I am a big fan of reality television and not ashamed to admit it.  It's been a while since I dedicated myself to watching Celebrity Apprentice but this season I was hooked.  With 18 celebrities and lots of drama, who could blame me?  

By the time the finale came, I was 100% Team Clay.  As someone who prides herself on project management, I was impressed with his management style, sense of collaboration, attitude, and high dose of common sense to drive tasks through to completion.  Even though he was surrounded by characters, he focused on getting the job done and I thought he had the win in the bag.  

I don't think the right choice was made during last night's finale.  I love the Donald, but he seemingly hired Arsenio because he liked him more.  And since I (admittedly) voted for Clay 106 times when he appeared on American Idol, I was disappointed that he was robbed yet again.

The beauty of Celebrity Apprentice is that at its core, it is for charity.  That is why I encourage you, if you were impressed with Clay and think he deserved the victory, give his charity what they deserve! It is easy to rant on Twitter and Facebook, but make it right in your own way!

Donate to the National Inclusion Project by texting CLAY to 50555 or clicking below to donate directly through their website. 

National Inclusion Project's Mission courtesy of their website

Through innovative programs and strategic partnerships, we are leading the way for inclusive communities nationwide. "Let’s ALL Play" provides a program model for recreational programs seeking to improve the way they implement inclusion.  "Together We Make a Difference" is an effective service learning curriculum tool that teachers and program providers can use to help all children make an impact.  We also offer other grants for those seeking to make a difference in their communities with inclusive programs and families seeking to benefit from inclusive programs.

photos courtesy of inclusionproject.org and NBC

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During an evening stroll through the village last week, I was pleasantly surprised to see the doors of Forbidden Fruit NYC had finally opened for business.  Lucky for me, they weren't officially open yet, but giving samples of their Belgian-covered fruit to curious passersby.

Fruit options included clementines, bananas, strawberries, pineapple, kabobs & bowls.  The fruit was fresh and tempting on its own....but then the magic happened.  Like a fruit stand straight out of Willy Wonka, white chocolate, milk chocolate, and dark chocolate is then drizzled over the fruit of your desire.  The combinations are endless and every customer was raving about the quality of the product.  

On MacDougal Street, where there's always a party and greasy food to follow, Forbidden Fruit is a pleasant breath of fresh air.  It also serves as a welcomed post-date hot spot in a neighborhood perpetually full of springtime excitement.  

Tempted?  Visit Forbidden Fruit on 106 MacDougal Street (between West 3rd and Bleecker) and tell them we sent you! 

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As a May baby, I've always been lucky to celebrate my birthday in the middle of the year, away from all other gift giving holidays.  Growing up, I never had friends or family with Christmas birthdays - it was only until recently I truly understood the importance of separating birthdays and the holidays to ensure that proper attention is paid!

A few quick tips

1. The Celebration:  While you may be celebrating during your family's holiday party - put aside a devoted period of time to celebrate the birthday.  GLC Tip: Send the guests an online invitation (our pick - Paperless Post) to remind them of the birthday & make the event a bit more solidified.
2. The Sweets:  Holiday sweets are around every corner, but don't kill two birds with one stone.  Be sure to get a special and unique dessert that the guest of honor will love.  If celebrating during a holiday party, do not put a candle in a Christmas cookie!
   
   1. Don't get us wrong - We don't mean you can't take advantage of beautiful, limited edition holiday treats - just don't pick the most obvious ones.   GLC Tip: We will be celebrating a birthday tomorrow and went to the world famous Francois Payard bakery to pick out something special.  We caught one glimpse of the Buche de Noel - Cassis Chestnut cake and had to have it!  It was elegant, gorgeous, and perfect to celebrate a sophisticated woman's special day.  It happens to be a holiday classic - but such a rare treat that is perfect for a birthday!

3. The Long Distance Gift:  When sending flowers, candy, or food to your long distance friends, be sure to not send holiday-themed items.  Don't send red roses or poinsettias, but rather a colorful and unique arrangement, or delicious treat that isn't covered with reindeer.

Send This:                                                                        Not That:

Send This:                                                                       Not That

3. The Treats:  Whether sending a gift or giving one in person, the most important rule is to present Christmas and Birthday gifts separately.  Unless you've specifically discussed merging the gifts with the recipient (i.e., giving them a large gift to celebrate both), it is important to distinguish which gifts are for which events.  GLC Tip:  I don't think I need to mention this, because you are all so charming & wonderful, but do not buy 2 gifts for the price of 1.  They will know and they deserve better than that.

We know you love your family & friends, no matter what time of year it is.  Just keep in mind how a seemingly nice gesture can make someone feel slightly less than special.  And we wouldn't want that!  

Happy holidays & happy birthdays! 

xo         

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You're now in the final stretch of Holiday shopping and if you're anything like me, you're stumped when it comes to the men on your list.  Whether it be your Dad, Brother, Boyfriend, or Husband - men typically don't make their wish lists as apparent as women do and it takes a bit more research to get them something they'll really love.

We've got all your needs covered - for the classic gentleman to the sports lover, beverage enthusiast to musician, traveler to gamer.  All of these gifts can still be delivered in time for the holidays so get clicking & get shipping!

For the Classic Gentleman

1. Converse All Star Leather Multi Eyelets - $170
2. John Varvatos Zip Front Leather Jacket - $1,077
3. The Art of Shaving - Fusion Contemporary Shaving Set - $255
4. Marc by Marc Jacobs Embossed Python Billfold Wallet - $118
5. Clarisonic Skin Cleansing System in Grey - $195
6. Storus Titanium Smart Money Clip - $29.95
7. Persol Men's Sunglasses - $220

8. Leather Valet & Watch Case - $129.95
9. The Art of Shaving - Shaving Cream with Lemon Oils - $22
10. Tom Ford Men's Campbell Sunglasses - $360
11. Salvatore Ferragamo- Caesy Lace Up Shoe - $595
12. Banana Republic Messenger Bag - $98
13. Pottery Barn Saddle Leather Eyeglass Case - $29
14. Fossil Roman Stainless Steel Watch in Smoke - $105

For the Gadget Enthusiast

1. Pentax K-r 12 Megapixel D-SLR Camera w/2 Lens Kit & Software - $749
2. Apple iPad 2 - Starting at $499
3. Steve Jobs Biography - $18.42
4. Personalized Leather iPad Case - $150
5. Apple TV - $99
6. VistaQuest Portable Internet TV/Radio Screen - $139.95

7. Apple iPhone 4S - Starting at $199
8. Showtime Karaoke iPod Dock with Microphone - $49.96
9. Bose 1E2 Headphones - $89.95
10. Leather Touch Screen Men's Gloves - $89.99
11. Headcase iPhone 4 Hard Case with Beer Bottle Opener - $19.99

For the Music Lover

1. The Beatles Framed UK Album Covers - $189.99
2. Million Dollar Quartet Broadway / US Tour Tickets - see site for pricing
3. iPad Piano Apprentice - $130
4. Crosley Keepsake USB Turntable - $149.95

5. Amp Style Retro Speaker - $24.99
6. Ticket Stub Diary - $10
7. Coldplay Concert Tickets - see site for pricing
8. Michael Jackson Funko Pop! - $9.99
9. Beatles Sgt. Pepper Puzzle - $24.95

For the Comic Book Lover

1. Distressed Captain America Shield T-shirt - $24.50
2. Williams-Sonoma Marvel Flexible Spatulas - starting at $14
3. Superman Logo IPhone Cases - $39.99
4. Superman Logo Robe - $69.95
5. Converse All Star DC Comics Batman - $55

6. Spiderman First Issue Re-print - $16.95
7. FunkoPop! Heroes Vinyl Figures - $9.99
8. Smallville: The Complete Series - $209.99
9. DC Comics Superheroes & Logos Boxers - $11.99
10. Batman Cufflinks - $14.96
11. Superhero Stamp Cufflinks -  $99.95
12. Batman Logo IPhone Cases - $39.95

All Fun & Games

1. iPad Arcade - $99.99
2. 19 inch Chess Set with Storage - $119.98
3. PlayStation 3 Ferrari Wireless GT Cockpit 430 Scuderia Edition - $249.99
4. Lego Technic Supercar - $119.99

5. Bucky Balls - $30
6. Batman Arkham City for XBOX 360 - $39.99
7. Arcade Legends - $2999.99
8. Your Hometown Puzzle - $39.99
9. Dining Table Tennis - $28
10. Bocce Ball Set - $89

For the Food & Beverage King

1. The Beer Machine - $99.95
2. Wine Making Kit - $179.95
3. Collegiate Glassware - $20-$30
4. The Sharper Image Electric Wine Opener - $39.99
5. Rapid Beverage Chiller - $89.95
6. Antique Bar Flask - $16 - $25.50

7. Waring Professional Deep Fryer - $99.95
8. Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker Charcoal Smoker - $399
9. Graviti Electric Salt & Pepper Mills - $39.95
10. Weber Performer Grill - $349.95
11. Zwilling J. A. Henckels Pro 6" Wide Chef's Knife with Monogram - $79.95

For the Comedian

1. Duct Tape Wallet - $15
2. Santa Drinking Hat - $11.95
3. Toilet Mug - $14.49
4. Old Navy Men's Printed Beer Boxers - $8.50

5. Budweiser Sweater - $79
6. Pirate Umbrella - $32
7. Giant Gummy Bear - $29.95
8. Great Moustaches Mug - $12.95
9. Freudian Slips Sticky Notes - $6.50
10. A Christmas Story 20" Leg Lamp - $39.95

For the Sports Fan

1. Football Dart Board - $159.95
2. Steiner Sports Authentic Yankee Stadium Seat Office Chair - $800
3. Reclaimed Ball Park Cufflinks - $179.95
4. MLB Original Pro-Toaster - $39.99
5. Nike Air Max+ Running Shoes - $160

6. NCAA Tailgate Toss Cornhole Set - $99.98
7. Homeplate Doormat - $22
8. My NFL Personalized Dispenser with Team M&M's - $59.99
9. Boston Red Sox Sandwich Press - $59.99
10. NFL Uniform Gas Grill Cover - $69.99

For the World Traveler

1. The North Face - Men's Couloir Full Zip Hood - $100
2. Jack Spade Waxwear Soft Duffle Bag - $495
3. Slim Sonic Tooth Brush - $16
4. J. Cook Leather Rolling Suitcase - $299
5. Pottery Barn Antique Globes - $179

6. Fill & Fly Bottle Set - $22
7. Universal Adapter - $25
8. Neck Pillow in Charcoal Plaid - $20
9. Keep Calm Notebook Set - $12
10. Scratch-off Mini Mall Map - $20

11. Pottery Barn Colby Leather Toiletry Case - $49
12. Grid-It Medium Grey Tech Organization - $22
13. Bose QuietComfort 15 Acoustic Noise Cancelling Headphones - $299.95
14. Jet Blue Gift Card - from $10 to $1000
15. Duty Free Eye Mask - $22

Still haven't found what you're looking for? Email us at giftlovecharm@gmail.com and we'll do our best to help!

xo

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1. Ralph Lauren Customized Chino Hat - $35
2. Lacoste Smash Bath Robe - $69.99
3. J. Crew Leather iPhone 4 Case - $38
4. Tory Burch Idina Wine Cozy - $75
5. Burberry Check Pajama Pants - $95
6. Ralph Lauren Customized Canvas & Leather Large Tote - $125
7. Ralph Lauren Cashmere Cable Throw Pillow - $295
8. Kate Spade Hers & Hers Glass Duo - $50
9. Kate Spade His & His Glass Duo - $50
10. Sperry Top-Sider Women's Original 2-Eye Boat Shoe - $80
11. Kate Spade Dominoes - $35
12. Jenni Bick Bookbinding Cavallini 2012 Daily Planner - $35

1. Ebbets Field Flannels Ball Cap - $40
2. J. Crew Leather Flask - $42.50
3. The Official Preppy Handbook - $80
4. Brooks Brothers Leather Tie Case - $128
5. Sperry Medium Sailcloth Tote - $150
6. Tory Burch Leather Passport Cover - $125
7. A Gentleman's Guide to Toasts & Tributes - $32
8. Kate Spade Live Colorfully Borough Coasters - $20
9. Vineyard Vines On the Palm Beach Duffle - $98.50

1. Marimekko Fokus Apron - $43
2. Vineyard Vines Beach Chair Wine Bottle Bow Tie - $12
3. Assorted Men's Monogrammed Handkerchiefs - $39.95
4. Vineyard Vines Boston Red Sox Canvas Club Belt - $49.50
5. Lilly Pulitzer Glass Ornament - $48
6. Ralph Lauren Polo Black Coffret Set - $45
7. Moleskine Large Soft Cover Plain Notebook - $17.95
8. Pink Giraffe Monogrammed Pink Throw Pillow - $79
9. UGG Australia Scuff Men's Slipper - $69.95
10. Pink Giraffe Round Monogrammed Lampshade - $55

Happy gifting! xo

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'Tis the season to be glammed up, stressed out, and off to a party every night of the week.  During the holidays, you shouldn't have to be stressed out about wearing the same party dress twice - but you are.  I have always used the shopping philosophy that wardrobe diversification is key.  Pair a less expensive dress with high-end accessories, or vice versa and you will be a star.  Besides, you'll be surprised how many fashion treasures are hiding where you may not be looking!

I love New York & Company for this reason.  Always a deal, always a coupon, and their inventory is always revolving.  Today, they are offering 50% off all merchandise (certain restrictions apply) and I thought an amazing opportunity to highlight some great party dress finds that won't break the bank!  Here are some of our favorites:

1. Stretchy Jersey Dress with Grosgrain Belt - Was $59.95 - Now $29.97
2. Matte Jersey Printed Faux Wrap Dress - Was $59.95 - Now $29.97

1. Ponte Peplum Sheath Dress - Was $79.95 - Now - $39.97
2. Peplum Style Sleeveless Dress - Was $69.95 - Now $34.97

Happy styling! xo

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Old Navy Women's Faux-Fur Trim Frost Free Jackets

Original Price: $69.94

Sale Price (In Store): $20 and Sale Price (Online): $24.50 (when you use the promotion code "Holiday") today only!

Plus save an extra 10% off today if you use your Old Navy, Gap, or Banana Republic card!

I am not one to commit to a fancy winter coat.  I like the variety of a few different options and like to start with a clean slate every season.  Then the inevitable happens -- that first cold day in December and I'm wearing a half-open cape around NYC.  This year we have been so spoiled with nice weather that I didn't feel the pressure to get a coat until today.  

I stopped in Old Navy in Soho on my walk home and was greeted by a sign for $20 "Frost Free" jackets.  I tried on the above jacket in "Alabaster" (pictured on the left) and fell in love with its cute shape and soft materials.  The coat has a ribbed mock turtle neck interoir and faux fur hood which make for a warm and fashionable duo.  What a perfect little coat for commuting this winter!

Even better - you receive an extra 10% off in Old Navy, Gap, and Banana Republic when you use your card on Tuesdays - so I got my new coat for $18!  I think my lunch cost more today.  What a delightful little find.

Shop now!  You have a few hours left to take advantage of this deal!  And there are many more deals available for the men and children in your life as well!

xo

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Saturday, December 10th, 2011 - Danish Christmas

I attended my first dinner party of the holiday season last evening.  My close friends Henriette & Keith welcomed 30 people into their new (& stunning) duplex in Long Island City for an evening of food, friends, and cocktails.  With the New York City skyline sparkling in the distance, it was the first chilly evening in New York and a perfect start to the holiday celebration season.  Not only have Keith and Henriette just moved into their new home, but they are expecting their first child in March.  Together with hectic work schedules, house guests, and holiday arrangements - all of the food was homemade and they were impeccable hosts.  If you know them however, this is not surprising.  I have always been inspired by their ability to entertain and bring together groups of interesting, diverse, and fascinating people.  Thank you for welcoming me into your home and sharing in Danish Christmas!

photo courtesy of Keith Alexander

What I Loved

Given the menu was traditionally Danish, Henriette and Keith created cards which presented the Danish name of the dish, its English translation, and its main ingredients.  This educated the guests and gave the hosts an opportunity to mingle without having to spend their night walking all of the guests through each dish.  The cards were presented on beautiful silver card holders.

My favorite part was that certain spreads (pates and dips) included tips on which bread/cracker combinations worked best with each variety.  They ensured that everyone could enjoy the food in the way it was intended.  This is a sign of really thoughtful hosts.

What I Learned

One of the most popular dishes of the evening was the homemade Ebelskivers.  Ebelskivers are traditional Danish pancakes which have a sphere shape.  In this case, they were filled with crumbled cheese but the possibilities seem endless.  I would describe them as a cross between a mini-muffin and a pop over and they are light, fluffy, and full of flavor.  Being a little larger than a golf ball, they are easy for guests to eat and can be presented in a simple basket.

Guests were very intrigued and Henriette referenced an Ebelskivers book available at Williams-Sonoma if you're interested in learning more.  Below is the Electric Ebelskiver pan, also available at Williams-Sonoma.

What I Brought

In trying to stay within traditional Danish culture, I brought the host and hostess Akvavit - a traditional Scandinavian spirit that has been produced since the 15th century.  It is served ice cold in a small shot glass.

Gift.Love.Charm Party Foul:  My temporary memory loss led to me gift alcohol to a pregnant hostess.    Oops!  She is too gracious to be offended but it wasn't my most charming moment.

Event Photos

Skål! xo

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It's official - your calendar is now completely filled with work outings, holiday get togethers, and fancy dinner parties.  It's not easy being you.  We totally understand.  

After working a long week, now you have to...

• Put together a fabulous party outfit
• Look your most beautiful/handsome
• Collect your most charming stories, &
• Brainstorm a perfect host/hostess gift!

We will be addressing all of these topics in our "Holiday Party Survival" guide over the coming weeks to try and make your life a bit easier while making you sparkle more than ever!

Homemade Appetizers

If you have been tasked with bringing an appetizer to a dinner party tonight - we have some wonderful recipes for you!  If you're like most party guests - your host/hostess has instructed you to "bring nothing but yourself," but why not surprise them & blow them away by making a fabulous appetizer?

The idea sounds great, but searching the internet for recipes can be exhausting and defeating.  Don't worry! We are very fortunate to have a friend & colleague who is a part-time chef/baker and full time food enthusiast.  Michael Klashman - Author of Butter.Flour.Eggs creates charming dishes that always impress.  Being a guinea pig for his latest foodventions,  our waist-line doesn't thank him, but our blog imagination does!  

We've partnered with Michael to bring you some innovative & easy to create appetizer recipes that will be sure to outshine any $12 bottle of wine you were planning on bringing!

"Port Wine" Cheese Biscotti

Cheddar-Herb Pull Apart Bread

Savory Prosciutto Gruyere Cake

Roasted Onion Tart

Tomato Tart

Apple Cheddar Ravioli

Happy baking! xo

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Many people gift chocolate & sweets during the holidays - boxes of truffles and classic gift baskets are in high demand this time of year.  They serve as great corporate gifts and nice gestures for those who help you in your day-to-day life.  And who doesn't love a gourmet truffle in their stocking...  

Sick of giving the same old thing?  Don't worry - we are here to help.  Consider your days of boring gifts over! It's time to step it up & wow people with these top confections.  We've got sweets for every person on your list - from golfers to foodies, thrill seekers to high maintenance hostesses, fashionistas to romantic interests.  

Chocolate isn't just for your mail man anymore!

1. Vosges Mo's Bacon Bar {Deep Milk Chocolate with Hickory smoked uncured bacon + Alderwood salt} for $7.50
2. Vosges Mo's Bacon Chocolate Chip Pancake Mix {Perfect for Christmas morning} for $12
3. Vosges Smoke & Stout Caramel Bar {For the beer lover} for $7.50

1. Crate and Barrel Exclusive Dark Chocolate Jalapeno Meltaways for $10.95
2. Recchiuti Burnt Caramel Truffles for $25

1. SweetBliss Milk Chocolate Covered Potato Stix for $12
2. SweetBliss Milk Chocolate Covered Potato Chips for $12

1. SweetBliss Breakfast of Champions Bark {Milk Belgian chocolate, gummy candy sunny-side-up eggs, chocolate potato stix hash scrambled with bacon bits} for $10   
2. SweetBliss Belgian Chocolate Poppin' Bubble Bark {Dark, Milk, and White Chocolate with a surprise of pop rocks} for $10

1. Jacques Torres Cheerios & Milk Chocolate for $6
2. Jacques Torres Corn Flakes & Rich Dark Chocolate for $6

1. L.A. Burdick Homemade Chocolate Penguins for $32
2. Romanicos Chocolate Photo Truffle Boxes from $12

1. SweetBliss Dark Belgian Chocolate Tool Box {Absolutely stunning and perfect for your favorite handyman} for $28
2. SweetBliss Dark Belgian Chocolate Sports Car {My Dad would LOVE this!} for $28

1. The Kate Royal Wedding Chocolate Shoe by Gayle's Chocolates for $45
2. Chocolate Men's Oxford Shoe by Gayle's Chocolates for $33 

1. Jaws Chocolate Shark by Gayle's Chocolates for $27.50
2. Chocolate Fish on a String by Gayle's Chocolates {Perfect for your favorite fisherman!} for $15

1. Chocolate Motorcycle by Gayle's Chocolates for $19  
2. Chocolate Model T by Gayle's Chocolates for $16

1. Chocolate Pool Table with Cue by Gayle's Chocolates for $19.50
2. Chocolate Bowling Ball with Gift Box by Gayle's Chocolates for $55

1. Chocolate Golfer's Shoe by Gayle's Chocolates for $43
2. Chocolate Golf Balls by Gayle's Chocolates for $17.75

1. Chocolate Slot Machine by Gayle's Chocolates for $16
2. Chocolate Daisy Sucker by Gayle's Chocolates for $18

1. Vosges Piper Heidsieck Brut Rose & Pink Champagne Truffles for $125   
2. Vosges Exotic Truffle Collection for $40 

1. {cocoa absolute} Gold Dark Chocolate {with 24K gold leaf!} starting at $12

1. Vosges Aztec Elixir Couture Cocoa for $15
2. Godiva 60 pc. Luxury Box with Swarovski Elements for $125

1. Gourmet Chocolate Covered Japalenos from The Chocolate Covered Company for $59.95

1. Harry & David Hand-Dipped Chocolate Pears {White chocolate and cookie crumbs} for $39.95
2. Harry & David Hand-Dipped Chocolate Pears {Milk chocolate with pecans} for $39.95

1. Mrs. Prindable's Peppermint Bark Jumbo Apple for $22.95
2. Mrs. Prindable's Santa & His Helpers Basket of Candy-covered Apples for $129.95

1. The Fruit Company Deluxe Dipped Strawberries for $49.95
2. Chocolate Blueberries & Raspberries from The Chocolate Covered Company starting at $39.95

1. Dazzle Me! Cheesecake by Indulged for $94.95
2. Richart Intense French Macarons {Aren't they gorgeous!?} for $45

1. Baked by Melissa Mini Stuffed Cupcakes {Most delicious bite of your life!} Orders start at $25
2. Baked by Melissa Chocolate Dipped Mini Stuffed Cupcakes starting at $10

1. Black Hound New York Lemon Blossom Cake offered on Gilt Taste for $57.95
2. Black Hound New York Pear Almond Cake offered on Gilt Taste for $57.95

1. Byrd Cookie Company Chocolate Banana Cookies offered on Gilt Taste starting at $15.95
2. Byrd Cookie Company Red Velvet Cookies offered on Gilt Taste starting at $15.95

1. Eleni's New York Fashion Cookies offered on Gilt Taste for $84.95
2. Eleni's New York Snowflake Cookies offered on Gilt Taste for $124.95

Happy shopping! xo

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