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December 4th, 2009
Black Friday, Cyber Monday, 2-for-1’s, giveaways, one-day discounts… Bah! Our heads are swimming! And yes, we shopped, but we didn’t get much “gifting” done last month. Confession? Everything we bought was for ourselves. Well, except for a cute little toy for our niece. But she’s 8 years old. Easy to please. (And apparently, so are we when it comes to buying things that we want more than we need…) So when we started putting together our annual Holiday Gift Guide, we realized that it’s officially time to start shopping for other people. Whether you’re loading up on gifts for fam/friends (or for yourself), you’ll find fantastic ideas below for staying local and being creative. (And if you’re getting ideas from the T.V., try to resist the lure of the Mr. T Flavorwave oven, ’kay? That thing is just not right.) p.s. After the Gift Guide you'll find 10 Hip Happenings with outstanding sales, superfun events, and can't-miss deals! Be sure to check them out below! Portland Picks’ Holiday Gift Guide: |
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Portland Picks: |
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| 1 | It’s Time for the Butterscotch Open House! You know what time it is! Butterscotch is hosting their annual open house! Shopping has never been sweeter—find gifts for family, friends, frenemies (you know you have to), babies, bosses… it’s a one-stop shop for all things adorable. The open house will feature holiday cheer and goodies, plus 20% all purchases over $5 (excluding sale items and individual cards). Mention Portland Picks and enter to win a $25 gift certificate! It’s happening Dec. 4–5, 11 am–6 pm; and Dec. 6, 11 am–4 pm. Butterscotch |
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| 2 |
Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Festivus… you’ll find the perfect something for everyone someone at Occasions Fine Gifts—starting at just $1.50! We bet your niece would go bananas for magnet paper dolls or a music box… your sister-in-law would melt for Woof & Poof… cousin David would dig a new game… and of course mom would adore festive glassware for her holiday table. And did we mention the hostess gifts under $20? Now there’s no reason to show up empty-handed. So go ahead… Shop. Relax. Enjoy. Occasions Fine Gifts |
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| 3 | Art and Craft for the Holidays Did you brave Black Friday at the mall? You brave soul… after that chaos, why not reward yourself by taking the time to experience “alternative” holiday shopping at Oregon College of Art and Craft? It’s a wonderful win/win—support local artists and find unique, beautifully designed pieces for friends and family! Shopping the College’s Retail Craft Gallery is like a treasure hunt—from jewelry and ceramics to ornaments, greeting cards, paintings and photographs made by students, alumni, faculty and regional artists, you’ll be amazed by what’s in store. OregonCollege of Art and Craft |
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| 4 |
You’ve heard us gush over Betsy & Iya jewelry before… so we can’t resist sharing Betsy & Iya’s wonderfully graceful, fashion-forward and sassy vintage and vintage-inspired pieces for the holidays! After all, who wouldn’t fall in love with a deco-inspired pendant, bold resin earrings in glamorous colors, dramatic lace earrings (hello, holiday parties!) or of-the-moment silver-chain dangling earrings? It’s all handmade right here by Betsy herself, and it’s all super-affordable, perfect for giving in multiples. (But shhh… only you have to know that!) Betsy & Iya Jewelry |
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| 5 |
We just spent two entire days cruising store after store, looking for something to “pop” our holiday table. And then—light bulb!—Indigo Traders, of course! We fell in love with their traditional Moroccan tea glasses—they’d be perfect as wine glasses. Seriously, Indigo Traders is like shopping catnip. From hand-painted ceramics to Turkish bath towels, cashmere shawls and amazing textiles, it might be tough to part with the gifts you pick up. (Stop in tonight—it’s First Friday in Multnomah Village from 6–9 pm!) Indigo Traders and Indigo Bath |
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We know you know someone who always looks her best… and we bet she’d love to indulge in one of Dr. Rajani’s Anti-Aging Packages from Emerge Medical Spa. They’re all non-surgical, wonderful ways to look great. Create your own package by choosing three from their menu of goodies: Latisse or Collagen Stimulation for lines around the eyes or mouth, Dysport or Restylane, and Anti-Aging Microdermabrasion or Allergan’s Vivite Eye Cream for $799. Taking care of yourself isn’t something to hide—it’s something to celebrate. Emerge Medical Spa at Bridgeport Village |
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| 7 |
Every year we get a 1-pound box of nuts and chews for our dad… and after 15 years, he might be over it. It’s time for something a bit more refined, and Indulge Caramels are the perfect (and unbelievably delectable) gift. They’re all made by hand with love, right here in Portland, and the buttery caramels are insanely addictive (seriously: sooo good). With flavors like Sea Salt, Apple (caramel apples, hello?), Habanero, Coconut, Almond, Cinnamon Toast, Cashew, and more (chocolate-dipped!), how will we choose? |
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| 8 | “Touch Ups” Aren’t Just for Starlets Is there someone in your life who isn’t afraid of getting a little “work done”? Maybe it’s you! We don’t judge! After all, we go to the gym, try to eat right (for the most part) and slather on beauty products like there’s no tomorrow. Call The Center for Aesthetic Medicine at The Oregon Clinic. Mention Portland Picks and book before Dec. 31 for 25% off Botox, 25% off Laser Hair Removal or Laser Vein Removal (up to $500 value!), and 2 for 1 Facials! The Center for Aesthetic Medicine |
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| 9 | Two-Stop Shopping… or Maybe Three… Please let us know if you’ve ever been in the Pearl District and just stopped in one place! (We might not believe you!) For holiday shopping, it’s a walkable haven of holiday goodness—from gifts like wine, home goods, hats, home accessories, urban menswear, pet accessories, books and children’s toys to holiday necessities like party dresses, haute haircuts, pretty platters, shoes, jewelry, cards and wrapping paper! If you’re going to shop local, why not start where it’s all in one place? Click here to get the Pearl Pass! |
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| 10 |
Bring back the lost art of the handwritten note, find gorgeous custom wedding invitations, get a set of children’s stationery (an adorable way for them to say thank-you for holiday gifts!), or pick up cute memo pads for stocking stuffers. Puddle Jumpin Cards will brighten someone’s day. Practical, whimsical, unexpected, personal—choose one of their designs, or upload someone’s photo and they will draw a customized character of them (so true to life and so much fun)! Everything comes packaged in a box with a ribbon—gift-ready! |
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| 11 |
No doubt there is someone on your list with great style… so what do you get your most put-together friend? Anything from Bonnet! From demure cloches for your arty BFF to fedoras for your man, plus newsboy cabs, cozy vintage-inspired knits and more, Bonnet has the perfect gift. Their pocket-friendly prices mean you might end up with something for yourself, too. (We won’t tell!) Check out crochet tights, fingerless gloves, wraps, and lots of locally-designed styles, too! One word: LOVE. Another word: BONNET. Bonnet |
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| 12 |
What’s more "local" and more "Oregon" than a gift from Made in Oregon? Give your out-of-towners a “Taste of Oregon” with Made in Oregon Gift Packs—maybe a taste of home for a college student or a big, bountiful package for a faraway family. It’s an awesome way to share the local love. Or how about a Pendleton Blanket? (Fab-u-luss!) You’ll even find items like Trappist Abbey Fruitcakes, Tillamook Cheese, and Margaret Furlong and Pure Grace Porcelain Ornaments for spicing up your own holiday. |
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| 13 |
We are totally enamored of Stacy and Clinton, but they’re nowhere near our closet when we need them. Happily, Sara Dahlquist is our superhero of local style—you might know her—she’s KPTV’s Better Portland’s Personal Style Expert and she works wonders. Treat for yourself or give a gift to someone special—Sara’s services are affordable, and can help anyone increase self-confidence, reach their stylish potential, and learn to shine. Be as beautiful as you can be! (Gift certificates are available… share the passion for fashion!) DahlStyle 503.701.7538 sara@dahlstyle.com www.dahlstyle.com |
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| 14 | Oregon Infused Saké – Oh My! SakéOne |
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| Event of the Week: | |||||
Healthy Pets NW Alberta’s 5th Anniversary
Celebrate one of Portland’s favorite pet supply stores with Healthy Pets NW Alberta! For their fifth anniversary, they’re hosting a fun party where you can bring your pet and all proceeds benefit the Oregon Spay/Neuter Fund. It’s free—so get in on the 20% off on all toys and treats, Pet Photos with Santa (starting at $25), a raffle for a cool Electra Cruiser Bike (tickets are $10 each), great silent auction values, and wine and hors d’oeuvres! What: Healthy Pets NW Alberta Anniversary Party |
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| Sale of the Week: | |||||
Fabulous Accessories at Bargain Prices! Need the perfect gift for the ladies on your list? What’s better than decadent, locally made designer goods… at below-wholesale prices? Pick up gorgeous silk and burnout-velvet scarves, handbags, cosmetic bags and more from Dana Herbert's one-day only holiday sample sale. Shop early for the best selection—there will be amazing bargains on gifts that everyone will love. Do some good, too: 15% of sales will go to the Grant High School Boosters. What: Dana Herbert Accessories sample sale |
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Hip Happenings: |
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| 1 | Winter Artisan Bazaar at Laurelhurst School Enjoy seven glorious hours of shopping, live music, children’s art classes, great raffle prizes, food, and more at Laurelhurst School’s Winter Artisan Bazaar. Pick up awesome items from Kung Fu Bambini, Jill Bliss, Ginza Girl, Plume Designs, Laurie Cosgrove Design, and Mister Judy, to name a few! All proceeds go to the Laurelhurst PTA to fund school programs. |
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| 2 | Sexy Tuesdays! Cocktails. Conversation. Action. Networking can be awkward, but Sexy Tuesdays makes it fun! Meet and mingle with young professionals, and learn about Planned Parenthood. This no-pressure event is enjoyable, rewarding, and best of all, free! Come taste signature cocktails and delicious food by Gilt Club—created just for Sexy Tuesdays. What: Sexy Tuesdays |
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| 5 | A Well-Designed Afternoon of Holiday Shopping Doesn’t your dining table need a fabulous centerpiece for the holidays? Bet your sofa would love some sassy throw pillows! Enjoy an afternoon open house with bubbles and treats, benefiting the Oregon Food Bank, at design boutiques DIGS Inside & Out, Maison Inc, SAID Interiors and Montgomery Klash. Bring 5 non-perishable food items to receive 20% off at each boutique. What: Progressive Holiday Open House |
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| 6 | Spend New Year’s Eve at the Benson We never know what to do on New Year’s Eve, and invariably spend it in our pajamas, feeling left out. This year we’re doing The Benson Hotel’s Latin Masquerade. Enjoy a delectable multi-course dinner, party favors, masquerade masks, a champagne toast, and the Bobby Torres Latin Jazz Ensemble. Then spend the night—in-room champagne and chocolates, and no driving! What: New Year’s Eve Latin Masquerade at The Benson |
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| 7 | Celebrate (and Shop) with Amai Unmei You are cordially invited to Amai Unmei Boutique’s 1-year anniversary party and sale. They’re giving the love you’ve shown them. Enjoy amazing discounts (10–50% off!), delicious food, yummy holiday treats and drinks. Pick up a cocktail dress, a posh new coat or luscious accessories! (Bring in non-perishable food for the Oregon Food bank to enter a gift drawing.) What: Amai Unmei’s 1-Year Anniversary Party & Holiday Sale |
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| 8 | Forest Heights Annual Holiday Home Tour When: Tuesday, Dec. 8, 10 am–12:30 pm & 6–8 pm Tickets: $15 advance, $20 day of event Available at: Quinn’s Prime & Vine and Barnes & Miller QFC |
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| 9 | Create a Timeless Memory… the Gift of Scent! We are enamored of 40notes Perfumery, a luxury fragrance-experience company, and you’re invited to a preview sale of the 40notes Signature Perfumery Collection, launching in 2010. Enjoy champagne and delicacies as you experience scents like Exquisite Amber, Sampaguita Jasmine Flower, Cashmere Musk and more. Gift certificates available for all services, including custom perfumery and fragrance training! What: 40notes Signature Perfumery preview sale |
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"Fierce Friday" Free Kickboxing Workout Next Friday is "Fierce Friday” at Fierce Fitness—your chance to try the best total body workout you can find, with no obligation. Plus there will be chances to win a kickboxing membership and other prizes. Kick and punch your way into shape through the holidays. (It’s fun!) Get Fierce! Call or email to RSVP today. What: Free Kickboxing Workout |
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