How many holiday parties are crammed into your calendar?  In the spirit of the season, it just wouldn't do to show up empty-handed.  Let us help you arrive Party Prepared:


L'Occitane Provence Candied Rose Candle, $32

Awaken your senses with the fragrant Provençal tradition of coating rose petals with sugary syrup. It all comes to life in this limited edition candle from L’Occitane that will fill your home with fragrance for up to 30 hours.

Absolut Vodka Holiday Bottle, from $23.95

A little bling-bling for the hostess, or maybe for the kind neighbour who shoveled your walk without being asked?  Absolut-ly.  This unique casing opens to reveal the classic Absolut bottle ready for mixing up your favourite Christmas cocktails.  Available in select stores where Absolut is sold.

Electric Wine Bottle Opener, 39.99       

The Christmas wine bottle can now be opened in seconds thanks to this innovative kitchen appliance. The simple corkscrew control buttons can be found on its comfort grip design which sits in a rechargeable base on your kitchen counter when not in use.

Wolf Blass Gift bottles, from $9.85

These mini bottles from International Red Winemaker of the Year Wolf Blass make the cutest stocking stuffers or placecard holders at Christmas gatherings. They are also available in standard size bottles as well as party-size magnums. The box is not included, but is certainly a great presentation idea!  Sold at many wine retailers; check your local store for availability.

Kiehl's Liquid Hand Soap Trio, $46.50

The good news about the 2009 holiday season? You can never give or get too much hand soap. Treat the hostess to this 3-in-1 from Kiehl’s, which includes scents like Grapefruit, Coriander and Pear Tree Corner.


Slatkin & Co. Luxe Cylinder 3-wick Candles (Bath and Body Works), $25       

With scents from pine, bay leaf, red cinnamon and winter woods, this modern 3-wick candle will transform any home into a winter wonderland, whether or not there is snow outside. The wax is made of vegetable oil with a burn time of  40 to 65 hours.

Mini Desk Heater, $39.99    

Every office has at least one person who suffers from being permanently cold. At only five inches high and just over a pound, this portable heater is ideal to warm personal spaces like desks. Take it home at night to use as a foot warmer!

The Body Shop Nutmeg and Vanilla Seasonal Delights Gift Set, $39

Let your co-worker be the first to try the Body Shop’s new Nutmeg and Vanilla line. In the festively-appropriate golden box, find bottles of shower gel and lotion as well as lip balm, soap, and a shower lily.

LUSH Christmas Party, $16.95

The only problem with this holiday-party set is that the Ice Blue soap bar looks so pretty it may not even get used! As for the Happy Hippy shower gel, the bottle may be tiny, but the gel will last well into the winter.
 

Slatkin & Co. Festive Friends Scented Candles, from $16.50

These kitchy-cute candles are perfect for your perky Secret Santa or little Bobby's favourite teacher.  The Festive Friends are available in two sizes and feature homey seasonal scents of balsam, cedar, apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Red Envelope Large Wish Ball Ornament, $29.95

This classy ornament doubles as a fun way to pass your best wishes to a lucky friend.  Hide a secret message inside or fill with chocolate mints for a tasty surprise.

Slatkin & Co. Gingerbread House Luminary, $39.50

Pop a gingerbread-scented votive in this luminary and the kitchen is suddenly a lot more festive.  It's also much less messy than putting together a gingerbread house from scratch.  Trust.

Harry and David Holiday Joy Collection, $39.99

When in doubt, give chocolates.  These beautiful reusable boxes are stuffed with gourmet brownies, chocolate Moose Munch Confection, chocolate truffles, jumbo Gumdrops, and Bing Cherry Chocolates.  Any chance you'll actually give these away, or will you treat yourself instead-- hmmm?

by Julie-Anne Cleyn