The Process of Gift Selection

There are some important aspects to be kept in mind while selecting a gift for someone. Two of these are the nature of celebration and the value of the gift.

The Nature of Celebration
It is always important to keep the nature of celebration in mind while buying a gift or arranging it on your own. For a religious occasion, the gifts should be keeping in mind the sentiments of the group of people present at the celebration. For personal celebrations, birthdays, or a day inspired by relationships, the gift should be more in tune with the nature and interests of the person receiving the gift.

Value of The Gift
Whether the gift is simple or intricately made, expensive or free, the beauty of the gift lies in the underlying message that is being conveyed through it. The gift in itself should be expressive, thoughtful and has to be able to justify the effort and the planning that has gone into it. Therefore, it is to be understood that the value of a gift need not lie in its material value but rather in the effort that has gone behind it.

If nothing works, neither planning nor understanding the occasion and the gifting idea.Then,try thinking of the message that the gift should be able to convey. You would most certainly accomplish what you set out to do, make both the gift and the occasion memorable for a long time to come.

Creative Gift Ideas For New Year 2010

It is often said that 'well planned is half done'. This is one saying that has been tried and tested time and again. In the same vein we will now discuss some gift ideas for this New Year that are simple in the effort required yet creatively done.

The Usual - Flowers and Sweets
It is an intelligent idea to 'go simple' and gift your loved ones a bouquet or multiple bouquet of flowers accompanied by chocolates and sweets. This is one idea that is apt for a the occasion of New Year since it can be worked around as per the nature of relationship you share with the reciever. One might be wanting to give a neutral impression or a strong one.

Gifts That Will Say It All - Personalised Gifts
No matter what the message is that is to be conveyed, words always make it easy when it comes to expressing your feelings to your loved ones. A simple handwritten message on a personalised gift item like a diary, a mug, or a framed set of words on a canvas are examples of this idea. However you do it, the result would be more in tune to your the required result than with any other gift.

A Creative Gifting Solution - Paintings
One of the most beautiful ways of expressing yourself is through art. What better way to express the myriad emotions of nostalgia and happiness than through creative gift ideas like a painting or a hand crafted sculpture. The gift can either be made by you or, an art work procured from some other source.

Choosing Gifts Across Occasions For Teenagers

Choosing gifts across occasions is a task in itself. What adds to the difficulty of the situation is when we have to buy gifts for someone again and again. That means there is an additional risk of repeating yourself. It helps if one is prepared in terms of two steps, understanding understanding the person and then the occasion before going ahead and buying a gift.Let us discuss the profile of a teenager and the further differentiation as per occasion.

The Carefree and Innocent Life Stage
Every youngster is an individual in their own right. This is an age which is considered to be very tender in terms of the overall development a child undergoes to be introduced to early adulthood. He/She is confused yet rebellious, determined and carefree, knowledgeable yet innocent. The various proportions of these elements makes all the difference to defining this young adult. Added to it is the fact that the teenagers and especially so of today have a basic 'know it all' attitude as well. Thus, it is important to understand the likes, dislikes and the basic temperament of the teenager for whom you are buying a gift. Another element which plays a key role in understanding the personality differences among teenagers is the gender. A gift for a young 16 year old girl will never work for a teenage boy of the same age.

The Occasion
The choice of gifts differs as per the occasion as well. From birthdays to festivals to days that celebrate relationships, all require an approach which is conducive to that occasion itself. When we try to use gifts that are meant for one celebration in another, it is bound to get noticed. In such a situation the whole purpose of presenting a gift is lost. This holds true irrespective of the life stage of the recipient. So, be it kids, teenagers or adults, the gifting solutions should differ as per as the occasion. One should not make the mistake of underestimating the perception capability of a recipient, even if it is a young child or a teenager.

Once we are armed with the knowledge of the basic temperament of a person and the nature of the occasion, selecting gifts becomes an easy next step.

New Year's Eve 2010 Celebrations

The night preceding New Year's Day, that is the night between 31st of December and 1st of January is termed New Year's Eve. It is the occasion that marks the beginning of the next year and is thus celebrated throughout the world. Though this is an event previously significant to Christianity but today it is considered a national holiday across countries and cultures. There are some customs related to the celebration of New Year's Eve.

Music and Dance
These are the elements that are the flavour of any New Year celebration. People get together in community gatherings and dance the night away to music that is representative of the celebratory atmosphere.

Food
Though, the get together on New Year's Eve might range from a cozy dinner for family and friends to a louder celebration. No New Year's Eve celebration is complete without a good spread of delicacies.

Gifts and Games
What makes this occasion special are the various games and the subsequent ritual of exchanging gifts. Such traditions, though not a certainty in any other celebration but they are a must when the occasion is New Year's Eve.

The way of celebrating might differ among people of cultures and religion and regions, even the date might differ. But, the overall atmosphere at any New Year' Eve celebration is an eclectic mixture of nostalgia for an year gone by and happiness for promise that the next year holds.

'Days' That Celebrate Relationships

As is often said, everyday can be made special. In the same vein of thought, people have come to celebrate days relative to the relationships that make a family or society or celebrates an Individual. These days are a remembrance that every relationship is special and should be celebrated for the bond of love that binds two people together. So, be it Valentines day, Fathers Day, Mothers Day, Friendships Day, Teachers Day and the such, these are all occasions that we have come to celebrate in the recent times for their emotional significance.

The upcoming occasion of Valentine's day is an example of a celebration of the same nature. Sending wishes on an occasion such as this becomes an extension of the myriad feelings of love, friendship, trust, affection, admiration, respect and gratitude that colour our lives.

It is difficult to put on a thinking hat and draw conclusions in terms of the essentials of celebrating occasions having an emotional flavour. Since, as regards the essentials of organising celebrations of a personal nature, we tend to follow our own scheme of things.Thus, it will become a lot easier for us if we first try and understand the underlying emotions that define the occasion such as Valentine's day and plan our celebrations accordingly.

Essentials of A Celebration

A celebration is a joyful occasion with special festivities to mark the joyousness and happiness of an event. It is made special not as much by the occasion as its quality of being memorable for years to come. There are many things that can make an occasion memorable. Some of the things that are essential to any celebration are,

Invitees – The invitees to a celebration may vary in number and composition depending on the nature of the event itself. A more formal event would have a different list of people included than an informal one. The point of differentiation also lies in the underlying emotional atmosphere of a celebration. Invitees can be our loved ones or acquaintances or people whom we meet socially.

Venue – A venue is a place where any event can be planned and consequently executed. Events of a more sophisticated nature require a venue which are in tune with the underplayed atmosphere at such celebrations. Consequently, occasions that have an underlying boisterousness and energy to them need venues that reinforce the emotions of a loud celebration.

Decorations – Another very important ingredient of any celebration are the decorations that make the surroundings pleasurable and beautiful. Decorations are even important in defining the mood of any celebratory occasion.

Food – An aspect of any function or event that holds an equal if not more importance in respect to other s is food. Be it a formal or informal affair, a private party or an open invitation, it is incomplete without food. It is an obvious conclusion then that the food required for a celebration has to suit the theme of the occasion. It also needs to be in tune with the composition of people invited.

Music – Celebrations will always be incomplete without music. Music at a celebration should be tasteful yet conducive to the atmosphere one wants to create. It should also be relevant to the reason because of which the celebration is happening.

Gifts – These are tokens of appreciation, gratitude or thankfulness that are exchanged either at the beginning of the celebration or at the end of it.

These are only some of the important physical aspects without which any celebration or any celebratory atmosphere remains incomplete. A celebration's value lies in the memories of a time spent with loved ones and in the feelings of elation and nostalgia which will linger for a long time to come.

New Year Resolutions - Promises to Keep

New Year is the time for making new year resolutions. A resolution is a promise or a commitment that you make to yourself. When we ' resolve', it means one has made a determined decision, a decision to follow a promise to its end. The relevance of the name 'new year resolutions' is that such a promise is made on New Year's Day, the first day or the day marking the beginning of the year.
Though the ironic part of new year resolutions is that most of us fail to live up to the promises we have made to ourselves. It is very easy to lie to someone else, but being false to our own person is something which is very difficult. And especially so when the promise is towards a cause not directly linked to our own. Therefore as per the number of people involved resolutions can be either,
Self Related Resolutions-Such resolutions are first person in nature. The promises which are going to affect the decision maker himself/herself come under this category.
Or,
Socio Centric Resolutions-These are the commitments which are for the betterment of a person/persons or for the society as a whole.

New Year – An Inspiration To Celebrate Life

Before we could experience it fully, another year has rushed past us and only a week is left before 'New Year 2010'. This January 1st we would be celebrating for two reasons, one is the beginning of the next year. Another is the fact that this new year marks the beginning of the end of the first decade of the 21st century.

With the advent of technology we are now able to witness the New Year celebrations happening in different time zones throughout the world. The common aspect of any New Year celebration are the music and dance parties that precede the countdown to New Year's Eve. Wishing family, friends and acquaintances ' Happy New Year' is another tradition that marks any New Year celebration.

The eve of new year falls on the night of 31st December, though for people around the world the day of 1st January is also significant since it is the first day of the next year. New Year is also a time to be spent with family and friends. Everyone is in the holiday mood and even more so since a new year is another high point in the ongoing festive season. In fact, in most of the countries of the world 1st January is a public holiday.

Even though the day on which a New Year is welcomed does differ as per cultures, traditions, religions and regions. But, the most popular among all New Year celebrations is the one we celebrate on the 1st of January every year.

All said and done, the festivity surrounding this occasion shows that we as humanity want a reason to celebrate.This celebratory atmosphere reinforces our belief in the aspect of 'celebrating' in life.

Give Someone A Reason to Celebrate Christmas

Make this Christmas special for those who really need that extra bit of sunshine in their lives. These may include those living in orphanages, special schools, old age homes and so on.

1) Go ahead and organise a fun Christmas party, if possible tie up with an organisation which is doing something to help the society.
2) Become Santa Claus for children in orphanages and special schools by giving gifts this Christmas season.
3) Celebrate Christmas with children by planning fun Christmas games, some of these could be traditional, some spontaneously decided upon and yet others could be designed by you.
4) Tie up with more than one organisation to hold a Christmas fair a week or ten days before Christmas Day. Such fairs are a fun yet interactive way of celebrating Christmas. To add to the occasion, entertainment can be provided from among the participants themselves.
5) You could sponsor a meal, or better still help in making the Christmas dinner special for someone.
6) Donate money, cash certificates or clothes to those who could really use it for making a better life for themselves.

If you are someone who likes to celebrate differently every time, or believes in adding value to someone else's life this festive season, remember that a great idea is a substantial first step to an excellent outcome.

Gifting Across Occasions - This Festive Season

It is the time for a dual celebration, a time to wish everyone ' Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year'. When the reasons to celebrate are so closely placed on the calender, we tend to look for gifts and cards that can be used for both these occasions. It would make life a lot easier for us as we can then do our shopping once and be done with our homework as far as this festive season goes.

Flowers - Flowers are the perfect gift, be it any occasion, and more so since they work best when it comes to expressing feelings and emotions. Flowers are a very good idea when it comes to gifting across celebrations. Irrespective of the occasion, one can always go ahead with a bouquet or a simple flower arrangement as a gift. But, one should be careful in using them as an easy or a generalist gifting idea. It also helps when flowers are a thoughtful add on to a gift.

Clothes – They are an excellent gifting idea since clothes need not represent an occasion. They can be chosen so as to be given a common flavor of both the celebrations, Christmas and New Year. But, the clothes should be bought keeping in mind the person's individuality as well.

Accessories – Accessories are things that complement a dress or a person's way of carrying themselves. There is a wide range of accessories which can be considered a gifting idea. From watches, handbags to scarves, eye wear, belts to ties, all of them can be a great gifting idea.

Travel or Sports Gear or Electronic Gadgets – Such gifts find favor with people who are fond of sports, travel. Such people have an adventurous streak in them. For those who love being in tune with the latest in technology, one could also go in for mobile handsets, laptops, digicams etc. as a gifting idea.

Gifting across occasions works best when the gift is given keeping in mind the nature and choices of the receiver. Though it helps if the person is known well to you. But, one can still feel safer when giving gifts that are commonly popular in a festive season.

Pointers That Will Make Gifting Easy

We always worry ourselves silly over the idea of having to attend yet another wedding, yet another birthday or festival celebration. The reason for our anxiety is having to think of that perfect gift for every such occasion. Now, with Christmas and New Year round the corner and it being the wedding season,this is a dilemma which most of us can identify with.
It would make our life a lot easier if we could be well prepared every festive season. Now this is easier said than done. But, remember these simple and easy to implement tips and you will be able to stop worrying and start planning for that perfect gift for every occasion.

1) Always plan ahead when selecting a gift
2) Understand the personality of the receiver
3) Select a gift as per occasion
4) Give more personalised gifts
5) Simple gifts are always a better bet
6) A self made gift is more special
7) The beauty of a gift lies in its underlying message
8) A gift should be expressive and thoughtful

Incorporate these simple yet useful ideas when deciding on a gift and you will succeed in making every occasion more memorable than the last.And you will be able to watch the other person's face light up with delight and surprise. Delight and surprise over getting a gift that is so unlike any other they have received on any occasion.

E-Gifting Is Here to Stay

It is that time of the year again, when we all rush through our preparations for the holiday and festive season. Anticipating the Christmas season with growing excitement and expectations we tend to be casual about organisation. And before we know it the time left for planning and preparing is almost over. This is a very natural tendency and a part of human nature.

Though planning ahead is responsible for holding anyone in good stead, this aspect becomes more important with the holiday rush beginning two weeks before Christmas and continuing upto New Year.
Everyone wants to avail the exciting offers and discounts, but the advantage of an early beginning lies with few.

A more intelligent and well planned customer tends to look beyond the conventional means of buying.
The e-marketplace owes its success and growing popularity to such segment of customers. It saves time, energy and keeps the festive spirit intact. Gifting also has now taken the e-route. And, it can be safely said that the concept of Internet gifting is here to stay for years to come.

Different Types of Rakhi Threads

With changing time, the Rakhi Thread has become more fashionable and trendy. It reflects the perfect amalgamation of tradition and modern lifestyle of people. One can avail a wide array of modern rakhi in different shapes, sizes and materials. They can even be designed out of gold attached with diamonds. Few interesting varieties of rakhi in Indian market are as follows :

Beads Rakhi :- Celebrate the auspicious occasion of Raksha Bandhan with novelty!!! The ingenuine handcrafted rakhis come with exclusive patterns.

Cartoon Rakhi/Toy Rakhi :- These are Rakhis with some cartoon pics at the centre of the Rakhi thread. Such type of Rakhis are extremely popular among small children or kids. In this type of rakhi, there are motifs of those cartoon characters which are popular among kids. These motifs are fixed onto the rakhi.

Currency Note/Coin Rakhi :- Coin Rakhi is an extremely popular style of Rakhi and comes in several interesting styles. These Rakhi makes use of brass, silver or gold plated coin as the centre decorative. Most of the times, coins are embellished with images of God or auspicious signs of Swastik and Om to give the Rakhi an auspicious appeal.

Floral Rakhi :- Splendid Floral Rakhi is a graceful Rakhi gift for your dear brother. Splendid Floral Rakhi is a graceful Rakhi gift for your dear brother. Fancy Rakhis adorned with tissue flowers, embellished with various kinds of stones and imparting sweet floral fragrance are quite in rage.

Musical Rakhi :- Musical Rakhi is yet another trendy style of Rakhi popular amongst little ones. Such Rakhis play a special kind of music which may be melodious, surprising or even some animal's voice. Quite often musical Rakhi come in the shape of small stuffed toy or teddy as their centre adornment. Music can be heard when the stuffed toy is pressed.

Divine Rakhi - Ram Rakhi, Shree-Om Rakhi :- Divine Rakhis are created out of different materials and contains various Gods and Goddesses figure including lord Krishna, Lord Ganesha, Goddess Laxmi, Symbols like OM, Swastika etc on it.

Pearl Rakhi – A perfect gift for your brother

A pearl is generally white in color and represent the mood of beauty, art and peace. These days, people can also find pearl in black, peach, mauve colors, etc. Astrologically, this semi precious stone attracts lots of positive vibes from the aura around us. So, if you are thinking of gifting a pearl rakhi to your near and dear ones many color options.

Designs and Styles of Pearl Rakhi

Generally, the central part of Rakhi is covered with pearl but sometimes whole string is also made of pearls which are very small in size. The available design of pearl rakhi are as follows -

• In chain pattern

• Floral designs

• In combination with other stones

• Sometimes in association with gold and silver etc.
  

Properties of Pearl

Pearl is popularly known for its soothing and cool properties. It also possess immense medicinal value for which it is widely sought after. People also have a belief that pearl keeps the mind cool and develops an aesthetic sense of the people. This beautiful stones is broadly used by the designers to make rakhi. It is used either individually or in conjunction with other gemstone which enhances the look and beauty of the Rakhi.

Pearl Rakhis can also be served as a jewelry item. As Pearls are expensive, they need to be held in a strong material. Hence, metals like silver, gold, platinum or even gold or silver plated metals are being used. Pearl beaded in strong silk threads too make an exclusive option. Different variety of pearl rakhi are available in the market to attract your eyes. They often come in floral patterns or in a series patterns. One can also create a pearl rakhi of his/her own with the help of a broken piece of garland.

Candy Rakhi : A perfect gift for kid brother

Candy rakhi, also known as toffee rakhi, are quite popular among small children. Such rakhi have at least one delicious candy attached to the bottom to impart fascinating look. Children have a special fascination for candy rakhis because they get to eat the delicious candy. All sisters send rakhi to their brothers wherever they are, to remind them of the pledge which binds them together. A beautifully packed candy rakhi set is the best option for young brothers.

A Gift that speaks of True Love
Raksha Bandhan stands for a day to celebrate the most sacred relation on this earth. It is always about a lot of happiness to spread. Numerous websites are available to choose from a wide collection of rakhi packages which will make the occasion memorable. A candy rakhi for the kid brother is always a perfect and exclusive gift.

A candy rakhi is a gift which speaks of love and only love. This type of rakhi look even more attractive for little children. It is seen that kid brothers love to receive candy or candy rakhi from their sisters as they get to eat a yummy candy afterwards.

Variety of candy Rakhi
The different variety of candy rakhis are listed below :-

Rakhi with Decorative Candy :- Sometimes one may notice Rakhis adorned with artificial plastic chocolates and candy. These may not be as delicious as Rakhis with real chocolates but these surely lure kids with their lovely appearance.

Chocolate Rakhi :- Adding a complete chocolate bar as the base of rakhi will sometimes make the rakhi even more enticing and delicious. Further, there are Rakhis in which a yummy Chocolate Ball works as the center decorative. Of course, it gets eaten away by the brothers as soon as sister allows it!!!

Decoration in Candy or Chocolate Rakhi :- Sometimes, candy rakhis are further decorated with beautiful laces, stars and other decorative items to look even more fascinating. Quite often a ribbon or resham dori is attached at the back of the candy or chocolate for the tying purpose.

Making of Handmade Rakhi Cards

Handmade Rakhi cards are perfect to add a personal touch to the celebration. There are few interesting ideas for making various types of Rakhi cards to show the love and affection. One can take inspiration from the following ideas and can create an innovative and special Rakhi card for his or her brother or sister.

Embroidered Rakhi Cards

Embroidered rakhi cards are easy and fast to make. They simply look stunning and lure the receiver. So make these cards by your own and win the heart of your brother or sister or any other person.

Material Required :-

• Paper card sheet

• Colored embroidery threads

• Sewing needle

• Glass beads

• Tracing paper
  

Method :

The making of embroidery Rakhi cards is fast and easy. Firstly, cut the card paper in the desired size and fold it from the center. Trace the pattern on the front side of the card. Stitch or paste the beads wherever desired. Write the Rakhi message with the help of marker or embroidery. Stick a Rakhi on the inside along with a small pouch of roli-rice.

Mouli-Frame Rakhi Card

Mouli is mainly a thread which was considered as holy thread for any religious rites. Rakhi cards made up of these mouli threads are easy to make and look extremely beautiful. The following simple steps can help you make such rakhi in minutes.

Materials Required :-

• Handmade card paper

• Mouli or Kalawa

• Red and yellow color

• A small carved Ganesh or Swastika.
  

Method :-
Now cut the paper into desired size and fold the paper from the centre. Leaving some border, paste the mouli-thread making a rectangle, the size of this rectangle may vary as per your design. Line with a decorative border on the inside using red and yellow colors and paste the motif of Ganesha or Swastika a little off center towards top and write 'Happy Raksha Bandhan' or similar short message below the motif.

Mouli Rakhi Card with contemporary look
Make the mouli framed rakhi card by using the above instructions. Now if you wish to give it a contemporary look, use a lace or ribbon instead a mouli. You can also use pressed flowers at the centre and write your message inside the card. Enclose the Rakhi envelope with Akshat and tika.

Rakhi Gifts for Bhaiya-bhabhi

Raksha Bandhan is an occasion to tell your dear bhaiya-bhabhi that they are extremely valuable to you and you love them the most. This relation has always been very close to the heart. Express your love to your bhaiya bhabhi and make this occasion all the more special and memorable. Tell them that they add a special color to your life.

Though it is widely known that Raksha Bandhan is a festival of brothers and sisters, but now it is not confined only to them. People have started celebrating this festival by presenting token of love to friends, family, neighbours and bhaiya-bhabhi. One can come across a number of Rakhi gifts items to present to your bhaiya-bhabhi this Raksha Bandhan and make them feel on top of the world. Some of the popular Rakhi gifts for bhaiya-bhabhi are as follows :-

Ethnic Apparels : Gifting the latest trendy apparels to your bhaiya-bhabhi will make them feel really special this Rakhi. Let your Bhaiya and bhabhi know how important they are in your life by this simple token of love. Select from a nice collection of suits or sarees for your bhabhi and shirts or trousers for your bhaiya and tell them that they are the best bhaiya-bhabhi of this world.

Home Decor Items : Decorative pieces are designed to enhance the home decor. Presenting your Bhaiya and bhabhi with exclusive showpieces on the occasion of Rakhi will make them feel that this festival is not only for brothers and sisters. Make this Raksha Bandhan more special by gifting exquisite gift items to your bhaiya-bhabhi.

Hi-performance Electronics :- This Rakhi, gift your bhaiya-bhabhi something special that will make their life more beautiful. Electronics items can be the best choice for this purpose.

Chocolates and Sweets : Chocolates and sweets are loved by all then how can bhaiya-bhabhi be left behind. Gifting sweets and chocolates to your Bhaiya and bhabhi on this occasion of Rakhi will be a perfect idea, as sweets are an integral part of the Rakhi celebrations.

Idols of God - Bestow your bhaiya-bhabhi with all good wealth and health by presenting him God Idols. An auspicious creation of beaded Swastika will protect your brother from all evil powers.

Wrist Watches :- Gift a set of designer wrist watches specially made for this occasion which enable them to stay ahead of time.

Rakhi Gifts for Kids

People celebrate the age old tradition and custom of Raksha Bandhan with the same zeal and enthusiasm. The festival is never complete without the exchange of rakhi gifts. The tradition of exchanging classic Rakhi gifts on this auspicious day infuse the new spirit and make the moments lovely and special for whole life. Selecting a gift for kids is an interesting but tough job. Few of the most acceptable and popular Rakhi gift ideas are discussed below :-

Delicious Sweets and Chocolates- Mix more sweetness in your relation by gifting a packet of delicious sweets and chocolates. This is a simple way to strengthen the bonding of love with your young siblings by presenting him with mouth-watering sweets prepared in pure ghee and enjoy the festivity of the day.

Soft & Hugging Toys – Kids are very much fond of beautiful, cute and soft toys. Make your young brother or sister more happy by simply gifting a hugging doll, teddy bear or any other soft toy. This will surely bring a million dollar smile on their face.

Fashion Apparels :- Everyone in this world love to have a wardrobe full of ethnic and modern dress wear. Gift your young brother or sister a set of fashion apparel and let them move with the trend.

Hi-tech Electronic Gadgets :- This Rakhi, express your deep love and concern for your young brother or sister and make them feel on top of the world.

Set of various Exciting Games :- Give your young brothers and sisters a gift hamper of various games specially made for kids. These game sets come in a wonderful packing and are in great demand on this occasion.

Rakhi Gift Ideas for brothers

Raksha Bandhan is a day to celebrate this pious relation which involves tying Rakhi thread on the brother's wrist by their sister. The relation of a brother and a sister is among the best and pure relation on this earth. Rakhi gifts in India have the same significance as the festival itself. If you are searching for an exotic gift to please your brother this Rakhi, then you can think of the following gift ideas. Discussed below are the most popular types of Rakhi gifts for brothers.

Trendy Apparels :- Strengthen your bond of love with your brother by gifting him branded shirts, t-shirts, kurtas, trousers, etc that will enhance his entire personality.

Perfumes & Body sprays :- Perfumes and body sprays are integral part of life. Splurge your brother's vanity by presenting him with special Perfumes that will surely going to be part of its precious gift collection.

Leather Bags/Wallets :- Portfolio or laptop bags are quite a rage these days and can be a great Rakhi gift for brothers. Wallets, of course, are a traditional gift for brothers.

Wrist Watches :- Wrist watches with stylish look will surely add a extra-appealing touch to the personality of wearer. Gifting a designer watch with an elegant note to your brother will create a life time memory.

Electronic Gadgets :- Make your brother feel happy by presenting hi-tech Electronic Items like digital camcorder, automatic shoe polisher, hair dryer etc. Your brother will surely going to love your choice!

Rakhi Gifts for Sisters

Presenting beautiful rakhi gifts to sisters is an age old tradition. But now-a-days, even brothers are gifted with Rakhi presents. The celebration of Rakhi festival is incomplete without Rakhi gifts. One of the best way to express your love and affection towards your sisters is to gift her an exquisite Rakhi gift on this occasion.

For those brothers who are at a distance from their sisters can send Rakhi e-cards or write a mail to their sisters expressing their love for sweet sisters. If you are thinking for a gift to lure your sister this Rakhi then the below mentioned ideas can surely help you.

Fashion Apparels- Let your sweet sister create her own fashion statement. Presenting her the most trendy and stunning Apparels teamed with your infinite love, care and affection is the best idea to express your feeling.

Bags & Purses- Gift your sister a stylishly designed or hand embroidered bag with lots of mirror work on it. An alluring beauty with appealing floral patterns will surely make her feel top of the world.

Soft Toys- Make your sis feel on top of the world by gifting her with sweet and cute soft toys which are specially designed to take your breathe away. Show your love and care for her by gifting silky and lovely toys.

Flowers- Flowers are scents of life spreading the essence of its beauty all around. Girls are very fond of fresh flowers. This Rakhi, pamper your dear sister by gifting her a bunch of fresh flowers.

Designer Jewelry- Give her an array of exquisitely fined studded Designer Jewelry, embellishing with your love and affection and wish your sister glitter and sparkling Raksha bandhan.

Special Chocolates- Treat your sister with tasty and crispy Special Chocolates with finger-licking varieties. Give sweet wishes to your sisters by presenting chocolates in premium style pack.

Variety of Rakhi Gift Ideas to express your love

The festival of Rakhi holds immense significance for all the brothers and sisters around the globe and so does Rakhi Gifts. To give a remarkable note to Rakhi festival, all the brothers and sisters scratch their heads for that bright and brilliant Rakhi Gift Idea which can express their love and affection in the most beautiful way. Selecting the best gift for your dear ones is an incredibly difficult task. But you will find it much easier with our ideas of Rakhi gifts to make the occasion all the more touchy and memorable. Check out the following Rakhi gift ideas wrapped with sentiments and lots of emotions.

Rakhi Gift Ideas for Brothers :-

Apparels :- Make your brother look more attractive and handsome this Rakhi by gifting him the best apparel piece like shirts, t-shirts, trousers and many more.
Accessories :- Select from a wide array of men's accessories like wrist watch, perfumes, bracelets, neck tie, shaving kits, etc and express your love to your brother.
Gadgets :- For hi-tech brothers, what can be a better gift than electronic gadgets like mobiles, CDs, I-pods, etc.
Chocolates, Sweets and Mithais :- For those who are fond of sweets, there can be no better Rakhi gift than assorted chocolates.

Rakhi Gift Ideas for Sisters :-

Apparels :- Apparels for girls like ethnic kurtis, tops, shirts, skirts, etc can be the most alluring gift item for your loving sister this Rakhi.
Jewelry :- Girls are usually fond of jewelry, so choose the best jewelry item for your sister this Rakhi. Go for junk jewelry or the one that is made from gold, silver or some precious stones.
Soft Toys :- For the younger sisters, teddies and dolls serve as one of the best gifts.
Fresh Flowers :- A bunch of flowers is the best gift for any girl. So, transform this Rakhi into a fragrant occasion with beautiful flower bouquets.

Rakhi Gift Ideas for Kids :-

Chocolates :- Kids are very fond of chocolates, so gift your young brother or sister a Rakhi gift pack of finger-licking chocolates.
Soft Toys :- Cute and soft toys are perfect to be gifted to a young siblings.
Tom & Jerry Gift Hampers :- Give your young brothers and sisters a gift hamper of the most famous cartoon character – Tom & Jerry – to bring a million dollar smile on their face.
Photo Album :- Exclusively designed Photo Album consisting the photographs of world famous characters like Harry Potter, Tom & Jerry, Donald Duck, Mogli, etc. is a perfect option to make this Rakhi more memorable.

Rakhi Gift Ideas for Bhaiya & Bhabhi :-

Set of Wrist Watches :- Let your your Bhaiya and Bhabhi inherit the power to stay ahead of time. Surprise them with exciting watches.
Decorative Items :- Beautiful show pieces and home decorative items can be the best Rakhi gift idea for bhaiya and bhabhis.
Electronics :- Gift Electronic Gadgets to your Bhaiya and Bhabhi this Rakhi and make their life more beautiful.
Perfumes & Body Deodorants :- Make the occasion of Rakhi special for your bhaiya-bhabhi by letting your Bhaiya Bhabhi be the cynosure at every place that they visit.

Raksha Bandhan Festival : Celebration on 5th August '2009

The festival of Rakhi is a day to celebrate the sacred and eternal bond of love and affection between brothers and sisters. It is believed that a Rakhi thread tied on the brother's wrist strengthen the spirit of brotherhood among siblings.

According to the Hindu calendar, the festival of Rakhi falls on month of Shravana. The day generally falls in between July-August and this actually corresponds with the Hindu calendar. This festival is also popular by the name 'Rakhi Purnima' as it falls on the full moon day.

Raksha Bandhan Rituals

The origination of Raksha Bandhan can be traced back to the ancient period. On this auspicious day, sisters tie beautiful thread called Rakhi or Raksha, which is a symbol of protection, on the wrist of their brothers. The red tilak which the sisters apply on their brother's forehead signifies her unconditional love and affection attached with him. Brothers also recognize the bonding of love and by extending hand towards sisters. They also promise them to protect from all difficult situations and adversaries of life. This Rakhi ceremony is followed with exchange of Rakhi gifts wrapped with love and lots of sentiments.

Preparation of Rakhi festival

Everyone start preparing for this festival much in advance. About a month before the commencement of raksha bandhan, you can see fancy and colorful rakhis in every market. Ladies start shopping for rakhi and rakhi gifts quite early. They shop for new clothes and beautiful rakhi gifts specially the one that have to be sent to their brothers staying far. Almost every shop, be it sweet shops, garment shops, gift shops, or any other shop, all are flooded with attractive rakhi gifts to attract people.

Celebration of Rakhi festival

Nowadays, rakhi celebrations are full of excitement and gaiety all across the world. The markets get flooded with fancy and colorful rakhi and rakhi gifts long before the festival. People get into a mood of shopping new clothes, rakhis, rakhi gifts and many more. Gift shops start offering special rakhi discounts and packages for this occasions. Even the sweet shops start their preparations well in advance to meet the bulk demands on rakhi.

Celebrate Friendship Day on 2nd August ' 2009, Sunday

Friends are always valued in the live of human beings. To celebrate this noble feeling it was deemed fit to have a day dedicated to friends and friendship. By a Proclamation made by US Congress in 1935, first Sunday of August was declared as a holiday in US to honor friends. Since then, World Friendship Day is being celebrated every year on the first Sunday in the month of August.

This golden idea of celebrating friendship day was accepted by many other countries around the world. And today, many countries including India, celebrate the first Sunday of August as Friendship Day every year. Celebrating Friendship Day in a traditional manner, people meet their friends and exchange cards and flowers to honor their friends. Lot many social and cultural organization too celebrate the occasion and mark Friendship Day by hosting programs and get together.

Various Dates to Celebrate Friendship
It may be noted that some associations celebrate Friendship Day in an entirely different time of the year and with different customs. For instance,

National Friendship Day is on the first Sunday in August.
Women's Friendship Day is on the third Sunday in August
International Friendship Month is February
Old Friends, New Friends Week is the third week of May

However, what is remarkably same is the idea behind the celebration of the day. Everywhere, people express love for their friends and cherish their presence in life.

Variety of Friendship Day Gifts

Exchange of Friendship Day Gifts are significant in strengthening the relationship you share with your loved ones. Selecting a friendship gift for your dearest friend is not an easy job. A friendship present need not be precious and expensive ones but it must definitely exude love and warmth you feel for your friend. Here are some popular and awesome ideas for friendship day gifts to make your task easier.

Friendship Bands

A Friendship Band is the most popular Gift for Friendship Day. One can choose from a range of colorful friendship bands available in the market. Instead of the conventional wristbands, one can go for the friendship bracelets which come in attractive designs for both boys and girls. This way your Friendship Day can stay longer with your friends besides it works as token of your love.

Chocolates

Go in for a hamper of your friend's favorite chocolate to bring that million dollar smile on his/her face. A zestful idea would be to make a decorated friendship basket consisting of your friend's favorite gift items like chocolates, candy, cookies, a bunch of flowers, etc. Hence, Chocolates makes a yummy and delicious Friendship Day gift for foodies.

Soft Toys

Soft Toys are especially appreciated by girls who love to decorate their rooms with loads of soft toys and animals gifted by their loved ones. Select your friends favorite cartoon character to leave a lasting impression.

Photo Frames and Photo Albums

Photo frames and photo albums make a wonderful friendship day gift. You may place a picture of you along with your friend or pictures of good time spend together to create beautiful memories.

Flowers

The best and easiest way to convey emotions is a bunch of fresh flowers. If you are invited for a Friendship Day do, carry an attractive bouquet of pretty flowers for that heart touching impact.

Show Pieces

Aesthetically designed show pieces are another extremely popular option for Friendship Day Gift. Depending upon your choice one can go in for glass, metals, wood or crystal show pieces. Besides, making a delightful Friendship Day Gift, decorative pieces help to create beautiful memories.

Parents Day – Celebrate on 26th July ' 09

Parent's Day is a day to celebrate the relation of all children with their parents. It is a day to make your parents realize that how adorable they are for you. Parent's Day is generally celebrated on 26th July.

In every culture and time period, the family has stood as the most fundamental human institution. Family is the starting point of life for everyone, the sustainer of well-being, and the school of love. A family begins with the joining together of man and woman, husband and wife, becoming father and mother – and parents. The most powerful of human bonds is the parent-child relationship.

Commitment to family has always been a core value. Tragically, however, what was often held as a common value, recognized as common sense, even understood as self-evident in the past, is sometimes not so today.

Hence, parents Day is a day to tell your parents that they are the best parents on this earth. Express your gratitude and affection for your parents. Make them feel like flying in the air and proud on you.

Parent's Day Gifts

Parents Day is the best time to express your deep concerns and love for your mom and dad. This is a day to celebrate and surprise your mom-dad with beautiful and heart-taking parents day gifts. Spend the whole day pampering them with amazing gifts and make them feel on top of the world.

Ideas for Parents Day Gifts

Greet your Parents this year with the following ideas of gifts that are sure to win their heart. Choose the best option for your dear parents which will definitely make them feel glad.

Apparels for Parents
Get them a set of designer apparel which enhances their persona and make them feel on top of the world. You can select from a wide range of shirts, t-shirts, trousers, kurtas, etc for your dad while you can buy sarees, suits, kurtis and many more to greet your mom.

Personalized Gifts
Express your sentiments for your parents by gifting them various personalized gifts like a memento, Show-pieces, pen set, etc. for your dear parents. Enhance its value by writing a touchy message like 'For the best parents', 'Love you Mom-dad', etc.

Wish them with a beautiful Greeting Cards
In todays world, one can easily get greeting cards for all occasions. Select a card that can express your gratitude for your parents in the best possible way. You can also add some love quotes to express that how grateful you are towards your parents for their everything.

A surprise Picnic or Movie
Take your parents for a movie or picnic is the sweet mantra of surprising them. On this parents day, book tickets for a movie or some picnic spot or to an amusement park or any other favorite destination of your mom-dad.

Fathers Day Gift Ideas

Father's Day is a day to celebrate and surprise your dad with beautiful and heart-taking Father's Day gifts. It is a time to put some magical effort in order to choose the best gift for your dad. Just to help you in selecting a Father's Day gift for your dearest dad, we are mentioning below some really cool gift ideas which will definitely make your father feel glad.

Give the best to Sports Loving Dad
For a sports loving dad, one should present him such gifts that can easily mingle with his area of interest and also boost up his passion and interest towards that particular sport. Find out his favorite game or activity and shop for the most appropriate gift.

Hi-tech Gadget for Dad
If you think that your father is 'tech savvy' then gift him the best gadget this Father's Day. Numerous brands are offering latest headsets, mobile phones, i-pods, etc which can really lure your dad.



Personalized Gifts
Sometimes fathers can be more emotional than mothers. A sweet gift can bring tears into eyes of father. So, experience the emotional part of your dad's personality. Shop for various personalized gifts like shirts, coats, trousers, etc. for your dad in his favorite color and brand. Enhance its value by writing a touchy message like 'For the best daddy', 'Just for you dad', 'Love you dad', etc.

Take him for a Picnic or Movie
Taking your dad for a movie or picnic is the sweet mantra of surprising your dad. On this father's day, book ticket for a movie or take him out for a picnic to amusement park or any other favorite destination of your father. He will surely enjoy this gift of yours.

Car Accessories Gifts
You can also gift high technological car accessories to your dad this Father's day. Amaze him by gifting with unique auto emergency kits for his car.

Father's Day Celebration on 21st June ' 09

Father's Day is celebrated in many countries all across the world to express gratitude for fathers. The festivity feel of father's day is in air now. This year, the day will be celebrated on June 21st. The occasion involves giving gifts like cards, bouquets, artificial flowers, quotations, show pieces and other thoughtful gifts to their dear dad.

Previously this festival was confined to pay gratitude to father only, but nowadays, people also wish “Happy Father's Day” to their stepfather, grandfather, father-in-law, uncles or any other man who is as protective and caring as a father. The festival involves gift giving and special dinners to fathers and family oriented activities.

History of Father's Day
For the first time in the year 1909, the idea of Father's Day celebration given by Ms Sonora Louise Smart Dodd, a loving daughter from Spokane USA. She was very much attached to her father Mr William Jackson Smart, a Civil War veteran. She felt that if there is a day to honor mother then there should also be a day to honor father. Sonora struggled relentlessly to make the idea a reality. Finally, in 1972, President Richard Nixon made Father's Day a national observance. Today, Father's Day is celebrated in several countries across the globe. Though the date and manner of celebration differ, every where people take opportunity of the day to honor their father and express love for them.

Father's Day Celebrations
The preparation of Father's Day celebration includes making beautiful hand made cards with inspirational quotations to express love towards dads. Those who stay away from their father feel like spending that day with their dad. Generally, children present a bouquet of fresh flowers, a greeting card, a gift hamper, etc to their father. This can be made better by accompanying with his favorite breakfast, lunch or dinner. After such a beautiful start of the day, children usually spend a full day with dad.

Passover Festival

Celebrate from 8th April to 16th April, 2009

Passover is a spring festival. The name of the festival (Heb. pesah, "passing over" or "protection") is derived from the instructions given to Moses by God. It is the seven-day holiday of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, with the first and last days observed as legal holidays and as holy days involving abstention from work, special prayer services, and holiday meals; the intervening days are known as Chol HaMoed.

The celebration of the holiday begins after sundown on the 14th day of Nisan, the first month of the Jewish ecclesiastical year, about the time of the vernal equinox. In accordance with rabbinic law, Jews living outside the limits of ancient Palestine celebrate the holiday for eight days and partake of a ceremonial meal, known as the Seder, on the first two nights.

The Jewish people still hold this day dear to their hearts and they still thank the Lord for saving their ancestors the way he did. In the days before Passover, the house is prepared. The house is searched for any trace of yeast products (chametz), and the whole family is involved in the search. All products made from yeast are eaten or removed from the house, or given away to Non-Jewish people. All the dishes, silverware, pots and pans are changed for a set that is used only for Passover. In remembrance of the hardships their ancestors faced in slavery, the Jewish people hold a feast called the 'Seder' on the first night of Passover.

It is also referred to as "Chag he-Aviv" (the Spring Festival), "Chag ha-Matzoth" (the Festival of Matzahs), and "Zeman Herutenu" (the Time of Our Freedom). It is the first of the three major Jewish festivals (the other two are Shavu’ot and Sukkot) with both historical and agricultural implication

Baisakhi Gifts Ideas

Baisakhi is one the most joyous festival for Sikhs in Punjab. It is also the New Year in Assam and Bengal. Gifts are a significant aspect of Baisakhi festival.

Baisakhi Hampers
Gift Hampers comprising dry fruits hampers, chocolates, sweets hampers, fruits, flowers make an excellent gift choice for Baisakhi. Make the Baisakhi Festival more delightful and memorable by sending lovely baisakhi gift hampers and convey all best wishes to your dear ones.

Baisakhi Sweets
Sweet as the name suggests, adds sweetness to any occasion, special events and especially festivals. Specially in the Indian perspective, mithais are a much praised gift item on various Hindu festivals. Baisakhi is also not an exception to this. So, if you want to make your Baisakhi sweet, you should go for sweets.

Baisakhi Apparels
Apparels can also be one of the best gift items which you may present to your friends and relatives, this Baisakhi. A large variety of apparel items are available, specifically for the festival of Baisakhi. So, choose this special gift for the people who are special for you.

Baisakhi Dry Fruits
Dry fruits are not only good for health but, they are also an ideal gift item. People used to give dry fruit hampers to their near and dear ones on various festivals like Deepavali, Holi etc. Dry fruits are thus, a perfect gift for Baisakhi also. They can be given to anyone & everyone you like.

Baisakhi Festival

Baisakhi is on 13th April 2009, Monday

Baisakhi is one of the major festivals of Sikhs and is celebrated with lot of enthusiasm and gaiety in the state of Punjab and all throughout the world where there is a significant Sikh population.

Baisakhi Festival falls on the first day of Vaisakh month (April-May) according to Nanakshahi or Sikh Calendar. For this reason, Baisakhi is also popularly known as Vaisakhi. According to English calendar, the date of Baisakhi corresponds to April 13 every year and April 14 once in every 36 years.

People of Punjab celebrate the festival of Baisakhi with exuberance and devotion. As the festival has tremendous importance in Sikh religion, major activities of the day are organized in Gurdwaras. People wake up early to prepare for the day. Many also take bath in the holy river to mark the auspicious occasion. At the end of the Baisakhi ardas, congregates receive specially prepared Kara prasad or sweetened semolina.

Easter Gifts Ideas

Easter is the one of the most significant event among the Christians.
There are many Easter gifts that are full of significance and importance and that make the celebration more memorable for everyone. So gear up for the auspicious occasion.

Easter Bunnies / Bears

Easter Bunny and bears are considered to be very important symbols of this festival. Easter Bunny has its roots in the Anglo-Saxon Goddess
called Eostre, who always carried her bunny along with her. It is said that this Easter Bunny was the first to lay colored eggs.

Easter Eggs
Easter Eggs represent the symbol of Jesus Christ's resurrection, the
rebirth of mankind. Christians embraced the Easter Egg and consider it to the tomb from which Christ resurrected. Easter Eggs are used as gifts to be given to friends and relatives for the celebration of Easter.

Easter Gift Baskets
Celebrate Easter by sending Easter gift baskets to your loved ones. The Easter gift basket includes various gifts like chocolate, dry fruits, bunnies, bunny, cookie gifts, which are of special significance to the occasion.

Easter Flowers
Easter flowers like roses, tulips, and daisies are like the potent symbols of life made anew. The traditional Easter Flower is the white lily, a symbol of purity. The single flower stem appearing from a bulb symbolizes Christ coming back to life 3 days after his crucifixion.

Easter Candies / Chocolates
Easter is a sweet occasion and chocolates add further sweetness to it. They are the best gift for your near and dear ones. Chocolates or candies are most preferred by people on such occasions. They are the best to convey your feelings to your beloved ones, on the auspicious occasion of Easter.

Easter Day Celebrations

Easter is on 12th April 2009, Sunday.

Easter festival is derived from two ancient traditions: one Judeo-
Christian and the other Pagan. Both Christians and Pagans have celebrated death and resurrection themes following the Spring Equinox for millennia. Most religious historians believe that many elements of the Christian observance of Easter were derived from earlier Pagan celebrations.

Easter was variously celebrated on different days of the week, including Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. In that year, the Council of Nicaea was convened by emperor Constantine. It issued the Easter Rule which states that Easter shall be celebrated on the first Sunday that occurs after the first full moon on or after the vernal equinox.

The Easter Bunny is not a modern invention. The symbol originated with the pagan festival of Eastre. The goddess, Eastre, was worshipped by the Anglo-Saxons through her earthly symbol, the rabbit.

As with the Easter Bunny and the holiday itself, the Easter Egg predates the Christian holiday of Easter. The exchange of eggs in the springtime is a custom that was centuries old when Easter was first celebrated by Christians.

Gudi Padwa / Ugadi Gifts Ideas

Make this Gudi Padwa special for your loved ones by sending them gifts of love. Check out the Gudi Padwa / Ugadi Gift ideas.

Fresh Flowers
Mesmerizing beauty and fragrance of Fresh Flowers makes the festival memorable & enjoyable.

Pooja Items
Bestow almighty wishes on lives of dear ones by presenting splendidly pooja items and fill their lives with divinity blessings.

Apparels
Add a sparkling brilliance on this occasion by gifting your dear ones with a beautiful and ethnic range of Apparels.

Jewelry
Surprise your friends and relatives on this day with the dazzling beauty of vivacious jewelry and bewitch the world with its irresistible beauty.

Sweets & Mithais

Celebrate this festival by pampering your loved ones with a specially packed box of their favorite sweets & mithais.

Maharashtrians New Year : Gudi Padwa / Ugadi

Gudi Padwa / Ugadi festival is on 27th March 2009

Gudi Padwa is celebrated on the first day of the Chaitra month. It is
celebrated as the New Year day by Maharashtrians, Andhra Pradesh and parts of Karnataka. This festival is also known as Ugadi in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. On this very day Lord Brahma created the Universe. Lord Vishnu too is said to have incarnated as Matsya, the fish, on this day.

It is celebrated with an auspicious bath, followed by decorating the doorway with a ‘toran’, performing ritualistic worship and hoisting the Dhwaja or Gudhi. People celebrate this festival with great spirit and joy. It has become a custom to hold Kavi Sammelans (Poetry recitals) this day. People prepare for the New Year by cleaning and washing their houses and buying new clothes.

On the festival day they decorate their houses with mango leaves and 'rangoli' designs, and pray for a prosperous new year. Gudis are hung outside the houses or in the localities. A 'gudi' is a pole on the top of which an upturned brass or silver pot called a kalash is placed. Then boys and young men of the locality form a pyramid and the person on top of the pyramid breaks the coconut which is in the kalash.

The prasad of Ugadi/Gudi Padwa is the bitter leaves of the neem tree with jaggery. There are special foods prepared for this festival Puligore-a sour tamarind rice dish, bobbatlu, holige- sweet stuffed bread, Ugadi Pachadi and Shrikhand. This is one of the 3 and a half days in the Hindu Lunar calendar, whose every moment is considered auspicious.