It's In The Mail

The abundance of celebratory food and drink is full of good cheer, but the aftermath of blowing up to a bigger size in only a few days is depressing.

 

The prize for the most mixed emotions during the holidays may be the presents. I know some of you were working on your gift list in July, but for the rest of us it’s a last-minute chaotic time.

 

I dread the forced present buy. During extensive travel all year, I see perfect gifts for friends or relatives. I have bought these items early and then completely forgotten about them only to find them at the bottom of a drawer in mid-March.

 

Yes, I am a complete loser when it comes to present buying.

 

Not this year though. Not only am I finished six weeks early, a miracle in itself, but I know everyone will be thrilled with my gifts! They are unique and gorgeous. How did I manage this mammoth achievement?

The Spirit of Christmas Show was on while I was in London. This event is for everyone (mind you there was barely a male in sight and the few I saw looked in severe pain) and it is everything Christmas.

 

I dragged my best friend Jacky along, promising to only spend an hour. Seven hours later, escorted by several charming young men caring our wares like an ancient Middle Eastern caravan, we stuffed our goods into a taxi and we were done. And I mean done. Everyone on my list is receiving the most fabulous and individual gift this year.

 

I know you are thinking bully for you, you are in London and I am not. But this is a new era and every one of these artisans, craftsmen, designers and fashionistas has a website and they all ship.

The Internet has opened up the shopping world and brought it right to your door. Check out your area for gift shows and rediscover the special beauty of handmade presents. If you can’t find what you want, use your computer.

 

Here are some of my best finds from the London show.

 

Spoil someone you love with a set of good quality bed linens. It doesn’t have to be the entire bed collection but maybe some gorgeous linen pillow cases, or a luxurious embroidered nightie or bed shirt. Visit http://www.antique-designs.co.uk/home.aspwww.antique-designs.co.uk.

 

We all know the men in our life are impossible to buy for. Few of us use handkerchiefs anymore but they’re on the comeback trail. Tamielle.com has individual historic icons printed on beautiful linen handkerchiefs handmade in a village in Bulgaria. They are a delightful present for the man in your life, whether he is interested in football, rugby, golf, cars or bikes.

 

Cupcakes seem to have taken over the world. The show had the most creative cupcakes, pieces of exquisite art. Take a look in your hometown and support a local baker.

 

This year, enjoy your shopping and have a very merry holiday.