Archive for » January, 2009 «

Jan
09

We all had a gret time this Halloween. Now let’s move on to other celebrations. For instance, are you ready for Valentine’s Day? February 19th 2009 is almost here. Have you thought of the best Valentine gifts for him? Or are you going to buy gift baskets which everybody seems to like so much? At least I’ve seen some Gourmet food gift baskets that left me with my mouth watering. It is true that if you want to be romantic, some Champagne gift baskets may seem more suitable for the occasion. My favorites of all times are the Valentines message in a bottle cards, which can deliver my feelings with accuracy and with a lot of fun and creativity. If you don’t believe me, check these out:


The Gardener

Know someone who can’t stay away from their garden and don’t know what type of gift to get them? Well then look no more! You have found the ultimate gift for the gardener in your life. Gardeners by Upper Canada is described perfectly as “a combination of fresh balsam leaves and greens with mint and a touch of sage create the lush and herbaceous scent of herbal mint”. Included in this moss and twig gift basket is hand wash, hand scrub, hand lotion, lip balm, gardening gloves, and beautiful candles that they can enjoy after a wonderful day of gardening!!!


Romantic Pleasures

This luxurious planter contains perfect goodies for a romantic escapade either for your personal use or to give away. But beware-once you have discovered this treasure we guarantee that you’ll want to keep it for yourself!!!! You can choose between creamy milk chocolate scent (shown outside basket) OR, double chocolate raspberry scent (shown in basket). Basket includes a terry cloth bath pillow, face towel, bath powder, bubble bath syrup, candle, Molten Lava Fizzie and body lotion. It smells good enough to eat. Need we say more?


Mum 2 B

Make the Mom to be feel special! This gift will be like taking the spa home to her. Nestled inside this beautiful mesh heart shaped gift box is “The Complete Guide to Pregnancy, Childbirth and The Newborn”.Inside this book you will find “the most complete and up-to-date pregnancy and childbirth guide on the market…has established itself as the leading prenatal training manual with nearly 350,000 copies sold since 1984. The revised and expanded edition includes the latest information on risky pregnancies, in vitro fertilization, new medications and anesthesia, and more. Covers all aspects of pregnancy and children. Includes charts, illustrations, and photographs. The role of the father is also discussed. Various options in childbirth are presented along with the pros and cons of each”. Not only will she receive this wonderful book but also some soothing mineral bath and belly butter to help with her growing belly! And of course we can’t forget Gund’s super soft snuggle Teddy Bear. She’ll be singing your praises!


Men’s Spa

This is the perfect gift for that special man in your life! To start off he will receive from Danielle’s Madison and Monico Collection, a triple pocket doop travel kit which is perfect for vacation, business trip or home use. He’ll enjoy Chey’s bath products which include shaving soap in a travelling tin, body wash, aftershave lotion, a soft face towel and a bath scrungee.


So Chic

Bring the spa right to Mom’s front door! Relax, pamper and spoil her with this Upper Canada lavender with citron aromatherapy pack. She’ll find soothing bath and shower gel, body lotion, bubble bath plus essential accessories which include a scrungee and a soft comfortable towel. All this tucked inside a beautiful satin wrapped gift box adorned with beautiful flowers on the lid. This is sure to make her feel rejuvenated!


How Romantic

This is the perfect gift to bring that extra little romance to that special someone. This cute mesh heart contains chocolate body paint with paint brush, Sweet Like Honey Pleasure Powder with feather and a sweet Patchwork Bear for extra snuggling.


Revitalize

The name says it all…Revitalize her with this beautiful gift! Available in either passion flower & lychee (as shown in basket), or sweet pea & quince. Included in this beautiful hand bag is a face towel, bath glove, bath powder envelope, hand and body wash and hand and body lotion. The hard part will be deciding between these two wonderful scents!!!!


Key Lime Passion

This gift will make that lucky person feel like that they’re on a tropical island. It’s the perfect sentiment for any time of the year! This Key Lime passion fruit will definitely refresh them. Included in this beautiful hand bag is a face towel, bath scrungee, shower gel, whipped body soufflé that will definitely leave their skin feeling soft and sweetly scented and of course Upper Canada’s lip butter bling which will enhance the colour and shape of that special someone’s lips. Totally Refreshing!!!!


Sweet Rapture

They will love this beautiful sweet vanilla fig detoxifier gift pack. Besides smelling absolutely amazing, Upper Canada has made these with natural ingredients which are free of parabens, mineral oils and synthetic dyes. Included in this classic straw basket is a body loofah, salt scrub, hand and body lotion and hand and body wash. (Also available in Wild Mint Lime Scent)


Pedicure In a Bag

Similar to our Tender Footsies peppermint gift, this ultra rich, buttery formula will soothe and restore while the zing of peppermint refreshes tired feet. Included is a foot file, foot brush, toe separator, exfoliating foot scrub, soothing foot cream, pedicure foot soak and foot spray. This cute pink mesh tote is perfect to use as a make-up bag as well.


Freshen Up

They will never want to leave this behind! This beautiful pink grapefruit tanglo pack is one of our favourites. It is the perfect pick-me-up! What a surprise they’ll find once they open up their new canvas knapsack. Comes with bath scrungee, moisturizing body smoothie and frothy bubble bath.


SPRING SHOWERS

What do you get when you combine Upper Canada’s Intensive Therapy hand cream with Shea Butter, body wash, Foaming bath with Sea salts, loofah sponge and a metal watering can? You get the perfect gift to tell mom that you appreciate her! This reusable watering can is perfect for those summer months as a planter or to water garden and indoor plants. Mom will be so happy!

Jan
09

Gourmet food gift baskets can go very well for Valentine’s Day gifts. The ones that contain chocolate hearts are the most suitable for this celebration of love and friendship. Romance is in the air, but love can’t live on an empty stomach. If you like any of the gift baskets below, click on its image for bigger photos and shipping information.


Bounty

Price: 78.95

Unearth bountiful pleasures. A classically styled chest complete with leather straps and metal clasp holds Saraivanov smoked salmon, spicy Guadalajara mix, Auberge Brie cheese spread, Aaron Bell seasoned crackers, roasted almonds, Columbian coffee, ingots of chocolate, Brown & Haley Almond Roca, Cassil & Klein Cranberry Twist and whimsical chocolate coins. A rare find of exceptional excellence.


Pure Gold

Price: 128.95

Opulence lies within. Nestled within a museum quality leather chest lies a rich assortment of delectable treats. Moonstruck chocolate bars, Seattle Chocolate’s Celebration truffles, Aaron Bell Almond studded Caramel coated Popcorn, dipping Pretzels with Rothschild’s Hot Pepper Peach preserves, Cassil & Klein Cranberry Twist Mix, Almond Biscotti, Cocoa, Brown & Haley’s Almond Roca, Pacific Gold Pistachios in the shell, Hathaway’s Citrus Candies, Lemon Drops, and Seattle Chocolate’s Truffles. After the goodies are gone the leather chest will remain as a elegant keepsake. Executives, business partners, family, and friends will be most impressed.


Splendid Indulgences

Price: 193.95

A feast of epic proportions. We hand pack a charming picnic hamper with delectable goodies such as Saraivanov Smoked Salmon filet, Signature Caviar, Auberge Camembert cheese spread, Beefeater olives, two cracker and pretzel favorites from Aaron Bell, Specialty Mustard, Macadamia Nuts, Columbian coffee, European cocoa, and Aaron Bell Spicy Guadalajara snack mix. We haven’t overlooked the sweet tooth either! Included are Hathaway’s Chocolate Fruit, Macadam’s Croccante cookies, Candy Berries, Sour Cherries, Peach Candies, Almond Biscotti, Cassil Klein’s Cranberry Walnut Tart, Raspberry Tea Cookies, Brown & Haley Almond Roca, Seattle Chocolate’s Truffles so creamy they spoil you for life, Hathaway’s Lemon Drops, Citrus Gems, hand poured Lollipops, and Cassil & Klein Cranberry Twist. We included an attractive cutting board with a tempered glass surface and coordinating knife so that you can break this treasure open immediately and enjoy. This is the one to impress those with flawless taste and massive enough to satisfy a crowd.


Something for Everyone

Price: 98.95

Invite the crowd over to share this lavish feast. We’ve ensured that there is something for everyone to enjoy by hand picking generous portions of Aaron Bell sweet almond popcorn, dipping pretzels and pretzel crisps, Macadam’s chocolate chip cookies, Snickerdoodle cookies, Croccante cookies, white cheddar popcorn, sesame stix, Hathaway’s peach candies, java candy, sour cherries, lusciously soft Route 29 caramels, Petit Solell bonbon au chocolat, Pacific Gold mixed nuts (nut cracker included), and our exclusive Cassil & Klein Cranberry Twist snack medley. Start the party right!


Ritzy

Price: 124.95

Enjoy the fine things in life. Phoenician pastries, Saraivanov caviar, crisp crackers, Auberge Camembert cheese spread, dipping pretzels, stone ground mustard, Aaron Bell savory popcorn, Macadam’s raspberry and lemon cookies, Cassil & Klein biscotti, Columbian coffee and European cocoa, Cranberry Twist, Hathaway’s lemon drops, pretzel crisps, Brown & Haley Almond Roca, and creamy smooth Seattle Chocolate’s truffles all presented in sophisticated black, cream and gold packaging produce a gift they’ll be raving about for months to come. Show them you care with great taste and timeless elegance.


World Traveller

Price: 142.95

Set out on a culinary journey like no other. A classic hamper offers cuisine from around the world. Phoenicia Mediterranean Pastries, Tortuga Caribbean rum cake, Columbian coffee, Italian biscotti, New York pretzels, European cocoa, Seattle Chocolate’s truffles, Aaron Bell Guadalajara snack mix, Saraivanov Pacific salmon, imported caviar, Beefeater olives, Auberge Camembert cheese spread, butter rich chocolate crisp cookies, sweet almond popcorn, Dijon mustard, and pesto crackers are all carefully hand packed and shipped to your destination of choice. A vacation for the senses, in the comfort of your own home.


Hearth and Home

Price: 68.95

This gift says “comfort”. The irresistible combination of gourmet foods in a beautiful woven basket includes Dagoba Organic Chocolate, Brown & Haley Almond Roca, Hathaway’s Old Fashioned Taffy, Cassil & Klein Cranberry Twist, Aaron Bell Almonds, Savory Popcorn, Crackers, Petit Solell Bonbon au Chocolat, Saraivanov Salmon, and Auberge Brie cheese spread. An excellent gift to say “thanks for the hospitality and warmth”. They will almost not want to open this elegant presentation…. Of course, they will be unable to resist.


Urban Luxury

Price: 78.95

Evocative of bygone, elegant times. Black and gold give a sleek and polished look to this gift. The trendy faux leather container is complimentary to modern and classic decor and will remind them of your generosity for years to come. The rich mix of food includes New York pretzel crisps, Macadam’s cinnamon sprinkled Snickerdoodles, lemon cookies, Aaron Bell roasted almonds, glazed popcorn, savory white cheddar popcorn, Petit Solell bonbon au chocolat, biscotti, assorted Seattle Chocolate’s truffles, Brown & Haley Almond Roca, tart lemon candy, seasoned pretzel knots, European cocoa, and a lightly salted snack medley of sesame stix from Aaron Bell. Sophistication personified.


Feng Shui Balance – Birthday

Price: 54.95

Feng shui is the ancient principal of living in harmony with your environment so that the energy surrounding you works for you to harmonize. Wish someone positive “Chi” for their birthday. This gift includes: Paper Firecrackers-stimulate good luck for the year, Faceted Crystal-attracts positive Chi, Bagua Shaped Mirror-place where needed to deflect negative Chi, Scented Pillow-adorned with Chinese Endless Knot (the symbol for longevity), brings positive energy and vitality, Dragon-the powerful symbol of strength, energy and protection, Coin Globe-hang from a doorknob to bring in prosperity, Pair of Fu Dogs-these symbols of protection should be placed on either side of the front door, Jade Pendant with Chinese Knot-for protection and good luck, Lucky Red Wish Envelope with Blank Paper-desires for health, wealth and happiness should be written and placed inside the envelope with intentions firmly in mind. The gift is packaged in a lovely keepsake red cylindrical box with a black silk tassel. Recipients will open delight after delight and will surely know how much you care about their well being!


Perfect Celebration

Price: 47.95

Receive raves about this beautiful tower filled with pretzels, white cheddar popcorn, sesame stix, Guadalajara mix, Cranberry Twist, lemon cookies, candy berries, black tie almonds, and world-famous Almond Roca. Open it and have an instant celebration.


Sparkling Cider Basket

Price: 98.95

Treats for children and adults alike. Two bottles of crisp sparkling cider/juice and a generous selection of Saraivanov Smoked Salmon, Signature Caviar, Auberge Brie cheese spread, Aaron Bell Wine Companion Crackers, Seasoned Pretzels, Seattle Chocolate’s Truffles, Judy’s Caramels, Columbian Coffee, Cassil & Klein Biscotti, Cranberry Twist, Brown & Haley Almond Roca, Hathaway’s Cherry Sours, and Roasted Almonds. This gift is always in good taste.

Jan
09

Champagne and romance go well together. Valentine’s gift baskets featuring a nice bottle of fine champagne can go to your lover’s heart. You don’t have to buy Dom Perrignon. Any other champagne brand would do. What’s important is that you can tell your boyfriend or girlfriend that your soul is full of love and sympathy. Then you can consume the gift basket’s content together, in a romantic date.


Champagne and Chocolate (Domaine St. Michelle)

Price: 92.95

For extra special occasions, or just because… Champagne & chocolate is an unparalleled match. Nestled in a chiller, the gift makes a prestigious presentation. Domaine St. Michelle Cuvee Brut to accompany chocolate confections. A votre Santé!


Champagne and Chocolate (Dom Perignon)

Price: 249.95

For extra special occasions, or just because… Champagne & chocolate is an unparalleled match. Nestled in a chiller, the gift makes a prestigious presentation. Dom Perignon to accompany chocolate confections. A votre Santé!


Monarch Champagne Basket

Price: 224.95

Celebrate life’s triumphs with this distinguished basket. Chandon White Star champagne will be the focal point of your gift. This champagne is a prestigious award winner. Recipients will toast to their good fortune while enjoying delicate Phoenician pastries, Saraivanov signature caviar, smoked salmon, Auberge Camembert cheese spread, Aaron Bell crackers, seasoned pretzels, roasted almonds, Seattle Chocolate’s truffles, pretzel crisps, Brown & Haley Almond Roca, Pacific Gold mixed nuts (nutcracker included), Macadam’s tangy lemon cookies, Hathaway’s citrus candy, and Cassil & Klein cranberry snack mix. Show them just how much they mean with this beauty of a gift.


Dom Perignon Experience

Price: 238.95

A bold statement of romance. A bottle of Dom Perignon (1999) and two crystal champagne flutes by Mikasa. Drinking a Dom Perignon vintage offers the inimitable experience of savoring the world’s premier champagne. Cellar aged for 7 to 8 years it is like a satiny wave that unfurls, embraces and caresses. Drinking it from premium, exquisite flutes heightens the experience. When only the best is good enough.


Avante Garde (Domaine St. Michelle Cuvee Brut)

Price: 118.95

A gift for those with fine taste. Choose Domaine St. Michelle Cuvee Brut – effervescent and radiant. Beautifully paired with the champagne are Moonstruck’s Dark Chocolate, Splendid Specialties’ champagne cream Chocolate Enrobed Truffles, Rothschild’s Raspberry Wasabi Dipping Mustard, Brown & Haley Almond Roca, Aaron Bell Pesto Crackers, Macadamia Nuts, Spicy Guadalajara mix, Pretzels, Pacific Gold Pistachio Nuts, Hathaway’s Peach Candies, Lemon Drops, and Seattle Chocolate Truffles. A gift that will define the moment.


Match Made in Heaven – Champagne and Caviar

Price: 52.95

Celebrate an achievement, milestone or special occasion…. Another day for example! A little picnic hamper holds two splits of Chandon California Brut Classic- A premium sparkling wine. Saraivanov Caviar, Aaron Bell Crisp Crackers and a serving knife are included to make a gift of understated elegance and superb taste. You don’t really need an excuse to present this to a friend or loved one! Just being here is enough to celebrate.


Elegant Wine and Gourmet (I bottle champagne)

Price: 164.95

A deluxe bottle of champagne is the crowning glory of this basket. A variety of gourmet foods are included in the basket to perfectly compliment the champagne Delicacies such as seasoned crackers, cheese, olives, nuts and other cocktail nibblers are artfully arranged with cookies and specialty confections in an attractive basket. A gift for those of discriminating taste.

Jan
09

Valentine’s Day gifts come into attention, as we approach February 19th again. For year 2009, gift baskets are in the center of attention. Who doesn’t like chocolates? A chocolate heart can speak about your feelings for your beloved one. In case one of the following gift baskets draws your attention, click on its photo for more details about delivery terms:


Todo Doce

The Todo Doce chocolate gift basket is an overly packed smorgasbord of sweets. An impression is what you’ll make with this gift suitable for business or pleasure. It includes: large box of assorted Droste chocolates, Mrs. Field’s chocolate raspberry sticks, Brookside chocolate covered almonds, Chocolate pizza slice, Baron chocolate slab, Toblerone bar, Brockmann’s Truffini, Guylian chocolate shells, Eitelbach milk chocolate rounds, Cherrington French truffles, Redondo chocolate wafers and imported truffles.


Decandencia

They’ll remember you for our popular Decadencia Chocolate Gift Basket. It’s a magnificent mahogany basket, rich with fine Chocolates and Sweets. The overflowing treats are: Droste chocolates, David’s cookie crumble, chocolate fudge popcorn, dark chocolate coconut chocolates, Old Fashioned cream puffs, caramel popcorn, chocolate covered almonds, chocolate covered fruit and nuts, Brent & Sam’s gourmet cookies, 5 different Ghirardelli chocolate slabs (dark chocolate with toffee and almond pieces, caramel, dark chocolate, milk chocolate and mint chocolate), East Shore’s dipping pretzels, gourmet chocolate dip, banana chocolate slab, raspberry chocolate slab, Cherrington French truffles, Eitelbach rounds, Brockmann Truffini truffles, milk chocolate almond bark and white chocolate almond bark. Perfect gift for a group or family.


Sweet Thoughts

Yummy Yummy Yummy is what they’ll say when they receive this beautiful sentiment! They will enjoy Saltwater taffy, Taboo nut mix, chocolate fudge, Guylian chocolates, Maple Nougat candy, Sara’s Sweets bag of sour candy, Brockmann Truffini mocha truffles, Peach Buds and a Surreal Brazilian truffle.


Ahoy There!

They are sure to love this 12.5″ keepsake wooden row boat that is wall mountable. Packed inside are caramel popcorn, vanilla Clodhoppers, chocolate covered fruit & nut, Eitelbach milk chocolate rounds, sourdough pretzel bites, smoked almonds, chocolate covered almonds, Taboo nut mix, Brent & Sam’s chocolate chip cookies and Brazilian truffle.


Chocolate Fix

A perfect medley of tasty treats, this popular gift basket is ideal for sending greetings to one or a few: Cherrington French truffles, Comfort Collection chocolate wafer’s, caramel popcorn, raspberry chocolate slab, banana chocolate slab, Brockmann’s raspberry Truffini, Guylian chocolates, Eitelbach milk chocolate rounds and milk chocolate almond bark. Elegantly assembled in this stylishly bordered wicker basket.


Sweet Tooth

This will definitely please somebody’s Sweet Tooth…Ghirardelli chocolate slab, Allegro cookies, chocolate cream wafers, caramel popcorn, Sara’s Sweets bag of sour candy, Guylian chocolates, blueberry dip, Chris & Larry’s Clodhoppers and imported Brazilian truffles.


True Decadence

Our True Decadence gift basket is a sophisticated arrangement of imported chocolates – an all chocolate gift! Standing tall in this flower embossed metal basket are cognac and champagne chocolate bars, gourmet chocolate sauce, Droste chocolates, Irish cream cups, Ferrero Rocher, Toblerone bar, Cherrington French chocolates, Guylian chocolate shells and Brazilian Surreal truffles.


Sweetheart

Nothing is as sweet as a mother but this comes close! 2 Fuji Apples, 1 D’anjou Pear, 1 Navel Orange, 1 Granny Smith Apple, 1 4 pc handmade Petits Fours, 3 oz. Chocolate Dutch Mints, 1 “Mom” Cookie, 4 asst’d Ghirardelli Chocolate Squares, all in the most adorable tray. Make mom feel super special.


Ghirardelli Devine

This is a must for that Ghirardelli connoisseur!!! Elegantly arranged in this gorgeous planter you will ONLY find delicious Ghirardelli products. Assorted chocolates Slabs such as: almond, milk Chocolate, dark chocolate, mint chocolate, caramel chocolate, toffee and almond pieces. You will also find assorted coffee’s such as: hazelnut, double chocolate and raspberry. Wow, Wow Wow, is all we can say!


Just Enough…

Not only will they receive this beautiful planter but also some delicious gourmet treats to go along with it: Elizabeth Shaw mint crisps, Droste chocolates, Ghirardelli milk chocolate slab, Maple Nougat candy and Brockmann Truffini Truffles.


Pure Elegance

The Pure Elegance Chocolate Gift Basket is rich in taste & selection. This decadent choice is a gift that will please the pickiest family, friend or associate. English shortbreads, Chocolate Lover’s pizza slice topped with peanuts & marshmallows, champagne chocolate, Old-Fashioned butterscotch drops, Ghirardelli chocolate bar, Saltwater Taffy, chocolate covered almonds, cafe late chocolates, Baron dark chocolate bar and milk chocolate car, Ferrero Rocher, english toffee, white chocolate amaretto wafer and Eitelbach milk chocolate rounds.


Time To Celebrate

This elegant gold planter gift basket inspires celebration with velvety Baron chocolate, mouth-watering Brent & Sam’s chocolate chip pecan cookies, Sherwood wafer’s, Cashew Roca, crunchy gourmet caramel popcorn, Cherrington’s fine French truffles, cafe late chocolates, Eitelbach’s chocolate rounds and lemon almond thimble cookies.


Truckalicious

This is the perfect gift for that lasting impression. Delicious melt in your mouth Eitelbach milk chocolate, Maple Nougat candy, Ferrero Rocher, champagne and cognac chocolate bars.


Hugs and Kisses

This will certainly be a memorable gift. A wooden wall mountable rowing boat is filled with imported Brazilian truffles, a bunch of Hershey Kisses and of course a Snugly Patchwork Teddy Bear.


Something Special Tower

A presence!!! This large tower is Filled with favorites such as Sweet Mints, Lemon Drops, Peach Slices, Seasoned Pretzels, McTavish Cookies, Guadalajara Mix, Almond Roca, Pistachios, Almonds, Sesame Stix, Chocolate Mint and Blueberry cookie thins. Eight levels of generosity. An excellent gift for friends, family or business associates. The last impression will be just as wonderful as the first.


Joyous Thanks!

Need a way to really express your thanks? Have we got the gift for you!!! Aaron Bell savory popcorn, toffee peanuts, Jelly Bellys, Hathaway’s sour cherry candy, toffee chews, Petit Solell bonbon au chocolat, Cassil & Klein Cranberry Twist snack mix, and Brown & Haley Almond Roca rounds out this delightful basket. They will have no doubt about your appreciation!


Regal Tower

Treat them like a Queen or King for a day. They will enjoy candy coated corn snacks, pretzels, McTavish Shortbread cookies, pistachios, almonds, jelly beans and Almond Roca. A six level tower that will surely make an impression. Or, treat yourself and share with some friends!


Excellence Tower of Snacks

Level after level of delicious surprises. The deliciousness starts with sweet almond popcorn; builds with gourmet cheese corn and golden nuggets; increases with peanut brittle, candy berries and chocolate chip cookies; and exceeds expectations with creamy caramels by Judy. Astounding in its elegance and scrumptiousness.


Macadams Chocolate Thank you

Gratitude brought to new levels! Eight boxes of Macadam’s chocolate confections including chocolate covered pretzels, chocolate cherries, cranberry shortbread cookies dipped in white chocolate, buttery shortbread cookies dunked in dark chocolate, chocolate covered almonds, chocolate covered hazelnuts, chocolate covered graham cracker cookies and assorted chocolate truffles. Individual boxes fit in a candy box and combine to read ‘Thank You’. An edible Post Card.


Macadams Chocolate Collection

Delectable! Eight individual boxes with artwork by watercolorist Sara Wallfisch conceal a delectable assortment of chocolate confections. Enjoy chocolate covered almonds, cranberry shortbread cookies dunked in white chocolate, chocolate truffles, McTavish shortbread cookies dipped in dark chocolate, chocolate covered graham crackers, dark chocolate covered hazelnuts, chocolate covered cherries, and chocolate drenched pretzels. Colorwashes of pale green, blue, blush and dark brown create a stunning look for the gift. The chocolates inside put it over the top. Unique and delicious!


Spring into Fun!

Hail the end of winter and the arrival of spring in a delicious and stylish way. Five petite “hatboxes” are filled with the best sweets available. We include citrus jellies in four flavors-strawberry, orange, lemon and lime, individually wrapped assorted hard candies, chocolate covered sunflower seeds, chocolate chip cookies, Jordan Almonds. The Easter Bunny has nothing on this!


Golden Decadence

A favourite. This beauty features Ghirardelli Caramel Squares, melt in your mouth Seattle Chocolates and Lindt Truffles, Brown & Haley Almond Roca, WVM Sweet-Hot Stone Ground Mustard, Aaron Bell Seasoned Crackers, Spicy Guadalajara Mix, Saraivanov’s Smoked Salmon, Macadam’s Chocolate Chip Cookies, Hathaway’s juicy Citrus Jellies, Cassil & Klein traditional Almond Biscotti and a cheese knife. The perfect way to let someone know how special they are.

Jan
08

How many of you have ever dreamed to start a business, but never knew how to do it in a proper way? Start-ups are extremely exposed in the beginning, especially because of the threat of cash flow issues which often occur to inexperienced managers, or to those who don’t have initial funding in order to be able to cross this stage without problems. If you have some money and think of starting from a higher level in your desired industry, you can try to find some good franchise opportunities. Franchises are good because they give you a turn-key business, perfectly operational, and all you have to do is manage it wisely and make it profitable at small level. At FranchiseOpportunities.com you’ll find a web directory of franchise and business opportunities requiring various investment levels. Browse through them and find the one that fits your needs and your budgets. Together with the business, you’ll get also the know-how of the mother company, you’ll benefit from systems proven to work, from good training for your personnel. Searching in the directory is easy, as the website provides a few filters: by investment level, by state or by industry.

In the same website, you can read interesting info about franchises in general, or you can even ask for consultancy in this matter.

Jan
08

I’ve written about my collecting hobbies several times now. Luckily I live in a big house, so I have plenty of spece for all those rock collections, stamps collections and other items I like to bring from ny trips across the world.

Today I’m going to share with you my new passion: I’m collecting antique clocks. This hobby will allow me to arrange a great room full of clocks, where to enjoy the afternoon leisure. It all started one month ago, when I got a present from my godfather: one of those superb ansonia clocks which I’ve always admired but never thought I’d have one some day.

I know I’ll have to study a lot, because I need to learn how to classify antique clocks. Clocks can be shelf, wall, longcase, beehives, and according to their original purpose, they can be advertising clocks, animated clocks, anniversary clocks, etc. Did you know, for instance, that already in the 17th century they were making clocks which required winding only once a year? Yet, the torsion pendulum was invented in 1829.

A few of the most known and appreciated brands of antique clocks are Ansonia Clock Company in the US, Badishe Clock Company, Junghans and Gustav Becker in Germany, Pierre and Alfred Drocourt in France, Gebruders Resch in Austria, and the list could go on like this for a while.

I’ll share with you more info on how to buy antique clocks as I learn.

Jan
07

When it comes to Valentine’s gift ideas, a simple yet creative way to handle it is to go for a really nice gift basket. There is a wide choice of gourmet food gift baskets, mixed with fine wines, champagne or candy chocolates, that it is impossible not to find the perfect match for your sweetheart.

Gourmet Food and Wine Gift Baskets

Here you can find a few ideas for cool gift baskets to be consumed in two. For bigger photos and more details on shipping and how to buy, please click on the images:

Champagne Celebration – $ 89.95
Exquisite two-toned wash basket with handles accents the 2 Chandon Brut Cuvee ”Champagne” splits, Lindt Chocolate Truffles, Carr’s Table Water Crackers, Cream Havarti cheese, Clearbrook Farms Old Fashioned Preserves, Esther’s White Chocolate with Lemon candy, Crown Jewell Gourmet popcorn, Nikki’s Gourmet Cookies, Pacific Gold Pistachios, 2 Chocolate Hearts, Crunchie Munchie Snack Mix, 2 Gourmet Cappuccinos and Butterfields Lemon Buds hard candy. A great combination for Valentine’s Day, to have a celebration in two.
Mon Ami – $ 95.00
How do you sum up friendship? In any language, this basket says it all. Decadent delicacies, a split of “champagne”, cheers to that special friend or business acquaintance.Two-tone Wash Basket with Handles, Domaine Chandon Splits, Clearbrook Farms Old Fashioned Preserves, Pacific Gold Pistachios, Nikki’s Key Lime Cookies, Chocolate Hearts, Chocolate Truffles, Crown Jewel Yellow Topaz Popcorn, Esther’s White Chocolate with Lemon Candy. A selected choice for Valentine’s Day perfect gift basket
Mother-in-Law Meltdown – $ 239.95
Dom Perignon Gift Box delicately accompanied by 12 chocolate foiled rosebuds in a box. Although the name of this gift basket suggests that it is meant for mothers, it doesn’t mean it’s not a great Valentine gift basket. Any girl would melt to that.
We Couldn’t Have Done it Without You – $ 99.95
Moet & Chandon White Star Champagne delicately accompanied by 12 chocolate oiled rosebuds in a box. A cheaper version of the previous gift basket, for those of you who are on a crisis budget.
Celebration – $ 195.00
A business success, love, a milestone, or simply Valentine’s Day – all marked with the classic raised glass. Enchanting delicacies complete this basket. You supply your finest toast.Wash Basket with Handles, Moet et Chandon White Star Champagne, 2 Champagne Flutes (optional with your logo), Black Caviar, French Brie Cheese, Carr’s Table Water Crackers, 9 Lindt Chocolate Balls, Pacific Gold Pistachio Nuts, Mother of Pearl Caviar Spoon.
Golfer’s Paradise – $ 229.95
Dom Perignon Gift Box displayed with a chocolate golf bag and 2 chocolate golf balls in an attractive box. A Valentine’s gift for him, especially if he’s addicted to golf.
Pasta, Passion & Perfection – $ 109.95
Chianti Wine, Elena’s rainbow gemelli, Elena’s marinara sauce, Grissini bread sticks, Romano cheese, Red wine biscuits, La Tempesta biscotti, Blue cheese stuffed olives, Gaeta extra virgin olive oil, Nikki’s shortbread amaretto cookies, Butterfield’s peach buds hard candy. Beautifully Arranged in a Wash Basket with Handles, to make a perfect gift for Valentine or for Mother’s Day.
Jan
07

Beauty gift baskets are very appreciated, be it for Valentine’s Day or any other occasion. You can offer your boyfriend the luxury of a hot bath full of scents and relaxation. Give him a massage too, and you’ll spend a great Valentines Day celebration.


The Gardener

Price: 74.95

Know someone who can’t stay away from their garden and don’t know what type of gift to get them? Well then look no more! You have found the ultimate gift for the gardener in your life. Gardeners by Upper Canada is described perfectly as “a combination of fresh balsam leaves and greens with mint and a touch of sage create the lush and herbaceous scent of herbal mint”. Included in this moss and twig gift basket is hand wash, hand scrub, hand lotion, lip balm, gardening gloves, and beautiful candles that they can enjoy after a wonderful day of gardening!!!


Men’s Spa

Price: 134.95

This is the perfect Valentine gift for him, for that special man in your life! To start off he will receive from Danielle’s Madison and Monico Collection, a triple pocket doop travel kit which is perfect for vacation, business trip or home use. He’ll enjoy Chey’s bath products which include shaving soap in a traveling tin, body wash, aftershave lotion, a soft face towel and a bath scrungee.

Jan
07

Valentines gifts don’t have to be expensive to be effective. A simple message, creatively wrapped in a bottle or in a heart box can do wonders in expressing the way we feel. When love and creativity go hand in hand, messages in a bottle are born. Originating from ancient times, when wrecked people were sending their requests to be save in bottles, and launched them on waters, the messages in bottles have passed the test of time, so they are here even on Valentine’s Day 2009, ready to be sent to our beloved ones. Each message bottle below sends a special message, so we can choose the one which we want to express your intentions to our partner in love and romance. For more information and larger photos, please click on the images below.


Air Force Bottle

Soaring through the skies reflects the color of our heavenly cobalt blue bottle. Truly a rare find! This bottle stands 13″ tall. Proudly displaying our Nation’s Air Force Emblem, this cobalt blue bottle makes a Forever Treasured Keepsake!


Tesoro

This Timeless Treasure is clear square bottle standing 8 1/2″ tall. For a limited time only, we are shipping the Tesoro Message in a Bottle with a Custom Branded HANDCRAFTED WOOD BIRCH CRATE AT NO ADDITIONAL CHARGE TO YOU for the Crate.


Donosa

This Graceful and Elegant Bottle Stands 8 inches tall and Boasts of Beauty and Grace for your Valentine. The Donosa will ship beautifully cradled in our Custom Branded Handcrafted Wooden Birch Crate at no additional charge to you for the Crate!


Heart of Roses

This Pristine Clear Heart Bottles Cradles Your Message with Rich Red Silk Rose Petals. A Huge Romantic Hit for Valentines Day! Your Heart of Roses Timeless Message will arrive nestled in our Custom Crafted Branded Birch Crate for a most impressive presentation!


Corazon

The Corazon’s deep beauty and richness in quality speak to love and romance. This is another best gift for Valentine’s Day. Handcrafted in Europe, these are truly one of a kind and quantities are limited. Your Corazon will be nestled in a custom branded birch crate at no extra charge to you.


Joya

Our Timeless Joya is a true Classic. This Message in a Bottle is Deep Emerald Green and is a truly elegant selection. It stands 12″ tall. Price includes our Burgundy Velvet Designer wine bag or you can upgrade to our Custom Wood Birch Crate


Amber

This bottle reflects the color of an amber jewel with a strong and slender style. A stunning addition to any home. This bottle stands 13″ tall.


Eterno

This very elegant and sophisticated selection touches the heart with a subtle hint of warm antique green and a heartwarming golden champagne glow. The Bottle stands 12″ tall.


Sincero

This Timeless Clear Heart Bottle shows the clarity and purity of your heart. A Valentine’s Hit. This bottle stands 9” tall with its elegant glass topper. An import with rave reviews! Your heart bottle will be nestled in a custom branded birch crate at no extra charge to you! One of the best Valentines gifts for 2009.


Atlantis Ship

This exquisite hand blown beauty is designed for the discriminating taste. An elegant import with the finest of quality. The ship is intricately framed within the indentation in the front of the bottle. This is a perfect gift for ship lovers and landlovers alike. Some sails are clear and some are blue. This bottle stands 12″ tall.


Champagne Wishes

This Very Elegant Bottle Shimmers and Glows with the Sophistication Of a fine Champagne. It’s a sure hit! Give one to your sweetheart on Valentine’s Day and drink it together.


Esparterro

This clear pristine bottle has clarity, sophistication and style. Its Timeless beauty and simple charm make it a classic message in a bottle.


Celeste

This heavenly cobalt blue bottle is a beautiful choice and a rare find. It is limited in quantity. The bottle stands 12″ tall.


Anchor of Atlantis

Who is your anchor in life…that someone whose love is a constant source of strength…and their love anchors you …without them you would drift to and fro… Send them your Timeless Message cradled in this beautiful Hand-blown Atlantis Anchor bottle that has sailed to us across the Atlantic Ocean.


Chestnut

The “Chestnut” embodies the warmth, richness, charm and elegance of Romance. This bottle stands 13″ tall.


Esperanza

This Bordeaux bottle is a powder blue with a high shoulder that speaks of hope and expectation. This bottle displays your message beautifully. It stands 12” tall


Albercca

This absolutely gorgeous, rich antique beauty was first spotted at an Old Spanish Inn cradled in a Small Village in the foothills of Albercca Spain. Its lush color and full body speak of rich treasure.


Marine Bottle

Our Emerald Green Bordeaux bottle boasts strong high shoulders that shine with honor. This bottle stands 12″ tall. Proudly displaying our Nation’s Marine Corps Emblem, this emerald jewel bottle makes a Forever Treasured Keepsake!


Navy

This stunning cobalt blue bottle is our Bordeaux style and is a rare find indeed, standing 13″ tall. Proudly displaying the Navy Emblem, this cobalt blue bottle makes a Forever Treasured Keepsake!


Coast Guard

Honor our Coast Guard with Style Perfect to send or receive. Honoring those who serve our great Country. A Great Keepsake.


Fire Department

Send one to or from someone in the Fire Department. Honoring those who serve our great Country. Perfect to receive or Send. A Great Keepsake.


Army

Our Emerald Green Bordeaux bottle boasts strong high shoulders that shine with honor. Stands 12″ tall. Proudly displaying our Nation’s Army Emblem, this emerald jewel bottle makes a Forever Treasured Keepsake!


Key To My Heart

This Pristine Romantic Selection Delivers the Key to Your Heart in a most elegant fashion. A Huge Romantic Hit that speaks to love and romance like no other. This Bottle has a clear heart shaped topper brimming with unique elegance. The Key To My Heart arrives nestled in a Custom Handcrafted and Branded Birch Crate for a most spectacular presentation!


Sqweezie Bear

Sqweezie Bear delivers your message in his arms with sophisticated Elegance. This clear pristine bottle has clarity, sophistication and style. The bottle stands 12″ tall.


Huggy Bear

This Sentimental, Adorable Huggy Bear delivers your message with Huggy Bear’s arms wrapped around the neck of your bottle to deliver your heartfelt Valentines message. This Timeless Message Bottle delivers a subtle hint of warm antique golden champagne glow.The Bottle stands 12″ tall color of bottle may vary.


TimelessSeaShores

The magic of the sea is captured in this Elegant Timeless Treasure.
We do not put sand in our bottles ONLY SHELLS as it is very messy and ruins the presentation when the recipient tips the bottle to remove the message and sand spills out on their clothes and floor.
The Sea Shells make a spectacular presentation and and keeps everyones memories happy ones.

For an absolutely spectacular presentation, add our Handcrafted Custom Birch Crate.

Jan
07

Valentine’s Day is one of the occasions when we can express our love for our life partner. This is a perfect time of year to offer cool gifts to the ones we love. Romantic gifts, expensive gifts, cheap gifts, or simply a nice, personalized Valentine’s card can speak volumes about our feelings. Valentines gifts are a habit of teenagers and young people, but also middle aged and even senior persons enjoy this celebration of love and romance.

Valentines Gifts Types

Depending on your mood, your creative skills or your relationship with the other person, Valentines gifts can be of several types. Let’s see what people like to give on Valentine’s Day, now, in 2009, as well as in former years. Times change, but romance stays the same, we have the same clichees, the same desires, the same feelings and mainly the same ways and methods to express them.
Valentine’s Day is a good reason for unleashing your creativity, in finding the craziest gifts ever, the most romantic ones, or the most unusual ones.