Dec 2009

If you are looking for inspiration, here is a wonderful collection of books for Christmas Presents, or as a special gift for yourself !

SNOWFLAKES & SCHNAPPS
Jane Lawson

Synopsis:Join Jane Lawson as she takes you on a culinary journey through the magnificent cold-climate cuisines of the snow-cloaked regions of northern, central and eastern Europe. From the seaside towns of Scandinavia, to the alpine villages of Austria, from the ski fields of France, to the fairy-tale castles of Germany, and as far afield as the white-blanketed cities of Russia and beyond, comes this enticing collection of traditional recipes with contemporary flair.

Celebrate the season of winter and enjoy this irresistible selection of simmering soups, hearty meals and indulgent desserts that will warm you to the core. From humble and satisfying classics to glamorous feasts worthy of a celebration, you are sure to be inspired by the mythical winter wonderland of Snowflakes and Schnapps.

http://www.murdochbooks.com.au/snowflakes.htm

Hot Brands Verdict

What better way to open our Christmas Guide than this beautifully produced book. The photographs are absolutely stunning, the Dreaming of a White Christmas section will have you wanting to book a trip to the snow immediately! Full of warming recipes for nibbles, soups, main meals, desserts and piping hot drinks, this is a book to inspire winter cooking at its best.

Christmas at LINLEY: luxuriously indulgent gifts; imaginative designs; meticulous detailing; unique pieces - the perfect place for your Christmas gift shopping. As the time for Christmas shopping is approaching make sure that you are prepared for everything with perfect gift ideas from LINLEY.

Host the perfect Christmas Dinner party with LINLEY Backgammon and chess placemats and Celebration shakers. Christmas drinks will be complete with the new swirl martini glasses and dice coasters, and the perfect gift for the man who has everything; a crystal ashtray or stacking desk drawers in macassar, walnut or rosewood.

http://www.davidlinley.com/

ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS A GIFT FROM VAN CLEEF & ARPELS
As the time for Christmas shopping approaches, make sure you give your loved one a gift that will truly make her stand out from the crowd. These iconic rings from the High Jewellery House of Van Cleef & Arpels caress over and around the fingers with luxurious gold frosted with seasonal diamonds. The love story between the founders of the House – Alfred Van Cleef and Estelle Arpels – lingers on through the beauty of today’s pieces, which are always designed to flame with an everlasting tale of romance.
Choose from the beautiful Deux Papillons, Envol, Lotus, Socrate, or Ruban rings.

And for the man in your life

Don’t forget the House’s stylish watches, a must for any man. Choose from Tourbillon Vêndome, PA49, or the wonderful Midnight in Paris.

www.vancleef-arpels.com

If you are looking for inspiration, here are some fabulous ideas for Christmas ! In the first of a series of Christmas collections we have gathered presents for all ages, to suit every budget. Keep checking back, many, many, more ideas to come in the weeks leading up to Christmas !

CHRISTMAS BY ELISE!

Elise Compson, the UK designer, launched her jewellery brand "By Elise" in 2002 before founding her first pearl boutique a few years later followed by her online store in 2008. Her reputation for outstanding style, glamour and originality has been achieved through her "Signature Range" of pearl jewellery where each item is created by Elise and is entirely unique in its design.

Texture and shape is paramount to each design and at times she creates pieces that have a sense of drama making them truly eye catching. The media have described it as "Classic with a Twist".

Whilst the "Signature" pieces have been individually created and designed by Elise the "Diffusion Range" is a limited edition which has been sourced by her to best reflect the By Elise integrity.

Each pearl necklace, pearl bracelet and pearl earring is handcrafted from the finest stones and is intended to capture a woman's individuality. Her silver steering wheel clasp allows for infinite variety with or without detachable pendants so as to best suit your mood and preference. The pearl collection is ideal for gifts for Christmas and any special occasion.

STOP PRESS By Elise have just launched their Couture Jewellery which are fashion accessories and are an extension of the Handmade Pearl Jewellery and is called “Couture By Elise“. Each one is unique and they are designed and created in conjunction with the customer. A wonderful on trend Christmas gift !

Available from www.byelise.com