Serving Wine Using Exquisite And Refined Wine Glasses
by Muna wa Wanjiru
plug itThere is no better way of serving wine than using some exquisite and refined wine glasses; think of the way the light reflects in the clarity of a quality beverage, imagine the soft elegance of a stemmed glass half-filled with ruby-red liquor: the truth is that we could actually find an artistic expression in wine serving and wine tasting. As a matter of fact, the very production of wine glasses is as old as the fifteenth century when the heavy metal cups were replaced by more delicate glass vessels. As glass craftsmanship reached higher grounds, the complexity of the wine glasses increased significantly, and engravings, etchings and decorations soon became possible.
Using the right wine glasses according to the etiquette is essential at any formal or informal dinner: the size, the color and the shape of the glassware is influenced by the nature of the liquor you intend to serve. The rules that set the grounds for the choice of wine glasses are definitely unwritten, but they are common practice in society, at receptions, restaurants, dinner halls and so on. Therefore, a red wine will be well served in larger rounded wine glasses, preferably with a high stem, whereas white wine looks well in slender wine glasses.
As curious as it may seem to an amateur, not only the color, but the aroma as such is captured differently in various wine glasses. If you place the same wine in two vessels of distinct shapes, there will be a slight distinction in the aroma; yet, noticing such differences is usually the merit of true wine connoisseurs. Another criterion for choosing wine glasses is the time of the day when you intend to serve the liquor: a rich dinner should always be accompanied by a large glass of wine, whereas a short sip of beverage before the meal will necessarily be served in a small-sized model.
It is often the custom to have several types of wine glasses arranged on the table, so that each dish may be accompanied by the proper beverage. Nevertheless, you'll only find this arrangement with wedding parties and especially very official dinners. More wine glasses send a distinct and clear message: the meal is to be enjoyed for several hours, there are plenty of courses and the entire dinner is to be cherished in its diversity. All in all, it is somehow obvious how enjoyable wine glasses could make an otherwise daily routine.
2008-05-09
Iittala Essence Glassware : Glassware set store
Iittala Essence Glassware
by Prabakar S
plug itIittala is known for creating objects that are thought through in form, function and quality. Objects with a clear thought, created to achieve long lasting everyday use and inspiration. Whether in metal, wood, porcelain or glass, iittala design objects are tools for contemporary living.
The iittala Tools casserole pans have interior measuring scales and are constructed from an innovative Compound Technology that distributes and retains heat evenly. The iittala Tools frying pans, grill pan and cast-iron pots have each been manufactured from the most appropriate materials for their function and are superb tools that beat the competition. The iittala Tools oven tray is a sleek, functional, and appealing design that completes the set.
Iittala continues to be a major driving force of Scandinavian design with legendary designers Franck and Alvar Aalto (1898-1976) as the cornerstones for the brand. iittala objects are design essentials stripped to their core; the pure union of function, form and quality that demonstrates the company's core philosophy of lasting everyday design, against 'throwawayism'.
Iittala's high quality glass jars turn the eternal problem of storage into decoration. These basic pieces come in three sizes and colors, each with a transparent, plastic lid. They will continue to reinvent themselves in your kitchen or wherever else you choose to use them, whatever you decide to put inside them. Cool and contemporary organization and storage, and beautiful photographic glimpses of your everyday life in perpetual change. Please purchase on online www.etabletop.com
by Prabakar S
plug itIittala is known for creating objects that are thought through in form, function and quality. Objects with a clear thought, created to achieve long lasting everyday use and inspiration. Whether in metal, wood, porcelain or glass, iittala design objects are tools for contemporary living.
The iittala Tools casserole pans have interior measuring scales and are constructed from an innovative Compound Technology that distributes and retains heat evenly. The iittala Tools frying pans, grill pan and cast-iron pots have each been manufactured from the most appropriate materials for their function and are superb tools that beat the competition. The iittala Tools oven tray is a sleek, functional, and appealing design that completes the set.
Iittala continues to be a major driving force of Scandinavian design with legendary designers Franck and Alvar Aalto (1898-1976) as the cornerstones for the brand. iittala objects are design essentials stripped to their core; the pure union of function, form and quality that demonstrates the company's core philosophy of lasting everyday design, against 'throwawayism'.
Iittala's high quality glass jars turn the eternal problem of storage into decoration. These basic pieces come in three sizes and colors, each with a transparent, plastic lid. They will continue to reinvent themselves in your kitchen or wherever else you choose to use them, whatever you decide to put inside them. Cool and contemporary organization and storage, and beautiful photographic glimpses of your everyday life in perpetual change. Please purchase on online www.etabletop.com
History of Riedel Glasses : Glassware set store
History of Riedel Glasses
by Prabakar S
plug itThe Riedel family has been in the glass business for 300 years, with 11 generations keeping the family business intact. The Riedel story begins in 1678 in the northern part of Bohemia, bordering Schlesia today the Czech republic and Poland respectively. This part of Bohemia was a German speaking enclave known as the Sudetenland. The Venetians brought back the knowledge of glass making from the Near East around 1.000 A.D. The knowledge of producing glass spread slowly towards the northern part of Europe, searching for energy, critical to the melting of glass. Wood was the source, causing a glassmaker migration to the forests. Due to this migration, a glass culture developed in Bohemia in the 17th century.
The first Riedel in the trade of luxury glass goods was Johann Christoph Riedel, born in 1678. He journeyed all over Europe trading glass, travelling as far as Spain and Portugal. The earnings from the business justified the long, arduous and dangerous travels. The 9th generation, Claus J. Riedel (born 1925) had a vision. He changed stemware from traditional coloured and cut glass to plain, unadorned, thin blown, long stemmed wine glasses. He gained immediate recognition from sophisticated customers and museums. Many design awards signalled that a new era had began. Museums bought pieces for their exhibition, like the Museum of Modern Art in New York, which today still has Riedel in their permanent collection.
Based on his unique designs, Claus Riedel was first in history to recognize the effect of shapes on the perception of alcoholic beverages. His work has influenced and changed the appearance of stemware forever. His master piece "Sommeliers" was introduced in Orvieto, 30 years ago, the first ever stemware line to be based on the character of wine. Please purchase on online www.etabletop.com
by Prabakar S
plug itThe Riedel family has been in the glass business for 300 years, with 11 generations keeping the family business intact. The Riedel story begins in 1678 in the northern part of Bohemia, bordering Schlesia today the Czech republic and Poland respectively. This part of Bohemia was a German speaking enclave known as the Sudetenland. The Venetians brought back the knowledge of glass making from the Near East around 1.000 A.D. The knowledge of producing glass spread slowly towards the northern part of Europe, searching for energy, critical to the melting of glass. Wood was the source, causing a glassmaker migration to the forests. Due to this migration, a glass culture developed in Bohemia in the 17th century.
The first Riedel in the trade of luxury glass goods was Johann Christoph Riedel, born in 1678. He journeyed all over Europe trading glass, travelling as far as Spain and Portugal. The earnings from the business justified the long, arduous and dangerous travels. The 9th generation, Claus J. Riedel (born 1925) had a vision. He changed stemware from traditional coloured and cut glass to plain, unadorned, thin blown, long stemmed wine glasses. He gained immediate recognition from sophisticated customers and museums. Many design awards signalled that a new era had began. Museums bought pieces for their exhibition, like the Museum of Modern Art in New York, which today still has Riedel in their permanent collection.
Based on his unique designs, Claus Riedel was first in history to recognize the effect of shapes on the perception of alcoholic beverages. His work has influenced and changed the appearance of stemware forever. His master piece "Sommeliers" was introduced in Orvieto, 30 years ago, the first ever stemware line to be based on the character of wine. Please purchase on online www.etabletop.com
Fenton Carnival Glass : Glassware set store
Fenton Carnival Glass
by Ross Bassette
plug itThe popularity of collecting Carnival Glass has resurged in recent years. Contemporary pieces are readily available at cheap prices. However, the vintage Carnival Glass is really what is popular with collectors. To offer you some useful information on this American art form, I will discuss the history, manufacture, and value of this colorful art glass.
Carnival Glass History
In the late 19th century, Tiffany & Company and Steuben Art Glass produced a costly hand-blown iridized glass that was very popular with their wealthy clientèle. This glass was hand made and commanded extremely high prices. In 1907, the Fenton Art Glass Company began to mass-produce a high-quality and low-cost iridized glass, similar in appearance to the items crafted by Tiffany and Steuben. The Fenton iridized glass was available in numerous colors, including a unique red. Fenton was not the only manufacturer of iridized glass, but it was the largest producing the colorful glass in over 150 patterns.
Due to the economic hardships of the Great Depression, iridized glass lost its popularity. The inventory of this glassware was subsequently deeply discounted and commonly given away in cereal and supermarket promotions. In addition, the glassware was given away in carnival games, hence, the subsequent name Carnival Glass.
The popularity of iridized glass resurged in the 1950's with collectors and antique dealers and it was during this period that this glassware gained the name Carnival Glass. Today, Carnival Glass is still manufactured by Fenton, and several other companies.
Other Carnival Glass Manufacturers
Fenton, Northwood, Imperial Glass, Westmoreland and Dugan are just a few companies that have manufactured carnival glass. Some of these manufacturers stamped their pieces with a distinctive mark. However, most other manufacturers did not mark their goods leaving some vintage pieces impossible to authenticate. Today, because of high manufacturing costs, few of these manufacturers still remain.
What Is Carnival Glass Worth?
The vintage Carnival Glass manufactured early in the twentieth century is, by far, the most valuable, and sought after pieces. Color and condition play a large role in determining value. Chips, cracks, mold marks, repairs reduce the value. If an item is a rare color like aqua it is of more value than an item in marigold that is plentiful. The red Carnival Glass manufactured by Fenton is very rare, and often commands a very high price. Carnival Glass punch bowl sets, because they consist of multiple items, sell for a premium if complete with all pieces.
Traditional venues such as flea markets and antique shops have been the primary source for vintage carnival glass. Today, take a look at eBay for thousands of listings of both vintage and carnival glass at great prices. Remember, one persons trash is another persons treasure.
It is so ironic that at one point in time Fenton Carnival Glass was so common, it could hardly be given away. Today, some vintage pieces sell for thousands of dollars. However, if you spend some time looking for this beautiful glass, you are likely to find some real bargains.
by Ross Bassette
plug itThe popularity of collecting Carnival Glass has resurged in recent years. Contemporary pieces are readily available at cheap prices. However, the vintage Carnival Glass is really what is popular with collectors. To offer you some useful information on this American art form, I will discuss the history, manufacture, and value of this colorful art glass.
Carnival Glass History
In the late 19th century, Tiffany & Company and Steuben Art Glass produced a costly hand-blown iridized glass that was very popular with their wealthy clientèle. This glass was hand made and commanded extremely high prices. In 1907, the Fenton Art Glass Company began to mass-produce a high-quality and low-cost iridized glass, similar in appearance to the items crafted by Tiffany and Steuben. The Fenton iridized glass was available in numerous colors, including a unique red. Fenton was not the only manufacturer of iridized glass, but it was the largest producing the colorful glass in over 150 patterns.
Due to the economic hardships of the Great Depression, iridized glass lost its popularity. The inventory of this glassware was subsequently deeply discounted and commonly given away in cereal and supermarket promotions. In addition, the glassware was given away in carnival games, hence, the subsequent name Carnival Glass.
The popularity of iridized glass resurged in the 1950's with collectors and antique dealers and it was during this period that this glassware gained the name Carnival Glass. Today, Carnival Glass is still manufactured by Fenton, and several other companies.
Other Carnival Glass Manufacturers
Fenton, Northwood, Imperial Glass, Westmoreland and Dugan are just a few companies that have manufactured carnival glass. Some of these manufacturers stamped their pieces with a distinctive mark. However, most other manufacturers did not mark their goods leaving some vintage pieces impossible to authenticate. Today, because of high manufacturing costs, few of these manufacturers still remain.
What Is Carnival Glass Worth?
The vintage Carnival Glass manufactured early in the twentieth century is, by far, the most valuable, and sought after pieces. Color and condition play a large role in determining value. Chips, cracks, mold marks, repairs reduce the value. If an item is a rare color like aqua it is of more value than an item in marigold that is plentiful. The red Carnival Glass manufactured by Fenton is very rare, and often commands a very high price. Carnival Glass punch bowl sets, because they consist of multiple items, sell for a premium if complete with all pieces.
Traditional venues such as flea markets and antique shops have been the primary source for vintage carnival glass. Today, take a look at eBay for thousands of listings of both vintage and carnival glass at great prices. Remember, one persons trash is another persons treasure.
It is so ironic that at one point in time Fenton Carnival Glass was so common, it could hardly be given away. Today, some vintage pieces sell for thousands of dollars. However, if you spend some time looking for this beautiful glass, you are likely to find some real bargains.
2008-04-13
A Well-Equipped Kitchen
A Well-Equipped Kitchen
by Toni Scottplug it
When it come to setting up a well-equipped kitchen, it is often a good idea to start from the very beginning. You may have more kitchen stuff than you use regularly with lots of tools that are no longer up to the task or have been forgotten. If you're in your first apartment or recently married, you're probably already at the very beginning and need to start from scratch... Either way, what follows is an overview of the necessities with some important notes on considerations you should make as you browse the housewares department. Let's take a look at the essential building blocks of truly functional kitchen workspace.Cutting boardsYou'll need at least two cutting boards, one for meat and one for veggies. There are myriad types on the market and you should take stock of your available storage and lifestyle before choosing. There are beautiful, functional (and very expensive) butcher-block-type cutting boards you can buy, but remember these must be meticulously cared for to avoid the cultivation of dangerous germs and NEVER soaked in water. Larger versions can take up lots of counter and storage space, so keep these things in mind before making a big investment. Plastic and silicone versions are perfectly functional for average jobs and can be easily cleaned in the dishwasher, but don't provide the surface area of the larger wooden boards.CookwareIt's easy to be overwhelmed by the choices out there when it comes to cookware. It's also very easy to spend your kids' college money on pots if you're not careful! Besides what you like the look of and what feels good in your hand, there are a few things to think about before choosing cookware. For instance, what kind of heat source does your stove-top utilize? Gas stoves work well with all kinds of cookware, but electric stoves can take longer to adjust the amount of heat being used, so you want to avoid cookware that is overly heavy, as this will delay heat adjustments even further. Finally, if you have an induction cooktop, make sure you acquaint yourself with the manufacturer's recommendations as some cookware will not allow the magnetic currents responsible for heat. If you're reassessing your current tools, inspect your non-stick pieces for scratches and other damage to the non-stick surfaces. Cookware with this damage should be replaced.10" inch skillet 8" inch skillet 1 qt saucepan 3 qt saucepan 6 qt stock or soup pot Roasting PanBakewareAnother category with lots of choices, today's bakeware includes some pieces that would leave our grandmothers stumped. some of the newest stuff--like flexible silicone muffin and loaf pans--can take some getting used to and aren't necessarily good replacements for tried and true earthware, pyrex or metal pieces.Shallow baking Pan and or "cookie" sheets (they are good for more than cookies!) 9 x 13 inch casserole 9 x 9 inch casseroleKnivesSkip the $800 knife set and get quality versions of the following essential blades to get your kitchen running:8" chef's knife Paring Knife Bread Knife Steak Knives (4-8)Sundry ToolsMeasuring Cups (dry) Measuring Cup (wet) Measuring Spoons Graduated Mixing Bowls (set 3-5) Strainer or colander Can Opener Pepper Grinder (If you're not already, get in the fresh-ground pepper habit!)UtensilsWhisk Tongs (1-2) Silicon Spatulas (2-3) Wooden Spoons (2-3) Large Spoon Large Slotted Spoon Vegetable Peeler Cheese Grater Wine opener
by Toni Scottplug it
When it come to setting up a well-equipped kitchen, it is often a good idea to start from the very beginning. You may have more kitchen stuff than you use regularly with lots of tools that are no longer up to the task or have been forgotten. If you're in your first apartment or recently married, you're probably already at the very beginning and need to start from scratch... Either way, what follows is an overview of the necessities with some important notes on considerations you should make as you browse the housewares department. Let's take a look at the essential building blocks of truly functional kitchen workspace.Cutting boardsYou'll need at least two cutting boards, one for meat and one for veggies. There are myriad types on the market and you should take stock of your available storage and lifestyle before choosing. There are beautiful, functional (and very expensive) butcher-block-type cutting boards you can buy, but remember these must be meticulously cared for to avoid the cultivation of dangerous germs and NEVER soaked in water. Larger versions can take up lots of counter and storage space, so keep these things in mind before making a big investment. Plastic and silicone versions are perfectly functional for average jobs and can be easily cleaned in the dishwasher, but don't provide the surface area of the larger wooden boards.CookwareIt's easy to be overwhelmed by the choices out there when it comes to cookware. It's also very easy to spend your kids' college money on pots if you're not careful! Besides what you like the look of and what feels good in your hand, there are a few things to think about before choosing cookware. For instance, what kind of heat source does your stove-top utilize? Gas stoves work well with all kinds of cookware, but electric stoves can take longer to adjust the amount of heat being used, so you want to avoid cookware that is overly heavy, as this will delay heat adjustments even further. Finally, if you have an induction cooktop, make sure you acquaint yourself with the manufacturer's recommendations as some cookware will not allow the magnetic currents responsible for heat. If you're reassessing your current tools, inspect your non-stick pieces for scratches and other damage to the non-stick surfaces. Cookware with this damage should be replaced.10" inch skillet 8" inch skillet 1 qt saucepan 3 qt saucepan 6 qt stock or soup pot Roasting PanBakewareAnother category with lots of choices, today's bakeware includes some pieces that would leave our grandmothers stumped. some of the newest stuff--like flexible silicone muffin and loaf pans--can take some getting used to and aren't necessarily good replacements for tried and true earthware, pyrex or metal pieces.Shallow baking Pan and or "cookie" sheets (they are good for more than cookies!) 9 x 13 inch casserole 9 x 9 inch casseroleKnivesSkip the $800 knife set and get quality versions of the following essential blades to get your kitchen running:8" chef's knife Paring Knife Bread Knife Steak Knives (4-8)Sundry ToolsMeasuring Cups (dry) Measuring Cup (wet) Measuring Spoons Graduated Mixing Bowls (set 3-5) Strainer or colander Can Opener Pepper Grinder (If you're not already, get in the fresh-ground pepper habit!)UtensilsWhisk Tongs (1-2) Silicon Spatulas (2-3) Wooden Spoons (2-3) Large Spoon Large Slotted Spoon Vegetable Peeler Cheese Grater Wine opener
2008-04-02
Shopping at House of Fraser
Shopping at House of Fraser
by Penny Namen
plug itHouse of Fraser is Britain's only nationwide UK destination department store for premium brands and designers. With hundreds of top-name brands and thousands of high-end products available under one roof, the department store more than caters for all its customers' retail needs. But shopping at House of Fraser isn't just shopping ¬- it's an experience: an exciting and cutting-edge experience that leaves one hungry for more. So what is it exactly that gives House of Fraser the edge over so many British department stores?
Über chic, all-encompassing, and always ahead of the rest, House of Fraser is a brand in itself: a one-stop shop that'll instantly transport you to retail heaven. It's the definitive shopping destination for style-savvy consumers who want the finest and very best products available, at affordable prices. House of Fraser is every shop you will ever need in one: selling all you could possibly require to make a house a home, from décor and furniture and all your kitchen must-haves from crockery to corkscrews, to the latest and most sought-after designer clothes and accessories to fill your closets and cupboards.
House of Fraser sell men's, women's, and children's clothing and accessories; home furnishings, furniture; housewares; linens; haberdashery; cosmetics; perfume; jewellery; stationery; luggage and electronics in 62 stores throughout the UK. Whether you want the newest perfume to hit the beauty industry, a stunning bridal accessory, something stylish for your living room or the latest innovation in televisions or audio systems, House of Fraser has something for everyone.
Fashionista are treated to an eclectic mix of both classic and contemporary designer names, including Alberta Ferretti, Armani, Gucci, Jimmy Choo, Moschino, Stella McCartney, and Versace, as well as House of Fraser's in-house line Linea, hard-to-find labels such as Punky Fish and Ichi, and up-to-the minute designer denim brand Yanuk. If you're searching for the perfect outfit for a special occasion or a job interview, or just in need of a bit of guidance, House of Fraser's personal shopping service is invaluable. Specially trained staff (who've undergone rigorous tuition) will be more than happy to listen to your needs, and advise and perhaps introduce you to labels you may never have thought of trying before. Customers are under no obligation to buy.
Beauty lovers can take advantage of House of Fraser's in-store beauty experts and be pampered with fabulous new products, including Bobbi Brown, Clarins, Clinique, Molton Brown, and Yves Saint Laurent. House of Fraser's food and kitchenware hall is a must-go destination for everything from high-end groceries to cookwares by famous names such as Le Creuset and Alessi. The haberdashery department is a craftsperson's mecca and the toy department is overflowing with all a child could wish for, from Barbie dolls to rocking horses. The hair and beauty spa provides high-quality hair-cuts, colours and styling, and the store's much-loved bistro and café provide delicious food and refreshment for those in need of a respite or recharge.
Currently with 62 House of Fraser stores across the country, the flagship London store is now the House of Fraser on Oxford Street whilst the chain's largest is in Birmingham. Further store openings are planned for later in 2007 (Belfast) and in 2008 (High Wycombe and Chester). With over 150 years of retailing experience, the company was founded with Frasers, Glasgow in 1849 by Hugh Fraser and James Arthur, and has grown exponentially through the acquisition of other leading store groups including Dickens and Jones, Rackhams and Army & Navy. In 2006 House of Fraser was acquired by a consortium led by Iceland's acquisitive Baugur Group.
A new online shop is being launched in Autumn 2007 and customers will then be able to buy all their favourite House of Fraser products and brands, as well as many items exclusive to the online shop, at the click of a fingertip.
To find your nearest House of Fraser store or check out the newest products on sale, see http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk. To sign up for further information on House of Fraser's new online shop see http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/shop/
by Penny Namen
plug itHouse of Fraser is Britain's only nationwide UK destination department store for premium brands and designers. With hundreds of top-name brands and thousands of high-end products available under one roof, the department store more than caters for all its customers' retail needs. But shopping at House of Fraser isn't just shopping ¬- it's an experience: an exciting and cutting-edge experience that leaves one hungry for more. So what is it exactly that gives House of Fraser the edge over so many British department stores?
Über chic, all-encompassing, and always ahead of the rest, House of Fraser is a brand in itself: a one-stop shop that'll instantly transport you to retail heaven. It's the definitive shopping destination for style-savvy consumers who want the finest and very best products available, at affordable prices. House of Fraser is every shop you will ever need in one: selling all you could possibly require to make a house a home, from décor and furniture and all your kitchen must-haves from crockery to corkscrews, to the latest and most sought-after designer clothes and accessories to fill your closets and cupboards.
House of Fraser sell men's, women's, and children's clothing and accessories; home furnishings, furniture; housewares; linens; haberdashery; cosmetics; perfume; jewellery; stationery; luggage and electronics in 62 stores throughout the UK. Whether you want the newest perfume to hit the beauty industry, a stunning bridal accessory, something stylish for your living room or the latest innovation in televisions or audio systems, House of Fraser has something for everyone.
Fashionista are treated to an eclectic mix of both classic and contemporary designer names, including Alberta Ferretti, Armani, Gucci, Jimmy Choo, Moschino, Stella McCartney, and Versace, as well as House of Fraser's in-house line Linea, hard-to-find labels such as Punky Fish and Ichi, and up-to-the minute designer denim brand Yanuk. If you're searching for the perfect outfit for a special occasion or a job interview, or just in need of a bit of guidance, House of Fraser's personal shopping service is invaluable. Specially trained staff (who've undergone rigorous tuition) will be more than happy to listen to your needs, and advise and perhaps introduce you to labels you may never have thought of trying before. Customers are under no obligation to buy.
Beauty lovers can take advantage of House of Fraser's in-store beauty experts and be pampered with fabulous new products, including Bobbi Brown, Clarins, Clinique, Molton Brown, and Yves Saint Laurent. House of Fraser's food and kitchenware hall is a must-go destination for everything from high-end groceries to cookwares by famous names such as Le Creuset and Alessi. The haberdashery department is a craftsperson's mecca and the toy department is overflowing with all a child could wish for, from Barbie dolls to rocking horses. The hair and beauty spa provides high-quality hair-cuts, colours and styling, and the store's much-loved bistro and café provide delicious food and refreshment for those in need of a respite or recharge.
Currently with 62 House of Fraser stores across the country, the flagship London store is now the House of Fraser on Oxford Street whilst the chain's largest is in Birmingham. Further store openings are planned for later in 2007 (Belfast) and in 2008 (High Wycombe and Chester). With over 150 years of retailing experience, the company was founded with Frasers, Glasgow in 1849 by Hugh Fraser and James Arthur, and has grown exponentially through the acquisition of other leading store groups including Dickens and Jones, Rackhams and Army & Navy. In 2006 House of Fraser was acquired by a consortium led by Iceland's acquisitive Baugur Group.
A new online shop is being launched in Autumn 2007 and customers will then be able to buy all their favourite House of Fraser products and brands, as well as many items exclusive to the online shop, at the click of a fingertip.
To find your nearest House of Fraser store or check out the newest products on sale, see http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk. To sign up for further information on House of Fraser's new online shop see http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/shop/
8 Unique Gift Ideas for the Office and Coworkers
8 Unique Gift Ideas for the Office and Coworkers
by Chris Robertson
plug itWhether it's an office holiday party, an anniversary celebration or simply an appreciation day, office gifts are great for showing you care about those you work side-by-side with each day. Not sure what gift to bring? Here are eight unique gift ideas for the office to get your wheels turning.
1. Everyday Items
No matter what the occasion, everyday items such as housewares, jewelry, bath items, kitchen items, and garden accessories still make great gifts - especially for women. Inquire beforehand about the color of their kitchen or bathroom, or the theme of their yard or garden. Then, you can choose accessories for their home or garden that will blend nicely with their home decor. They'll appreciate your thoughtfulness!
2. Collectibles
If your co-worker collects certain items such as figurines, porcelain dolls, or model cars and model ships, you can give a gift that they can add to their collection. The great thing about collectibles is they are useful, often decorative, and can be a keepsake for a lifetime.
3. Gifts for Inspiration
Inspire your co-workers with poetic books or inspirational paintings. Find out what type of art they enjoy. Also, be sure they enjoy reading before buying books. Patriotic gifts can also be inspirational.
4. Gifts for Him
For the men in your workplace, focus on gift product categories such as sporting goods, automotive, and travel. Men are often fascinated with new tools, electronic products such as cell phones and iPods, and anything to do with the outdoors.
5. Gifts for Her
When buying for a female co-worker, you usually can't go wrong with items such as housewares, health and beauty products, jewelry, photo albums, and home and bath accessories. Most women also love to shop, so gift cards to their local department store would make a great gift!
6. Gifts for the Boss
Buying for the boss can be a daunting task. Don't let it worry you. Buy for your boss just as you would anyone else. Treat him or her like they're part of the office, not just a boss. Get to know their likes and dislikes before buying. You can buy something to decorate their office or to make their work easier, or you can be more personal with your gift. Other gift ideas for bosses include pen sets, gift baskets, and organizers. If you work where it is prohibited to give individual gifts to the boss, suggest a group gift from all the workers if that's allowed.
7. Gifts for Employees
If you are "the boss" then you understand how important it is to give gifts to employees. Gifts should be given not only during holidays, but also several times throughout the year to show appreciation for an employee's hard work. Some gifts you can give employees can be gift cards, company T-shirts or sweat shirts, organizers for their desks, and best of all - a bonus check! You can also hold a company picnic for all employees to enjoy.
8. Office Chinese Auction Gifts
If your office is holding a Chinese auction for gift-exchanges, then consider a gift that would be fitting for a male or female. Some ideas are decorative items such as wall clocks or wall calendars, or office-related items. There are also gift cards, tickets to a popular local event, and electronics.
To find great gifts for the office, you can visit an online store and enjoy shopping from home. At online stores, you can find all your gifts plus other items, such as toys, sports memorabilia, men's and women's apparel, and more. Some sites even offer a gift registry for bridal and baby showers. You can search for gifts and other products through categories and easily find what you need.
Use these office gift ideas for guidance as you buy gifts for your co-workers, employees, or boss on the next special occasion.
by Chris Robertson
plug itWhether it's an office holiday party, an anniversary celebration or simply an appreciation day, office gifts are great for showing you care about those you work side-by-side with each day. Not sure what gift to bring? Here are eight unique gift ideas for the office to get your wheels turning.
1. Everyday Items
No matter what the occasion, everyday items such as housewares, jewelry, bath items, kitchen items, and garden accessories still make great gifts - especially for women. Inquire beforehand about the color of their kitchen or bathroom, or the theme of their yard or garden. Then, you can choose accessories for their home or garden that will blend nicely with their home decor. They'll appreciate your thoughtfulness!
2. Collectibles
If your co-worker collects certain items such as figurines, porcelain dolls, or model cars and model ships, you can give a gift that they can add to their collection. The great thing about collectibles is they are useful, often decorative, and can be a keepsake for a lifetime.
3. Gifts for Inspiration
Inspire your co-workers with poetic books or inspirational paintings. Find out what type of art they enjoy. Also, be sure they enjoy reading before buying books. Patriotic gifts can also be inspirational.
4. Gifts for Him
For the men in your workplace, focus on gift product categories such as sporting goods, automotive, and travel. Men are often fascinated with new tools, electronic products such as cell phones and iPods, and anything to do with the outdoors.
5. Gifts for Her
When buying for a female co-worker, you usually can't go wrong with items such as housewares, health and beauty products, jewelry, photo albums, and home and bath accessories. Most women also love to shop, so gift cards to their local department store would make a great gift!
6. Gifts for the Boss
Buying for the boss can be a daunting task. Don't let it worry you. Buy for your boss just as you would anyone else. Treat him or her like they're part of the office, not just a boss. Get to know their likes and dislikes before buying. You can buy something to decorate their office or to make their work easier, or you can be more personal with your gift. Other gift ideas for bosses include pen sets, gift baskets, and organizers. If you work where it is prohibited to give individual gifts to the boss, suggest a group gift from all the workers if that's allowed.
7. Gifts for Employees
If you are "the boss" then you understand how important it is to give gifts to employees. Gifts should be given not only during holidays, but also several times throughout the year to show appreciation for an employee's hard work. Some gifts you can give employees can be gift cards, company T-shirts or sweat shirts, organizers for their desks, and best of all - a bonus check! You can also hold a company picnic for all employees to enjoy.
8. Office Chinese Auction Gifts
If your office is holding a Chinese auction for gift-exchanges, then consider a gift that would be fitting for a male or female. Some ideas are decorative items such as wall clocks or wall calendars, or office-related items. There are also gift cards, tickets to a popular local event, and electronics.
To find great gifts for the office, you can visit an online store and enjoy shopping from home. At online stores, you can find all your gifts plus other items, such as toys, sports memorabilia, men's and women's apparel, and more. Some sites even offer a gift registry for bridal and baby showers. You can search for gifts and other products through categories and easily find what you need.
Use these office gift ideas for guidance as you buy gifts for your co-workers, employees, or boss on the next special occasion.
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