Holiday gift guide 2014

Tulsa World Supplement, Wednesday, December 3, 2014

Holiday G ift G uide

Gift Ideas for Your

Sweetie

Holiday Beauty Tips Perfect Gifts for the

Dog Lover Win a Trip of a Lifetime

tulsaworld.com/holidays

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Take care of your holiday shopping, and win your dream vacation!

Each time you visit one of the participating advertisers, you can enter to win the trip of a lifetime.

Look for the entry forms at participating stores Nov. 12 through Dec. 24.

The winner’s name will be drawn in January.

Entries from every store will be gathered together, and one lucky reader will win a $3,000 travel voucher to take the trip of his or her dreams from Tulsa World Media Company.

No purchase is necessary. For complete contest details, visit tulsaworld.com/holidays.

Enter for a chance to win a $3,000 vacation simply for visiting one of these participating retailers: Avon Beauty Center Bahama Sun of Brookside Celebrity Attractions Emy Couture Garbe’s Honda of Tulsa Sportscenter Ida Red

John Daniel’s Footwear Miss Jackson’s Queenie’s Cafe & Bakery Star Jewelers The Market at Walnut Creek Tulsa Symphony

Find more great seasonal ideas in Tulsa World’s Holiday special sections: Holiday Favorites — Sunday, December 7 Holiday Region of Giving — Sunday, December 14

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GIFT IDEAS

How to Find the Perfect Item for Your Holiday Sweetheart

By Kevin Armstrong

in between, including the fancy belt buckle. But there’s a whole lot more in a Drysdales store.

“We are a department store,” Jeffs explains. “In If you’re a guy looking to impress your addition to clothing, we also sell dinnerware, sweetie this Christmas, Deanah Jeffs has bedding, jewelry, fragrances, purses, walsome advice for buying clothes for that lets and gift items — everything but Traditional special female in your life: Always buy small appliances.” the item in a size smaller than what Popular clothing items outside western wear you think she wears. the traditional western wear include tops many men “That’s what a woman wants you infinity scarves for ladies, designer and women’s to think — that she looks smaller jeans and Under Armor clothing for holiday than she really is,” says Jeffs, senior gift men, women and children. “You don’t wish lists. and jewelry buyer for Drysdales. have to fight the mall traffic to find Don’t worry that she will have to these items here,” Jeff says. “We don’t return it, Jeffs adds. Drysdales will be happy carry only western jeans. We’re probably to exchange the merchandise at either of its two the biggest Levi’s Jeans store you’ll find anywhere stores – 32nd and Memorial or 71st Street and in Oklahoma.”

Highway 169.

Drysdales also sells Cinch, Wrangler, Ariat and many more brands of jeans and denim products.

Courtesy Where to find the wear When it comes to footwear, Drysdales’ top sellThe Tulsa retailer is best known for its collection ers are Justin work boots for men, and the Ariat Drysdales offers western wear and other of western wear — from the boots on your feet to Fatbaby boots are really popular among the ladies. clothing lines to fit women and men from the the hat atop your head and every bit of clothing See SWEETHEART page 4 boots on their feet to the hats on their heads.

Special Sections Editor

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If you’re looking for more unique gift ideas, Drysdales offers plenty of choices from western art and collectible painted ponies to humorous conversation starters such as the Rednek collection of glassware.

The Rednek series includes a red Solo cup mounted on a glass stemware base, a Mason jar wine glass and a line of bottle stoppers featuring a shotgun shell, a faucet handle, hammer or screwdriver.

“It’s still our hottest trend in gift items,” Jeff says.

But if you really want to impress that woman in your life, she recommends a pair of Palozzo pants or leggings combined with a tunic shirt. Drysdales carries both.

Understanding the life “cycle” of men

While you can find something for both men and women at Drysdales, it’s a different story at Honda of Tulsa. It’s pretty much a male domain.

Call it a grown-up toy store for the man in your life.

The SportsCenter at 21st Street and Yale Avenue cultivates this interest early in a male’s life by selling 50 cc dirt bikes fit for 6-year-olds then stepping it up with various two-wheel machines all the way through retirement when a man is ready to hit the open road on a Gold Wing touring bike.

“Honda has advertised forever about family,” says owner Bobby Donnell. “It’s not something just

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GIFT IDEAS customers are looking for at Honda of Tulsa. About half of them this time of year want to buy a four-wheel, allterrain vehicle.

It’s especially true of hunters and those who own large tracts of land. ATVs are available as single-rider units, models with a passenger seat and side-by-sides, which can seat two to four people.

“Side-by-sides are a current craze right now,” Donnell says. “If you want to take your buddies along, you can carry other people.”

Buying a Honda motorcycle has been helped by the reputation of the cars the company builds.

“It helps because of Courtesy the quality,” Donnell says.

Honda of Tulsa is the grown-up toy store for men and offers a “People come in here and wide selection of machines and accessories. Fifty percent of the tell us, ‘we figured it’s as sales this time of the year involve all-terrain vehicles like this. good as the car.’ Honda builds quality, and people for little boys. Riding motorcycles is something are accustomed to it.” that fathers and sons can do together. They look If the male in your life already owns a motorforward to the weekends.” cycle, then stop by the store for accessories.

Motorcycles aren’t the only drivable machines

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GIFT IDEAS Continued from page 4

turn. That’s how she discovered a pair of handcrafted leather boots that caught her eye. The man who made them worked out of his garage, selling just a few pair per week to local Guatemalans. Fernandez asked if he would be willing to make more for her to sell in America, and a new relationship was forged.

Treat her like she’s one of a kind She now stocks several pairs of the boots in If you’re a male looking for something to make her store, and she can have a pair custom made your sweetheart stand out among her friends, and shipped here within eight weeks. make a trip to the Brady District and check Each piece of jewelry in her store out the artisan collection of unique fashYour has a similar tale behind it, and she is ion accessories at Colors of Etnika. sweetheart’s happy to share it with customers.

This small boutique at Main and friends inevitably Fernandez, a former teacher and Archer streets brings to Tulsa the will ask, “Wow, accountant who moved to Tulsa 14 handiwork of village craftsmen where did you years ago, says she will continue to from all over the world. Owner Karla get that? It’s add new countries to her collection Fernandez has combined her passion beautiful.” and already has her sights on traveling for art and interest in traveling into a to Greece in 2015 to find new products. business that truly helps others.

The name of her business is derived from She sells handbags, belts, shoes, bracethe word “ethnic,” which means “origin,” placing lets, necklaces, earrings, hats and other items the emphasis on “original” designs. custom made by artisans in Cambodia, Thailand, While buying something unique as a gift for Indonesia, Peru, India and Fernandez’ native home someone can be risky if you’re not sure of the in Guatemala. person’s tastes, Fernandez says not to worry.

“I decided to bring these products to Tulsa Anything purchased at Colors of Etnika can be after discovering them on my travels around the exchanged. world,” Fernandez says. “I like to buy whatever I Whatever the item, it’s sure to attract the feel attracted to, and each piece I sell has a story attention of your sweetheart’s friends who inevibehind it.”

For example, she was driving through Pastores, tably will ask, “Wow, where did you get that? It’s beautiful.”

Guatemala, a few years ago and made a wrong “We carry all the gear from the boots to the pants to the shirts to the shoulder pads and helmet,” Donnell says.

“Getting the motorcycle is just the beginning.”

Tulsa World

You will find unique handcrafted jewelry and accessories from around the world at Colors of Etnica in the Brady District.

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GIFT IDEAS

Smart Presents For Your Child’s Teacher (MS) — It’s customary for students to offer teachers small tokens of their affection during the holiday season.

Choosing a gift for a teacher can be challenging, as the relationship between student and teacher and/or parent and teacher is not personal, and it’s possible students and parents have little knowledge of a teacher’s interests outside the classroom.

The following gift ideas are universal in their appeal, making them great gifts for the educator in your life.

• Handwritten notes from students: Rather than trinkets that proclaim “World’s Best Teacher,” students can write their

own sentiments about their teachers and present it with a gift card or another gift that doesn’t take up much space.

A heartfelt note of appreciation and gratitude can be all it takes to put a smile on a teacher’s face this holiday season.

• Food: Food can be enjoyed in and around the season. Avoid making items yourself, as some people are particular about eating foods that were cooked in someone else’s kitchen. Stick to pre-packaged food baskets, or even treat the teacher to a meal with a gift card to a restaurant.

• Something scholarly: A

gift that provides a teacher with some intellectual stimulation might just do the trick this holiday season. For example, a set of safety goggles or a kit for doing in-class experiments might work well

for a science teacher, while a best-selling novel may fit the bill for English teachers.

• Gift cards: Very often all of the students in a class donate a small amount

toward a gift card. Consider a card that is redeemable at a nearby store or a generic cash card the teacher can use anywhere credit and debit cards are accepted.

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DECEMBER 3, 2014

GIFT IDEAS Do Not Give These to Teachers When gifting teachers, here are some gifts to avoid: • Trinkets and mugs: Through the years, a seasoned teacher has likely collected a fair share of trinkets and coffee mugs. Chances are he or she does not need another one.

• Perfume and lotion: Avoid scented lotions, perfumes and other cosmetic products, as such items are more personal.

• Overly expensive gifts: Do not give a gift that is beyond the standard range of others in the classroom, which usually falls between $10 and $20.

It could appear as if you’re buying affections for the student, and it could make the teacher a bit uncomfortable.

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be greatly appreciated.

• Classroom supplies: Budget constraints have forced many teachers to supplement classroom materials out of their own pockets. So a gift of school supplies or a gift certificate to an office-supply store or teacher-supply center may

• Catered lunch: Consult with the school principal to set aside a day when teachers can enjoy a catered lunch provided by the students.

Each class parent can collect funds, which can then be pooled to host a lunch for the teachers.

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HOLIDAY SPARKLE

Local Beauty Experts Share Tips for the Holiday Season Look your best for family gatherings, evening events and festive parties

By Emily Hulseberg Special Sections Writer

a season full of photo opportunities.

Bronze Beauty

Heading into December means summer tans are fading away. Bahama Sun offers many choices when it comes to keeping that summer glow through the colder season. Owner Pam Pinson says that during winter months just a touch of color can toSkin Care tally change your winter look. “A little Tulsa World Skin care can go to the wayside color and nothing overwhelming,” is when the cold weather creeps in what Pinson suggests when it comes Ihloff Salon & Day Spa uses Aveda cosmetics and does in-house and the big coats come out. Avon to tanning during the off season. makeup tutorials. Favorite colors this season include icy blue tones as Independent Sales Representative, Bahama Sun offers beds of many well as soft blues and pinks.

Barbara Harrison says to not neglect different levels as well as a leg tanbasic skin care routines. Harrison ning booth, spray booth tans and recommends using an exfoliant a few custom airbrush tanning, which is times a week to scrub off dead skin popular for events. One session in cells and to keep your skin looking the booth or with airbrush does the fresh and bright. Lips also suffer trick. While the airbrush booth when temperatures drop. is totally customizable, Getting plenty Pinson says they do any Harrison says to exfoliof sleep and ate lips as well using an touch-ups needed even in drinking lots of extra-soft toothbrush the booth. water can and warm water.

Pinson says that when enhance your “Don’t let the weather it comes to spray tanskin during this ning, a client should fool you,” says Harrison.

While in the winter months busy season. always leave the product the sun’s UVB rays are less on without getting it wet intense, harmful UVA rays are for eight to 16 hours. This gives always out. Harrison suggests using the tan enough time to set into the sunscreen all-year-round. Avon offers skin and give customers the color many skincare items with SPF 25 or they desire. She also recommends higher. You can use moisturizers with shaving the night before and making SPF built in as well as foundations sure your skin is free of any prodthat contain SPF. ucts before coming in. Moisturizers Some other issues that women make the spray rub off and can leave face during winter are red, swollen, you streaky. The same is true for tired eyes, says Harrison. Parties that Tulsa World deodorant, when left on, deodorant last into the night can cause lack of can leave an unpleasant ring that The Magic tanning bed at Bahama Sun offers clients a base tan in sleep and the yummy food offered nobody wants. Pinson recommends just three sessions. at such occasions can cause us to wearing loose- fitting clothing to day at the spa to rediscover a calm Some people are much more prone overindulge, leaving eyes and skin your appointment so that the tan to burning than others and anybody amid the hustle and bustle of the looking not their best. Harrison says doesn’t get rubbed off by tightbusy season. Ihloff Salon & Day Spa who has not tanned in a tanning getting plenty of sleep and drinking fitting fabrics. offers many services and “cater to bed before or has been away from lots of water can help combat all the While lotion is not ideal before specific needs,” says Ihloff’s spa directanning for some time should work negatives that come with enjoygetting a spray tan, it’s important their way up slowly. Pinson says to be tor Sara Cruncleton. Before the cusing what the holidays have to offer. to use in a tanning bed. The lotion tomer schedules a service they can careful and the tanning experience Another simple fix can be using a keeps the moisture in the skin, and come in for a consultation where the can be a pleasant one. chilled eye mask over closed eyes for dry skin won’t tan as easily as soft, individual needs of each client can be Spa Day 10 minutes. subtle skin. Pinson says to exfoliate taken care of and customers can get For the ultimate in feeling luxuriHarrison says simple tips can keep the skin normally and to always be any woman looking her best during Continued on next page cautious about individual skin types. ous, consider treating yourself to a When it comes to getting ready for the holidays, local beauty experts say it’s important that women take extra care of their skin and understand what makeup trends can help them look and feel their best.

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HOLIDAY SPARKLE Continued from previous page

Tulsa World

Avon has many products to get you ready for the holidays, including brush sets, BB creams, lip glosses, perfumes, mascaras and various skincare items.

exactly what they are looking for. No spa trip is complete without taking advantage of the wonderful steam showers that Ihloff offers.

It’s the cherry on top of the full spa experience. “We treat guests from a mind/body aspect,” says Cruncleton. “Everyone should take time to relax.”

In addition to being a full spa and full-service hair salon, Ihloff offers cosmetic applications and nail services. This season, icy colors like pale blues and pinks are popular in both eye shadow and nail colors says Cruncleton.

Another popular eye color is rose gold’s.

While many may want to add a little sparkle to their make-up application, Cruncleton says to shy away from sparkly colors when you’re older and look for more matte finishes.

Ihloff’s makeup service comes with lessons in applying the Aveda products that Ihloff offers. There is no charge for the service, but instead the client can purchase the products that were used during the appointment.

Cruncleton says typically for a party or nightout, 45-minute applications are the way to go. In exchange, customers will spend $45 on products to take home.

The holidays aren’t just about everyone else. Take time for yourself, and enjoy the pleasures of getting pampered this season.

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GIFT IDEAS

Don’t Forget Your Furry Friend (GSM) — If your friend or family member spends more time speaking puppy than English, then it’s official — you know a dog lover. This also means that you should probably consider giving this person at least one dog-related gift this Christmas.

Your friend will light up at your thoughtfulness, and their dog will thank you, too.

Treats

If a survey could be conducted asking dogs their favorite holiday gift, food would undoubtedly top the list. From the chewy shopbought nuggets to the larger-than-life rawhide bones, there is a seemingly unlimited variety of special snacks for the pooch in your life.

For a more unique option, your area is probably home to a chef who has perfected the art of the homemade, all-natural dog treat. These masters of canine culinary creations are pumping out special bacon, peanut butter and even vegetable snacks for all doggie tastes.

Dog Clothes

What’s cuter than seeing a dog dressed up

in a turtleneck? How about a dog dressed up in pajamas. Many specialty shops and local pet stores will have these options and more for styling your puppy in an adorable ensemble.

Fleece sleepers, fashionable sweaters and plush throws for comfortable couch lounging are also available at many stores . Go with a holiday theme on the pajamas so Fido can be dressed up like the family on Christmas morning.

A Check-Up

Trips to the veterinarian can add up in a hurry, so why not surprise the dog-lover in your life with a voucher for a free flea bath or grooming service for their pet?

Most veterinarian clinics offer gift cards or coupons for their services, helping save your friend or family member some serious money for their dog’s care.

For a little extra, you could even set up the appointment and offer to take the pup in for its treatment.

This will save your friend both money and time — a double gift.

Fotolia

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GIFT IDEAS

Pets as Gifts Require Extra Care (MS) — Parents may give their children their first pet during the holidays, but those who choose to give a pet to someone outside their immediate family or to someone they don’t live with should consider the following advice before going through with it.

Consult the recipient first

The element of surprise makes the season of giving special, and few things may inspire more enthusiastic responses than new pets.

But however appealing you may find such reactions, it’s still best to first consult the intended recipient before buying the pet.

No one wants to return an animal to a kennel, and forcing a loved to take on the unwanted responsibility of pet ownership does not make much of a gift.

Let the recipient choose the pet

Aunts or uncles may think a cute puppy is an ideal holiday gift for their nieces and nephews, but it’s best to let those youngsters’ parents choose the pet rather than going it alone. Once mom and dad have given you the green light to gift their kids a pet, let

them decide which type of pet will become the newest member of their households.

Parents may prefer their kids first receive a more low-maintenance pet, such as a fish.

Pay for everything

Pets are expensive. Cats and dogs adopted from local shelters or even animals bought directly from breeders will need some immediate medical care, including shots and initial examinations at the veterinarian’s office, as well as food, dishes, leashes and bedding.

The person giving the pet as a gift should pay for these additional expenses, which can be significant. Recipients may not be able to afford these additional expenses, especially during the holiday season.

Be willing to take the pet

Some households are not a good match for pets. Men and women looking to give pets as holiday gifts should be willing to take the pet into their own homes if things are not working out with the recipient. This does not mean gift-givers have to keep the pet forever — at least until a new home is found.

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MANLY GIFTS

Gifts for Him

Guys like to play favorites when it comes to sports teams.

Be sure you know his No. 1.

Whether it’s your father, brother, husband, uncle or nephew, discover unique items that will put a smile on his face.

Made-in-Oklahoma bowties by The Two Guys are a stylish choice from Ida Red on Brookside.

Help the man in your life dress for success by adding to his wardrobe.

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Tulsa World

Ping

Whether it’s a pair of slippers, boots or shoes, he will flip over a pair of UGGs from John Daniel Footwear.

The Pro Shop at LaFortune Park Golf Course offers collegiate golf apparel such as this long-sleeve Ping Ranger pullover. Select from OU, OSU and TU that includes the school’s logo and color.

Every guy has a hobby so buy him something to further his enjoyment.

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s Tul orld

He can never have too many socks. John Daniel Footwear in Utica Square has a great selection of fun socks by Johnston & Murphy.

Your golfer will enjoy Titleist’s new 915 metal wood family, which is available at LaFortune Park Golf Course’s Pro Shop.

Three Dog Night’s lyrics are the perfect sentiment on these expressive T-shirts at Ida Red. Titleist

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GIFT IDEAS

Travel Gifts Ready for Holiday Giving (MS) — Want to employ the element of surprise this season by giving a travel-related gift? Gifting travel enables couples or families who may not have the means to get away to hit the road in style. When giving the gift of travel, shoppers should consider gift certificates or vouchers that can be applied to flights or lodging. Consider the following travel-inspired gift options.

• Airline gift certificates: A gift certificate makes it easy for travelers to book their own flights at their leisure. These certificates typically can be applied to any flight the airline offers and may even be transferable.

• Frequent flier miles: Find out if your frequent flyer miles can be deposited directly into your loved one’s account. Later on he or she can redeem the miles for a desired flight.

• Luggage: Frequent travelers may appreciate new luggage. Monogrammed tags can help make luggage easy to identify at luggage carousels in crowded airports.

• Small ship voyages: Some cruise lines offer working vacations, where passengers participate in some of the responsibilities

aboard the ship. These voyages are ideal for someone who enjoys being active and a part of the travel experience.

• Scuba lessons: Travel enthusiasts who frequently jet off to tropical locales may want to learn to scuba dive, which means they must be certified after taking lessons. Foot the bill for those lessons so their next water adventure is complete.

• Traveler’s checks: Sometimes the best gift is the simplest one. Traveler’s checks may seem like an outdated notion in the era of credit cards, but they’re still available. Banks and credit card companies are the best place to find traveler’s checks. These checks are safer than bringing cash along on a trip because they provide travelers with protected purchasing power for the duration of their trips. Prepaid gift cards also can be used for travel. Just confirm that the card is accepted by retailers at your loved one’s travel destination.

Travel gifts can bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. These unique gifts are a novelty that’s not often found tucked under the tree.

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GIFT IDEAS

Shop Locally This Holiday Season (MS) — The popularity of shopping online for the holidays has grown, but such practices are not always eco-friendly or timely, as gifts bought online must be packaged and shipped, wasting valuable resources and time that lastminute shoppers may not have. The benefits of shopping locally go beyond convenience.

Here are a few ways that shopping locally this holiday season can directly benefit your community and the people who call it home.

Local economy

When people shop locally, they are putting money back into their local communities. Local small businesses may be owned by your neighbors, and it can be comforting to know that your holiday shopping dollars are going to support a neighbor instead of a large corporation. Local businesses also employ your neighbors, so shopping local can strengthen the local economy.

Community identity

Local small businesses go a long way toward creating a neighborhood identity, and that identity can create a stronger sense of community among you and your

neighbors. A unique community identity also can make your town more attractive to outsiders, and that appeal can improve the value of local real estate while also attracting more people to local businesses in your neighborhood.

Uniqueness of gifts

The gifts you buy when shopping locally also can benefit your community. Gifts purchased from small local businesses tend to be more unique than items bought from national chains, as smaller retailers tend to sell more homemade items than their national competitors. Recipients of such items may find such gifts more thoughtful than mass produced items bought from national chains.

Customer service

When buying from national chains, making contact with customer service departments can be a trying exercise. But such frustration is rare when buying from local businesses, as consumers can simply take their products into the store, where employees can immediately address their concerns.

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GIFT IDEAS Help the music lover in your life indulge his passion.

Courtesy

Great Gifts for Music Fans (MS) — The universal appeal of music makes it a great gift, when shoppers may not always know what to buy. The following are a few gift ideas that are sure to have your favorite music fan singing your praises.

• Concert tickets:

Perhaps no gift makes music fans’ hearts race more than tickets to see their favorite musicians perform. Your loved one probably has a favorite artist or someone he or she has long desired to see live. Look into that performer’s tour dates to see if they are playing your area anytime soon. If they’re playing just before the holiday season, don’t hesitate to give this gift a little early. The same approach should be taken if an artist will be in town within a day or two of Christmas.

• Musical instrument:

It’s never too early or too late to learn how to play a new instrument. Shoppers whose loved ones love a good rock ‘n’ roll riff might find guitars make a great holiday gift, while those who can’t stop playing air drums should enjoy finding a real drum set come the holidays.

• Music lessons: Lessons are the next logical step once a music fan has the instruments to work with.

But even those without an instrument of their own can benefit from music lessons.

For example, music lovers who want to learn piano can make use of lessons even if they don’t have their own pianos at home. Lessons can be a great way for music lovers to gauge their skill levels before buying an expensive instrument. In addition, lessons can turn music lovers on to new instruments or new types of music they may never have considered.

• Sound system: Advancements in technology have proven to be music to music lovers’ ears. Music fans can now take advantage of crisp sound systems that make music that much more enjoyable. Sound systems come in many shapes and sizes, and they can vary significantly in regard to price.

When purchasing a sound system as a holiday gift, look for one that’s compatible with your loved one’s existing components.

• Streaming service membership: Unlike the

days when music fans had to wait for local deejays to play their favorite songs on the radio, today’s music fans can essentially create their own radio stations on their computers and even on their phones. Shoppers can buy their favorite music fans subscriptions to streaming services, such as Pandora or Spotify, and listeners can then tailor their own stations to include their favorite genres, artists or songs.

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GIFT IDEAS

Be Smart When Buying Gift Cards (MS) — While many people might be a cinch to shop for, there always seems to be one stickler on holiday shopping lists, and finding the right gift for that person can be difficult. That’s when a gift card might be your best option. Such cards make great gifts, but only if you utilize a few tricks of the gift card trade.

Buy directly from the retailer

It’s easy to be duped by a counterfeit gift card, which can be embarrassing for both the gift giver and its recipient. Counterfeit gift cards are big business for criminals who prey on gift givers during the holiday season.

Only buy gift cards directly from the retailer, as cards sold by other sources, such as online auction sites, may be stolen or counterfeit.

Examine card before leaving store

Once a cashier or customer service employee hands you a gift card, examine it for tampering before leaving the store.

Some criminals gain access to gift cards, even those that appear to be behind lock and key, to learn the PIN number associ-

ated with the card. Once they have the PIN, recipients can then recreate their own card, using the stolen PIN to activate and make purchases on their counterfeit cards long before the real card is sold to you.

Include gift receipt with card

When giving a gift card, don’t forget to include the gift receipt. The gift receipt not only verifies the value of the gift card, but also includes the date the card was purchased. That’s important information, as many companies begin to charge fees on unused cards after a predetermined time.

Recipients who have the gift receipt won’t have to haggle with retailers about the value of the card should that ever be in dispute.

Consider a general purpose card

You might consider a general purpose gift card issued by American Express, MasterCard or Visa. These cards allow recipients to use it wherever they choose, whether it’s to put gas in their tank or buy groceries. That versatility is valuable if you have no idea what your friend or family member likes to shop.

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GIFT IDEAS The shutterbug in your life will appreciate extra gear under the tree.

Courtesy

Surprises for Aspiring Photographers (GSM) — Does your grandpa spend every family get-together with a camera around his neck? Is your sister constantly sending out e-mails full of great photos of her children, her dogs and whatever new dish she has cooked?

This Christmas, give that amateur photographer in your life a gift they will put to great use as they snap away those lasting family memories. From extra gear to helpful accessories, the field of photography is an exciting one with many options for enhancing skills and furthering love of the art and a great source of ideas for gifts.

Extra Storage

What’s worse than snapping some shots of a memorable moment when the “out of storage space” message appears on your camera? Photographers of all skill sets are always in need of extra space for photos, which you can give them with a high-storage memory card.

For an extra touch, load up the memory card with special photographs that your recipient can transfer to another device.

This gift can serve as a great add-on to a new camera or as a perfect stocking stuffer.

Gift Cards

If you’re thinking of giving your photographer friend a gift card this Christmas, get creative by putting some money toward a photo book that he could fill with his best shots. An assortment of online portfoliobuilders are on the market, and most are easy to use and result in a polished, professional finished product.

You can also give a gift card to the mobile application store of the photographer’s choice. Both the Apple and Google app markets feature a wide array of photography-related apps for purchase. From convenient editing tools to how-to guides, your recipient will surely find something of high value through the use of your card.

Editing Software

If your photo-snapping pal has turned from novice to serious, maybe it’s time he starts editing and enhancing his own work.

Many programs allow for just that, offering tips, tricks and tutorials for turning the standard photograph into a work of art.

You can start with basic packages within the Adobe Creative Cloud – such as Photoshop or Illustrator – and let him build his skill levels. These programs have many add-on features available for advanced users that can absolutely transform the photography experience.

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GIFT IDEAS

Pleasing the Readers in Your Life (MS) — Many people love to read, and such people do not often cause headaches for holiday shoppers. Readers typically are easy to shop for come the holiday season, when shoppers stuck on what to get a friend or family member can always fall back on a book or two if they know their loved one likes to get lost in a good book. But books aren’t the only gifts shoppers can give the readers on their lists this holiday season. The following are a few gift ideas no book lover can balk at.

• E-reader: Before buying an e-reader, shoppers may want to first learn where the intended recipient of this thoughtful gift stands on the book versus e-reader debate.

Some book lovers feel a sentimental attachment to traditional books, while others love the versatility of e-readers, many of which serve as tablets that allow users to peruse the Internet, play games and, of course, read books. If your friend or family member does not have an aversion to e-readers, then this might make the ideal gift. The price of e-readers varies depending on their capabilities, but you can expect to spend anywhere from $50 to several hundred dollars depend-

ing on which model you ultimately choose.

• Storage: For those readers who prefer traditional books, a new bookshelf can help them store their favorite titles. Books take up a lot of space, and avid readers tend to buy many new books each year, so homeowners and apartment dwellers alike will no doubt appreciate the extra space to store their collections. But even e-reader enthusiasts may find their storage filling up faster than they might have liked. To remedy that problem, holiday shoppers can buy a Wi-Drive with ample extra storage space so readers who keep both books and movies on their e-readers and tablets have plenty of extra space to store all of those new books they plan to read in the coming year.

• Decorative bookends: Those who have a passion for books and home decor might appreciate a unique set of handcrafted bookends to store the books they keep on their desks or those they keep out as decorative accents that guests can enjoy when visiting. Such gifts will please your friends or family members who have a flare for interior decorating while also appealing to their love of literature.

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GIFT IDEAS

Kitchen Gift-Giving Made Easy With Personality Profiles (MS) — Those names on your holiday gift list are more than just people — they’re personalities. This simple shift in perspective can go a long way to help narrow down gift selections. For example, someone who likes to keep things simple might be called the Solution Seeker. Become a great gift giver by paying attention to the broader personality traits of your gift receivers. Read on for several examples of kitchen personality profiles, along with suggestions for the perfect gifts.

East Meets Best

him even more reason to love them — and appreciate you at the same time — with a gourmet nonstick wok. Anolon Nouvelle Copper makes a 12-inch covered wok with an elegant, highdomed stainless steel lid that helps beautifully seal heat and moisture inside. The wok’s interior also features the innovative Anolon Unity Surface with easy-clean rivets. This design eliminates the “speed-bump” effect sometimes found in pans with exposed rivet heads, so home chefs can keep wok tools in constant motion throughout the cooking.

is the tea-related present.

The Total Tea Lover enjoys hot tea at home, at work, and anywhere else a fresh cup can be made and savored. Find the Total Tea Lover the perfect stocking stuffer with the compact, portable Teas in a Pod tea infuser from BonJour. Crafted from heat-safe stainless steel and silicone, in a variety of fun, friendly colors, the reusable, pod-shaped infuser holds enough loose-leaf tea or tea blend.

The silicone cap pops off and on for easy use and care. Since the Total Tea Lover drinks tea at home, work, and anywhere else a fresh cup can be made and savored, why not give a Teas in a Pod infuser for each location?

The wok is one of the oldest Total Tea Lover types of pans in the world, and Anolon Nouvelle Copper Next to water, tea is the world’s Let the Sunrise In one of the most efficient. First, 12-Inch Covered Wok most popular beverage. In the The Total Tea Lover is sure to apthe bowl-like shape helps disUnited States it runs second preciate a bright, new kettle with tribute heat evenly. Then, like a satellite dish, the to coffee, but tea consumption has clean, modern lines. There’s no reason rounded side helps focus all that heat toward the been on the rise here for several to call a teakettle black when you center of the pan, so ingredients sear and cook years running, and that trend is excan choose among vibrant shades more efficiently and flavors build more rapidly. In pected to continue. Odds are therefore like elegant Capri turquoise, clasAsia, of course, wok cooking is enough of a special good that your gift list includes more sic navy blue and sunny mustard skill and technique to be considered an art. than a few tea drinkers — and probably a yellow offered in the Circulon Sunrise The All-Season Foodie on your list may already Total Tea Lover or two. Steeped or iced, Earl Circulon Sunrise Teakettle collection. Boiling water love wok cooking and Asian cuisine. Give her or Grey or herbal, tea is ideal for them, and so Teakettle Continued on next page

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GIFT IDEAS Continued from previous page

than just another gadget to stick for beautiful baked add to the utensil drawer, good release with quick however. and easy cleaning. Like its One gift-giving solution coordinating cookware, this for this kind of cook is Silvercarbon steel bakeware also Stone CXi Ceramic Nonstick comes in bright, on-trend Cookware. On the cookware contemporary colors to exteriors, bold color progive the kitchen a fresh, vides a refreshing splash of friendly vibe. on-trend kitchen style, with

The Dessert Deliverer color-matching On the subject of bakIn the handles rubing, check your list for a Mixology berized for special type of personality Cockwrist and tails are hand com- profile: the Dessert Deliverer.

They may love baking from back, alfort. Each scratch or mix, simply have though pot and a roster of favorite bakeries some say pan in this whose goodies they love to they never collection select and share. Whatever went away. features The Easyinnovative, the occasion — weekday or holiday, casual or special Going bright— they inevitably bring a Entertainwhite delicious baked treat. er always ceramic Help the Dessert Delivrefreshes nonstick for erer carry those tasty baked dinner and effortless food Rachael Ray 4-Piece goods to their ultimate party guests in a release with easy Party Plate Set destination with a stylish special way, with cleanup. Practiced Cake Boss Cake Carrier. The fresh fruit and an herb garor beginner, the resultvintage-styled carriers feanish to perk up a simple glass oriented cook is sure to love ture bakeshop-era designs of ice water, or by making this colorful, high-performagainst a cream-colored one-of-a-kind drinks to order. ing nonstick cookware. background, and the lids Give the budding barIf the solution-seeking sport a sturdy, collapsible red tender or any entertainer cook also loves resultshandle. Each carrier more reason to celebrate, oriented baking, or if there’s holds a stanwith the festive Rachael Ray simply a baker dard, 9-inch 4-Piece Party Plate Set. Each on your list in round of the lunch plates features a need of his doubledifferent refreshing cocktail or her own layer cake depicted in full color against gift, Silveror similar sturdy, bold white stoneware. Stone Hybrid size and The actual cocktail recipes Ceramic shape are printed on the reverse Nonstick dessert, side of the plates, so the set Bakeware and the is sure to inspire any mixolo- provides one clever side latches gist, from beginner to expeanswer. SilverStone Cake Boss rienced. When an Easy-Going Bakeware features cut- Cake Carrier firmly lock the lid closed.

Entertainer and a beautiful, ting-edge ceramic nondurable serveware or dinnerware gift are on your list, you’re sure to be on theirs, every time. becomes downright joyful with these stylish kettles, featuring durable construction and an easy to clean high-gloss exterior finish. The teakettle’s squeeze-and-pour handle helps keep hands and fingers away from hot steam and water.

The Solution Seeker

Do you know someone who once he or she gets into the kitchen is constantly in search of solutions? The Solution Seeker on your list may be easy to spot — look for crossword and Sudoku puzzles on their smartphone and similar clues.

The solution-seeking home cook craves something more

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GIFT IDEAS Select gifts that will have a longer shelf life, guaranteeing more opportunities for play.

Courtesy

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Hot Toys for Your Favorite Kiddoes (MS) — Parents often find themselves waiting in long lines to snag the hottest toys for children’s holiday gifts. Shoppers arrive at retail stores in droves to grab the newest video game consoles or must-have dolls or action figures.

From Cabbage Patch Dolls of the 1980s to the Elmo craze of the 1990s, every generation seems to have its own must-have holiday gift. This year, holiday shoppers may want to start shopping early if they hope to land any of the following items that figure to be this year’s hot toys.

• “Frozen”-themed toys: Toys inspired by the smash hit film “Frozen” will continue to be hot commodities this holiday season.

If the special girl in your life is still enamored with all things “Frozen,” it’s a smart bet to start your holiday buying early this year.

• “Hunger Games” athletic items:

Fans of the “Hunger Games” trilogy, be it the books, movies or both, are familiar with lead character Katniss’ prowess with a bow and arrow. Bows inspired by the movie are in demand and will appeal to both girls and boys testing their archery skills.

• Beats by Dr. Dre: Music-lovers still consider these headphones must-have items. They’re especially prevalent among the teen market. Available in a variety of colors, users can coordinate their Beats headphones with their clothing or accessories.

• Lego Minecraft: It was only a matter of time before Lego got in on the action of one of the hottest games to sweep the Internet and video game console world.

Minecraft is a digital building game that has enthralled gamers of all ages. Now Minecraft enthusiasts can recreate on-screen worlds in tangible Lego versions.

• Xeno: Xeno is a “friend-toy” that is neither robot nor doll, but an interactive pet. Made from nontoxic elastic material and including eight sensors, the creature is a moving, reacting companion. Xeno even can dance to music. And parents will love that Xeno does not need to be taken for walks.

• Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles:

On the heels of the summer blockbuster inspired by these gifted turtles, fans of the weapon-swinging shelled warriors will certainly want to surround themselves with all things turtle, so expect to see plenty of movie-inspired gifts on store shelves this season. The holiday season is on the horizon, and it’s never too early to begin shopping for the toys and games experts predict will be this year’s must-have items.

• Zoomer Dino: Control him if you can!

Boomer the Zoomer Dino is the ultimate pre-historic pet for kids ages 5+. Using True Balance technology, Boomer perfectly balances while roaming freely around your home. Get him angry by pulling on his tail, train him to dance, chase, chomp and roar.

• VTech Kidizoom Smartwatch:

Young photographers can take photos and videos on the go with fun effects. Digital and analog displays have more than 50 clock face designs. Includes a voice recorder with wacky voice-changing effects as well as four exciting learning games.

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GIFT IDEAS

Presents to Keep Kids Engaged (MS) — Store aisles are filled this time of year with every must-have gift retailers can advertise. Children often plead and beg for the hottest toys weeks ahead of the holidays, hoping to find their requests wrapped up come the big day.

But once the gift wrap is torn away and kids have played with their presents for a day, some already grow bored with their new belongings and cast them aside. Certain toys are not engaging enough to warrant extended periods of play.

No gift-giver wants to spend money on a present only to have it collecting dust days later. With that said, employing these strategies can help anyone select a gift that will continue to inspire and excite children long after the holiday season has come and gone.

• Don’t believe the hype. It’s easy to fall for ultra-popular trendy gifts. While such gifts may have popular appeal, that does not mean they’re a perfect fit for your child.

When shopping for youngsters come the holiday season, choose a gift because your child will truly enjoy it and not because it’s the trendy item of the year.

• Focus on the play factor. Too often shoppers get caught up in toys’ appearances.

Instead, think about how the toys will work with imaginative play. The more a child can envision himself doing with a particular toy, the more likely he or she will exhibit a continued interest in that toy.

• Look for minimal bells and whistles. Kids often find toys that leave more

room for imagination more interesting than toys that are loaded with gadgets. Children prefer to make up their own stories and create modes of play that are more about what they like rather than the “right” way to play or win.

• Choose gifts that grow. Shoppers want to select gifts that are age-appropriate for children so they will be safe during play time. But shoppers also should look for toys and activities that can be modified and grow with the child as he or she ages. A game that gets progressively harder through levels or a toy set that can be supplemented as kids grow older may make good gifts. Musical instruments also can grow with a child, as the instruments become easier to master with practice.

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