Preston’s Gift Guide Part 2: A Little Something For Yourself

The holidays are stressful. In thinking about what to get for others, sometimes you lose sight of taking care of someone who could really use extra attention right now: yourself. (And besides, in order to give you have to receive, right?)

Here are some presents you can get for yourself to indulge in a little luxury...

• The Gift of Time: Pre-book a monthly luxurious appointment to last you throughout all of 2010. Book your favorite manicurist or some time at your favorite spa.
• Candles: I know this may seem obvious, but you’ll be amazed at how relaxed you begin to feel when you turn off all the lights and light candles around you. Not only do you get the benefit of some aromatherapy, but you also get a chance to escape from the world and take a minute to yourself. I’d suggest candles from Molton Brown or Rigaud in Gardenia scent  
• The Gift of Education: Isn’t there something you’ve always wanted to learn how to do? Maybe it’s how to cook amazing French food or how to speak Spanish. Book a class or two for yourself and find out how much there is out there to learn. 
• The Gift of Charity: I know we’re talking about something for yourself, but this is actually a very indulgent present because it’s amazing how good giving can feel. Take time out to donate to a charity or volunteer your time. You’ll be making a difference in the world and helping those who really need it. 

Photo by: Molton Brown

Preston’s Gift Guide: For Those Special Women In Your Life

I don’t have to remind you that Christmas is next week, so I thought instead I’d give some gift recommendations for those important women in your life—namely your mom or wife/wife-to-be (ladies, feel free to email this post to your significant other if they need a hint). I know that sometimes it’s hard to find just the right thing...and for those reading, if you have some gift ideas for a mom or wife/ wife-to-be let us know your recommendations in the comments.

For Your Mom

• Weekend Getaway: Most moms will only ask for one thing—more time to spend with you. Give her what she wants by booking a weekend getaway for just you and her. It doesn’t have to be anywhere exotic—it can be a hotel in your town or the next town over.
• Wine Delivery: Show mom how much you appreciate her good taste with a gift of wine. The New York Times wine club offers a chance for mom to receive a bottle once a month. The bottles also come with notes on recommended recipe pairings.
• A Night on the Town: Make mom feel special by booking reservations at her favorite restaurant and taking her out for a night on the town. If you’re feeling extra generous, spring for theatre tickets or a movie to make the night last longer. Or, you can set up this evening for your parents to spend together.

For Your Wife/Wife-to-be

• Monthly Delivery of Flowers: Don’t let the romance stop. Stop by your local florist and arrange it so that your lady love will receive an arrangement once a month for an entire year. You’ll never hear the phrase, “I can’t remember the last time you got me flowers” ever again.
• A Massage (or other favorite spa treatment at her favorite salon): Nothing says “special” like giving your wife some time to pamper herself. If you’d like to join her in the treat, book a couple’s massage. It will give you two a chance to spend some quality time together.
• The Nook: She always talks about wanting to find some time to sit back and read a good book. Give her the opportunity to read multiple books, without having to worry about shelf space or how heavy that hardcover is.  I know it’s currently sold out, but if you pre-order one now, you can choose to receive a Nook Holiday Certificate  to let her know it’s on the way. Bonus item: You can also buy her one of these amazing designer Nook covers--especially great for those women who love accessories.