One of the best parts of my job is seeing all the new gift items. Here are several of my favorites for 2011.
Two of the top items on my list are from Graf & Lanz, which has a beautiful collection of bags for men and women as well home accessories. This felt and leather Carry All is not only beautiful but it also folds down so it’s easy to pack in a suitcase. $369 at www.graf-lantz.comThe Solo wine carrier is made from thick felt and leather, with detachable straps. A perfect tote for holiday parties or a hostess gift. $79 at www.graf-lantz.comI totally fell in love with these suitcases from www.uniquevintage.com. This carry-on is made with faux ostrich, rolls and has a handle. $124.These Hercules XPS diamond 2.0 speakers make a great gift for just about anyone. $29.99 at amazon.comSupposedly for kids, but my college-age son will love this plush talking bacon that says “I’m bacon” when you squeeze him. $9.99 at www.thinkgeek.comThrow this in the microwave and warm up with this line of Bed Buddy Herbal Naturals wraps infused with aromatherapy and lined with luxurious real lavender and chamomile. From $25.99 at drugstores and select retailers. www.carex.com/products/Bed_Buddy/93This bottle with the image of a 400-year-old distillery is Peru is so beautiful you’ll want to keep one for yourself. This flavorful spirit is good straight or delicious mixed into a cocktail. Around $40 to $50. piscoporton.com/homeForget gathering and packing all those cables — the AViiQ Portable USB Charging Station can charge four USB devices at once, even your iPad. $79.99 at www.aviiq.com/products/portable-charging-stationLove in a Nutshell Audio book Mystery fans will love the latest tale of romantic suspense by Janet Evanovich, the bestselling author of the Stephanie Plum novels, and Dorien Kelly. Unabridged is $29.99; abridged is $19.99 at amazon.comYoga gear from Neon Buddha. These cute fashions are made of 100% preshrunk cotton by women in Thailand and 1% of every sale is donated to charities. Available at department stores and boutiques throughout North America. Prices start at $35. www.NeonBuddha.netBubblebum Perfect for families on the go, the BubbleBum is a portable booster seat that deflates, making it perfect for trips by plane. Just deflate it and throw it in your carryon. $39.99 at www.bubblebum.usRicossa Moscato d’Asti This Italian sparkling wine is perfect to serve with dessert. Tie a ribbon on the bottle and it’s a perfect hostess gift. Around $14.99 a bottle.Forget the dreaded fannypack – these bags from Hipzbag are actually fashionable. Available in a variety of materials, this faux leather one is $.24.95 at shop.hipzbag.com
