Candles have been used for ages to light up the interiors and bring a romantic touch to your celebration in contemporary times. To add a mystical touch to the décor and ambiance, they now contain fragrances, and pigments for color. Candles are now employed more as a source of mood lighting.

Indeed, fragrance of perfumed candle is soft and inviting. They spread light amidst sensuous aromas. Light them up on any special occasion for that extra special aura and aroma. The charm of candlelight builds a warm atmosphere, and totally transforms a setting. Scented candles add a personal touch and can make a gorgeous accessory.

L’Occitane, Shangri la, Forest Essential and Good Earth apart from Dimple Kapadia’s ‘Faraway Tree’ are among the major brands of aromatic and scented candles available on the market. You can accentuate the effect with an attractive candle holder. Candle holders come in various sizes, shapes and materials (wood, metal, plastic, glass, crystal. etc.) these days. You can choose from many elaborate candle stands. Holders can be free-standing or can be attached to a wall.

There are several home décor shops you can visit to take a look at their collection of fine candle holders and candelabras to pick one that matches your tastes.  For example, you may opt for elegant brass candle stands. Taking a cue from India’s ancient crafts, these elegant stands add a classy touch to home décor.

The Dhokra craft, employed for the candle stands, is extremely skill-intensive. It is also termed the ‘Lost wax’ process in which pure brass along with scraps of different metals are added to get an alloy with an antique and exquisite finish.

You can also opt for wrought iron candle stands with colorful candles. They are often made in the shapes of various animals and birds like horse, parrot and peacock to add a curious, mystical touch to them.

Tags: Popular corporate gifts, Business etiquette, corporate gifts companies, low cost gifts, gifting india, Corporate gifting, promotional products, Corporate gifting India, , gifting to clients

Bookmark to:

A gift should be of some value and use to the person. Why not look for something that will serve as a perfect companion to constant travelers.

For someone who is looking to immerse in video his or her iPod during long journeys, Myvu Personal Media Viewer with a brilliant picture quality is ideal! It’s an offering that will change the person’s world when he or she straps on this new personal media accessory for enjoying a hands-free, big-screen personal viewing experience.

It can be connected to 30 GB, 60 GB or 80 GB iPod with video to for large screen action wherever the person happens to be. It comprises built-in video viewing and audio systems. A tiny pendant gives easy access to playback and also brightness controls.

Myvu ensures the user will never run out of steam thanks to included AC and car adapters for charging. The included power pack increases the iPod Video’s playback time up to eight hours on one single charge! This fully Loaded Personal Media Viewer is an ideal companion will provide convenient, immersive video playback! It’s a perfect road-trip companion!

Another great pick is a wireless Plug-in Hands-free. It’s a coveted gadget thanks to its great looks and sound. The wireless accessory is a perfect gift for those who tend to spend a lot of time on the wheels and are looking for a device that will help them keep in touch with their personal as well as business contacts.

What makes a Nokia wireless Plug-in Hands-free a great gift? First of all, it is easy-to-install and quite user-friendly. It has several useful features. For example, backlight illumination makes calls easily even in the dark. It makes use of a compatible phone safely while in the vehicle via Bluetooth wireless technology.

It allows you to accept / reject/ terminate calls with ease using the simple interface. You can use the flexible hinge for positioning the device in the vehicle lighter socket. It lets you enjoy perfect audio quality thanks to the built-in digital signal processing technology that cancels echo and reduces noise. On top of all this, it is very stylish.

Bookmark to:

Jute products fill our life with joy and color. You can sure bring a smile on the face of someone close to you with classy jute gifts. Jute craft is one of India’s most unique crafts. Jute products leave one spellbound with their perfection in design and dexterity. 

In this post, we give you a glimpse of the amazing range of gorgeous jute gifts exclusively for the festive season:

• The jute handicrafts stand for skill and excellence of the craftsmen who transform the natural jute into compelling products with an aesthetic appeal.

• A wide range of lifestyle jute products are there you can use and gift, like attractive wall decorative pieces, dress materials and terracotta embedded items.

• Jute is used for home décor products to suit eclectic lifestyles.  Decorative pieces blended with embroidery made from jute look stunning.

• Jute garments come in sizzling spectrum in hand printed, embroidered, and dyed features. Jute woven fabrics are used in making attractive stuffed toys.

• Accessories like lovely ladies fancy bags and pouches are available in all sizes, shapes and styles. Even ubiquitous day-to-day products like mats and coasters get a creative touch with creative designs and colors that hold one’s attention.

• A variety of children bags are available in different interesting shapes. Children will sure relish them owing to their cute designs and soft colors.

• Handmade jute wall hanging and jewelry is a great way to pamper someone close to you this festive season.

There are some unconventional gifts in form of handsome and artistic wine bottle holders in jute - perfect for wine connoisseurs. These jute wine bags are available in a myriad range of shapes, colors and stunning designs. Made from an eco-friendly material, they look trendy. With their peerless look, they enhance the appeal of wine racks.

GIFTEX is an authentic source for an amazing range of  utility and fashion accessories in jute.

Bookmark to:

If you are keen on incorporating glitz n glamour to your gaudy gift, why not try out brash Bollywood themes. If you do not know how, this is something just for you. Here is a young designer who will do the job for you…

Dazzling designer Nida Mahmood, who admittedly has been a hardcore Hindi movie buff, would always dream of cute little things that we could see only on screen. That set her thinking how those gorgeous elements, which light up a film set, could be incorporated in one’s daily life. She mulled over the idea and integrated with the concept of gifting. 

The unique blend has given rise to a venture called as New India Bioscope. She has set it up with her friend Raul Chandra. It has just been over a month ago and the idea has clicked. She has already been chosen to refurbish the Art Deco Theatre in New Delhi, Nida is also going work for a Hollywood production, designing the outfits.

Spice and variety is the essence of her eccentric gift offerings.  These are no ordinary items. As you would realize, the techni-color fun has subtly spilled over onto ubiquitous objects from totes to keychains. She has added dramatic touch to them, terming it as an unadulterated Bollywood touch. There are captivating tea cups and other kitschy items like diaries, bags and home décor elements.

Prices might deter you, if not the concept itself! Price tag of a Gabbar chair will ring in your ears for days together. It is tagged at Rs 45,000. If you are looking for more affordable stuff, go for umbrellas with rain songs like ‘Pyar Hua’ and ‘Ek Ladki Bheegi Bhaagi Si’ from the 90’s to those from the 50’s etched on them. These cost just about Rs 1,000 to Rs 2,000. A ‘Don’ notebook is just worth a few hundred rupees, while Bollywood keychains come cheaper at Rs 100.

Tags: , promotional gifts, corporate gifting for employees, gifting india, Popular corporate gifts, gifting etiquette, Gifting events, Worst gifts, business gifting, Business Gifting
Corporate gifting

Bookmark to:

Diwali indicates the victory of good over evil. To spread cheer, love and light, we celebrate Diwali. The festival is celebrated with diyas, lanterns and rangolis. It is an occasion to share joy and happiness. This is why we give special gifts to enlighten their lives with love and affection.

Make sure your gift this Diwali makes the person happy - be it your boss, your employee, your colleague, or your family friend. You may wonder if dry fruits, chocolates and sweets are among the only options when it comes to gift-giving on Diwali eve.

Well, it’s time that you try to go beyond those traditional symbols associated with Diwali celebration and do something unconventional, even strike a musical note. Look what the magical musical trio Shankar Ehsaan Loy has come up with this festive season. The three have chosen to get ‘musically’ innovative in their very own way!

The ‘breathless’ singer, Shankar Mahadevan gifted his dear friend and colleague Ehsaan, a Sennheiser HD series headphone. The latter was overjoyed to receive the present For him, this was among the most treasured Diwali gifts. Shankar was quoted as saying, “Music invariably brings a smile to one’s face, so this Diwali we thought of spreading happiness with it!”

Sennheiser’s quality sound equipment offers crystal clear sound level with noise cancellation. Loy also opted for the same gift. Even Ehsaan was to surprise with an unusual gift to his family n friends. “I didn’t want to give something they would expect.” Indeed, a gift gets special when it comes as a pleasant surprise. It’s the perfect gesture and truly serves its purpose!

Spread happiness and smiles with musical gifts instead of just chocolates and sweets, is the message from the musical trio of Shankar Ehsaan Loy this Diwali. Tune in to the real joy of Diwali…

Tags: gifting to clients, corporate gifting for employees, Gifting events, Best business gifts, Business etiquette, Best corporate gifts, Gifting occasions, gifting etiquette, corporate gifts companies, Business Gifting
Corporate gifting

Bookmark to:

In its special Diwali gifting series, The Mint focused on families giving away some unique Diwali gifts for friends and relatives. Anindita Ghose in an essay made mention of such off-beat gifting ideas. 

“What do you gift those who almost have everything they might need?” the writer asked, referring to the Sharmas - Jyotsana and Arjun – who decided to buy potted basil plants in lemon, camphor and tulsi varieties as Diwali gifts.

Their festive gifting plans reflect the austerity debate. But for them it’s more a practical option since the two increasingly find extravagant gifting a pointless exercise. Jyotsana testifies to the undesirable phenomenon of gift recycling. One gift she would though, never pass on is an orchid a friend gifted her. Nurturing it has become an engaging experience, which is why she chose to the green gifting idea.

She approached a local herb store to source their plants from a wide range of medicinal and exotic herbs. The couple opted for basil for its sociological ties with Indian tradition. In fact, the family has almost done away with the whole concept of gifting since the last couple of years. Instead it donates to charitable foundation.

Diwali is an occasion that prompts more donations, which would go to each family member’s chosen charity. Arjun supports Chintan, an NGO that is part of Project Arman. His mother, a doctor by profession, manages a charitable dispensary. Wife Jyotsana supports two animal shelters. A foundation named after Arjun’s father funds a hospital, temple and school in their native village. Every year, the dotting donors throw a party for the rag picking children after Diwali.

Instead of lavish gifting, the family tries to revive the tradition of get-togethers to strengthen the bonds of love. The message here is that, you can celebrate Diwali not just by splurging, but also by donating to charities, and going green. 

Bookmark to:

Diwali, the festival of lights, is celebrated all over India and around the globe where NRIs are settled in larger numbers. Diwali, also known as ‘Deepawali’, originates from the word ‘deep’ meaning the light from a row of tiny diyas in order to brighten the lives of each and every one as well as to spread positivity around. In essence, Diwali is celebrated to spread the light of love and hope.

To add value to your gift giving ritual, The Mint publication unveiled more than hundred enterprising ideas. It carried a special edition of the Lounge section devoted entirely to the tradition of gift giving in Diwali.

A series of special features covered a whole gamut of ideas - from environment-friendly products and almost-free gift ideas to splurge-worthy goodie. The idea was to find festive bounty for every budget.

The introductory essay noted: “No matter how lean the year, this is not the time to scrimp. In fact, it’s the season for some serious retail therapy. That’s why we went shopping for some beautiful goodies. There’re price tags suitable for every pocket.”

They made a conscious effort to steer clear of the diyas and candles. Their list covered the whole gamut of items from nice eco-friendly products and jewelry to beautiful handicrafts and fabulous almost-free gifting ideas.

Enlarging the spirit of gifting and giving, the Lounge team noted: “We also believe Diwali is not merely about exchanging gifts. It’s also a time to share our good fortune with those who may not perhaps have as much. Hence they also covered various ideas on giving gifts that have the power to change lives.

The Mint accumulated for readers to gift your near and dear ones to bring smiles on their faces. Click on the link below to check about enterprising gift ideas:

http://www.livemint.com/2009/10/09203732/104-ideas-to-be-everyone8217.html#

Tags: corporate gifting for employees, Corporate gifting India, corporate gifts companies, gifting india, business gift baskets, Gifting occasions, gifting etiquette, Worst gifts, low cost gifts, promotional gifts

Bookmark to:

It’s the ultimate festive time of the year when the wealthy and even the not-so-privileged open their purse. Diwali nights are lit up by Cartier blinkers and the air is filled with swish of satin fills. Elaborate card sessions, dazzling diyas, and crackers are the flavor of the season.

The party circuit perks up irrespective of economic conditions and recession. Every host wants to exude splendor. The venue resembles literally ‘mini-wedding’ scene. The food is served on shiny silver plates, and the gifts are hand-painted for that personalized touch. Invites with glittering gold-embossed logos are sent with beautiful boxes of choco-truffles. The guests are treated to an era and aura of royalty.

From designer kaftans to gazebos by the poolside, the pomp and extravagance reaches its crescendo. A touch of flamboyance is evident in everything in Diwali from designer playing cards to handcrafted boxes filled with pearl chocolates and edible diamond. This is the occasion when everybody who matters tries to ‘make a statement’. Baskets of imported Belgium chocolates, rare honey, gourmet snacks, and oysters for gifts are imported. The jazzier the offering, the better…

In gifting, giving and partying during Diwali, signature style is considered important as it is expected to reflect one’s personality. Those with exquisite taste and money in their pockets do things in a real classy way. There are Diwali melas that offer unusual stuff including Baklavas and Swarovski-studded candles.

Amidst all the ostentatious display and pomp, there are few who harp on tradition with old world décor and authentic Indian cuisine. For them celebrating Diwali is about reviving the spirit of Indian-ness. The hosts hence try to keep everything from the food and flowers to gifts traditional. On the other hand, glitzy glitterati gifts could comprise anything from a custom-made Louis Vuitton bag to a Cartier watch.

Have money, will spend, is the mantra this Diwali!

Tags: gifting india, gifting to clients, corporate gifting for employees, Popular corporate gifts, Gifting occasions, promotional gifts, Corporate gifting, Best business gifts, business gifting, Corporate gifting India

Bookmark to:

There is no doubt about the fact that personalized gifts make a memorable and unique choice. However, the selection process and the ultimate act of choosing a gift that would appeal to the person cannot always be as simple as it looks.

In one of our recent posts, we focused on a unique venture of highly creative Nidhi Agrawal who makes gifts, which suit the receiver’s personality. As we found out, you just need to hand over a picture of your choice to her and she converts it into a dramatic present to reflect the person’s interests by applying her imagination.

There is another comprehensive resource more suited for corporate world when it comes to personalized gifting, merchandising and promotions. We are referring to ekco that stands out is their solid service and innovative ideas.

ekco implements entire product promotional campaigns for their clientele from across different businesses/ industry segments like FMCG, financial institutions, advertising agencies and pharmaceutical firms, among others on a turnkey basis.

ekco serves under the loyalty programs for which they work closely with right from the basic concept to the complete execution of the campaign all across India. Their specialization lies in providing innovative and concept-based gifting solutions.

They supply everything from chocolates, sweets, idols, designer candles, silverware to fancy Hampers. They also deal in items like windcheaters, umbrellas and diyas for various festivals like Diwali, Christmas and of course, the New Year.

Customization and personalization of gifting solutions is the forte of ekco. They undertake the gifting and promotional projects starting from manufacturing to personalizing products like T-Shirts, caps, mugs, clocks, watches, ceramic/ porcelain items, etc. They also execute customized print jobs like printing tattoos.

Some of the categories they deal in are Awards and Recognition; Branded Products; Eco friendly Products; Festival Gifting; Games; Handicrafts; Household Products; Office & personal products.

Bookmark to:

Salman and Aamir, the two Khan, have been generous to Kareena Kapoor. First about Aamir,..Kareena Kapoor always had a desire to do a movie with Aamir Khan. When it happened finally with Rajkumar Hirani’s production 3 Idiots, her joy knew no bounds. She though had never wanted to forgo her birthday bash not once but twice!

During Kareena’s last birthday, the 3 Idiots unit was doing a shoot in Ladakh. Bebo was very much part of it. And this year, around the same time, the final schedule of the movie was all set to start. Kareena’s birthday was just round the corner. Being a hardcore professional, not even once did she raise a hue and cry over it. In fact, it was the glamour media that made all the noise. This time, though the starlet was to receive a pleasant surprise.

Aamir himself stepped in and presented Kareena with a lovely birthday ‘gift’ – a break. If reports are to be believed, the actor personally requested Rajkumar Hirani to postpone the shoot so that Bebo was able to enjoy her birthday celebrations with her loved ones (No prizes to guess, who.)

Summing up the gesture, a news report stated: “Kareena couldn’t have probably received a better gift than the one Aamir gave her this year on her birthday.”

Salman Khan was even more generous; he gifted Kareena a Dolce & Gabbana bag (hold your breath) worth Rs 2.5 lakh, while the two were shooting in Australia for ‘Main Aur Mrs Khanna’.

A source was quoted as saying, “Salman accompanied Kareena on shopping one evening. She loved a Dolce & Gabbana handbag. When she was to pay up for it, she was told that it was already paid for. Salman had paid for it…”

Tags: Corporate gifting India, promotional gifts, gifting to clients, gifting etiquette, low cost gifts, , Gifting occasions, Best business gifts, Cheap corporate gifts, Corporate gifting

Bookmark to: