)

·         An assortment of tea, www.teaforte.com

·         A set of oils for golf clubs or a box of their favorite golf balls (for the golf lover)

·         A box of Penzey’s spices, www.penzeys.com

·         Fresh flowers or a house plant, either from your local florist or made by you

·         A bottle of wine, Port or an assortment of specialty beers

·         Personalized stationary or unique journal , www.scribblespaper.com

Or if you are the host/hostess, have a pineapple for your guests either to eat or use it as a table decoration to show your hospitality, warmth and friendship!  http://www.levins.com/pineapple.html

Can you re-gift?  This is always the taboo question of our times.  Yes, you can re-gift, but if you do, the item must be new, still in the packaging and remember who gave it to you originally.  Re-gifting bottle of wine, which you haven’t opened yet, is completely acceptable.  Do not re-gift a handmade, personal gift.  The receiver will know it was not truly meant for them!  Think before you re-gift!  Would you want this gift?  Keep re-gifting for those rare occasions.

Is your Woman Fabulous and Classy or a Dose of High Maintenance?

Written By: Ooh La La (Danielle Marie)

Why do most men, and some women, assume that a well-dressed woman is high maintenance?  Is it a layer of societal misconception by those T.V. reality shows or is it hard for others to measure up to these women, let alone have a relationship with?  Well listen carefully, just because a woman takes care of herself, loves to have a fashion forward sense of style and presents herself with elegance does not qualify her as high maintenance!  Of course, there are women who are most definitely high maintenance, but don’t assume before you judge. 

So, you may ask, what qualifies as high maintenance? 

This is the type of woman who:

·         demands your time, your gifts and your love. (Recognize the key word here, demands, because most women deserve your time, your gifts and your love.  A relationship should not be made up of demands).

·         must hourly touch-up her makeup and hair. (Bathroom breaks every 20 minutes is definitely over the top).

·         carries a purse heavier than a bowling ball, with a change of clothes, a full make-up bag and a hair curling iron, just in case…. (In case of what?  Who knows!)

·         changes her clothing several times a day, for no significant reason.  (There’s a difference between changing your outfit from work to an evening on the town, but remember, it isn’t all about the clothes.)

·         is unable to give away material items she does not use. (Let’s be charitable ladies!  What man is impressed with a closet the size of a bathroom?)

·         talks incessantly about the latest designers, retail therapy and drama, drama, drama!

·         walks into a crowded room and makes a big scene with her loud voice, ear wrenching laughter or over the top superfluous outfit.

·         has a egotistical superiority complex, believes she is the most beautiful woman in the room and won’t let other women forget that!  She may also refuse to associate herself with others unless they will help further her social agenda.  (Don’t be naïve, these women do exist!)

So now you may ask, what qualifies as a classy woman who isn’t high maintenance?

This is the type of woman who:

·         doesn’t take hours to get ready in the morning, because she knows exactly what works with her complexion, her body type and how to create a natural but enticing look.

·         walks into a room without making a big dramatic scene.  She may not be the most beautiful woman, but she embodies an aurora about her which strongly attracts most men because of her gentleness, grace and elegance.

·         rarely needs to touch up her make-up, besides the occassional lip gloss, and she would never make a big scene in public but always excuses herself for the ladies room.

·         does think of others well-being and openly tries to be charitable, kind and forgiving even though she may be misunderstood by others believing she’s “high maintenance”.

·         doesn’t demand attention, she deserves it and embraces it.  (Eventhough this may be hard to do sometimes...)

·         may love designer labels, the latest fashions and wears them with grace and elegance, but she does not obnoxiously display these brands.  (You can’t tell if she’s wearing Rachel Zoe, Elie Tahari or Elle?  Obviously she doesn’t care if you know; she just wants to feel fabulous in what she wears!)

Sauce of Life Tips: 

If she has a prideful air about her clothing, accessories or features then she has failed the test and consider her “high maintenance”, but be careful not to judge on a first glance.  You may be wrong!  

If she walks with firm confidence, without demanding constant attention, and has a side of humility, she is the perfect balance and absolutely... fabulous!

Champagne with Vodka?

Written By: Ooh La La (Danielle Marie)

Ok, let's be realistic here, it's New Years Eve so who isn't going to celebrate tonight?  Whether you are spending the night at a soiree, a cocktail lounge, dinner and dancing or relaxing at home tonight, is not the night to blend wines, beers and hard liquor.

Was there a time when a woman slowly sipping from a martini glass was invigorating and glamorous?  You bet!  Take yourself back to those old movies, An Affair to Remember, The Thin Man, Breakfast at Tiffany's or the series, Mad Man.  Those women knew how to stir a crowd of men just with a martini glass!  So tonight is your turn for some fun.  Whether it's your husband, boyfriend or that tall, dark and handsome man across the room, use that martini glass, wine glass or champagne as your weapon of attraction. 

However, word to the wise here, if you are completely toasted and the room is spinning, this strategy of allurement is worthless.  A drunk woman trying to seductively sip a glass of wine or champagne resembles a broken wine glass.  Not too attractive, huh?  This doesn't mean you can't enjoy yourself, but don't do anything you woud regret or can't remember the next day.  What's the point in buying that new outfit, glamming up for the evening and wearing those 6 inch pumps, if you end up blacking out? 

Have fun, be glamorous and bring out your saucy side!

Are Christmas Cards a Dying Art?

Written By: Va Va Voom (Katrina)

Are Christmas cards a dying art for this generation? Let's hope not!

Okay people, this isn't news but we all have very stressful and busy lives, so it's time to think of others! Remember, Christmas is a time for giving so let's spread a little cheer with a card!

A Christmas card may take only five minutes at the max!  Just imagine the joy it brings to someone for a whole day!

Who doesn't have those long distant relatives we rarely call or write.  This is the time to make up for our lack of effort.  Just send them a Christmas card with a short personal note! Guilt is gone! Oh yeah!

Then there are those friends who you avoid seeing but you still want to remain in contact, send them a Christmas card! Try to be a better friend in the New Year and start with a Christmas card.  Hehe

Don't forget those people who think their kids are God's gift to the world, when really your children are much more superior! So send them a Christmas card....with a gorgeous photo of your kids! Haha

But seriously, Christmas has continued to lose its' meaning a little more each year.  It is about time to remember where we came from, to love our family and friends, to share and show that love towards everyone!  Don't just think of yourself, spread some love!

For pete's sake, we're supposed to be merry during Christmas so send a Christmas card to help someone feel merry, crack a smile and remember the reason for the season!

Don't Forget the Glam and Add your Saucy Side!

Written By: Ooh La La (Danielle Marie)

Everyone loves the Holidays, especially with the many occassions offered of dressing to the "nines" and showing your fablous side of sauciness.  It seems that the parties are numerous, but each one with a different "dress attire" or "theme".  Confusing?  It's doesn't have to be.  Embrace these social gatherings by glitzing yourself all over from head to toe.  We are not referring to that sticky glitter used by most teenagers,  Glitzing yourself all over from head to toe means to be yourself, by adding a level of sauciness.

Take those black dress pants with a red cardigan and saucify yourself  by wrapping a sequin scarf around your neck or waist.  Use it as a headband for a touch of glitz to a messy updo.

Wear those classy black pumps and instead of beige or suntan nylons, let's go for the argyle plaid, grey striped or solid black tights.

And never forget about the accessories!  This is the time to go big!  Add those long over the top candelier earrings, or bust out a large rinestone ring.  Long necklaces are always a great addition to a cowl neck sweater dress with cute leggings and pumps. 

Take an extra 15 minutes to explore your inner saucy side when getting dressed.  Remember, you are creating a masterpiece and you are not only the sculptor but also the clay.  So, don't forget the glam during this special Christmas season!

Handshake it, Hug it, or Kiss it?

Written By: Ooh La La (Danielle Marie) & Va Va Voom (Katrina)

How do you handle that first meeting or approach your close friends at a social gathering?  Do you give a handshake, a hug or a double cheek air kiss?  We all have those questions floating through our minds, but it’s usually too late to think about our next move in the middle of such a dilemma.  Is it the same for everyone?  If I kiss her will she think I am crazy?  Is she expecting a kiss?  If I don't hug him will he think I don't like him?  Who leans in first?  Will her husband get mad if I kiss her on the cheek?  Do you give a woman a firm handshake too?  These are just a few questions that race through our brains when meeting or greeting others.  Who hasn't been in that uncomfortable social situation, whether you meet someone for the first time, see old acquaintances or visit old friends…do we handshake, hug or double cheek kiss?  Feel out the situation.  You don’t want to throw out a double cheek kiss when meeting a client or entering a conference with your boss.  Again, take into account the situation.  Handshakes are appropriate to formal meetings and business events.  Hugs are meant for acquaintances or well-known friends and family. 

In one small but strong word, confidence!  Be yourself!  You make up the rules.  Nowadays, when no one does the same thing, you can start a new trend.  You don’t want others to feel uncomfortable, so if you give a hug to the first person, make sure you do the same for everyone in the group.  Don’t let someone feel left out by receiving a hug or double kiss.  Whether you handshake, hug or kiss, make no excuses, own your actions.  If you are a woman and meeting friends with their spouses, kiss everyone (on the cheek).  Better to love than not to love.  If you are a man, play it safe with direct eye contact and a firm handshake to everyone, including the ladies.  We women are not only judging the size of your hand but the firmness too!  To put it simply, if you like someone, kiss them on the cheek, if they slap the other cheek, then they have no love, and who needs them.  Always make sure the kiss on the cheek is sweet and quick, never wet!  And if you are want to show your saucy edge, go for the double cheek air kiss with a hug. 

Sassy Kisser v. Saucy Kisser

Are you a sassy kisser or a saucy kisser?  What’s the best way to approach that first kiss or keep your kisses saucy even after 10 years of marriage?  It isn’t about keeping that fresh first kiss (as most of us will never forget it) but it is about developing your kisses, and relationship, as your time matures with your loved one.  Kissing is a true art form that very few master. You may ask why so few master this crucial art of kssing?  The joke is that most people think they are amazing kissers, ha, dream on!  How many of us can look back into our past and remember an old boy/girlfriend that was a horrible kisser?  I can!  The old saying, practice makes perfect!  Kissing is a form of communication, a great form by the way!  If your partner does not say you are a good kisser, it is time to change. Here is the key, never ask what you are doing wrong; only ask what you can do better.  What are you lacking?  Never tell your loved one they are bad, it will lead to a fight, tell them what they can improve.  A great way is to try three different kissing techniques, which you can easily find in any romantic movie!  Try the three and then ask which they preferred, and vice versa.

Rule of kissing: passion, confidence and dimmed lighting make the best kissing moments! 

There are many ways to kiss unfortunately most of them are wrong so here are a few examples to help you out.

The best type of kissing should never be planned.  Kissing needs to be passionate, spontaneous and different every time!

“Her kisses left something to be desired... the rest of her.” ~Unknown

The Bad Kissers

“A man's kiss is his signature.” ~Mae West

The surprise attacker~

Your special someone practically ambushes and smothers you with kisses, making you completely unprepared.  This makes for a miserable first kiss and most likely the last kiss.

The wet dog~  

This person does not come up for air as they continuously swish their tongue around your teeth and tongue practically choking you. Don't get me wrong tongue is important when kissing but use it sparingly

The awkward kisser~
They just don't know what to do, where to put their hands, where to tilt their head or even when to stop. People would rather remember one short amazing kiss rather than twenty minutes of bad kissing!

“Any man who can drive safely while kissing a pretty girl is simply not giving the kiss the attention it deserves.” ~Albert Einstein

The ego kisser~

They think they are God’s gift to the world and often try to point out what you're doing wrong.  In reality it's their problem. Well it's time to burst their bubble; everyone needs to learn from their mistakes.

The heavy breather~

Okay, I agree it that some heavy breathing is important while kissing, but remember, this may worry your significant other you're having a heart attack!  Breathe in through the nose and out through the mouth in between kisses

Now for the Good Kissing…

The passionate kisser~

If you have no passion for kissing, don’t do it.  If you think kissing is not important in a relationship you’re misinformed.  The passionate kisser mixes it up… they hold you right, they kiss you on your neck and your collarbone; all the right places and they know where to properly put their hands.

“I kiss without a hug is like a flower without fragrance.” ~Proverb

A good kiss should be like a good sip of wine, with age it becomes better. So practice, practice, practice!

“I kiss it speaks volumes is seldom a first edition.” ~Claire Whiting

A good kiss should be sweet, not too long, not too wet and you must savor every moment.

“A kiss is a lovely trick designed by nature to stop speech when words become superfluous.” ~Ingrid Bergman

Here is a sign you are a great kisser…when at the end of the kiss, your partner smiles sweetly back at you.

“Kissing is like drinking salt water. You drink and your thirst increases.” ~Chinese proverb