Metro.usMyMetro Events http://www.metro.us Fri, 17 May 2013 20:28:09 +0000 en-US hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.5.1 How to deal with a Valentine’s Day bummer http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2013/02/14/how-to-deal-with-a-valentines-day-bummer/ http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2013/02/14/how-to-deal-with-a-valentines-day-bummer/#comments Thu, 14 Feb 2013 22:50:48 +0000 Juila Furlan http://www.metro.us/newyork/?p=112174 “You shouldn’t have. Really.” Credit: Getty Images “You shouldn’t have. Really.”
Credit: Thinkstock[/caption]   There are plenty of people out there who are hoping the day of hearts will bring them the gift they want most. It is a day full of wishes, red-wrapped gifts, candy hearts and — whether you like it or not — occasional disappointment. There is so much expectation wrapped into this one special day because we attach our significant other’s love to the gift they give us. Sometimes, that all-important item you are hoping for just isn’t sitting in the tissue paper when you open the box. So if you don’t get the present you were expecting, or if you don’t like the one you got, what can you do? Most importantly, how can you get through the day feeling better and not worse about the one you love? This one 24-hour period carries a lot of weight for couples. Some people deal with that pressure by choosing to play it down. Maybe they are a nonconformist, or feel they don’t need a holiday to show their love. If that’s the case, try to talk about it to see where your valentine is coming from so you can better understand it. If you are given something you don’t like, thank your partner graciously but see if there is the option of taking it back. If there is, explain why you might like something else — what’s in the box is too dressy or too bright — and then invite them along to choose something else. Use it as an opportunity to teach them about your tastes. If there is no chance for a return or exchange, be receptive. If your loved one likes the gift they gave, try to be open to their taste and you might expand your own horizons. [related tag="Valentine's Day"] The most important thing to keep in mind is that Valentine’s Day is to express your love, whether or not your partner’s generosity is packaged quite the way you had hoped. No matter what you receive, remember that it’s still carrying love and you will appreciate it more — and so will your Valentine. Relationship expert Dr. Jane Greer is creator of "Shrink Wrap" - a nationaly commentary on what we can learn from celebrity relationships — and host of "Let's Talk Sex" at Healthylife.net. Her book, "What About Me? Stop Selfishness From Ruining Your Relationship," is available nationwide.]]> “You shouldn’t have. Really.” Credit: Getty Images
“You shouldn’t have. Really.”
Credit: Thinkstock

 

There are plenty of people out there who are hoping the day of hearts will bring them the gift they want most. It is a day full of wishes, red-wrapped gifts, candy hearts and — whether you like it or not — occasional disappointment.

There is so much expectation wrapped into this one special day because we attach our significant other’s love to the gift they give us. Sometimes, that all-important item you are hoping for just isn’t sitting in the tissue paper when you open the box. So if you don’t get the present you were expecting, or if you don’t like the one you got, what can you do? Most importantly, how can you get through the day feeling better and not worse about the one you love?

This one 24-hour period carries a lot of weight for couples. Some people deal with that pressure by choosing to play it down. Maybe they are a nonconformist, or feel they don’t need a holiday to show their love. If that’s the case, try to talk about it to see where your valentine is coming from so you can better understand it.

If you are given something you don’t like, thank your partner graciously but see if there is the option of taking it back. If there is, explain why you might like something else — what’s in the box is too dressy or too bright — and then invite them along to choose something else. Use it as an opportunity to teach them about your tastes. If there is no chance for a return or exchange, be receptive. If your loved one likes the gift they gave, try to be open to their taste and you might expand your own horizons.

The most important thing to keep in mind is that Valentine’s Day is to express your love, whether or not your partner’s generosity is packaged quite the way you had hoped. No matter what you receive, remember that it’s still carrying love and you will appreciate it more — and so will your Valentine.

Relationship expert Dr. Jane Greer is creator of “Shrink Wrap” – a nationaly commentary on what we can learn from celebrity relationships — and host of “Let’s Talk Sex” at Healthylife.net. Her book, “What About Me? Stop Selfishness From Ruining Your Relationship,” is available nationwide.

The post How to deal with a Valentine’s Day bummer appeared first on Metro.us.

]]> http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2013/02/14/how-to-deal-with-a-valentines-day-bummer/feed/ 0 Decorating trend: Black and gold http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2013/01/03/decorating-trend-black-and-gold/ http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2013/01/03/decorating-trend-black-and-gold/#comments Thu, 03 Jan 2013 17:02:16 +0000 Metro Archive http://metro.dev.1over0.com//uncategorized/2013/01/03/decorating-trend-black-and-gold/ Chambord French press, $70, www.anthropologie.com Desire Gold Mustard wallpaper, $75 per roll,www.grahambrown.com Exotica Cheetah Pelt Collection, $185 for a 4-by-6 wool rug,www.ecarpetgallery.com

CB2 bookends, $30 for set of two, www.cb2.com
  Ikea Angenam bowl, $20



DIY: Upcycle to stay on trend in ’13

One simple way to bring this trend into your home is to buy a gilt frame at a thrift store. Insert a piece of thin board painted with black chalkboard paint. Hang it anywhere.]]> Talk to any old-school interior designer and he or she will share the same rule: Every room needs a bit of black. The edgy shade sharpens up a bland space and adds a touch of sophistication to your home. And it mingles especially well with gold. One color brings the drama and the other adds elegance.

Chambord French press, $70, www.anthropologie.com

Desire Gold Mustard wallpaper, $75 per roll,www.grahambrown.com

Exotica Cheetah Pelt Collection, $185 for a 4-by-6 wool rug,www.ecarpetgallery.com



CB2 bookends, $30 for set of two, www.cb2.com



 
Ikea Angenam bowl, $20





DIY: Upcycle to stay on trend in ’13



One simple way to bring this trend into your home is to buy a gilt frame at a thrift store. Insert a piece of thin board painted with black chalkboard paint. Hang it anywhere.

The post Decorating trend: Black and gold appeared first on Metro.us.

]]> http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2013/01/03/decorating-trend-black-and-gold/feed/ 0 Monday gossip roundup: Katie Holmes keeping millions in jewelry, handbags http://www.metro.us/newyork/entertainment/2012/08/27/monday-gossip-roundup-katie-holmes-keeping-millions-in-jewelry-handbags/ http://www.metro.us/newyork/entertainment/2012/08/27/monday-gossip-roundup-katie-holmes-keeping-millions-in-jewelry-handbags/#comments Mon, 27 Aug 2012 12:00:02 +0000 Metro Archive http://metro.1over0.com/newyork/uncategorized/2012/08/27/monday-gossip-roundup-katie-holmes-keeping-millions-in-jewelry-handbags/ ]]> Katie Holmes may not have gotten much of a payoff in her divorce settlement from Tom Cruise, but she is still reportedly making off with “millions of dollars” in items she received from Cruise during their five-year marriage, according to Radar Online. “Tom was extremely generous to Katie with lavish gifts during their marriage, and she will be keeping millions of dollars of jewelry, Hermes handbags and other luxurious items,” a source says. “”Tom gave Katie diamond earrings as a birthday gift one year that easily cost over $500,000, and he had custom design pieces made for her. Under terms of the divorce, Katie is keeping all of the jewelry, handbags, accessories and designer clothing. What she does with it is up to her. For the time being, the jewels are being kept in a very safe place — and knowing Katie, it’s likely she will one day give them to Suri, once she is old enough.”

After almost a year together, Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively are still going strong, according to People magazine. The happy couple was spotted in New York City last week celebrating Lively’s 25th birthday with an indulgent treat at Serendipity 3. “They were very attentive to each other, sitting close and very into each other,” an eyewitness says. “They were oblivious to what was going on around them.”

Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie squeezed in a little late-summer vacation time, taking four of their six kids to the coastal town of Le Touquet, France, over the weekend, according to People magazine. Pitt and Jolie treated daughters Zahara, Shiloh and Vivienne along with son Knox to pizza before letting them loose on a local toy store Jolie had visited before. “I wasn’t notified of their visit. I didn’t expect it. I didn’t even recognize them. I said ‘bonjour,’ like I do to all my clients and then I saw Brad Pitt,” an employee of Culture Kid tells the magazine. “Since Angelina was here with her son last year, the shop has moved — but they found us.”

Looks like John Mayer really was in the mood for some major change. After reportedly breaking up with Katy Perry following a few weeks of dating, the singer unveiled a new, shorter haircut, ditching the curly locks he’d been sporting for a while, according to Us Weekly. And while Mayer seems to be moving on, Perry is reportedly not taking the split very well. “She’s really upset about it,” a source says. “She is making it seem like it wasn’t serious with John, but she is hurt.”

Despite the mega-success of the “Twilight” film franchise, Kellan Lutz kind of misses the good old days. “My favorite moments were during the first movie, before any of this craze happened. We were just ourselves, no one really knew who we were yet,” Lutz tells Us Weekly. “We haven’t changed per se, but we were able to get away with a lot more.” And while some members of the cast have dealt with the spotlight better than others, Lutz insists the series’s popularity caught them all off guard. “I don’t really like to comment on everyone else’s process, but I think we’ve all done the best we could with this,” he says. “It can be surreal sometimes. I don’t know if we all knew what we were fully getting into on all fronts.”

The post Monday gossip roundup: Katie Holmes keeping millions in jewelry, handbags appeared first on Metro.us.

]]> http://www.metro.us/newyork/entertainment/2012/08/27/monday-gossip-roundup-katie-holmes-keeping-millions-in-jewelry-handbags/feed/ 0 Is it appropriate to ask wedding guests to donate to the Obama Event Registry? http://www.metro.us/newyork/news/local/2012/06/26/is-it-appropriate-to-ask-wedding-guests-to-donate-to-the-obama-event-registry/ http://www.metro.us/newyork/news/local/2012/06/26/is-it-appropriate-to-ask-wedding-guests-to-donate-to-the-obama-event-registry/#comments Tue, 26 Jun 2012 22:07:43 +0000 Metro Archive http://metro.1over0.com/newyork/uncategorized/2012/06/26/is-it-appropriate-to-ask-wedding-guests-to-donate-to-the-obama-event-registry/ quickly spreading of the Obama Event Registry — the President’s newest fundraising initiative that asks supporters to collect campaign contributions to help keep him in office in lieu of birthday, anniversary or wedding gifts. "It’s a great way to support the President on your big day," the announcement reads on BarackObama.com. "Plus, it’s a gift that we can all appreciate — and goes a lot further than a gravy bowl." The unconventional tactic has both political pundits and brides-to-be buzzing, with many wondering if such a wedding-day request is appropriate. "I wouldn't consider it, and I'm a Democrat who supports Obama," Queens bride Angelina Tatara told Metro. "Not only would the request potentially offend people, I don't believe politics belong at a wedding." "For all I know, my wedding gifts could be going towards free bumper stickers and address labels for strangers," she added. But New York City-based wedding planner and owner of Brilliant Event Planning Sarah Pease disagrees. While this is the first time she has seen a politician make such a request, it's not necessarily in poor taste for a couple to make the request of their guests, she said. "I don’t know many couples who have a desperate need for gravy boats, so if what they do feel passionate about is a political cause, that’s a sign of the times," Pease said. She did recommend that couples who decide to use the Obama Event Registry also give their friends and family other options for giving gifts — or be prepared to accept no gift at all from some guests.

Obama strapped for cash?


Just days after his campaign rolled out the Obama Event Registry, the President sent a desperate e-mail out to supporters yesterday, asking for more money. Obama claimed he will soon be outspent by Republican opponent Mitt Romney and pleaded for as little as $3 donations. While conservative super PACs are expected to bring in more money than liberal super PACs by November, Obama is significantly in the lead with tracked donations so far: $255.2 million compared to Romney's $120.6 million, according to Federal Election Commission figures from May 2012.]]> Who needs a new set of crystal wine glasses? Instead of Pottery Barn, President Barack Obama wants engaged couples to register for donations toward his fall re-election campaign.

Word is quickly spreading of the Obama Event Registry — the President’s newest fundraising initiative that asks supporters to collect campaign contributions to help keep him in office in lieu of birthday, anniversary or wedding gifts.

“It’s a great way to support the President on your big day,” the announcement reads on BarackObama.com. “Plus, it’s a gift that we can all appreciate — and goes a lot further than a gravy bowl.”

The unconventional tactic has both political pundits and brides-to-be buzzing, with many wondering if such a wedding-day request is appropriate.

“I wouldn’t consider it, and I’m a Democrat who supports Obama,” Queens bride Angelina Tatara told Metro. “Not only would the request potentially offend people, I don’t believe politics belong at a wedding.”

“For all I know, my wedding gifts could be going towards free bumper stickers and address labels for strangers,” she added.

But New York City-based wedding planner and owner of Brilliant Event Planning Sarah Pease disagrees. While this is the first time she has seen a politician make such a request, it’s not necessarily in poor taste for a couple to make the request of their guests, she said.

“I don’t know many couples who have a desperate need for gravy boats, so if what they do feel passionate about is a political cause, that’s a sign of the times,” Pease said.

She did recommend that couples who decide to use the Obama Event Registry also give their friends and family other options for giving gifts — or be prepared to accept no gift at all from some guests.

Obama strapped for cash?

Just days after his campaign rolled out the Obama Event Registry, the President sent a desperate e-mail out to supporters yesterday, asking for more money.

Obama claimed he will soon be outspent by Republican opponent Mitt Romney and pleaded for as little as $3 donations.

While conservative super PACs are expected to bring in more money than liberal super PACs by November, Obama is significantly in the lead with tracked donations so far: $255.2 million compared to Romney’s $120.6 million, according to Federal Election Commission figures from May 2012.

The post Is it appropriate to ask wedding guests to donate to the Obama Event Registry? appeared first on Metro.us.

]]> http://www.metro.us/newyork/news/local/2012/06/26/is-it-appropriate-to-ask-wedding-guests-to-donate-to-the-obama-event-registry/feed/ 0 Obama asks couples to forgo wedding gifts, donate to his campaign instead http://www.metro.us/newyork/news/national/2012/06/26/obama-asks-couples-to-forgo-wedding-gifts-donate-to-his-campaign-instead/ http://www.metro.us/newyork/news/national/2012/06/26/obama-asks-couples-to-forgo-wedding-gifts-donate-to-his-campaign-instead/#comments Tue, 26 Jun 2012 10:12:56 +0000 Metro Archive http://metro.1over0.com/newyork/uncategorized/2012/06/26/obama-asks-couples-to-forgo-wedding-gifts-donate-to-his-campaign-instead/ important things in life than asking your wedding guests to buy you ice cream makers and George Foreman grills — you know, like donating money to his re-election campaign. That's right, if you don't want your guests spending money of you for your upcoming wedding, President Obama encourages you to ask them to spend it on him instead. His official website BarackObama.com has rolled out the "Obama Event Registry":
Let your friends know how important this election is to you — register with Obama 2012, and ask for a donation in lieu of a gift. It’s a great way to support the President on your big day. Plus, it’s a gift that we can all appreciate—and goes a lot further than a gravy bowl.

Exactly. Support the President on your big day. It's about him, not you guys. Don't be selfish. Critics took to the comment forum to voice their displeasure at the President's registry proposal, though many comments have been deleted. "Is this what the office of the President of the United States has come to? Pandering for wedding and birthday money?" one person asked. "Wont be long before we start seeing "IN LIEU OF FLOWERS, DONATIONS CAN BE MADE TO BO's RE-ELECTION CAMPAIGN OR ANOTHER PARTY WITH THE HOLLYWOOD ELITE FOR OUR CELEBRITY-IN-CHIEF AND HIS FAMILY," another person added.]]> Hey, engaged couples!

Forget registering at William Sonoma or Bed, Bath & Beyond — President Obama wants you to remember that there are more important things in life than asking your wedding guests to buy you ice cream makers and George Foreman grills — you know, like donating money to his re-election campaign.

That’s right, if you don’t want your guests spending money of you for your upcoming wedding, President Obama encourages you to ask them to spend it on him instead. His official website BarackObama.com has rolled out the “Obama Event Registry”:

Let your friends know how important this election is to you — register with Obama 2012, and ask for a donation in lieu of a gift. It’s a great way to support the President on your big day. Plus, it’s a gift that we can all appreciate—and goes a lot further than a gravy bowl.

Exactly. Support the President on your big day. It’s about him, not you guys. Don’t be selfish.

Critics took to the comment forum to voice their displeasure at the President’s registry proposal, though many comments have been deleted.

“Is this what the office of the President of the United States has come to? Pandering for wedding and birthday money?” one person asked.

“Wont be long before we start seeing “IN LIEU OF FLOWERS, DONATIONS CAN BE MADE TO BO’s RE-ELECTION CAMPAIGN OR ANOTHER PARTY WITH THE HOLLYWOOD ELITE FOR OUR CELEBRITY-IN-CHIEF AND HIS FAMILY,” another person added.

The post Obama asks couples to forgo wedding gifts, donate to his campaign instead appeared first on Metro.us.

]]> http://www.metro.us/newyork/news/national/2012/06/26/obama-asks-couples-to-forgo-wedding-gifts-donate-to-his-campaign-instead/feed/ 0 Valentine’s Day: Gifts that say ‘I heart you’ http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2012/02/01/valentines-day-gifts-that-say-i-heart-you/ http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2012/02/01/valentines-day-gifts-that-say-i-heart-you/#comments Wed, 01 Feb 2012 16:44:56 +0000 Metro Archive http://metro.1over0.com/newyork/uncategorized/2012/02/01/valentines-day-gifts-that-say-i-heart-you/
Graphic Image Mine Leather Luggage Tags, $26, www.graphicimage.com
PRISM by Anna Laub New York glasses, $330,  www.prismlondon.com Apivita Relaxing Bath and Shower Gel, $18, www.apivita.com Dior Garden Clutch Lip and Eye Palette, $75, www.dior.com
Made By Humans  Tea Infuser,  $7, www.amazon.com
Oliver Jeffers for Digby & Iona Heart in a Bottle Necklace, $220, www.ojxdi.com
 Stila Love at First Blush Palette, $14, www.stilacosmetics.com Air Plant Valentine, $13, www.etsy.com/shop/peacocktaco
Robindira Unsworth 22k Gold Vermeil Ring, $95, www.robindira.com
La Prairie Cellular Lip Colour Effects in Berry Glace, $40, www.shoplaprairie.com Jean-Michel Basquiat Candle, $55, www.femininrascal.com
L’Eau de Chloe fragrance, $65-$85, www.saks.com Diane von Furstenberg Square Dot Barware, $30-$80, www.bloomingdales.com
Dolce & Gabbana Passion Duo Gloss Fusion Lipstick in Infatuation, $34, www.saks.com
The Body Shop Chocomania Body Scrub, $18, www.thebodyshop.com
Lanson Brut Rose, $49-$59, wine stores nationwide  Butter London Polish in Come to Bed Red,  $14, www.ulta.com ]]> Look — if you’re going to indulge in the cheesiest of holidays, you might as well do it with flare  It’s all about a little pink, a little red and absolutely no oversize teddy bears.


Graphic Image Mine Leather Luggage Tags, $26, www.graphicimage.com


PRISM by Anna Laub New York glasses, $330,  www.prismlondon.com

Apivita Relaxing Bath and Shower Gel, $18, www.apivita.com

Dior Garden Clutch Lip and Eye Palette, $75, www.dior.com


Made By Humans  Tea Infuser,  $7, www.amazon.com


Oliver Jeffers for Digby & Iona Heart in a Bottle Necklace, $220, www.ojxdi.com


 Stila Love at First Blush Palette, $14, www.stilacosmetics.com

Air Plant Valentine, $13, www.etsy.com/shop/peacocktaco


Robindira Unsworth 22k Gold Vermeil Ring, $95, www.robindira.com


La Prairie Cellular Lip Colour Effects in Berry Glace, $40, www.shoplaprairie.com

Jean-Michel Basquiat Candle, $55, www.femininrascal.com


L’Eau de Chloe fragrance, $65-$85, www.saks.com

Diane von Furstenberg Square Dot Barware, $30-$80, www.bloomingdales.com


Dolce & Gabbana Passion Duo Gloss Fusion Lipstick in Infatuation, $34, www.saks.com


The Body Shop Chocomania Body Scrub, $18, www.thebodyshop.com


Lanson Brut Rose, $49-$59, wine stores nationwide

 Butter London Polish in Come to Bed Red,  $14, www.ulta.com

The post Valentine’s Day: Gifts that say ‘I heart you’ appeared first on Metro.us.

]]> http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2012/02/01/valentines-day-gifts-that-say-i-heart-you/feed/ 0 Guide to Holiday pop-up shops http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/30/guide-to-holiday-pop-up-shops/ http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/30/guide-to-holiday-pop-up-shops/#comments Wed, 30 Nov 2011 21:20:16 +0000 Metro Archive http://metro.1over0.com/newyork/uncategorized/2011/11/30/guide-to-holiday-pop-up-shops/ Dylan’s Candy Bar
The store promises to impress with a life-size gingerbread house, the world’s largest candy Christmas tree and a daily assortments of handcrafted cupcakes.
Through Jan. 1
1095 Avenue of the Americas, 866-939-5267 MoMA design store at Grand Central Terminal
MoMA ‘s first pop-up shop at Grand Central Terminal’s Holiday Fair lets last-minute shoppers pick up goodies from a selection of tightly edited pre-wrapped gifts, ornaments, greeting cards and more.
Through Dec. 24
Grand Central Station, Vanderbilt Hall, 42nd Street and Park Avenue,
www.grandcentralterminal.com Alesssi at Dekalb Market
The Italian kitchen and housewares company’s pop-up will feature gifts such as coffee makers, stainless steel spaghetti measures, purse hooks, spoon rests, chili crushers and more.
Through Dec. 31
138 Willoughby St., Brooklyn, www.dekalbmarket.com Sant-A-Box at Dekalb Market
Forget the boring old mall Santa — take your tikes to Sant-A-Box. Visit Santa on weekends to pose with him in an eco-friendly, repurposed shipping container designed to look like a winter wonderland. On weekdays, grab one of the market’s costumes and snap your own shots.
Through Dec. 24
138 Willoughby St., Brooklyn, www.dekalbmarket.com Warby Parker market
An old garage space in SoHo has been transformed into a holiday shopping experience. Inside, shoppers will find stylish eyeglasses from NYC-based frames-sellers Warby Parker.
Through Jan. 8
45 Grand St.,
www.warbyparker.com
]]> Dylan’s Candy Bar
The store promises to impress with a life-size gingerbread house, the world’s largest candy Christmas tree and a daily assortments of handcrafted cupcakes.
Through Jan. 1
1095 Avenue of the Americas, 866-939-5267

MoMA design store at Grand Central Terminal
MoMA ‘s first pop-up shop at Grand Central Terminal’s Holiday Fair lets last-minute shoppers pick up goodies from a selection of tightly edited pre-wrapped gifts, ornaments, greeting cards and more.
Through Dec. 24
Grand Central Station, Vanderbilt Hall, 42nd Street and Park Avenue,
www.grandcentralterminal.com

Alesssi at Dekalb Market
The Italian kitchen and housewares company’s pop-up will feature gifts such as coffee makers, stainless steel spaghetti measures, purse hooks, spoon rests, chili crushers and more.
Through Dec. 31
138 Willoughby St., Brooklyn, www.dekalbmarket.com

Sant-A-Box at Dekalb Market
Forget the boring old mall Santa — take your tikes to Sant-A-Box. Visit Santa on weekends to pose with him in an eco-friendly, repurposed shipping container designed to look like a winter wonderland. On weekdays, grab one of the market’s costumes and snap your own shots.
Through Dec. 24
138 Willoughby St., Brooklyn, www.dekalbmarket.com

Warby Parker market
An old garage space in SoHo has been transformed into a holiday shopping experience. Inside, shoppers will find stylish eyeglasses from NYC-based frames-sellers Warby Parker.
Through Jan. 8
45 Grand St.,
www.warbyparker.com

The post Guide to Holiday pop-up shops appeared first on Metro.us.

]]> http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/30/guide-to-holiday-pop-up-shops/feed/ 0 Gifts for him: Man up and buy him one of these http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/30/gifts-for-him-man-up-and-buy-him-one-of-these/ http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/30/gifts-for-him-man-up-and-buy-him-one-of-these/#comments Wed, 30 Nov 2011 18:46:17 +0000 Metro Archive http://metro.1over0.com/newyork/uncategorized/2011/11/30/gifts-for-him-man-up-and-buy-him-one-of-these/ 1. It gets cold out there when he’s playing Paul Bunyan in the woods. L.L.Bean Two-layer Union Suit, $55, www.llbean.com
2. Bald? Fashion fade? Keep his head protected with Jack Spade’s 100-percent wool, hand-knit Alpine Hat. $145, www.jackspade.com


3. You can steal these. Richer Poorer Socks, $12 each or $30 for three pairs, www.richer-poorer.com
4. Every sharp man needs a trench in his wardrobe. Uniqlo +JBlock Tech Half Coat, $200, www.uniqlo.com
5. Here’s the start to the perfect cozy outfit. Men’s Striped Crew Neck Pullover, $20; Men’s Shawl-collar Cardigan, $70, www.oldnavy.com
6. Add some wrist candy. Brera Orologi for Carlos Campos, $695, www.carloscampos.com
7. You didn’t splurge on boots, but these laces will keep him looking   dapper. hook + ALBERT laces, $14, www.hookandalbert.com
8. He has no excuse not to get in touch. This handy charger refuels up to four devices simultaneously. Roll-up travel charger, $50, www.restorationhardware.com
9. Cleanse his personal space of dust, germs and the smell of Doritos with Sharp’s new air purifier. Sharp IG-A10U, $299, www.sharpusa.com


10. This mobile scanner (aka his new office secretary) can digitally scan and file receipts, business cards and other documents. The software organizes key information. The Neat Company NeatReceipts, $150, www.neat.com
11. Your surfer can hang ten anywhere.  Quicksilver’s award-winning Moondak watch comes with 15 years of pre-programmed tide data for 200 spots around the world. $85, www.quiksilver.com
12. A sleek and ergonomic chef’s knife for all the meals he’ll be preparing for you. Zwilling J.A. Henckels 8-inch chef’s knife, $120, www.williams-sonoma.com
13. This sleek water jug removes impurities from his drinking water and even holds its own sitting
alongside a fine bottle of whiskey. Bobble Jug, $30, www.waterbobble.com

14.  For your bon vivant: This collection includes classic songs from 1920s blues to modern hip-hop, along with truffles made with the popular ingredient from each era. Vosges Haut Chocolate Groove
Truffle collection, $125, www.vosgeschocolate.com


15. A hip and warm sleeping bag for when he hightails it to the mountains. L.L. Bean Flannel-lined Camp Sleeping Bag, $70, www.llbean.com


16. Everything tastes better with bubbles. iSi Twist ‘N Sparkle Soda Maker, $50, www.twistnsparkle.com
17. He can fool the world behind these shades. No one will suspect what a big dork he really is. Persol PO30085, $360, www.sunglasshut.com
18. This software, created by a team of neuroscientists, helps exercise brain muscles and counteracts all the time he spends watching SPIKE TV. Pro Mental Coach, $140, www.promentalcoach.com
19. An energy-efficient house equals one proud dad. The Modlet helps reduce the electricity consumed by appliances  and saves 10 to 20 percent on electric bills. ThinkEco Modlet, $50, www.thinkeco.com
20. Golf junkies put Bridgestone among the best in quality equipment. The J40 Cavity Back forged irons will set him apart from the crowd, with scores to match. $700-$800, www.bridgestonegolf.com Books for foodie dudes Get him in the kitchen, where he belongs
1. His living room just turned into a speakeasy — so long, vodka-cranberry! The PDT Cocktail Book, $25, www.amazon.com
2. He drinks this stuff like it’s water, so he might as well learn how to brew a batch. Brooklyn Brew Shop’s Beer Making Book, $14, www.amazon.com
3. Cupcakes with bacon and whiskey! These are his kinds of desserts. The Butch Bakery Cookbook, $20, www.wiley.com
]]>

1. It gets cold out there when he’s playing Paul Bunyan in the woods. L.L.Bean Two-layer Union Suit, $55, www.llbean.com


2. Bald? Fashion fade? Keep his head protected with Jack Spade’s 100-percent wool, hand-knit Alpine Hat. $145, www.jackspade.com


3. You can steal these. Richer Poorer Socks, $12 each or $30 for three pairs, www.richer-poorer.com


4. Every sharp man needs a trench in his wardrobe. Uniqlo +JBlock Tech Half Coat, $200, www.uniqlo.com


5. Here’s the start to the perfect cozy outfit. Men’s Striped Crew Neck Pullover, $20; Men’s Shawl-collar Cardigan, $70, www.oldnavy.com


6. Add some wrist candy. Brera Orologi for Carlos Campos, $695, www.carloscampos.com


7. You didn’t splurge on boots, but these laces will keep him looking   dapper. hook + ALBERT laces, $14, www.hookandalbert.com


8. He has no excuse not to get in touch. This handy charger refuels up to four devices simultaneously. Roll-up travel charger, $50, www.restorationhardware.com


9. Cleanse his personal space of dust, germs and the smell of Doritos with Sharp’s new air purifier. Sharp IG-A10U, $299, www.sharpusa.com


10. This mobile scanner (aka his new office secretary) can digitally scan and file receipts, business cards and other documents. The software organizes key information. The Neat Company NeatReceipts, $150, www.neat.com


11. Your surfer can hang ten anywhere.  Quicksilver’s award-winning Moondak watch comes with 15 years of pre-programmed tide data for 200 spots around the world. $85, www.quiksilver.com


12. A sleek and ergonomic chef’s knife for all the meals he’ll be preparing for you. Zwilling J.A. Henckels 8-inch chef’s knife, $120, www.williams-sonoma.com


13. This sleek water jug removes impurities from his drinking water and even holds its own sitting
alongside a fine bottle of whiskey. Bobble Jug, $30, www.waterbobble.com


14.  For your bon vivant: This collection includes classic songs from 1920s blues to modern hip-hop, along with truffles made with the popular ingredient from each era. Vosges Haut Chocolate Groove
Truffle collection, $125, www.vosgeschocolate.com


15. A hip and warm sleeping bag for when he hightails it to the mountains. L.L. Bean Flannel-lined Camp Sleeping Bag, $70, www.llbean.com


16. Everything tastes better with bubbles. iSi Twist ‘N Sparkle Soda Maker, $50, www.twistnsparkle.com


17. He can fool the world behind these shades. No one will suspect what a big dork he really is. Persol PO30085, $360, www.sunglasshut.com


18. This software, created by a team of neuroscientists, helps exercise brain muscles and counteracts all the time he spends watching SPIKE TV. Pro Mental Coach, $140, www.promentalcoach.com


19. An energy-efficient house equals one proud dad. The Modlet helps reduce the electricity consumed by appliances  and saves 10 to 20 percent on electric bills. ThinkEco Modlet, $50, www.thinkeco.com


20. Golf junkies put Bridgestone among the best in quality equipment. The J40 Cavity Back forged irons will set him apart from the crowd, with scores to match. $700-$800, www.bridgestonegolf.com

Books for foodie dudes

Get him in the kitchen, where he belongs


1. His living room just turned into a speakeasy — so long, vodka-cranberry! The PDT Cocktail Book, $25, www.amazon.com


2. He drinks this stuff like it’s water, so he might as well learn how to brew a batch. Brooklyn Brew Shop’s Beer Making Book, $14, www.amazon.com


3. Cupcakes with bacon and whiskey! These are his kinds of desserts. The Butch Bakery Cookbook, $20, www.wiley.com

The post Gifts for him: Man up and buy him one of these appeared first on Metro.us.

]]> http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/30/gifts-for-him-man-up-and-buy-him-one-of-these/feed/ 0 Stocking stuffers for no more than $10 http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/30/stocking-stuffers-for-no-more-than-10/ http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/30/stocking-stuffers-for-no-more-than-10/#comments Wed, 30 Nov 2011 17:28:06 +0000 Metro Archive http://metro.1over0.com/newyork/uncategorized/2011/11/30/stocking-stuffers-for-no-more-than-10/ 1. Talk about cute overload. Animal crayons, $9, www.fredflare.com
2. A friend to make his/ her tea. Robot stainless steel loose tea infuser, $9, www.greenfeet.com

3. He always needs more socks. Old Navy men’s socks, $5, www.oldnavy.com
4. Make candy canes a bit more exciting this year. Pop Rocks Candy Cane flavor, $1, www.amazon.com
5. These handcrafted, all-natural soaps come wrapped in the sweetest eco-friendly packaging.
$6 each, www.lovenaturenyc.com
6. This little guy includes  two screwdrivers and a bottle opener. Everything he needs for a weekend on the slopes. Burton EST tool, $10, www.burton.com
7. No stocking stuffer’s job is complete without at least one pair of gloves. Accessory Network gloves, $10, www.walmart.com
8. H.S. Chocolate Co. makes artisanal candy bars stuffed with ingredients such as toasted hazelnut
nougat, pumpkin spice caramel and blue cheese and fig ganache. $6-$7, www.hschocolateco.com
 ]]>

1. Talk about cute overload. Animal crayons, $9, www.fredflare.com


2. A friend to make his/ her tea. Robot stainless steel loose tea infuser, $9, www.greenfeet.com

3. He always needs more socks. Old Navy men’s socks, $5, www.oldnavy.com


4. Make candy canes a bit more exciting this year. Pop Rocks Candy Cane flavor, $1, www.amazon.com


5. These handcrafted, all-natural soaps come wrapped in the sweetest eco-friendly packaging.
$6 each, www.lovenaturenyc.com


6. This little guy includes  two screwdrivers and a bottle opener. Everything he needs for a weekend on the slopes. Burton EST tool, $10, www.burton.com


7. No stocking stuffer’s job is complete without at least one pair of gloves. Accessory Network gloves, $10, www.walmart.com


8. H.S. Chocolate Co. makes artisanal candy bars stuffed with ingredients such as toasted hazelnut
nougat, pumpkin spice caramel and blue cheese and fig ganache. $6-$7, www.hschocolateco.com
 

The post Stocking stuffers for no more than $10 appeared first on Metro.us.

]]> http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/30/stocking-stuffers-for-no-more-than-10/feed/ 0 Deck the halls with DVDs http://www.metro.us/newyork/entertainment/2011/11/28/deck-the-halls-with-dvds/ http://www.metro.us/newyork/entertainment/2011/11/28/deck-the-halls-with-dvds/#comments Mon, 28 Nov 2011 17:11:00 +0000 Metro Archive http://metro.1over0.com/newyork/uncategorized/2011/11/28/deck-the-halls-with-dvds/ ‘Bridesmaids’ [DVD with bonus features]
A hilarious, honest celebration of the friendships of women — unrated.
List price: $29.98
 
‘ESPN Films: 30 for 30 Limited Edition Collector Set’ [DVD]
Some of the greatest and most controversial moments in sports history are revisited through the lens of filmmakers, including Albert Maysles, Barry Levinson, John Singleton and Peter Berg. The 12-disc set features all 30 films from the series.
List price: $149.95 ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2’ [Three-disc Blu-ray/DVD combo]
The saga of the magical boy wizard who inspired the imagination of kids of all ages comes to an end.
List price: $35.99 ‘Ken Burns’ Prohibition’ [Blu-ray]
Here’s a toast to documentary filmmaker Ken Burns, who uses well-documented history and lesser-known stories to shed light on an important moment in America’s past — the Eighteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.
List price: $44.99 ‘Looney Tunes Platinum Collection: Volume One’ [Blu-ray]
Bugs and the gang get a high-definition upgrade in this set that includes 50 beloved “Looney Tunes” titles.
List price: $59.96
 
‘Modern Family: The Complete Second Season’ [DVD]
Here’s one extended family you won’t mind seeing over the holidays.
List price: $49.98 ‘The Original Christmas Classics’ [Blu-ray]
Santa Claus, Rudolph and Frosty the Snowman — the classic Rankin/Bass Christmas TV specials are bundled together and now available on Blu-ray.
List price: $44.95 ‘Thor’ [Two-Disc Blu-ray/DVD Combo + Digital Copy]
Chris Hemsworth is the mighty god of thunder who is brought to his knees when he disobeys his father and is banished to Earth.
List price: $44.99 ‘The Walking Dead: Season 1’ [DVD]
Nothing says “happy holidays” like snuggling up with loved ones and a cup of hot cocoa to watch the zombie apocalypse come to pass.
List price: $39.98 ‘West Side Story 50th Anniversary’ [Blu-ray]
The timeless struggle between the Jets and the Sharks plays out in high definition.
List price: $29.99 ]]> On of the best perks of shopping Cyber Monday is retailers’ reactions to consumer demand — and competitors’ price cuts. DVD titles are always prime candidates for price slashing. And while we can’t guarantee the titles on our list of gift picks will end up in your favorite website’s 99-cent Cyber Monday bin, it is a good bet that you won’t find them on sale cheaper than you will Nov. 28.

‘Bridesmaids’ [DVD with bonus features]
A hilarious, honest celebration of the friendships of women — unrated.
List price: $29.98
 
‘ESPN Films: 30 for 30 Limited Edition Collector Set’ [DVD]
Some of the greatest and most controversial moments in sports history are revisited through the lens of filmmakers, including Albert Maysles, Barry Levinson, John Singleton and Peter Berg. The 12-disc set features all 30 films from the series.
List price: $149.95

‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2’ [Three-disc Blu-ray/DVD combo]
The saga of the magical boy wizard who inspired the imagination of kids of all ages comes to an end.
List price: $35.99

‘Ken Burns’ Prohibition’ [Blu-ray]
Here’s a toast to documentary filmmaker Ken Burns, who uses well-documented history and lesser-known stories to shed light on an important moment in America’s past — the Eighteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.
List price: $44.99

‘Looney Tunes Platinum Collection: Volume One’ [Blu-ray]
Bugs and the gang get a high-definition upgrade in this set that includes 50 beloved “Looney Tunes” titles.
List price: $59.96
 
‘Modern Family: The Complete Second Season’ [DVD]
Here’s one extended family you won’t mind seeing over the holidays.
List price: $49.98

‘The Original Christmas Classics’ [Blu-ray]
Santa Claus, Rudolph and Frosty the Snowman — the classic Rankin/Bass Christmas TV specials are bundled together and now available on Blu-ray.
List price: $44.95

‘Thor’ [Two-Disc Blu-ray/DVD Combo + Digital Copy]
Chris Hemsworth is the mighty god of thunder who is brought to his knees when he disobeys his father and is banished to Earth.
List price: $44.99

‘The Walking Dead: Season 1’ [DVD]
Nothing says “happy holidays” like snuggling up with loved ones and a cup of hot cocoa to watch the zombie apocalypse come to pass.
List price: $39.98

‘West Side Story 50th Anniversary’ [Blu-ray]
The timeless struggle between the Jets and the Sharks plays out in high definition.
List price: $29.99

The post Deck the halls with DVDs appeared first on Metro.us.

]]> http://www.metro.us/newyork/entertainment/2011/11/28/deck-the-halls-with-dvds/feed/ 0 The best Cyber Monday deals for 2011 http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/27/the-best-cyber-monday-deals-for-2011/ http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/27/the-best-cyber-monday-deals-for-2011/#comments Sun, 27 Nov 2011 17:28:40 +0000 Metro Archive http://metro.1over0.com/newyork/uncategorized/2011/11/27/the-best-cyber-monday-deals-for-2011/ chicBuds
15 percent off with code METRO15 through Dec. 31.
www.chicbuds.com
Metro pick: chicBuds Fauvette Speaker, $34.99 AT&T
Devices will be on sale for as low as 1 cent Black Friday through Cyber Monday.
www.att.com Fred Flare
99 amazing gift items for less than $9.99.
www.fredflare.com
Metro pick: Candy Cane Shot Glass, $4.50 JCPenney
Special deals will be paired with free shipping on orders of $25 or more, Nov. 27-29.
www.jcpenney.com REI
Save up to 30 percent on select winter gear, outerwear, clothing and boots. Free shipping on orders of $50 or more.
www.rei.com
Metro pick: Women’s REI Lu­men +25 Sleeping Bag , $149 SerendipiTea
25 percent off retail orders of $15 or more. Use promo code: CYBER MONDAY SAVINGS. www.serendipitea.com Get Maine Lobster
50 percent off the entire site.
www.getmainelobster.com Adidas
Sunday and Monday, receive free shipping on all purchases with no minimum. Discounts include $15 off orders of $80 or more, $25 off orders of $100 or more and $40 off orders of $125 or more.
www.shopadidas.com
 
LOFT
40 percent off your entire purchase online and in store.
www.loft.com L.L. Bean
10 percent off purchase (15 percent off with L.L. Bean Visa); free shipping (to the U.S. and Canada), no minimum purchase; free $10 gift card with $50 purchases through Dec. 24.
www.llbean.com
Metro pick: Men’s Maine Guide Shirt, Plaid, $139 Icebreaker
Check out the Icebreaker TouchLab SoHo page for updated info on deals:
www.facebook.compages/Icebreaker-TouchLab-SoHo/166457053420337
Metro pick: Women's Cascade Full Zip RealFleece Mid Layer, $180 Banana Republic
Nov. 26-28, save up to 40 percent off select styles.
www.bananarepublic.com Endless
On Nov. 27-28, discounts include $30 off $100 orders, $60 off $200 orders and $100 off $300 orders.
www.endless.com StocknGo.com
25 percent off of purchases $25 or more with code CYBER25.
www.stockngo.com Space NK
Spend $150 online and enter code THANKS150 to receive a complimentary deluxe gift featuring an assortment of 10 beauty must-haves (while supplies last). www.spacenk.com Luna and Stella
10 percent off purchases of $100 or more (12:01 a.m. to 11:59 p.m.). Use code METROUS11.
www.lunaandstella.com
Metro pick:  Moon & Stars Birthstone Necklace, prices start at $150 plus stones Jewelista.com
Free shipping and 20 percent off everything (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.).
www.jewelista.com
Metro pick: Rose Gold PVD Steel Heart Stud Earrings, $139 Send the Trend
$15 jewelry and accessories.
www.sendthetrend.com Swarovski Crystallized
The entire site will be 20 percent off. www.swarovski-crystallized.com
]]> chicBuds
15 percent off with code METRO15 through Dec. 31.
www.chicbuds.com
Metro pick: chicBuds Fauvette Speaker, $34.99

AT&T
Devices will be on sale for as low as 1 cent Black Friday through Cyber Monday.
www.att.com

Fred Flare
99 amazing gift items for less than $9.99.
www.fredflare.com
Metro pick: Candy Cane Shot Glass, $4.50

JCPenney
Special deals will be paired with free shipping on orders of $25 or more, Nov. 27-29.
www.jcpenney.com

REI
Save up to 30 percent on select winter gear, outerwear, clothing and boots. Free shipping on orders of $50 or more.
www.rei.com
Metro pick: Women’s REI Lu­men +25 Sleeping Bag , $149

SerendipiTea
25 percent off retail orders of $15 or more. Use promo code: CYBER MONDAY SAVINGS. www.serendipitea.com

Get Maine Lobster
50 percent off the entire site.
www.getmainelobster.com

Adidas
Sunday and Monday, receive free shipping on all purchases with no minimum. Discounts include $15 off orders of $80 or more, $25 off orders of $100 or more and $40 off orders of $125 or more.
www.shopadidas.com
 
LOFT
40 percent off your entire purchase online and in store.
www.loft.com

L.L. Bean
10 percent off purchase (15 percent off with L.L. Bean Visa); free shipping (to the U.S. and Canada), no minimum purchase; free $10 gift card with $50 purchases through Dec. 24.
www.llbean.com
Metro pick: Men’s Maine Guide Shirt, Plaid, $139

Icebreaker
Check out the Icebreaker TouchLab SoHo page for updated info on deals:
www.facebook.compages/Icebreaker-TouchLab-SoHo/166457053420337
Metro pick: Women’s Cascade Full Zip RealFleece Mid Layer, $180

Banana Republic
Nov. 26-28, save up to 40 percent off select styles.
www.bananarepublic.com

Endless
On Nov. 27-28, discounts include $30 off $100 orders, $60 off $200 orders and $100 off $300 orders.
www.endless.com

StocknGo.com
25 percent off of purchases $25 or more with code CYBER25.
www.stockngo.com

Space NK
Spend $150 online and enter code THANKS150 to receive a complimentary deluxe gift featuring an assortment of 10 beauty must-haves (while supplies last). www.spacenk.com

Luna and Stella
10 percent off purchases of $100 or more (12:01 a.m. to 11:59 p.m.). Use code METROUS11.
www.lunaandstella.com
Metro pick:  Moon & Stars Birthstone Necklace, prices start at $150 plus stones

Jewelista.com
Free shipping and 20 percent off everything (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.).
www.jewelista.com
Metro pick: Rose Gold PVD Steel Heart Stud Earrings, $139

Send the Trend
$15 jewelry and accessories.
www.sendthetrend.com

Swarovski Crystallized
The entire site will be 20 percent off. www.swarovski-crystallized.com

The post The best Cyber Monday deals for 2011 appeared first on Metro.us.

]]> http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/27/the-best-cyber-monday-deals-for-2011/feed/ 0 Hard-to-find shopping just became easy http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/27/hard-to-find-shopping-just-became-easy/ http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/27/hard-to-find-shopping-just-became-easy/#comments Sun, 27 Nov 2011 17:20:17 +0000 Metro Archive http://metro.1over0.com/newyork/uncategorized/2011/11/27/hard-to-find-shopping-just-became-easy/ TheFind.com at your disposal. “We bring all of the products from all of the stores to one place,” explains TheFind CEO Siva Kumar. Through technologies that include data from Facebook’s Open Graph, TheFind is able to comb through roughly half a million sites covering around 450 million products. (In comparison, “eBay worldwide has about 200 million items and Amazon has about 25 million items,” Kumar says.) But TheFind won’t just track down that hard-to-find item — its search results also display prices, so you can find the best deal. Now you can go ahead and buy those matching ski pants for your girlfriend, too.  Digital browsing The search capabilities of TheFind are optimal when you know exactly what you’re looking for. But shoppers who are “just browsing” can take advantage of the site’s technology, too, with Catalogue.
   
An app for the iPad and Android tablet devices, Catalogue brings together more than 150 popular catalogs (including J.Crew, Saks, Crate & Barrel, Sephora and more) for electronic wish list-making.
   
Kumar says that with this app: “[TheFind] doesn’t assume you know what you want. Say you are looking for new jewelry — there are a lot of jewelry catalogs, and now you can look through them like you would at home — when you need them.” All minus the coffee-table clutter. ]]> Your holiday shopping mission: Find the ski jacket your girlfriend has been coveting in her very popular, usually-sells-out size and in the color she likes — and by the way, it’s from last season. Luckily, you have a magic wand in the form of TheFind.com at your disposal.

“We bring all of the products from all of the stores to one place,” explains TheFind CEO Siva Kumar. Through technologies that include data from Facebook’s Open Graph, TheFind is able to comb through roughly half a million sites covering around 450 million products. (In comparison, “eBay worldwide has about 200 million items and Amazon has about 25 million items,” Kumar says.)

But TheFind won’t just track down that hard-to-find item — its search results also display prices, so you can find the best deal.

Now you can go ahead and buy those matching ski pants for your girlfriend, too. 

Digital browsing

The search capabilities of TheFind are optimal when you know exactly what you’re looking for. But shoppers who are “just browsing” can take advantage of the site’s technology, too, with Catalogue.
   
An app for the iPad and Android tablet devices, Catalogue brings together more than 150 popular catalogs (including J.Crew, Saks, Crate & Barrel, Sephora and more) for electronic wish list-making.
   
Kumar says that with this app: “[TheFind] doesn’t assume you know what you want. Say you are looking for new jewelry — there are a lot of jewelry catalogs, and now you can look through them like you would at home — when you need them.” All minus the coffee-table clutter.

The post Hard-to-find shopping just became easy appeared first on Metro.us.

]]> http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/27/hard-to-find-shopping-just-became-easy/feed/ 0 Black Friday: Butter them up with scotch http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/21/black-friday-butter-them-up-with-scotch/ http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/21/black-friday-butter-them-up-with-scotch/#comments Mon, 21 Nov 2011 18:37:43 +0000 Metro Archive http://metro.1over0.com/newyork/uncategorized/2011/11/21/black-friday-butter-them-up-with-scotch/ 1: The Macallan Sherry Oak 12 Years Old ($50). The Macallan Sherry Oak 12 Years Old, now available in six specially designed packages featuring X-ray photography by Nick Veasey, looks more luxe than its price tag suggests. The images — house, feather, scissors, drop, still and cask — depict the six pillars that make up the Macallan brand.
 

2: Highland Park 18 Years Old ($105) First released in 1997, this Highland Park was named “Best Spirit in the World” by F. Paul Pacult in 2005. With a smoky, oaky bouquet and aftertaste, the notes include sweet and nutty toffee and almond. Save this one for your swankiest celebratory soiree – or just a quiet night by a fireplace among your most respected peers.
3: The Glenrothes Editor's Cask ($375) There are only 130 bottles of this limited-edition vintage available in the U.S. this winter (if you have a boss who’s hard to impress, this will do the trick). Check out that color — when the Editor's Cask was distilled in 1996, it was stored in a Spanish oak hogshead cask, lending it that almost chocolate hue.
4: The Glenrothes 1995 ($82)This delicious scotch was the first cask the distillery laid down in 1995 for what would become their vintage series. It has an almost sweet flavor with notes of butterscotch and toffee.
 

5: Glen Garioch Vintage 1994 ($109.99) From one of the oldest operating distilleries in all of Scotland comes their 1994 Vintage, which has matured in North American oak, ex-bourbon casks for 17 years. Only 3,000 bottles of this single malt small batch will reach the U.S. this holiday season, so sip and savor.
]]>

1: The Macallan Sherry Oak 12 Years Old ($50). The Macallan Sherry Oak 12 Years Old, now available in six specially designed packages featuring X-ray photography by Nick Veasey, looks more luxe than its price tag suggests. The images — house, feather, scissors, drop, still and cask — depict the six pillars that make up the Macallan brand.
 


2: Highland Park 18 Years Old ($105) First released in 1997, this Highland Park was named “Best Spirit in the World” by F. Paul Pacult in 2005. With a smoky, oaky bouquet and aftertaste, the notes include sweet and nutty toffee and almond. Save this one for your swankiest celebratory soiree – or just a quiet night by a fireplace among your most respected peers.


3: The Glenrothes Editor’s Cask ($375) There are only 130 bottles of this limited-edition vintage available in the U.S. this winter (if you have a boss who’s hard to impress, this will do the trick). Check out that color — when the Editor’s Cask was distilled in 1996, it was stored in a Spanish oak hogshead cask, lending it that almost chocolate hue.


4: The Glenrothes 1995 ($82)This delicious scotch was the first cask the distillery laid down in 1995 for what would become their vintage series. It has an almost sweet flavor with notes of butterscotch and toffee.
 


5: Glen Garioch Vintage 1994 ($109.99) From one of the oldest operating distilleries in all of Scotland comes their 1994 Vintage, which has matured in North American oak, ex-bourbon casks for 17 years. Only 3,000 bottles of this single malt small batch will reach the U.S. this holiday season, so sip and savor.

The post Black Friday: Butter them up with scotch appeared first on Metro.us.

]]> http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/21/black-friday-butter-them-up-with-scotch/feed/ 0 Yelper’s guide to Black Friday boutique shopping in NYC http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/21/yelpers-guide-to-black-friday-boutique-shopping-in-nyc/ http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/21/yelpers-guide-to-black-friday-boutique-shopping-in-nyc/#comments Mon, 21 Nov 2011 18:30:20 +0000 Metro Archive http://metro.1over0.com/newyork/uncategorized/2011/11/21/yelpers-guide-to-black-friday-boutique-shopping-in-nyc/ Dijital Fix
218 Bedford Ave., Brooklyn
718-388-2720
www.dijitalfix.com
Good for:  The tech nerd in your life or music junkies.
Category:  Electronics, computers
“If I were to open a store, I think I would open Digital Fix, verbatim. Amazing audio gear, tech nonsense, fun gifts and everything else you need for your digital life.” Dave P., New York Dalaga NYC
150 Franklin St., Brooklyn
718-389-4049
www.dalaganyc.com
Good for:  Your best friend, sister or roommate — anyone who loves staying in style and sporting unique finds.
Category: Women’s clothing, accessories
“Definitely the standout boutique on Franklin Ave. Really cute clothes, not too expensive prices (most things are similar to Urban Outfitters prices, but better quality and more unique). It’s easy to miss, so make sure you check it out.” Tara D., Brooklyn The Ink Pad
37 Seventh Ave.
212-463-9876
www.theinkpadnyc.com
Good for: Grandmothers and other crafty types
Category: Art supplies
“If you looking for stamps for A&C projects, this may be your heaven! I’m just starting out making cards and I needed to get some basic supplies...and found this place.” Florence Y., Brooklyn Little MissMatched
565 Fifth Ave.
212-297-2570
www.littlemissmatched.com
Good for: Creative youngsters or anyone who loves to express themselves with color and funky accessories.
Category:  Children’s clothing, baby gear and furniture
“I first discovered LMM while passing through Grand Central station last spring when I noticed this very colorful cart (the kind you see at shopping malls). I got curious so I stopped and checked it out. I was like a kid in a candy store! The designs and color everything mismatched from socks to slippers, hair accessories, bags, pajamas, etc.” Angel S., New York Myplasticheart
210 Forsyth St.
646-290-6866
www.myplasticheart.com
Good for: Kids, toy enthusiasts and collectors
Category: Toy stores, art galleries
“I think I’ve found another favorite place to buy vinyl figures! They have a great variety in such a little store. The workers are all so nice. I must have bugged them like five times and every single time they helped me out and with a SMILE no less. AMAZING! They are one of the only places to sell some of the items that are on display.” Derrick L., Queens Printed Matter
195 10th Ave.
212-925-0325
www.printedmatter.org
Good for: Bookworms, artists and anyone who loves good ol’ fashion print on paper.
Category: Book stores, art galleries
“The only bad thing about this place is $100 disappears every time you walk through the door.  Self publishing, small press, artist book mecca: the holy grail.  Massive library from lowbrow to highbrow to nobrow. Definitely the best place to lose time and your paycheck.”
Mike L., New York The Evolution Store
120 Spring St.
212-343-1114
www.theevolutionstore.com
Good for: Your brother, best guy friend and science nerds
Category: Home decor, hobby shops
“When I was little, my dad had a fossilized fish that I always thought was just the coolest thing. Now, thanks to the Evolution Store, as of last night, I have one too. Even if you’re not planning to shop, I’d recommend anyone passing through SoHo to check this place out. It’s like a natural history museum’s gift shop — except with a better selection of items.” Althea A., Staten Island – Yelp.com is a website that connects people with great local businesses in their neighborhood — everything from bars, restaurants and spas to dog groomers, mechanics and even dentists!
]]> Dijital Fix
218 Bedford Ave., Brooklyn
718-388-2720
www.dijitalfix.com
Good for:  The tech nerd in your life or music junkies.
Category:  Electronics, computers
“If I were to open a store, I think I would open Digital Fix, verbatim. Amazing audio gear, tech nonsense, fun gifts and everything else you need for your digital life.” Dave P., New York

Dalaga NYC
150 Franklin St., Brooklyn
718-389-4049
www.dalaganyc.com
Good for:  Your best friend, sister or roommate — anyone who loves staying in style and sporting unique finds.
Category: Women’s clothing, accessories
“Definitely the standout boutique on Franklin Ave. Really cute clothes, not too expensive prices (most things are similar to Urban Outfitters prices, but better quality and more unique). It’s easy to miss, so make sure you check it out.” Tara D., Brooklyn

The Ink Pad
37 Seventh Ave.
212-463-9876
www.theinkpadnyc.com
Good for: Grandmothers and other crafty types
Category: Art supplies
“If you looking for stamps for A&C projects, this may be your heaven! I’m just starting out making cards and I needed to get some basic supplies…and found this place.” Florence Y., Brooklyn

Little MissMatched
565 Fifth Ave.
212-297-2570
www.littlemissmatched.com
Good for: Creative youngsters or anyone who loves to express themselves with color and funky accessories.
Category:  Children’s clothing, baby gear and furniture
“I first discovered LMM while passing through Grand Central station last spring when I noticed this very colorful cart (the kind you see at shopping malls). I got curious so I stopped and checked it out. I was like a kid in a candy store! The designs and color everything mismatched from socks to slippers, hair accessories, bags, pajamas, etc.” Angel S., New York

Myplasticheart
210 Forsyth St.
646-290-6866
www.myplasticheart.com
Good for: Kids, toy enthusiasts and collectors
Category: Toy stores, art galleries
“I think I’ve found another favorite place to buy vinyl figures! They have a great variety in such a little store. The workers are all so nice. I must have bugged them like five times and every single time they helped me out and with a SMILE no less. AMAZING! They are one of the only places to sell some of the items that are on display.” Derrick L., Queens

Printed Matter
195 10th Ave.
212-925-0325
www.printedmatter.org
Good for: Bookworms, artists and anyone who loves good ol’ fashion print on paper.
Category: Book stores, art galleries
“The only bad thing about this place is $100 disappears every time you walk through the door.  Self publishing, small press, artist book mecca: the holy grail.  Massive library from lowbrow to highbrow to nobrow. Definitely the best place to lose time and your paycheck.”
Mike L., New York

The Evolution Store
120 Spring St.
212-343-1114
www.theevolutionstore.com
Good for: Your brother, best guy friend and science nerds
Category: Home decor, hobby shops
“When I was little, my dad had a fossilized fish that I always thought was just the coolest thing. Now, thanks to the Evolution Store, as of last night, I have one too. Even if you’re not planning to shop, I’d recommend anyone passing through SoHo to check this place out. It’s like a natural history museum’s gift shop — except with a better selection of items.” Althea A., Staten Island

– Yelp.com is a website that connects people with great local businesses in their neighborhood — everything from bars, restaurants and spas to dog groomers, mechanics and even dentists!

The post Yelper’s guide to Black Friday boutique shopping in NYC appeared first on Metro.us.

]]> http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/21/yelpers-guide-to-black-friday-boutique-shopping-in-nyc/feed/ 0 Local Black Friday deals http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/21/local-black-friday-deals/ http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/21/local-black-friday-deals/#comments Mon, 21 Nov 2011 18:17:59 +0000 Metro Archive http://metro.1over0.com/newyork/uncategorized/2011/11/21/local-black-friday-deals/ Ann Taylor at Rockefeller Center
Special hours: midnight to 6 a.m. Promotions that caught our eye: 1) A chance to win $1,000 shopping spree 2) Raffles every hour
600 Fifth Ave.,
212-922-3621
www.anntaylor.com Time Warner Center
Special hours: Doors open at 9 a.m. Promotions that caught our eye: 1) Free exclusive tote bag when you spend $75 or more in Whole Foods Market’s Whole Body department 2) Swarovski’s Nectar Pendant and Earring set for $95 (save $95)
10 Columbus Circle
212-823-6300
www.theshopsatcolumbuscircle.com Woodley & Bunny
Special hours: Doors open at 9 a.m. Promotions that caught our eye: 1) 15 percent off entire purchase 2) Receive a free bottle of Rescue Repair Cream (worth $38) with every purchase of complete Swedish Skincare Systems Holiday Gift Set
196 N. 10th St., Brooklyn
718-218-6588
www.woodleyandbunny.com Scoop NYC
Special hours: Doors will open at 9 a.m. Promotions that caught our eye: 1) 25 percent off everything (sale and full price)
473 Broadway
212-925-3539
Sales extend to other locations.
www.scoopnyc.com Macy’s
Special hours: Doors open at midnight. Promotions that caught our eye: 1) Special 40 percent off all regular-priced coffeemakers, teakettles and espresso-makers 2) Special    20 percent off all Godiva     Confections
151 W. 34th St.
212-695-4400
Sales extend to other locations.
www.macys.com Toys R Us
Special hours: Doors open on Thursday at 9 p.m. Promotions that caught our eye: 1) Furreal Friends Butterscotch Pony for $99.99 (save $100) 2) Free $50 gift card for every purchase of Apple iPod touch
1514 Broadway
646-366-8800
Sales extend to other locations.
www.toysrus.com Disney Store
Special hours: Doors open at 7 a.m. Promotions that caught our eye: 1) Black Friday deals at $10, $15 and $20 for toys, gifts and stocking stuffers.
1540 Broadway
212-626-2910
Sales extend to other locations.
www.disneystore.com BestBuy
Special hours: Doors open at midnight. Promotions that caught our eye: 1) Sharp 42” Class LCD 1080 HDTV for $199.99 2) Garmin Nuvi 40LM GPS for $84.99 (save $65)
622 Broadway
212-673-4067
Sales extend to other locations.
www.bestbuy.com BJ’s Wholesale Club
Special hours: Doors open at 7 a.m. Promotions that caught our eye: 1) Nikon D5100 Digital SLR Camera Bundle (save $320) 2) Duraflame 1,000 Watt Infrared Heater (save $50)
66-26 Metropolitan Ave., Flushing
718-326-9080
www.bjs.com Gamestop
Special hours: Doors open at midnight. Promotions that caught our eye: 1) New “Super Mario Bros”; Nintendo Wii Bundle for $149.99.
2) Nintendo 3DS for $169.99
100 W. 33rd St.
212-564-2432
Sales extend to other locations.
www.gamestop.com JCPenney
Special hours: Doors open at 4 a.m. Promotions that caught our eye: 1) Coffeemaker, slow cooker, griddle or waffler for $9.88 each after $10 mail-in rebate (save $40 to $50) 2) Four-piece luggage set for $39.88 (save $160)
901 Sixth Ave.
212-295-6120
www.jcpenney.com Target
Special hours: Doors open at midnight.
Promotions that caught our eye: 1) Westinghouse VR-4625 46” 1080p 60Hz LCD HDTV for $298 (save $250) 2) Xbox 360 4GB Console for $139.99 (save $60)
517 E. 117th St.
212-835-0860
Sales extend to other locations.
www.target.com Kohl’s
Special hours: Doors open at midnight.
Promotions that caught our eye:
1) Vivitar 12.1MP HD digital video camcorder for $59.99 (save $90)
2) iHome IA91 clock radio and audio system for $89.99 (save $30)
61-35 Junction Blvd., Queens
718-271-8400
www.kohls.com Lowe’s
Special hours:
Doors open at 5 a.m.
Promotions that caught our eye:
1) Whirlpool’s high-efficiency washer and electric dryer for $698 (save $250)
2) Char-Griller Duo 3-Burner Gas and Charcoal Grill for $199 (save $100)
118 Second Ave., Brooklyn
718-249-1151
www.lowes.com]]> Ann Taylor at Rockefeller Center
Special hours: midnight to 6 a.m. Promotions that caught our eye: 1) A chance to win $1,000 shopping spree 2) Raffles every hour
600 Fifth Ave.,
212-922-3621
www.anntaylor.com

Time Warner Center
Special hours: Doors open at 9 a.m. Promotions that caught our eye: 1) Free exclusive tote bag when you spend $75 or more in Whole Foods Market’s Whole Body department 2) Swarovski’s Nectar Pendant and Earring set for $95 (save $95)
10 Columbus Circle
212-823-6300
www.theshopsatcolumbuscircle.com

Woodley & Bunny
Special hours: Doors open at 9 a.m. Promotions that caught our eye: 1) 15 percent off entire purchase 2) Receive a free bottle of Rescue Repair Cream (worth $38) with every purchase of complete Swedish Skincare Systems Holiday Gift Set
196 N. 10th St., Brooklyn
718-218-6588
www.woodleyandbunny.com

Scoop NYC
Special hours: Doors will open at 9 a.m. Promotions that caught our eye: 1) 25 percent off everything (sale and full price)
473 Broadway
212-925-3539
Sales extend to other locations.
www.scoopnyc.com

Macy’s
Special hours: Doors open at midnight. Promotions that caught our eye: 1) Special 40 percent off all regular-priced coffeemakers, teakettles and espresso-makers 2) Special    20 percent off all Godiva     Confections
151 W. 34th St.
212-695-4400
Sales extend to other locations.
www.macys.com

Toys R Us
Special hours: Doors open on Thursday at 9 p.m. Promotions that caught our eye: 1) Furreal Friends Butterscotch Pony for $99.99 (save $100) 2) Free $50 gift card for every purchase of Apple iPod touch
1514 Broadway
646-366-8800
Sales extend to other locations.
www.toysrus.com

Disney Store
Special hours: Doors open at 7 a.m. Promotions that caught our eye: 1) Black Friday deals at $10, $15 and $20 for toys, gifts and stocking stuffers.
1540 Broadway
212-626-2910
Sales extend to other locations.
www.disneystore.com

BestBuy
Special hours: Doors open at midnight. Promotions that caught our eye: 1) Sharp 42” Class LCD 1080 HDTV for $199.99 2) Garmin Nuvi 40LM GPS for $84.99 (save $65)
622 Broadway
212-673-4067
Sales extend to other locations.
www.bestbuy.com

BJ’s Wholesale Club
Special hours: Doors open at 7 a.m. Promotions that caught our eye: 1) Nikon D5100 Digital SLR Camera Bundle (save $320) 2) Duraflame 1,000 Watt Infrared Heater (save $50)
66-26 Metropolitan Ave., Flushing
718-326-9080
www.bjs.com

Gamestop
Special hours: Doors open at midnight. Promotions that caught our eye: 1) New “Super Mario Bros”; Nintendo Wii Bundle for $149.99.
2) Nintendo 3DS for $169.99
100 W. 33rd St.
212-564-2432
Sales extend to other locations.
www.gamestop.com

JCPenney
Special hours: Doors open at 4 a.m. Promotions that caught our eye: 1) Coffeemaker, slow cooker, griddle or waffler for $9.88 each after $10 mail-in rebate (save $40 to $50) 2) Four-piece luggage set for $39.88 (save $160)
901 Sixth Ave.
212-295-6120
www.jcpenney.com

Target
Special hours: Doors open at midnight.
Promotions that caught our eye: 1) Westinghouse VR-4625 46” 1080p 60Hz LCD HDTV for $298 (save $250) 2) Xbox 360 4GB Console for $139.99 (save $60)
517 E. 117th St.
212-835-0860
Sales extend to other locations.
www.target.com

Kohl’s
Special hours: Doors open at midnight.
Promotions that caught our eye:
1) Vivitar 12.1MP HD digital video camcorder for $59.99 (save $90)
2) iHome IA91 clock radio and audio system for $89.99 (save $30)
61-35 Junction Blvd., Queens
718-271-8400
www.kohls.com

Lowe’s
Special hours:
Doors open at 5 a.m.
Promotions that caught our eye:
1) Whirlpool’s high-efficiency washer and electric dryer for $698 (save $250)
2) Char-Griller Duo 3-Burner Gas and Charcoal Grill for $199 (save $100)
118 Second Ave., Brooklyn
718-249-1151
www.lowes.com

The post Local Black Friday deals appeared first on Metro.us.

]]> http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/21/local-black-friday-deals/feed/ 0 Shop on Black Friday with your buds — your earbuds http://www.metro.us/newyork/entertainment/2011/11/20/shop-on-black-friday-with-your-buds-your-earbuds/ http://www.metro.us/newyork/entertainment/2011/11/20/shop-on-black-friday-with-your-buds-your-earbuds/#comments Sun, 20 Nov 2011 23:14:10 +0000 Metro Archive http://metro.1over0.com/newyork/uncategorized/2011/11/20/shop-on-black-friday-with-your-buds-your-earbuds/ ‘Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,’ Culture
There’s nothing wrong with getting into the spirit of the season, but do it on your own terms. Sometimes, your own terms might mean this chill reggae version of a classic, so you don’t feel like it’s something you’ve already heard a million times. ‘Oh No,’ Girl Talk
This mashup has the colossal layering of personalities that the shopping experience offers. Plus it combines Black Sabbath power chords with Ludacris, saying “Move b—, get out-the the way.” ‘Pretty Boy Swag,’ Soulja Boy Tell’em
Speaking of “get out-the way,” you might want to make this one your anthem too, and say “pretty boy comin’ through.” ‘Bittersweet Symphony,’ The Verve
Ever see the video for this one? Singer Richard Ashcroft is just walking through the crow-ded street, banging into everybody else, totally oblivious that they’re there because his song is so pretty. This tune will make you be that guy as you steamroll through the mall. ‘Albatross,’ Fleetwood Mac
You’ll definitely need a few zen moments with your headphones as you brave this aggressive shopping climate. This wordless tune by an early incarnation of Fleetwood Mac is a great start. If this instrumental gives you that crucial inner peace, also try R.E.M.’s “New Orleans Instrumental,” and Yo La Tengo’s “Return to Hot Chicken.”
]]> Holiday carols through the speakers at the mall? Bah humbug! On Friday, make your own soundtrack and rock out with this playlist.


‘Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,’ Culture
There’s nothing wrong with getting into the spirit of the season, but do it on your own terms. Sometimes, your own terms might mean this chill reggae version of a classic, so you don’t feel like it’s something you’ve already heard a million times.


‘Oh No,’ Girl Talk
This mashup has the colossal layering of personalities that the shopping experience offers. Plus it combines Black Sabbath power chords with Ludacris, saying “Move b—, get out-the the way.”


‘Pretty Boy Swag,’ Soulja Boy Tell’em
Speaking of “get out-the way,” you might want to make this one your anthem too, and say “pretty boy comin’ through.”


‘Bittersweet Symphony,’ The Verve
Ever see the video for this one? Singer Richard Ashcroft is just walking through the crow-ded street, banging into everybody else, totally oblivious that they’re there because his song is so pretty. This tune will make you be that guy as you steamroll through the mall.


‘Albatross,’ Fleetwood Mac
You’ll definitely need a few zen moments with your headphones as you brave this aggressive shopping climate. This wordless tune by an early incarnation of Fleetwood Mac is a great start. If this instrumental gives you that crucial inner peace, also try R.E.M.’s “New Orleans Instrumental,” and Yo La Tengo’s “Return to Hot Chicken.”

The post Shop on Black Friday with your buds — your earbuds appeared first on Metro.us.

]]> http://www.metro.us/newyork/entertainment/2011/11/20/shop-on-black-friday-with-your-buds-your-earbuds/feed/ 0 Gifts for pets: Don’t forget your pup on Black Friday http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/20/gifts-for-pets-dont-forget-your-pup-on-black-friday/ http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/20/gifts-for-pets-dont-forget-your-pup-on-black-friday/#comments Sun, 20 Nov 2011 22:55:29 +0000 Metro Archive http://metro.1over0.com/newyork/uncategorized/2011/11/20/gifts-for-pets-dont-forget-your-pup-on-black-friday/
1. Not even the most self-conscious of pups will mind Cole Haan’s reversible dog coats — they look
just like your own outerwear! $98, www.colehaan.com
2. Your dog can ride in style with a little help from an Orvis car hammock. Or, at least, not fall off
the backseat while trying to look over your shoulder. $129 and up, www.orvis.com
3. The beautifully packaged Harry Barker Good Dog gift basket includes soothing shea butter
shampoo and conditioner, as well as toys for when bath time is over. $25, www.onekingslane.com
4. Want a puppy break at your desk? VueZone is a wireless system of battery-operated cameras that stream video straight to Internet browsers. Just log in to your Vuezone.com account and you can check in on your pups. Anything you miss, the motion sensors can capture with a snapshot and e-mail to you — seriously. $200-$250, www.vuezone.com
]]> For the dog in your life — or the dog owner who expects you to bring Fido a gift.


1. Not even the most self-conscious of pups will mind Cole Haan’s reversible dog coats — they look
just like your own outerwear! $98, www.colehaan.com


2. Your dog can ride in style with a little help from an Orvis car hammock. Or, at least, not fall off
the backseat while trying to look over your shoulder. $129 and up, www.orvis.com


3. The beautifully packaged Harry Barker Good Dog gift basket includes soothing shea butter
shampoo and conditioner, as well as toys for when bath time is over. $25, www.onekingslane.com


4. Want a puppy break at your desk? VueZone is a wireless system of battery-operated cameras that stream video straight to Internet browsers. Just log in to your Vuezone.com account and you can check in on your pups. Anything you miss, the motion sensors can capture with a snapshot and e-mail to you — seriously. $200-$250, www.vuezone.com

The post Gifts for pets: Don’t forget your pup on Black Friday appeared first on Metro.us.

]]> http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/20/gifts-for-pets-dont-forget-your-pup-on-black-friday/feed/ 0 Black Friday gifts for kids: A little something for the little ones http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/20/black-friday-gifts-for-kids-a-little-something-for-the-little-ones/ http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/20/black-friday-gifts-for-kids-a-little-something-for-the-little-ones/#comments Sun, 20 Nov 2011 22:11:11 +0000 Metro Archive http://metro.1over0.com/newyork/uncategorized/2011/11/20/black-friday-gifts-for-kids-a-little-something-for-the-little-ones/
1. Keep their first Christmas nice and cozy with MyNatural Disney Blankies, made from natural cotton and colored with eco-friendly dyes. $15, www.toysrus.com
2. The “Sesame Street” gang are never going out of style. Let’s Rock Elmo sings and plays instruments (don’t worry — he’s happy to share his drums with kiddos), while Count ’N Crunch Cookie Monster teaches numbers as he gobbles away. Cookie: $30; Elmo: $70, www.hasbrotoyshop.com
3. Meet Magical Fairy Dora: From what we understand about little girls, you cannot possibly go wrong with this one. $30, www.shop.nick.com
4. LEGO characters have come a long way since we last played with the little blockheads. This year, SpongeBob SquarePants and friends get in on the action. $15-$20, www.shop.nick.com
5. We have no idea when the EasyBake oven got this cool. Or  started including red velvet cupcakes. But we do know we still want one — bad. $50, www.hasbrotoyshop.com
6. Hello, Kitty! This MP3 player can store more than 100 songs and keep sticky fingers off your iPhone. $30, www.toysrus.com
7. Equipped with three wheels, the Mini Kick looks like a big kid’s ride, but little ones won’t topple
as they practice their balance. $85, www.gilt.com
8. WallCandy’s ice cream cone decal has a chalkboard surface for the budding Banksy eyeing up her bedroom walls. $30, www.gilt.com
9. Mattel’s Monster High dolls put Barbie on notice. $18, www.shop.mattel.com
10. The Rover Spy Tank can travel up to 200 feet as it streams live video or pictures back to your iPhone, which acts as its steering wheel. Did we mention the night vision? Test this one out before putting it under the tree. $150, www.brookstone.com
11. Each Furreal Friends Newborn is so tiny it needs to be bottle-fed! Our vote is for the baby penguin, for obvious reasons. $15, www.hasbrotoyshop.com
12. Want to defend your title as the  coolest aunt? The new Fretlight teaching guitar plugs into a
USB port, then is ready to light up and guide you through finger placement with video lessons.
$400-$800, www.fretlight.com
]]> Is it just us, or have toys gotten way cooler since we believed in Santa?  Our picks for kids — and one or two for kids at heart.


1. Keep their first Christmas nice and cozy with MyNatural Disney Blankies, made from natural cotton and colored with eco-friendly dyes. $15, www.toysrus.com


2. The “Sesame Street” gang are never going out of style. Let’s Rock Elmo sings and plays instruments (don’t worry — he’s happy to share his drums with kiddos), while Count ’N Crunch Cookie Monster teaches numbers as he gobbles away. Cookie: $30; Elmo: $70, www.hasbrotoyshop.com


3. Meet Magical Fairy Dora: From what we understand about little girls, you cannot possibly go wrong with this one. $30, www.shop.nick.com


4. LEGO characters have come a long way since we last played with the little blockheads. This year, SpongeBob SquarePants and friends get in on the action. $15-$20, www.shop.nick.com


5. We have no idea when the EasyBake oven got this cool. Or  started including red velvet cupcakes. But we do know we still want one — bad. $50, www.hasbrotoyshop.com


6. Hello, Kitty! This MP3 player can store more than 100 songs and keep sticky fingers off your iPhone. $30, www.toysrus.com


7. Equipped with three wheels, the Mini Kick looks like a big kid’s ride, but little ones won’t topple
as they practice their balance. $85, www.gilt.com


8. WallCandy’s ice cream cone decal has a chalkboard surface for the budding Banksy eyeing up her bedroom walls. $30, www.gilt.com


9. Mattel’s Monster High dolls put Barbie on notice. $18, www.shop.mattel.com


10. The Rover Spy Tank can travel up to 200 feet as it streams live video or pictures back to your iPhone, which acts as its steering wheel. Did we mention the night vision? Test this one out before putting it under the tree. $150, www.brookstone.com


11. Each Furreal Friends Newborn is so tiny it needs to be bottle-fed! Our vote is for the baby penguin, for obvious reasons. $15, www.hasbrotoyshop.com


12. Want to defend your title as the  coolest aunt? The new Fretlight teaching guitar plugs into a
USB port, then is ready to light up and guide you through finger placement with video lessons.
$400-$800, www.fretlight.com

The post Black Friday gifts for kids: A little something for the little ones appeared first on Metro.us.

]]> http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/20/black-friday-gifts-for-kids-a-little-something-for-the-little-ones/feed/ 0 Black Friday gifts for hosts: Don’t show up with empty hands http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/20/black-friday-gifts-for-hosts-dont-show-up-with-empty-hands/ http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/20/black-friday-gifts-for-hosts-dont-show-up-with-empty-hands/#comments Sun, 20 Nov 2011 21:56:52 +0000 Metro Archive http://metro.1over0.com/newyork/uncategorized/2011/11/20/black-friday-gifts-for-hosts-dont-show-up-with-empty-hands/
1. Bring your hosts treats to enjoy after everyone goes home. Iron Chef Jose Garces’ artisan chocolate bars feature unexpected combos such as porcini and thyme. His Garces Trading Co. coffee will make a messy kitchen easier to wake up to. Chocolate: $8, coffee: $14, www.grg-mgmt.com
2. Bringing blooms? These ceramic stone vases from the Museum of Modern Art’s design store are an artful little extra and won’t send your busy host scrambling for water. $75, www.momastore.org
3. Everyone brings a bottle of wine. Mix it up with this festive bar set from Olivia & Cocoa. $78, www.oliveandcocoa.com
4. Restoration Hardware’s rustic brass ornaments have a subtle holiday feel that will fit in with any tree’s decor. $20-$32, www.restorationhardware.com

5. Moet’s Imperial Gift Box keeps bubbly chilled and is ready to go with a festive bow. Just add orange juice for the perfect morning-after gift. $40, www.moet.com
]]> You don’t have to do dishes or put your drunk friends in cabs. The least you could do is bring your host a little something special.


1. Bring your hosts treats to enjoy after everyone goes home. Iron Chef Jose Garces’ artisan chocolate bars feature unexpected combos such as porcini and thyme. His Garces Trading Co. coffee will make a messy kitchen easier to wake up to. Chocolate: $8, coffee: $14, www.grg-mgmt.com


2. Bringing blooms? These ceramic stone vases from the Museum of Modern Art’s design store are an artful little extra and won’t send your busy host scrambling for water. $75, www.momastore.org


3. Everyone brings a bottle of wine. Mix it up with this festive bar set from Olivia & Cocoa. $78, www.oliveandcocoa.com


4. Restoration Hardware’s rustic brass ornaments have a subtle holiday feel that will fit in with any tree’s decor. $20-$32, www.restorationhardware.com

5. Moet’s Imperial Gift Box keeps bubbly chilled and is ready to go with a festive bow. Just add orange juice for the perfect morning-after gift. $40, www.moet.com

The post Black Friday gifts for hosts: Don’t show up with empty hands appeared first on Metro.us.

]]> http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/20/black-friday-gifts-for-hosts-dont-show-up-with-empty-hands/feed/ 0 Black Friday gifts for him: Gadgets and gear, whisky and beer http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/20/black-friday-gifts-for-him-gadgets-and-gear-whisky-and-beer/ http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/20/black-friday-gifts-for-him-gadgets-and-gear-whisky-and-beer/#comments Sun, 20 Nov 2011 21:17:19 +0000 Metro Archive http://metro.1over0.com/newyork/uncategorized/2011/11/20/black-friday-gifts-for-him-gadgets-and-gear-whisky-and-beer/
1. Ralph Lauren’s knit vest is the rare vest that doesn’t look ridiculous outside of a hot cocoa commercial. $145, www.ralphlauren.com
2. There’s a little something Indiana Jones about Saddleback Leather’s classic briefcase, which is made from hardy boot leather so it breaks in like a trusty pair of go-to shoes. $519, www.saddlebackleather.com
3. Designed for cyclists, Levi’s Commuter jeans have a utility waistband for easy U-lock storage, reflective tape on the cuffs and just enough stretch for comfy pedaling. $78, at Urban Outfitters stores
4. Everyone expects a chunky cable-knit under the tree, but Orlebar Brown’s lightweight, cotton-silk scarf is more suited for a cool night on the beach. $79, www.orlebarbrown.com
5. For every pair of their hand-painted One for One series, TOMS will donate to provide prescription glasses or sight-saving treatment to a person in need. $135, www.toms.com
6. The Onions’ Beer Lover Gift Pack includes an “I Enjoy Drinking Beer” tee, two pint glasses with measures for liquids from barium to soda, a framed front-page beer story and, of course, the reason you’d buy someone this: A magnet featuring the headline “Study: Alligators Dangerous No Matter How Drunk You Are.” It’s true. $82, www.store.theonion.com
7. Seltzer’s “Seven Year” pens can write up to two meters a day for seven years thanks to a barrel that holds about six times the amount of ink as your average pen. We particularly like this dapper fellow. $7.50, www.seltzergoods.com
8. With their stylish plaid wrappers, Sir Richard’s condoms are the only prophylactics we’d recommend as stocking stuffers. Plus, for every condom brought, Sir Richard — ever the gentleman — donates one to a developing country. $13-$14, at Whole Foods stores
9. Chivas Regal’s holiday bottle comes in a fancy limited-edition tin by New York illustrator Dan Funderburgh. You know what it doesn’t come with? Brookstone stainless steel ice cubes. You’ve gotta add those to the package for the whisky win. Whisky: $35, www.chivas.com; ice cubes: $25 for six, www.brookstone.com
10. MCMC’s woodsy, spicy beard oil is 100 percent natural and 100 percent dude-approved. $65, www.artintheage.com
11. Got a gadget-head on your hands? Goal Zero’s portable speakers are solar-powered and ready to hook up to your phone, laptop or MP3 player. $39, www.goalzero.com
12. At the risk of making sweeping generalizations, boys like maps. The National Geographic store is full of them, but our pick is for the personalized aerial view jigsaw puzzle. Your house is at the center of the satellite photo. $50, www.shop.national geographic.com
13. A pack of personalized tees will never cut it after the GolfBuddy World GPS rangefinder. Pre-loaded with 33,000 courses and room for another 7,000, it maps out every single hole on the green. $299, www.golfbuddyglobal.com

]]> From your nerdy dad to your frat-boy bro to your stylish New Year’s Eve
escort, we have you covered.


1. Ralph Lauren’s knit vest is the rare vest that doesn’t look ridiculous outside of a hot cocoa commercial. $145, www.ralphlauren.com


2. There’s a little something Indiana Jones about Saddleback Leather’s classic briefcase, which is made from hardy boot leather so it breaks in like a trusty pair of go-to shoes. $519, www.saddlebackleather.com


3. Designed for cyclists, Levi’s Commuter jeans have a utility waistband for easy U-lock storage, reflective tape on the cuffs and just enough stretch for comfy pedaling. $78, at Urban Outfitters stores


4. Everyone expects a chunky cable-knit under the tree, but Orlebar Brown’s lightweight, cotton-silk scarf is more suited for a cool night on the beach. $79, www.orlebarbrown.com


5. For every pair of their hand-painted One for One series, TOMS will donate to provide prescription glasses or sight-saving treatment to a person in need. $135, www.toms.com


6. The Onions’ Beer Lover Gift Pack includes an “I Enjoy Drinking Beer” tee, two pint glasses with measures for liquids from barium to soda, a framed front-page beer story and, of course, the reason you’d buy someone this: A magnet featuring the headline “Study: Alligators Dangerous No Matter How Drunk You Are.” It’s true. $82, www.store.theonion.com


7. Seltzer’s “Seven Year” pens can write up to two meters a day for seven years thanks to a barrel that holds about six times the amount of ink as your average pen. We particularly like this dapper fellow. $7.50, www.seltzergoods.com


8. With their stylish plaid wrappers, Sir Richard’s condoms are the only prophylactics we’d recommend as stocking stuffers. Plus, for every condom brought, Sir Richard — ever the gentleman — donates one to a developing country. $13-$14, at Whole Foods stores


9. Chivas Regal’s holiday bottle comes in a fancy limited-edition tin by New York illustrator Dan Funderburgh. You know what it doesn’t come with? Brookstone stainless steel ice cubes. You’ve gotta add those to the package for the whisky win. Whisky: $35, www.chivas.com; ice cubes: $25 for six, www.brookstone.com


10. MCMC’s woodsy, spicy beard oil is 100 percent natural and 100 percent dude-approved. $65, www.artintheage.com


11. Got a gadget-head on your hands? Goal Zero’s portable speakers are solar-powered and ready to hook up to your phone, laptop or MP3 player. $39, www.goalzero.com


12. At the risk of making sweeping generalizations, boys like maps. The National Geographic store is full of them, but our pick is for the personalized aerial view jigsaw puzzle. Your house is at the center of the satellite photo. $50, www.shop.national geographic.com


13. A pack of personalized tees will never cut it after the GolfBuddy World GPS rangefinder. Pre-loaded with 33,000 courses and room for another 7,000, it maps out every single hole on the green. $299, www.golfbuddyglobal.com


The post Black Friday gifts for him: Gadgets and gear, whisky and beer appeared first on Metro.us.

]]> http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/20/black-friday-gifts-for-him-gadgets-and-gear-whisky-and-beer/feed/ 0 Black Friday: 5 holiday gift-wrapping tips from DailyCandy http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/20/black-friday-5-holiday-gift-wrapping-tips-from-dailycandy/ http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/20/black-friday-5-holiday-gift-wrapping-tips-from-dailycandy/#comments Sun, 20 Nov 2011 20:53:04 +0000 Metro Archive http://metro.1over0.com/newyork/uncategorized/2011/11/20/black-friday-5-holiday-gift-wrapping-tips-from-dailycandy/ 1.  Make a statement With ribbon and twine Consider ribbon and twine your presents’ key accessory — let it do the talking.
 

Kate’s Paperie Satin Ribbon, $.73-$2.80 per yard, www.katespaperie.com
 

Knot & Bow Glitter Twine, $20, www.etsy.com/shop/knotandbow

2. Get crafty with wrapping paper Use brown craft paper or a combination of stamps and old calendars to bring a hint of nostalgia to your holiday presents.

3. Personalized gift tags Use on-trend gift tags to make your present feel current and fashion forward.  
Seahorse Gift Tags, $3, www.etsy.com/shop/decadentdesigns 4. Seal it Decorative tape adds a bit of flair to any package.
Tape Swell tapes, $7, www.tapeswell.com

5. Add a card Don’t forget to add a card and give your best wishes for the New Year.
]]> Score big on Black Friday? You’re not quite done just yet.  DailyCandy correspondent SuChin Pak shows us how to wrap those gifts up right 

1.  Make a statement

With ribbon and twine Consider ribbon and twine your presents’ key accessory — let it do the talking.
 


Kate’s Paperie Satin Ribbon, $.73-$2.80 per yard, www.katespaperie.com
 


Knot & Bow Glitter Twine, $20, www.etsy.com/shop/knotandbow

2. Get crafty with wrapping paper

Use brown craft paper or a combination of stamps and old calendars to bring a hint of nostalgia to your holiday presents.

3. Personalized gift tags

Use on-trend gift tags to make your present feel current and fashion forward.

 
Seahorse Gift Tags, $3, www.etsy.com/shop/decadentdesigns

4. Seal it

Decorative tape adds a bit of flair to any package.


Tape Swell tapes, $7, www.tapeswell.com

5. Add a card

Don’t forget to add a card and give your best wishes for the New Year.

The post Black Friday: 5 holiday gift-wrapping tips from DailyCandy appeared first on Metro.us.

]]> http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/20/black-friday-5-holiday-gift-wrapping-tips-from-dailycandy/feed/ 0 Black Friday gifts for her: Make her wish come true this year http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/20/black-friday-gifts-for-her-make-her-wish-come-true-this-year/ http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/20/black-friday-gifts-for-her-make-her-wish-come-true-this-year/#comments Sun, 20 Nov 2011 20:17:08 +0000 Metro Archive http://metro.1over0.com/newyork/uncategorized/2011/11/20/black-friday-gifts-for-her-make-her-wish-come-true-this-year/
1. The concept for the “6 Packs/9 Lives” calendar is pretty simple: Hot guys and cute cats make every month that much better. Proceeds from the calendar benefit the Found Animals Foundation, an L.A.-based nonprofit that works to decrease animal shelter euthanasia. Without further ado, please meet Mr. December. $14, www.foundanimals.org
2. LUSH’s “Brrrrilliant” box includes grapefruit-kissed Snow Globe soap and Australian Igloo sugar scrub to instantly warm up the chilly mornings ahead. And, um, did we mention it’s perfectly wrapped? $13, www.lush.com
3. People have very personal, very strong, very loud views about Ugg boots. But the brand’s classic duffle — made of rugged waxed canvas and finished off with rustic brass hardware — is a definite crowd-pleaser. $345, www.uggaustralia.com
4. We love these Diane von Furstenberg “Zoe” shades for snowy mornings and sunny shores alike. $165, www.dvf.com
5. Give her a little something to look forward to with Crabtree & Evelyn’s “shed bag,” which comes complete with veggie-printed gardening tools and pampering potions for the greenest of thumbs. $48, www.crabtree-evelyn.com
6. There’s no shortage of blonde starlets hawking fragrances this time of year — and not all of them are girls you’d want to smell like. Our vote is for Taylor Swift’s Wonderstruck, a subtle fruity scent that’s almost as pretty as its bottle. $60 (3.4 oz.), at Macy’s stores
7. Even if she doesn’t usually wear perfume, Viva La Juicy’s flirty little bottle has an irresistible Paris-after-hours appeal. $98 (3.4 oz.), at Macy’s stores
8. Big bulky terrycloth robes are for your mom. Betsey Johnson’s adorable little velour and satin robe definitely isn’t. $89, at Bloomingdale’s stores and www.betseyjohnson.com
9. These Converse high-tops are still classics, but a little extra special — just like her. $100, www.converse.com

10. At less than $30, Rubr watches make a trendy stocking stuffer for almost anyone. $25, www.rubrwatchnation.com
11. Soap & Glory’s cheeky “Do a Bubble Take” gift set has all the makings for a perfectly decadent bubble bath. Minus — hint, hint — a bottle of bubbly. $36, www.sephora.com
12. Keep your snowbunny warm with Restoration Hardware’s so-soft faux-fur booties and ushanka hat. $19 (booties), $39 (hat), www.restorationhardware.com
]]> Things she needs are great. But things she wants are even better.


1. The concept for the “6 Packs/9 Lives” calendar is pretty simple: Hot guys and cute cats make every month that much better. Proceeds from the calendar benefit the Found Animals Foundation, an L.A.-based nonprofit that works to decrease animal shelter euthanasia. Without further ado, please meet Mr. December. $14, www.foundanimals.org


2. LUSH’s “Brrrrilliant” box includes grapefruit-kissed Snow Globe soap and Australian Igloo sugar scrub to instantly warm up the chilly mornings ahead. And, um, did we mention it’s perfectly wrapped? $13, www.lush.com


3. People have very personal, very strong, very loud views about Ugg boots. But the brand’s classic duffle — made of rugged waxed canvas and finished off with rustic brass hardware — is a definite crowd-pleaser. $345, www.uggaustralia.com


4. We love these Diane von Furstenberg “Zoe” shades for snowy mornings and sunny shores alike. $165, www.dvf.com


5. Give her a little something to look forward to with Crabtree & Evelyn’s “shed bag,” which comes complete with veggie-printed gardening tools and pampering potions for the greenest of thumbs. $48, www.crabtree-evelyn.com


6. There’s no shortage of blonde starlets hawking fragrances this time of year — and not all of them are girls you’d want to smell like. Our vote is for Taylor Swift’s Wonderstruck, a subtle fruity scent that’s almost as pretty as its bottle. $60 (3.4 oz.), at Macy’s stores


7. Even if she doesn’t usually wear perfume, Viva La Juicy’s flirty little bottle has an irresistible Paris-after-hours appeal. $98 (3.4 oz.), at Macy’s stores


8. Big bulky terrycloth robes are for your mom. Betsey Johnson’s adorable little velour and satin robe definitely isn’t. $89, at Bloomingdale’s stores and www.betseyjohnson.com


9. These Converse high-tops are still classics, but a little extra special — just like her. $100, www.converse.com

10. At less than $30, Rubr watches make a trendy stocking stuffer for almost anyone. $25, www.rubrwatchnation.com


11. Soap & Glory’s cheeky “Do a Bubble Take” gift set has all the makings for a perfectly decadent bubble bath. Minus — hint, hint — a bottle of bubbly. $36, www.sephora.com


12. Keep your snowbunny warm with Restoration Hardware’s so-soft faux-fur booties and ushanka hat. $19 (booties), $39 (hat), www.restorationhardware.com

The post Black Friday gifts for her: Make her wish come true this year appeared first on Metro.us.

]]> http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/20/black-friday-gifts-for-her-make-her-wish-come-true-this-year/feed/ 0 Black Friday: Don’t forget the home http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/20/black-friday-dont-forget-the-home/ http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/20/black-friday-dont-forget-the-home/#comments Sun, 20 Nov 2011 20:02:35 +0000 Metro Archive http://metro.1over0.com/newyork/uncategorized/2011/11/20/black-friday-dont-forget-the-home/
Daily deals
   

Friday: Score the best-selling children’s Mala Easel for $9.99 (regular price: $14.99). Don’t forget the Mala Chalk ($1.99) to spark your little artists’ imaginations.

  
Saturday: The 365+ seven-piece stainless steel cookware set includes the essential pots and pans (and lids!) needed to whip up any holiday meal for just $19.99 (regular price: $39.99). Pair with the Direkt three-piece kitchen utensil ($3.99) for your own Iron Chef’s kitchen.
Sunday: The Expedit shelving unit — the perfect little cubby — gets a perfect little price tag: $19.99 (regular price: $39.99). Store important documents — like Christmas wish lists — in the Kassett Magazine Boxes ($9.99 for a two-pack), which fit perfectly into the Expedit shelves.
 
A frog for a good cause
With every purchase of a soft toy at IKEA through Dec. 24, the retailer will donate approximately $1.47 ($1 Euro) to UNICEF and Save the Children’s educational programs. IKEA’s adorable plushies (we love the Fabler Groda fairy frog) range from $1.49 up to $19.99 — but this weekend only, these soft toys will be on sale for 50 percent off.
]]> Our favorite affordable Swedish design store, IKEA, is offering deals —
and goodwill — all weekend long.

Daily deals
   

Friday: Score the best-selling children’s Mala Easel for $9.99 (regular price: $14.99). Don’t forget the Mala Chalk ($1.99) to spark your little artists’ imaginations.

  
Saturday: The 365+ seven-piece stainless steel cookware set includes the essential pots and pans (and lids!) needed to whip up any holiday meal for just $19.99 (regular price: $39.99). Pair with the Direkt three-piece kitchen utensil ($3.99) for your own Iron Chef’s kitchen.


Sunday: The Expedit shelving unit — the perfect little cubby — gets a perfect little price tag: $19.99 (regular price: $39.99). Store important documents — like Christmas wish lists — in the Kassett Magazine Boxes ($9.99 for a two-pack), which fit perfectly into the Expedit shelves.
 
A frog for a good cause


With every purchase of a soft toy at IKEA through Dec. 24, the retailer will donate approximately $1.47 ($1 Euro) to UNICEF and Save the Children’s educational programs. IKEA’s adorable plushies (we love the Fabler Groda fairy frog) range from $1.49 up to $19.99 — but this weekend only, these soft toys will be on sale for 50 percent off.

The post Black Friday: Don’t forget the home appeared first on Metro.us.

]]> http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/20/black-friday-dont-forget-the-home/feed/ 0 Who’s been naughty, and who’s nice? http://www.metro.us/newyork/news/local/2011/11/20/whos-been-naughty-and-whos-nice/ http://www.metro.us/newyork/news/local/2011/11/20/whos-been-naughty-and-whos-nice/#comments Sun, 20 Nov 2011 19:55:05 +0000 Metro Archive http://metro.1over0.com/newyork/uncategorized/2011/11/20/whos-been-naughty-and-whos-nice/ Naughty AirTran: Discounted coach and on-sale tickets don’t include the price of a seat, which costs an extra $6-$20 each way at the time of booking. RadioShack: The company sometimes charges different prices for items depending on whether it was bought online or at the store, including one instance where the cost of an HDMI cable in-store was nearly twice the cost of the online price. American Apparel: Offers two return policies with no explanation — online customers get full refunds while store shoppers only receive merchandise credit.   Nice American Express: Can refund the full purchase price of covered items up to $300 when cardholders are unsuccessful in returning them to a merchant within 90 days. REI: Accepts returns or exchanges at any time for any reason in-person or by mail, whether you bought it online, in the store or at an REI Outlet. Live Nation: Gives fans 72 hours to cancel their ticket order and get a refund at many venues up to one week before the event.]]> Every year, Consumer Reports magazine looks at the shopping policies of major companies and does Santa’s work for him. How a few brands measured up.

Naughty

AirTran: Discounted coach and on-sale tickets don’t include the price of a seat, which costs an extra $6-$20 each way at the time of booking.

RadioShack: The company sometimes charges different prices for items depending on whether it was bought online or at the store, including one instance where the cost of an HDMI cable in-store was nearly twice the cost of the online price.

American Apparel: Offers two return policies with no explanation — online customers get full refunds while store shoppers only receive merchandise credit.  

Nice

American Express: Can refund the full purchase price of covered items up to $300 when cardholders are unsuccessful in returning them to a merchant within 90 days.

REI: Accepts returns or exchanges at any time for any reason in-person or by mail, whether you bought it online, in the store or at an REI Outlet.

Live Nation: Gives fans 72 hours to cancel their ticket order and get a refund at many venues up to one week before the event.

The post Who’s been naughty, and who’s nice? appeared first on Metro.us.

]]> http://www.metro.us/newyork/news/local/2011/11/20/whos-been-naughty-and-whos-nice/feed/ 0 Your Black Friday shopping survival kit http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/20/your-black-friday-shopping-survival-kit/ http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/20/your-black-friday-shopping-survival-kit/#comments Sun, 20 Nov 2011 19:39:32 +0000 Metro Archive http://metro.1over0.com/newyork/uncategorized/2011/11/20/your-black-friday-shopping-survival-kit/
1. While we’re sure some dried fruit or nuts would be ideal fuel, come on — it’s officially the holidays. Pretzel Crisps’ new Dark Chocolate & Peppermint flavor are the perfect combo of salty, sweet and festive to have waiting in your car. $3, at various supermarkets
2. Bring a bottle of water so you don’t fall victim to sugary, high-calorie (but so delicious) mall lemonade. Mavea’s home filtration system makes for seriously pure H2O, but we also love the look of their pitcher, which is sleek enough to make a guest appearance at holiday dinner parties. $35 at Macy’s and Williams-Sonoma stores
3. Did Thanksgiving dinner include an after-party? Blowfish is a new FDA regulated hangover remedy that you dissolve in water and swill the morning after. Follow with bagels for best results. $12 for six doses www.forhangovers.com

4. Make a wind-down bubble bath extra sweet with Vitabath’s new Cupcake Couture collection, available in scents such as Luscious Lemon Creme and Dreamy Pink Frosting. $10 each, Ulta and Bed, Bath & Beyond stores
5. We weren’t going to recommend a bubble bath without candles. Crabtree & Evelyn’s Noel candle has a delightful Christmas mix of cranberry, evergreen and cinnamon scents. $45, www.crabtree-evelyn.com
6. Don’t think we forgot the bubble bath bubbly. The “magnum” bottle of Mionetto Prosecco Brut contains two bottles’ worth of the dry, apple-kissed sparkling wine. It was, after all, a long day. $25, www.mionettousa.com
]]> Hitting the stores on Black Friday? Be prepared, brave shopper!


1. While we’re sure some dried fruit or nuts would be ideal fuel, come on — it’s officially the holidays. Pretzel Crisps’ new Dark Chocolate & Peppermint flavor are the perfect combo of salty, sweet and festive to have waiting in your car. $3, at various supermarkets


2. Bring a bottle of water so you don’t fall victim to sugary, high-calorie (but so delicious) mall lemonade. Mavea’s home filtration system makes for seriously pure H2O, but we also love the look of their pitcher, which is sleek enough to make a guest appearance at holiday dinner parties. $35 at Macy’s and Williams-Sonoma stores


3. Did Thanksgiving dinner include an after-party? Blowfish is a new FDA regulated hangover remedy that you dissolve in water and swill the morning after. Follow with bagels for best results. $12 for six doses www.forhangovers.com

4. Make a wind-down bubble bath extra sweet with Vitabath’s new Cupcake Couture collection, available in scents such as Luscious Lemon Creme and Dreamy Pink Frosting. $10 each, Ulta and Bed, Bath & Beyond stores


5. We weren’t going to recommend a bubble bath without candles. Crabtree & Evelyn’s Noel candle has a delightful Christmas mix of cranberry, evergreen and cinnamon scents. $45, www.crabtree-evelyn.com


6. Don’t think we forgot the bubble bath bubbly. The “magnum” bottle of Mionetto Prosecco Brut contains two bottles’ worth of the dry, apple-kissed sparkling wine. It was, after all, a long day. $25, www.mionettousa.com

The post Your Black Friday shopping survival kit appeared first on Metro.us.

]]> http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/20/your-black-friday-shopping-survival-kit/feed/ 0 Shop smart on Black Friday http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/20/shop-smart-on-black-friday/ http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/20/shop-smart-on-black-friday/#comments Sun, 20 Nov 2011 19:34:57 +0000 Metro Archive http://metro.1over0.com/newyork/uncategorized/2011/11/20/shop-smart-on-black-friday/ Have a plan
“One of the most important things you can do is plan ahead and find out what the deals are going to be across several different stores,” says Woroch. “Let’s say there’s a huge discount on a TV at Target — call ahead and ask how many they have in stock. Map out a route, or go to a mall where there are a variety of stores.” Hit the road early
You’ll want to set the alarm for a disturbing hour not just for the deals, but to ensure a leisurely day. “It pays to be out there early because the door-busters will be limited in quantity. The earlier you shop, the more time you have to hit retailers and feel like you can get lunch. That’s important — you should also enjoy the crazy holiday shopping frenzy.” Take advantage of price-matching
“Remember that big merchants like Sears, Home Depot and Wal-Mart are really beefing up their price-matching guarantees. They’ll meet or beat a competitor’s price. Have your smartphone with you to download and present barcodes that cashiers can price-match while you’re at the store.” Load up on apps
There are a ton of apps out there to help you shop savvy. Woroch recommends Amazon’s free Price Check app — which allows you to scan barcodes and compare them to in-store prices — and Sale Saver, a supercalculator that computes the actual price of an item after that additional 20 percent off, sales tax and coupons. But the gold standard is Coupon Sherpa, which synchs with your GPS to find paperless coupons, which cashiers can scan right off your phone. Only buy what you need
“Retailers are already out there offering deals,” says Woroch. “They want to create a sense of urgency — but they’ll offer that 40 percent off again. Do your research, know how much things cost and take advantage of a deal only when you need it.” ]]> For some people, the idea of waking up at 5 a.m. the day after Thanksgiving to battle mall crowds is about as appealing as Tofurkey. But for others, even in the age of Cyber Monday and free shipping, it’s all about the hunt.

“Every year we see an increase of people turning to online shopping, but with Black Friday you still get lots of crowds,” says Andrea Woroch, a consumer and money-saving expert for Kinoli Inc. “There are people who like to find those door-busting deals, and sure enough, there are still great deals to be had out there.”

That said, even Black Friday die-hards can learn a little from their tech-savvy counterparts. Here are Woroch’s top tips for shopping smart in the midst of retail madness.

Have a plan
“One of the most important things you can do is plan ahead and find out what the deals are going to be across several different stores,” says Woroch. “Let’s say there’s a huge discount on a TV at Target — call ahead and ask how many they have in stock. Map out a route, or go to a mall where there are a variety of stores.”

Hit the road early
You’ll want to set the alarm for a disturbing hour not just for the deals, but to ensure a leisurely day. “It pays to be out there early because the door-busters will be limited in quantity. The earlier you shop, the more time you have to hit retailers and feel like you can get lunch. That’s important — you should also enjoy the crazy holiday shopping frenzy.”

Take advantage of price-matching
“Remember that big merchants like Sears, Home Depot and Wal-Mart are really beefing up their price-matching guarantees. They’ll meet or beat a competitor’s price. Have your smartphone with you to download and present barcodes that cashiers can price-match while you’re at the store.”

Load up on apps
There are a ton of apps out there to help you shop savvy. Woroch recommends Amazon’s free Price Check app — which allows you to scan barcodes and compare them to in-store prices — and Sale Saver, a supercalculator that computes the actual price of an item after that additional 20 percent off, sales tax and coupons. But the gold standard is Coupon Sherpa, which synchs with your GPS to find paperless coupons, which cashiers can scan right off your phone.

Only buy what you need
“Retailers are already out there offering deals,” says Woroch. “They want to create a sense of urgency — but they’ll offer that 40 percent off again. Do your research, know how much things cost and take advantage of a deal only when you need it.”

The post Shop smart on Black Friday appeared first on Metro.us.

]]> http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/20/shop-smart-on-black-friday/feed/ 0 To give or not to give at work http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/20/to-give-or-not-to-give-at-work/ http://www.metro.us/newyork/lifestyle/2011/11/20/to-give-or-not-to-give-at-work/#comments Sun, 20 Nov 2011 15:52:23 +0000 Metro Archive http://metro.1over0.com/newyork/uncategorized/2011/11/20/to-give-or-not-to-give-at-work/ The boss factor
Should you even give your supervisor a gift? It depends. “Assess it the same way as that aunt you see once a year,” advises Wolfe.  “What’s the relationship? Can you name the things outside the office that your boss likes? If not, then you don’t know this person well enough to give them a gift.”
While Wolfe does recommend homemade gifts or baked goods for closer peers, she discourages them for bosses — these can be interpreted as either intimate or unprofessional, neither of which you're going for. Beware of the gag gift
Increasingly, Wolfe sees offices encouraging gag gifts as part of “Secret Santa” or Pollyanna-style giving to alleviate pressure. But, she warns, this comes with its own set of problems. “A lot of offices do this, and it tends to make people uncomfortable and turn into teasing,” she says. “When you target gifts like this, stick with something very neutral. Go with something you might give a child, so that’s why it’s a gag.” Meaning, no cigars for the guy who is always on a smoke break, no watches for the co-worker who is always late, and no booze for the girl who can’t say no to happy hour. On the wording
Wishing someone “Merry Christmas” or “Happy Hanukkah” is perfectly fine, provided you’re sure that’s what the person celebrates. If there’s a question, go with “Happy Holidays,” even if it can sound stuffy. “In an office environment, handle it like you would in a public school,” says Wolfe. “If you’re uncertain how to say something, ‘happy holidays’ is a great neutral thing to say.”

Never give ...
Wolfe is a fan of the iTunes gift card, where $10 can go a long way in getting someone through a long Monday morning. But whatever you do, don't give these:
   
Perfume and jewelry
“Perfume or jewelry are sort of intimate — it says that you’re paying attention,” cautions Wolfe. “If it’s something not generic enough that a guy or a girl could equally enjoy, it’s probably a little too personal.”
   
Scented items
Many people are allergic to artificial scents or are just very particular about which ones they like. Again, cautions Wolfe, some people could interpret these as conveying intimacy — scents are personal.
   
Anything religious
Generic holiday ornaments and greeting cards are fine, but stay away from anything that’s directly faith-related.
]]> After spending 11 months as merely co-workers, the beginning of December heralds feelings of peace in cubicles and goodwill towards bosses. But before you make additions to your Black Friday shopping list, consider these tips from Lahle Wolfe, About.com’s “Women in Business” expert. “With everyone worrying about their jobs and the economy, the last thing people should have to worry about is spending money on gifts they’re unsure of,” she says.

The boss factor
Should you even give your supervisor a gift? It depends. “Assess it the same way as that aunt you see once a year,” advises Wolfe.  “What’s the relationship? Can you name the things outside the office that your boss likes? If not, then you don’t know this person well enough to give them a gift.”
While Wolfe does recommend homemade gifts or baked goods for closer peers, she discourages them for bosses — these can be interpreted as either intimate or unprofessional, neither of which you’re going for.

Beware of the gag gift
Increasingly, Wolfe sees offices encouraging gag gifts as part of “Secret Santa” or Pollyanna-style giving to alleviate pressure. But, she warns, this comes with its own set of problems. “A lot of offices do this, and it tends to make people uncomfortable and turn into teasing,” she says. “When you target gifts like this, stick with something very neutral. Go with something you might give a child, so that’s why it’s a gag.” Meaning, no cigars for the guy who is always on a smoke break, no watches for the co-worker who is always late, and no booze for the girl who can’t say no to happy hour.

On the wording
Wishing someone “Merry Christmas” or “Happy Hanukkah” is perfectly fine, provided you’re sure that’s what the person celebrates. If there’s a question, go with “Happy Holidays,” even if it can sound stuffy. “In an office environment, handle it like you would in a public school,” says Wolfe. “If you’re uncertain how to say something, ‘happy holidays’ is a great neutral thing to say.”

Never give …
Wolfe is a fan of the iTunes gift card, where $10 can go a long way in getting someone through a long Monday morning. But whatever you do, don’t give these:
   
Perfume and jewelry
“Perfume or jewelry are sort of intimate — it says that you’re paying attention,” cautions Wolfe. “If it’s something not generic enough that a guy or a girl could equally enjoy, it’s probably a little too personal.”
   
Scented items
Many people are allergic to artificial scents or are just very particular about which ones they like. Again, cautions Wolfe, some people could interpret these as conveying intimacy — scents are personal.
   
Anything religious
Generic holiday ornaments and greeting cards are fine, but stay away from anything that’s directly faith-related.

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