Women want weekends away, personalised gifts, not flowers on Valentines Day

A new Valentines Day gifts survey has found that while many women receive flowers, what they really want is a romantic weekend away or a personalised gift from their partner.

The online survey by It’s In The Stars found that what women wanted to receive for Valentine’s Day was a weekend away (30.4%), a romantic personalised gift (22.9%) or jewellery (17.6%).

What they’re actually getting are flowers (41.9%), chocolate (14.7%) and personalised gifts (11.0%). While 3.6% had received lingerie, not one woman wanted it as a Valentine’s Day gift.

Of the three age groups, Generation X (31-43 years) was the most likely to receive flowers (55.8%), while Gen Y women (18-30 years) got the personalised romantic gifts (19.0%) and Baby Boomer women recieved chocolate (17.9%).

I’d say that men might get the raw end of the bargain on 14 February as 82.4% of all women spent less than $100 on their last Valentine’s Day gift!

Gen X women are the most likely to spend under $50 (43.1%) but also over $200 (12.1%). Gen Ys stump up for gifts $101-$200 (13.3%) while Baby Boomer women prefer to spend $51-$100 (46.3%).

The top five locations where women bought their Valentine’s Day gifts were department stores (27.0%), specialty/personalised gift websites (16.8%), big box retailer eg Target (13.9%), boutique/specialty stores (10.9%), and supermarket/grocery stores (7.3%).

Women living in rural/regional areas were twice as likely as city girls to buy Valentine’s Day gifts online from a specialty/personalised gift website (25.6% vs 12.1%).

Just over half (52.3%) of all respondents would give their partner a gift certificate for Valentine’s Day.

And finally, the Sun sign voted as the best Valentine’s Day gift-giver was an equal tie between Cancer and Pisces (12.2% each), with Gemini and Aquarius in second place (10.0% each) and followed by Taurus (9.3%).

Aries men are the least likely to have have given a great Valentine’s Day gift (5.0%).

Read the monthly stars for Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces.

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How the different Sun signs approach Valentines Day

Some Sun signs luvrrve Valentines Day and all its romantic trappings (guess who?!) while others loathe it. How does your partner react to Valentines Day?

If they’re a typical:

Aries – they could be all hot and heavy, keen and ardent (especially if you have other suitors after you) or frankly selfish and ignore the whole day if you’ve been together for years. They tend to do things in a rush so they might pick up a bunch of flowers and a box of Cadbury Roses from the service station at the last minute.

Taurus – they tend to like doing the same things, over and over and over. If you received roses last year, it’s a pretty good bet you’ll get ‘em this year too. Got a favourite restaurant?  You could well be there too on the day. Most Taureans like floral fragrances, on the sweet side, such as magnolia. Anything that affects their five senses is off to a good start.

Gemini – they love surprises and novelty. They may start the day off with a cute text message or love note on your pillow. They can write fantastic love letters when they’re in the mood. These are the ones who may surprise you with one of those personalised novels with both of you starring in it. Then again these are the guys who will make light of your 50-year marriage with a joke card.

Cancer – male Cancers feel put-upon and obligated to “do” Valentines Day, grumbling it’s all a commercial exercise. Female Cancers are devastated if their mate forgets or organises nothing and will hold a grudge for the following week. No money? Cook ‘em a wonderful meal at home.

Leo – I hope you have some money if you’re with a Leo! Only the best will do, thanks. Valentines Day is your chance (along with their birthday, anniversary, Christmas.. you get the idea) to prove how much you worship (sorry, LOVE) them. While Valentines Day falls on a Sunday this year, they are especially happy if their colleagues go green with envy as a courier delivers a glorious package/hamper etc to them at work.

Virgo – you can probably save your money if you’re with a Virgo as they’re most likely to see it as corny, demeaning and a waste of money. That said though, if you do a load of washing, the dishes, some vacuuming and the bathroom that will put them in the mood for a bit of loving’ and squeezin’ faster than any box of candy will.

Libra – pull out all the stops, guys. I know Valentines Days falls during Sun in Aquarius, but really, this is Libra’s day! Whether you’re giving them chocolates, flowers, jewellery, lingerie, perfume, personalised romantic gifts, a restaurant dinner, weekend away or all of the above, don’t stint – and don’t ignore them.

Scorpio – the types of gifts Scorpios like to receive aren’t the ones I can publish here… Do nothing however and watch out!

Sagittarius – they love chocolate, laugh at lingerie and tend to lose jewellery, so if you can wing it, give them a weekend away where you can explore something. Both sexes see themselves as adventurers so try something new.

Capricorns – female Capricorns are curiously sensitive to time passing and often put arbitrary deadlines on things ie Christmas – met the parents. New Year’s – decided to move in. Valentines Day – proposal??? This is a good time to let them know where they stand. Married Capricorns like to discuss plans for the future too. Oh, and a little bauble from Tiffany’s doesn’t hurt.

Aquarius – again, this is another bunch who find the concept icky. They’re most likely to arrange a casual BBQ with friends, taking particular care to invite those who are single so no-one feels left out. If you arrange anything, make it novel and unique.

Pisces – these guys are romantics on par with Librans. If you make no effort only to discover they’ve arranged some magical day for you, they will be crushed. Their ability to express their deepest feelings for you is touching – and memorable. While I wouldn’t normally recommend giving pets as gifts, these are the ones who would go ga-ga over a new puppy, kitten, hamster or school of goldfish. They keep all their cards and gifts from exes so ask them casually what their favourite gift was as it will give you a clue.

Read the monthly stars for Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces

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Personalised gifts customised in real-time online

People love receiving personalised gifts as it makes them feel special and cherished.

But unless you have a rough idea of what the item’s going to look like, you can worry that you’ve got the spelling right, ticked the right colour or even the correct size.

There are quite a few websites now which provide real-time personalisation so that you can see a mock-up of what your completed gift would look like. Here’s some of my favourites:

American Medical ID – great for family members who may have a serious condition, you can “engrave” in real-time a necklace or bracelet from 14kt, 10kt, sterling silver or stainless steel, and it has engraving samples and tips so you know what to add. If your mum or grandmother is a Cancer, this might stop them worrying.

Just for fun, create a magazine cover with their photo, the theme (ie wedding, anniversary, new baby) and magazine-style headlines ie “6 Things You Never Knew About Samantha and John” or whatever. Perfect for Aries and Leos.

If you really know their favourite colours for their lips, eyes, nails and blush, you can custom-blend cosmetics for them, even including the colour intensity and exras like shimmering glitter for nail polish. Even better, you can send in your old, discontinued favourite lipstick or nail polish etc and get them to colour-match it for you! A lovely gift idea for Taureans and Librans.

One of the most imaginative customised gift websites I’ve ever seen is Shapeways which lets you create 3D printing of your designs. You could have the words of a favourite poem, for example, laser-cut into a candle-holder or into cool napkin rings which would have to be one of the most amazing Valentines Day, anniversary or wedding gifts ever!

Hardcover photo books are not really that new now but Pixable lets you select your photos from Facebook, Flickr or your computer, upload AND receive them within 3 days! Great for Geminis.

For the aviation buff who has nearly everything, you can order a customised airline cart (yes, the trolleys that the hosties roll down the aircraft aisle) from Alcarts in one of 10 colours. Ideal for those with their own plane(!), this storage item is also an original conversation piece as you serve food and beverages in your office, garage, patio, shop or kitchen. I can see this appealing to Aquarians and Sagittarians!

Everyone loves their own name! A cute gift for a new baby or perhaps a housewarming gift is letter art photography by Alphabet Photography. Each “letter” is a photo of an everyday object (such as a door handle) that resembles the letter of the alphabet. A sweet gift for a Pisces as is this one from GrowShow which lets you upload photos in chronological order so you can see the development of your child over time. It also has interlocking photo frames so you can add to them as your child gets older.

Love to theme a party all the way through? Now you can personalise your disposable party plates with photos, text and colour for anniversaries, birthdays, Halloween, with a fun service from Hallmark. I see this being particularly popular for children’s parties!

Candles are always popular with women and now you can customise them with Lumnique, packaged in a nice rectangular glass jar. Select the intention ie peace, love etc, the colour and from 72 fragrances, ranging from the traditional, such as rose, to the frankly unusual, such as Hansel and Gretel (which I’m guessing must smell like gingerbread)!

If you’re looking for a gift with a difference for your favourite health freak, look no further. Now you can customise your own energy bars (chewy, oaty, cripsy), add fruits, nuts and sweets (ranging from chocolate chips to maple syrup), and even fibre or other nutrients, all the while seeing the nutritional panel adjust in real time for sugar, fat, carbohydrate etc. And to cap it off, you can even have your name on the packaging – how cool is that?! I’m going to order some from Element Bars for my Virgo sister!

Most people are familiar with the Successories framed prints in gift shops full of inspirational photos and sayings. Now you can customise your own, using their gallery of images but adding your own message. I think a subversive-style message (ie a straight picture and a sarcastic message) could really amuse a Scorpio, and maybe some Capricorns…

I love the mobile phone covers by GelaSkins – they’re amazing! From manga cartoons to Botticelli’s Birth of Venus, you’re sure to find something amazing here. Most importantly, you can upload your own photos, message and designs to cover covers for your mobile, iPod, laptop, gaming device or Kindle which would impress even the hardest-to-please teen.

If you find clothes hard to fit and you’re forever getting items altered, you might like to check out the customised outfits at April Marin. They make a small range of pretty, tailor-made dresses, allowing you to customise the lengths and widths of everything important!

Does your favourite friend or family member post particularly witty bon mots on Twitter? Did you know that Tweetbookz now lets you create high-quality books containing Tweets from any Twitter account? It might be a lovely gift for a small business owner!

And last, but certainly not least, I was entranced by Princess Chic which enables you to build your own pair of shoes! From classic stilettos and platform pumps to ballet flats and high-heeled sandals, you can select your material from leather, satin, suede, snake, croc or fish skins, from 17 colours and sizes from 5-11.

katoj

Read the monthly stars for Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces

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Gift ideas within top 10 bridal trends for 2010

According to the wedding gurus at GetMarried, the US holiday season between Thanksgiving (the last Thursday in November) through to Valentines Day is the most popular season for engagements with approximately 35-40% (or 550,00-650,000 couples) getting married in the 12-18 months afterwards.

Here are their top 10 bridal trend predictions for 2010. Some of them are frankly, a little weird, but there are a few others which could be added to a novel gift registry, especially if you need help with wedding expenses.

1. Non-linear wedding aisle.
Well marriage is hardly linear, more of a game of Twister and Monopoly with a Get Out Of Jail Free card so maybe that’s the idea? Or is it to be photographed on your best angle? I truly doubt this one will take off… If it does, a Gemini, Scorpio or Aquarius would be the most likely candiate.

2. Comfort foods
When the economy tanks, everyone wants to go back to basics which is great news for your wallet (although maybe not your waistline). Why not consider adding your catering bill to your gift registry, ask Uncle Tim to share some of his dusty bottles in the cellar or have your aunt make the cupcakes. And everyone really does love chicken. Comfort foods are nirvana to Taureans and Cancerians.

3.  Gifting techie gadgetry
Technology is a tricky one because it becomes obsolete so quickly, making your friends and family waste their money on something you can’t keep. Whatever PDA, iPhone or other techie gadget you get in 2010 is unlikely to be any use in say 2015.  However, for the retro girl/guy marrying that iPod addict, why not consider buying software that convert records to a digital file? One for the Aquarians.

4. Texture-inspired invitations
Embossed, die-cut and engraved invitations are the go for 2010 as they’re supposed to mimic your wedding decor. Unfortunately the bride will be the only one who notices the seamless theming. Yes, you could ask for someone to pay for your invites as their gift to you but um, don’t. This trend could suit the Virgos.

5. Cobalt blue
This colour is set to be the hottest colour for brides in 2010. And in about oh, 10 years or so when everyone looks at your bridesmaids in this electrically charged 80s colour (I was very fond of it myself then), they will laugh. What about keeping it to gifts like vases, table linen, candlesticks, picnicware, or cushion covers? I see this one suiting fun-loving Sagittarius.

6. Wear-again bridesmaid dresses
I like this trend. Whether you or your bridesmaids are paying for their dresses, it’s nice to think the frocks will get some wear again, like regifting…Pisces are super-sentimental and will appreciate this one.

7. Three-dimensional save-the-dates
Here’s they’re talking about items like paper umbrellas to signify a destination wedding. This is where you might want to add honeymoon excursions and attractions to your gift registry. Or even a B&B gift certificate for when you get home and feel a bit anti-climactic. Sagittarius again.

8. Old Hollywood glam for men
Think Cary Grant – even George Clooney. If your man doesn’t have a good pair of shoes, why not put that in your wedding gift registry. He will have them for years! This will thrill the Librans and Leos.

9. Blogger brides
Blogging about your wedding planning is becoming surprisingly common. If you’re a techie yourself, maybe you could give her free hosting, cool apps or a hand at programming as your wedding gift? If they can make their blog into a money-making exercise, this trend might suit Capricorn while Gemini might try it just for fun.

10. Personalised everything
Last, but definitely not least, brides want a wedding which is completely customised for them, from personalised invitations, monogrammed guest books, and made-to-order favours to gifts which are all about the couple.  Some of these things are fun but just add to the cost of your wedding. In addition to the array of personalised homewares and books you could ask for, I think a personalised set of cards and envelopes embossed with your names and address would be a nice addition to your gift registry. And you just know your aunt would buy it as that would give you the stationery on which to write your thank you cards! This trend will suit Aries, Leo and Libra (who likes everything matching).

Read the monthly stars for Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces.

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Cotton on to these second wedding anniversary gifts

Once you’ve chalked up nearly two years of marriage, you graduate from the first paper wedding anniversary gifts and onto the potentially more expensive cotton gifts.

The common thread (ahem) for cotton gifts seems to be mainly homewares or clothing-related items, but you can still have some fun with them!

The ones that caught my eye were the customised queen-size duvet cover (Aries lurrrve personalised gifts) that you can personalise with your own photo (or from the photo gallery) from Vision Bedding or if your partner hogs the bed, you can draw the line who sleeps where – literally with Bedhog.com’s His and Hers sheet sheet (Geminis love a good gag gift) or if you’re after a “classier” cotton-themed present, give them a monogrammed cotton throw from The Golden Ribbon (ideal for your Capricorn or Taurus).

If you happen to be buying a second wedding anniversary gift for say, your best friend and don’t want it to be about their bedlinen, some nice thirsty towels would do the trick! Or if they’re about to become new parents as they celebrate their second wedding anniversary, what about sending a gorgeous gift basket with, among other things, a cotton bib, hat and booties for baby? (It’s sure to appeal to Cancerians!)

Have your favourite photo printed on cotton canvas (Leos will be delighted) or what about getting him a custom-made cotton business shirt (great for Virgos) or a fun t-shirt about your second wedding anniversary (Aquarians aren’t that mushy). Or snuggle up together in a comfortable cotton hammock (ideal for dreamy Pisces or sexy Scorpios) after he’s fired up the BBQ (especially if he’s a Sagittarius)…

And what girl doesn’t love a pretty broderie anglaise cami! (Cancers and Librans adore them.)

Read the monthly stars for Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces.

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Environmentally friendly gift wrapping ideas

I’ve banged on before about knowing where to save money when gift shopping (I prefer to buy my gift wrapping paper in bulk), but I think the best innovative, environmentally friendly gift wrap ideas have something in common with the gift or its category, and often, can even make up part of the gift itself.

Saving on having to pay for wrapping also particularly appeals to the earth signs (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn) for financial reasons, the greenies (Aquarius) so they can save the earth, the more-inventive ones so they can show off what clever clogs they are (Gemini) and also, let’s face it, the plain old lazy lot who want to waste as little time gift wrapping as possible (Aries, Sagittarius).

For example, for a kitchen tea gift, wrap it in a teatowel, a tablecloth, a table runner or slide it inside an oven mitt.

For a baby gift, tie up your gifts inside a muslin swaddling cloth, an embroidered blanket or slip it inside a rolled-up romper suit.

Dealing with a fashion fan? Put their shirt/sweater/jewellery etc inside a glamour-brand shoebox, a hatbox, a Tiffany box (that’ll do their head in!) or wrap it inside a scarf.

For a car “nut”, why not slip their present into a rolled up windscreen shade or car seat cover.

Young kids actually often prefer the box to the gift itself but why not place whatever you’re giving them in a cute toy box or stacking cube?

Know a geek? Why not give them some new software, snugly presented in a sexy laptop sleeve.

Pet owners might be thrilled to see little toys for their Fido, nestled within a doggie doona.

Obviously there are many more ways you could present your gift than in traditional gift wrapping paper. What are some non-traditional gift wrapping ideas you’d suggest?

Read the monthly stars for Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces.

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Who’s good at getting gag birthday gifts?

Not every Sun sign is gleeful at getting a silly gag gift for their birthday, some are downright disappointed and disgusted that you could get it so wrong!

Aries have a very healthy ego so while they hate to be made to look stoopid, they (and Leos) do like to be seen as heroes. A fake Oscar-type statue for the “Best…” would appeal as would superhero outfits, James Bond type gadgets and stuff that appeals to the child in them.

Taureans lurrve food and this is one area where you could have fun (with them). They have an “earthy” approach to life so if you combine one of their favourite foods – chocolate – in the shape of their favourite umm, bodily organs, you could be onto a winner. Libras would be quietly appalled, however.

Geminis and Sagittarians have low attention spans and love silly, frankly childish birthday gifts, especially ones which startle others, eg whoopee cushions, stink bombs etc.

Cancerians are most likely to be very upset if it’s tasteless as they’re such sensitive little souls, but don’t mind gentle humour, especially if it’s got a cute connection with home and family. Fridge stickers, embroidered pillows with cute sayings are well-received.

Neither Virgos nor Capricorns are famous for slapping their thighs upon receiving gag gifts, unfortunately. Since they’re so work-obsessed, office gags can amuse Virgos (slightly). Money-related gags can sometimes tickle Capricornian funny bones, but only if they’ve got a couple of Sagittarius planets in their chart!

Librans are completely freaked out by fake vomit, replica poo and so on (whereas that doesn’t faze the Scorpios one bit). If it’s a gag, it has to be tasteful. Hard, I know! Scorpios also like rather naughty, sexy gag gifts as they like being seen as complete sex maniacs.

Aquarians love electronic gizmos and things that shock others. Anything faintly Star Trek-y or out of this world or that appeals to their love of humanity could work.

Pisces swing from extreme bad taste to high ‘n’ mighty puritanicalism. It depends on their mood. Since they’re famed for their uh, drinking, gags which celebrate this particular vice can amuse them. Pisces also rules illusion, so magic tricks can work their ahem, magic, too.

Read the monthly stars for Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces.

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Gift ideas for Cancer birthday season 21 June-22 July

Whatever you give a Cancerian, take the time to craft a heartfelt message. These sentimental softies hoard all their old cards for their anniversary, birthday, Christmas, engagement, Mothers Day, Fathers Day – you get the idea.

They well up when it’s something really special and something they’ve been hinting at (but were afraid you’ll forget). Cancers are one of the worst signs of which to forget or overlook their birthday and they’ll hold a grudge if you do!

Many of them will even save (and re-use) their wrapping paper so don’t be surprised to see the same, (slightly wrinkled) paper on your gift. In fact, if they don’t like what you’ve bought, they’re not above regifting it to someone else, or straight back to you at some later stage.

They don’t take it well when you just shove them a birthday card with money in it  – “here, get what you want” and will honestly believe you don’t care (frankly, I wouldn’t think you cared either if you pulled that stunt on me and I’m not a Cancerian).

They’re big on their family and even the men are born Nannas. If they have small children they get a kick out of mummy-daughter, father-son matching outfits. Spending time with their children is their favourite thing so family tickets to a show, museum, theme park or other activity that builds a store of family memories would go down well.

They also lurrve their home and to make it beautiful for others to enjoy when they entertain (with Venus-ruled Taurus on their 11th house of friends and group activities they love to feed their friends with hearty home-cooked meals, while with Libra on their 4th house of home and family, they crave a beautiful home and a peaceful family environment). Beautiful candles or cookware are popular, as are hardware gift certificates so they can do a few fixes around the house. Stunning coffee table books on French Provincial/Italian/Paris interiors would go down well. Greenery works well too.

Many Cancerians are into history so you could give them one of those heraldic plaques for their surname perhaps, a real bodice-ripper by Cancerian Barbara Cartland, a guestbook, a leatherbound photo album or you could create a cool collage of family photos and frame them. If your budget extends that far, taking them to an antiques market where they can choose something in your budget would be a major thrill.

A lot of them like to work from home (whether they have kids or not) so while it’s not the typical touchy-feely gift Cancerian gift, something that makes it easier or more comfortable to have their own office could be a clever idea. And with Saturn in their solar 3rd house of communication until 31 October, many of them are trying hard to overcome their innate dislike of technology. A multi-function phone. fax, answering machine, laptop, scanner or home printer might be possible birthday gift idea options for a number of Cancerians.

Read the monthly stars for Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces.

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Get married, engaged, fall in love on Sunday 21 June

One of the BEST days of the year this year to celebrate your wedding anniversary, birthday or engagement is on Sunday 21 June.

Venus (the planet of love and beauty) conjuncts sexy action man Mars in Taurus, which rules the five senses – taste, touch, smell, sight and sound. When these planetary lovers meet up it is a boon for plenty of that lovin’ feeling and you should ah, definitely take the phone off the hook.

The gifts that will be best-received on this day are anything which pleases the senses.

Take them out to dinner somewhere fancy (this is not the day to worry about counting calories as you should be burning them off soon enough). Play them some romantic music guaranteed to get both of you in the mood. (Barry White works for some people although he make me collapse in a fit of the giggles). Light plenty of flickering candles to add atmosphere. Arrange masses of fragrant seasonal flowers in vases and wear your sexiest perfume/cologne. Wear touch-me textures like velvet, cashmere, satin.

Oh, and if you’re not in the market for a Mini-me, take extra special care, guys!

Read the monthly stars for Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces.

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Personalized gifts popular for birthdays and babies

The latest personalized gifts survey results are in! A new survey by It’s In The Stars on personalized gifts has found the following:

* The top 5 most popular gift occasions on which to give a personalized gift are birthdays, christenings, new babies, anniversaries and Mothers Day

* Jewellery, day of birth and art items are the 3 most popular types of personalized gifts

* The top 3 ways to personalize a gift are by name, day of birth and photography

* 63% of personalized gifts are given to partners, friends (44%) and children (43%)

* About 40% of personalized gifts are bought online with Gen Xers the most likely to buy from personalized gift websites

* Over a third (36.8%) spend $50 or more on personalized gifts with Gen Ys the most likely to spend more than $50 (42.2%)

* Over 60% have given two or more personalized gifts in the last year

* Most people would wait up to 7 days to get something personalized AND delivered to them or the recipient

* Gen Ys are the most likely to make use of a gift wrapping service and to give a gift certificate so the recipient could select their own personalized gift

* Cancerians and Taureans tie as the best gift-givers, voted as the Sun signs known for giving gifts that delight the recipient

Read the full Personalized Gifts Survey results!

Read the monthly stars for Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces.

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Gift ideas that happen to be tax deductible

It would be so handy if there was just one end-of-financial-year worldwide. It can range from 31 March in Canada, to 30 June in Australia  and New Zealand and I can’t quite work out if it’s 15 April in the US or not!

Usually places like Officeworks, Staples and WH Smith run endless ads for stocking up on tax-deductible items near the end of each financial year to help you maxmise your tax deductions.

But with a little lateral thinking, many of these places – and others – can create fantastic opportunities to stock up on items that are not only tax-deductible for your work, but could also make very good win-win gifts for family and friends. They get a great gift and hey presto! you get a tax deduction!

You know how your parents are always after a nice photo of you? If you run your own business you can claim photography expenses for a classic head shot you can use in your media kit etc. Frame it in a nice silver frame and voila! An instant tax-deductible gift for your parents and grandparents. (Your friends might not be so thrilled though…)

Work outside as a tradie? Buy a glam pair of super-dark sunglasses and thrill your Aries who always loves to look cool.

Run a cafe? Your Taurean foodie will get the joy of a glossy new cookbook while you get a tax deduction.

Geminis lurrrve their gadgets and the taxman won’t know if you actually kept that new iPhone for yourself or not. If you don’t want to spring for that much, there are a bunch of consumer magazines appropriate to your work area (medical industry = Good Medicine, automotive = Wheels, funds management = Money, and so on) that you could consider.

Most Cancerians are like moths to a flame in hardware stores. If you work in the building trade, it’s all the excuse you need to give them a portable handyman kit.

If you’re in the beauty trade, present your favourite Leo with an industrial-strength hairdryer for their mane or a goodie bag full of the latest beauty products.

Know a Virgo? You can give them all types of home office doo-dads from Kikki K and keep ‘em and the tax man happy.

Work in the interior design industry? Interesting evening classes on interior design and lifestyle (Coco Republic ran a successful series recently and have created some for Melbourne for June) can make for a very thoughful gift for your Libran design maven.

It’s hard to go past Scorpios without thinking of their famous need for privacy (they can’t bear people going through their things). For a left-field gift they’ll appreciate – and you can deduct – give them a paper shredder!

Many people who work in the travel industry are lucky enough to receive familiarisation trips (“famils”). Why not take your favourite Sagittarius as your guest the next time you have to check out a new adventure overseas?

If you take your laptop on work trips, it’s likely you’ll need a fancy new one which makes it ideal for Capricorns. Or what about a good business-oriented self-help tome.

Run a restaurant? Your kooky Aquarius teenager might actually like those funky checked black and white chef’s trousers.

Work in entertainment? Make use of your tax deductions for movie tickets and buy a book of ‘em for your favourite Pisces film fanatic.

If you’ve never been big on buying gifts, this is one way it might actually become kinda fun.

Read the monthly stars for Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces.

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Regifting keeps gift-givers in the loop

Regifting is one phenomenon that’s been gaining ground thanks to the coinciding Global Financial Crisis and the anti-clutter trend. If you can clean up your home, give someone a gift AND save money in the process - happy days.

Have a look around your home. There’s SURE to be something suitable you can pass on for someone’s birthday. Here’s a quick guide to what items you could safely regift to certain Sun signs without causing too much distress. (It goes without saying that you’re not going to regift anything that’s dirty, broken or in poor condition! Also, ideally it should still be in the original packaging…)

Jewellery – rings, bangles and bracelets (Geminis), pendants, necklaces (Taurus), gold anything that’s good (Leo), matching set jewellery (Libra), antique family heirlooms, pearls (Cancer and Capricorn), mood rings (Pisces), toe rings , “statement” pieces (Aquarius), belly chains, anything hand-crafted (Virgo), leather jewellery (Aries, Scorpio), ethnic pieces (Sagittarius).

Books – cookbooks (Cancer and Taurus), romantic novels (Leo and Libra), thrillers (Scorpio), sci-fi (Aquarius), self-help (Aquarius and Virgo), travel (Sagittarius), business (Capricorn), mystical, movie or music books (Pisces), how-to manuals and sexy potboilers (Aries)

Homewares – bookshelves, storage items (Gemini and Virgo), doonas, comforters, mohair throws (Taurus and Cancer), ornate mirrors, boxed DVD sets (Leo), antiques, crystal vases (Capricorn), BBQ equipment, Persian rugs, travel souvenirs (Sagittarius), DIY power tools, sporting equipment (Aries), filing cabinets, fur throws, breakfast in bed trays (Scorpio). terrariums, vintage equipment, computers (Aquarius), aquariums, windchimes (Pisces), cake stands, serving platters, jewellery trays (Taurus and Libra).

Clothing – vintage shoes (Pisces, maybe Leo if they’re in ultra-good condition – the shoes, I mean), scarves (Taurus), fur coats, dramatic coats (Leo), wacky 60s/70s stuff (Aquarius), handbags (Virgo), belts and hats (Libra), brooches (Cancer), Doc Maartens boots, anything red (Aries).

And if it all seems too hard, go shopping!

Read the monthly stars for Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces.

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Taurus birthday gift season is 20 April to 20 May

Woops! Taurus birthday season has already started. I’ve been as slow as they can be in the morning getting on to this post! Apologies.

Taureans are planners and builders - they patiently roll up their sleeves and get to work. They can’t bear being rushed and if they are, it’ll, well, bring out the bull in the china shop. One of the best things you can give them is (your) time. But not necessarily a clock (old Capricorn Australian PM Paul Keating was famously keen on his French antique ones, from memory).

What they lurrrrve, is time to luxuriate, laze around, smell the daisies, romp in the hay – you get the idea. Anything that touches their five senses in a luxuriously sensual way is bound to be a great hit. They love to smell good, taste good things, listen to good music, touch lovely textures and see beautiful environments, as a Venus-ruled sign would.

So this suggests freshly cut flowers, floral or woody colognes, just-baked biscuits, a slow-roasted rack of lamb, a CD playing something melodic (no Slipknot for them, thank you very much!), cashmere throws, Egyptian cotton sheets, scented candles.

They like stuff they can keep and that doesn’t date so don’t bother with jokey, low-rent gags. We’re talking good taste here!

They are extraordinarily house-proud having Leo ruling the fourth house of home and family so if you’re not sure, check out a copy of Veranda for super-stylish (yet not awkwardly minimalist) accessory ideas. In fact, a subscription to a home and garden-style magazine could be a real winner.

They are sweetly sentimental about their friends and if you don’t have the money to buy them something luxe, make them something – a photo collage, a pinboard, a piece of jewellery or anything else you can craft with your own bare hands.

Taureans are also the moneymakers of the zodiac and with Gemini ruling their second house of income, they do like learning about money and how to make it and keep most of it. Think & Grow Rich, Rich Dad Poor Dad and other wealth-related tomes would go over well.

Read the monthly stars for Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces.

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Why some people are great at receiving gifts

Who makes you feel like it was all worth it when you give them a gift? It’s not every Sun sign!

As you may have realised from the previous post, some people are just not that great at accepting (let alone selecting) gifts. Again, there are some planetary signs, houses and aspects that will make some people the chosen gift-givers in your family, circle of friends and at work.

Those who should be made Master/Mistress of Gift Ceremonies are typically those with a strong Venus conjunct/sextile/trine/oppose Ascendant aspect. Venus rules love, beauty and ornaments (ie gifts) while the Ascendant is your public persona. With a lovely planetary combination like this, it is very important to this bunch that they choose something that would delight you when it’s their turn, but equally, that they show grace, charm and tact when accepting your gift (even if it’s soap-on-a-rope).

In a similar vein, those with Moon (feelings, perceptions, intuition) conjunct/sextile/trine Venus and/or Neptune makes them highly sensitive (in a good way) to your feelings. They wouldn’t want you to feel bad byseeming ungrateful – even if you gave them a tasteless, cheap, inappropriate present. YOUR feelings are actually more important. This is also true of those with Moon or Venus in the seventh house of relationships. They just want a general atmosphere of loveliness.

Those with a fun-loving Jupiter in the second or fifth house, and/or Taurus or Leo, and/or in good aspect (conjunct/sextile/trine ) to Venus, are very generous – in spirit and wallet – whether they are the gift-giver or recipient. They usually look forward to spending money and spoiling those they love. Your joy is their “payment”. They equally know how to laugh off (nicely) ridiculous items, turning it into a little joke after the event.

You might not know whether a Scorpio really likes the gift you gave him – their poker faces give nothing away. However, if you’re stumped what to get someone else, your Scorpio will be able to put you on the right track. They listen, listen, listen (in a different way from the Librans) and notice everything. Something that was mentioned years ago will mysteriously be presented on the Big Day.

Cancers, Librans and Pisceans are enormously sentimental and will keep their gifts, cards and wrapping paper as if to keep the gift experience alive. They – more than any other Sun sign – really mean it when they say it’s the thought that counts. If your gift somehow includes them – a photo, a meal etc – or something that they can keep forever to remind them of you, they’ll be utterly touched.

Read the monthly stars for Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces.

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1st wedding anniversary gift ideas involving paper (sort of)

A wedding anniversary gift survey found that couples are most likely to give each other traditional wedding anniversary gifts in the first three or so years of their marriage. After that, they tend to run out of ideas, money or pressure from others to conform!

So the first one is potentially the most affordable of all – paper. That is, unless you’re giving a lovely old-fashioned plane ticket overseas (my personal favourite) and then it can cost a bomb! Here a few unusual paper-based ideas for a first wedding anniversary gift that might grab your fancy:

Create a coffee table book (ideal for Geminis who tend to be voracious readers and massive fidgeters), and consider binding your treasured family photos in a personalised, leather-bound, gold-embossed photo album to delight home-lovin’ Cancers and Capricorn traditionalists.

If you can’t spring for plane tickets, this very unusual life map which depicts geographical features along with tales of your life might delight a wanderlust-prone Sagittarius.

A raunchy novel in which you and your partner could be a winner for a Scorpio, while if you’re not good with words, but your Libra or Pisces spouse wants to hear (or at least read) your sweet nothings, get a professional romantic letter-writer to do your dirty work for you!

Flush with funds? Take your Taurus or Leo to the best restaurant you can afford, teasing them first with the gift certificate for the restaurant or tickets to see their favourite musician.

Aries love to feel sexy and in control so they might love a gift certificate for a cool sports car for the day. Anything that has their name on it tends to be a winner…

Give your Virgo the day off from cleaning and haul in a professional organiser to tackle your filing (theirs won’t need anything doing to it but the stress you stop them from suffering by looking at yours will be worth it)!

And most Aquarians are too polite to say so, but they love anything that’s a bit different! Surprise them with a gift certificate where they can learn how to fly the trapeze or do fire-twirling. Just having dinner (unless it’s a truly unusual restaurant, cuisine or location) tends to make their eyes glaze over.

Read the monthly stars for Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces.

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Personalised baby gifts recommended by other blogs: part 1

The very cool blog Cool Baby Kid has just compiled The Ultimate Personalized Gifts Ideas for Kids Guide - and I’m thrilled that my BabyStars gift reports for parents has been included in the list which gathers the best around the world in monogrammed, personalised and/or customised gifts for children.

I had a great time checking the product reviews on these products! Here’s my take on what sorts of gifts for babies and children would suit the different Sun signs.

If you have a little Aries munchkin, they’re pretty unlikely to sit still during feeding time in their high chair, at the dinner table – or come to think of it, when they’re adults as well. You might increase the chances of them hanging around for a more few nanoseconds of “here’s the MiG fighter plane” as you attempt to spoon in another serve of pureed pumpkin with the personalised plates from La Plates. Watch them wolf it down to see their name on the bottom of the plate!

Snoopy’s Linus and his blanket were probably based on a Taurus child. Cuddly, snuggly tactile little Taureans love their security blankets, taking them everywhere, shrieking if you try to wash that mud-infested old thing. They love anything soft to touch and will quite happily suck their thumb and/or blanket. Give ‘em one that’s personalised all about them - 200 characters in total (that’s almost a bed-time story in itself) on all four satin-trimmed edges from  Fill In The Blankie.

I gave one of these personalised story books from Storybook Stars to my Pisces niece and Leo nephew and they were a big hit (as I imagine they could be with all children going through that “the whole world revolves around me” stage which lasts until they’re about, oh, 23). Nevertheless, it should thrill your Gemini child who loves to read and it’s a nice way to stave off the “But why, Mum?” and endless knock-knock jokes that can bring on wine-o-clock a few minutes earlier every evening.

The child who winds him/herself around his/her mother’s legs and won’t let go at daycare, is often a little Cancer child. Shy, sensitive and afraid of strangers, Cancers prefer to size people up quietly before befriending anyone. Anything that makes them feel safer is always a lovely gift. They can be slow to get off the boob (ahem, nothing really changes for the men) which makes these personalised dummies at My Pacifier a cute, inexpensive gift. A nightlight would be good, too.

Leo children were born ready for their close-up. And you might be one of those parents who take endless photos on their digital camera and never get around to printing them, or you have printed them and they’re in a shoebox or something. It’s hard to go past the service from Little Star Video which turns your photos (and even their favourite songs) into a family video that your Leos will watch over and over and over, giving you a temporary break from The Wiggles. Plus, you can screen it at their 21st or whatever.

When I saw the incredibly spotless children wearing monogrammed pinafores, I thought, “who ARE these children? Mini Stepford Wives?” and then thought hey, this would appeal to a lot of little Virgo children. Unlike Aries or Sagittarians who seem to find new sources of mud every day, Virgo kids can stay surprisingly clean, making one of these outfits not such a waste of money. They also enjoy helping you around the house, doing their homework and eating their vegetables. Although one day you might come home and they’ve alphabetised your spice rack and colour-coded your CDs… Anyway, one of those toy vacuum cleaners could be a bit hit, too!

Next post: Baby gifts for Libra through Pisces

Read the monthly stars for Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces.

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Mariah Carey’s birthday gift to Beverly Hills real estate agent

Mariah Carey has put in an undisclosed offer on the world’s most expensive mansion, Fleur de Lys in Beverly Hills, ahead of her birthday on 27 March, letting one real estate agent retire immediately.

Listed at $US125 million, the 15-bedroom pile is inspired by the Vaux le Vicomte palace outside Paris. Mariah and her new husband, rapper Nick Cannon like that there is “nothing to do” to the home which features Italian marble walls, French limestone floors, gold-embossed leather wall coverings, gold-leaf crown mouldings, two kitchens and a screening room for 50.

Mariah’s a super-competitive Aries with Mercury (communication) and Venus (love, beauty) also in Aries which can make for a real look-at-moi! behaviour.

With her Mars (drive, energy) in Taurus (money, possessions, music), conjuncting a super-driven Saturn (fears, insecurities, weaknesses to be overcome) also in Taurus which in turn opposes a spending-knows-no-bounds Jupiter in Scorpio, this is a classic combination of never knowing when enough’s enough.

In September 2010, transiting Saturn in Libra will oppose her natal Sun in Aries and conjunct her natal Uranus in Libra which could mean a lot of stomping around on those marble floors for her and Nick. Luckily, they have a lot of bedrooms in which to sulk.

In the meantime, they’ll probably have to buy a lot of furniture to fill up all those rooms. With her Venus in Aries and Moon in Scorpio combination (you look at the Venus and Moon signs in decorating choices – I’m guessing Nick won’t get much of a choice), she’ll want decor that evokes drama, sex, even more gold and “I’m ready for my close-up” mirrors everywhere. I’m also expecting a lot of leopard print.

Her poor friends! It’s not like you could turn up with a pot plant as a housewarming gift.

Read the monthly stars for Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces.

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Has your wedding been predicted?

Well, not by me :) but by the US gurus in the wedding industry. These are the predicted hot trends for weddings for 2009:

* Smaller weddings with fewer guests (great for ultra-private Scorpios or for Leos wanting to make an impact for the same money)

* Destination weddings (music to the ears of a Sagittarius) or destination type weddings closer to home (ideal for Cancerians)

* Accent colours on dresses and cakes with the most popular being greens and blues (those sea-greens are often beloved by Pisces)

* Increased reliance on family and friends to help plan, pay, and provide some of the services (money-minded Taurus, Virgo or Capricorn wouldn’t hesitate to get people to chip in or help in some way)

* Increased use of green and eco-friendly products and services (this will probably appeal to the Aquarians)

* Simplified decorations, centrepieces and wedding invitations (Virgo usually can’t bear fussiness and prefers clean and simple)

* Increased use of online RSVPs vs. traditional mail-in RSVPs (could appeal to communication-crazy Geminis or Aries wanting to know the answer NOW)

* Off-peak weddings: mornings, afternoons, Fridays, Sundays, not in March etc – great for Aquarians wanting to be different or Scorpios who don’t want the hordes looking on

* Buffet meals, hors d’oeuvre, and cocktail receptions (Both Aries and Geminis don’t like to sit around all night at a meal so this could be ideal while Librans do like elegant cocktail parties)

* Cheesecakes, cupcakes and miniature cakes (line up, line up Taurus and Libra – the sweet tooths of the zodiac)

* All-inclusive packages (the earth signs again – keeping an eye on budgets).

Read the monthly stars for Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces.

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March is the most popular month for weddings in Australia

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, March is the most popular month for weddings. It’s past the downpours of January and February, Christmas craziness in December, and it’s still beautifully warm.

So if you’ve got a wedding to attend and you’re trying to decide what to get them from their wedding list – or something not on the wedding gift registry at all, here is a quick rundown to what the bride might like according to her Sun sign. Yeah, well, it’s an unusual groom who is terribly interested what is being put on the gift list…

Aries – buy them an adrenalin-pumping experience – parachuting, scuba diving, flying a helicopter, rally driving etc. Anything that makes them scream with excitement and generates a bit of sexy competition with the groom…

Taurus – they really love their food so a gourmet hamper would be great. Music soothes their soul as does something to do with the garden – a pair of topiary trees or perhaps a beautiful wire or stone wall sconce to provide candlelit dinners outside?

Gemini – they love their books and communication devices. What about a truly beautiful coffee table book? Or coffee table? Some Geminis might be excited to get a new laptop, mobile or iPod.

Cancer – these lovely homebodies really love their house. A snugly cashmere throw, a stunning framed photograph of their family or something to do with cooking – a large Le Creuset baking dish? – could do the trick.

Leo – they love glamour and often imagine themselves as a movie star ready for their close-up. Most Leos love mirrored items so a mirrored jewellery box could be ideal. A leather-bound guest book for the hallway? A couple’s glamour photography shoot?

Virgo – health and work are two of their twin loves. If your budget runs to it, a treadmill would be fantastic. They also appreciate self-help books. They also love a tidy house – what about going in with others on a professional cleaner?

Libra – these guys are the original romance junkies. They can never have too many candelabras, crystal cut vases, or chandeliers to set the mood. Or what about a year’s supply of fresh flowers delivered weekly?

Scorpio – these sexy sorts are notoriously private about their private lives (a home safe could be a cracker of a gift) but a set of exquisite Egyptian cotton sheets could be highly appreciated. A video camera to make um, home movies?

Sagittarius – if they requested no gifts, but money towards their honeymoon instead, I wouldn’t be surprised – Saggies lurrve their travel. Think about a set of Lonely Planet books to destinations they’ve long craved to visit, binoculars, snazzy backpacks or other travel accessories. Go on, give them a gift voucher for Virgin Blue.

Capricorn – keen on their careers and being a pillar of society, they want “establishment” items. If you buy only one thing, make it the very best, but not bling-y. Antiques often go down well.

Aquarius – their friends are their family so think about things that make it easy to have friends over all the time – it could be of those outdoor mushroom heaters you see at bars, a cool BBQ set or what about a great iPod docking station? Those with a humanitarian bent could appreciate a wedding gift whose purchase helps a Third World community.

Pisces – Mystical, musical and/or movie-mad – any of these interests are things Pisces usually likes. Give them a thumping great set of speakers and sub-woofers, a feng shui consultant for their home or what about a boxed DVD set of their favourite movie stars.

Read the monthly stars for Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces.

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