Luxist http://www.luxist.com Luxist http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Luxist http://www.luxist.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Fluid Forms Custom Made Streets Clock]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/28/fluid-forms-custom-made-streets-clock/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/28/fluid-forms-custom-made-streets-clock/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/28/fluid-forms-custom-made-streets-clock/#commentsFiled under: ,


This custom clock would certainly make a good gift. Why? Well for one anything that is "custom" implies that you inserted that appreciated degree of personal touch. Which instantly makes a gift emotional and unique. At the same time it is functional. I mean who doesn't have space for just one more wall clock. Then, you can make the clock sentimental to the recipient, by choosing a city streets map that means something to them. Whether it is of a city live in, a city they miss, or where they were from. All good choices.

Fluid Forms is a site where you can get all sorts of custom made things, and this clock is one of them. I am not totally sure how it works, but you choose not only the city, but the proper segment of the map that you want to have as the backdrop to the clock. You then choose the material (wood or acrylic), one of many colors available. About $181 later (plus shipping) you can get the clock. It is made in Austria, and the quartz movement is apparently German. Designer John Briscella will go over the final design in detail with you before it gets made.

Learn more or get one at Fluid Forms here.

Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.

LuxistFluid Forms Custom Made Streets Clock originally appeared on Luxist on Sat, 28 Nov 2009 15:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>christmas giftsChristmasGiftscityclockcustomFuild FormsFuildFormsgift ideasGiftIdeasholiday giftsHolidayGiftsmapstreetswallSat, 28 Nov 2009 15:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Miss Feeney's Candy Cane Tie]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/27/miss-feeneys-candy-cane-tie/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/27/miss-feeneys-candy-cane-tie/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/27/miss-feeneys-candy-cane-tie/#commentsFiled under: , ,

It's time for the annual reappearance of the Christmas tie, the holiday standard often seen at holiday parties and around the office this time of year. Miss Feeney's Finery takes this tradition and adds a little fun. The brand has a whole line of silk ties that are formal on the outside but flip over to reveal a vintage pinup illustration on the inside. Their Candy Cane tie features a pin-up girl dressed as Santa's helper. The crimson Candy Cane tie sells for $85. Check out their whole line of ties and a fedora or two on the Miss Feeney's website.

LuxistMiss Feeney's Candy Cane Tie originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 27 Nov 2009 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>holiday giftsholiday tieHolidayGiftsHolidayTiemiss feeneysMissFeeneystieFri, 27 Nov 2009 14:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Westin At Home Adds A Blanket For The Road ]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/westin-at-home-adds-a-blanket-for-the-road/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/westin-at-home-adds-a-blanket-for-the-road/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/westin-at-home-adds-a-blanket-for-the-road/#commentsFiled under: ,

Westin Hotels has a booming side business by selling items from their Heavenly line including the Heavenly bed. New for the holidays is the Heavenly Travel Blanket and Heavenly Bath product line. The Heavenly Travel blanket is a versatile item. It is a full size blanket that can also be tucked into hidden pocket so that it can serve as a travel pillow. It sells for $60.

The Westin Heavenly bath line includes calming blend of botanicals and natural ingredients. Products include a soap, shampoo, conditioner, lotion and body oil. The collection is available in White Tea Aloe, Green Tea Grapefruit, and Chamomile Lavender. Prices range from $12 to $18.

LuxistWestin At Home Adds A Blanket For The Road originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 26 Nov 2009 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>heavenly bedHeavenlyBedholiday giftsHolidayGiftswestinwestin at homeWestinAtHomeThu, 26 Nov 2009 11:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Outrageous Neiman Marcus Black Friday Sale, 9-Noon]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/outrageous-neiman-marcus-black-friday-sale-9-noon/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/outrageous-neiman-marcus-black-friday-sale-9-noon/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/outrageous-neiman-marcus-black-friday-sale-9-noon/#commentsFiled under:

Lamina Small Footed BowlIf there's a Neiman Marcus in your town, get up bright and early on Friday, November 27 -- all Neiman Marcus stores nationwide are participating in an amazing deal: If you spend $100 or more, you'll get a $50 gift certificate. That's essentially a 50% off deal, if you happen to be spending right around $100.

This is only taking place for three hours: 9:00 am to noon on Friday, November 27. The news was just released today, so there's a good chance that not many people have heard about it.

A couple $100 items: Electronic Wine Chiller, Food Steamer , and the "Clef du Vin" Wine Aging Tester (I didn't even know that existed). The Lamina Small Footed Bowl above is $125. The deal is only in stores and only while supplies last (so if they're out of the item you want, unfortunately, you won't get the deal).

Also, the gift certificate must be used by December 6 -- but for the savvy holiday shopper, that should be no problem. Some exclusions may apply, so see a sales associate for details.

LuxistOutrageous Neiman Marcus Black Friday Sale, 9-Noon originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black fridayblack friday dealsBlackFridayBlackFridayDealsneiman marcusNeimanMarcussaleWed, 25 Nov 2009 19:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Luxist Gift Guide 09: Hommage Men's Grooming Line]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/luxist-gift-guide-09-hommage-mens-grooming-line/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/luxist-gift-guide-09-hommage-mens-grooming-line/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/luxist-gift-guide-09-hommage-mens-grooming-line/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Hommage, the luxurious line behind the legendary $30,000 Damascene Razor, is back this season with an amazing new set of offerings. If your man secretly dips into your La Mer crème at night, we have just the gift for your significant other this holiday season. There's no shame in a man who likes his product, especially if it's as luxurious as the new Hommage line. The Achieve Face Mask ($75) is a charcoal peel-off mask made from bioactive fresh water silt and blue green algae. It's as much fun to put on as it is to take off, and will result in glowing skin and increased cell turnover, ultimately building the base for the smoothest shave ever.

The Awaken and Rejuvenate eye system ($100) is all you need to get rid of crows feet and other sun damage. Awaken, applied in the morning brightens and firms the skin around your eyes, while Rejuvenate works as you sleep to repair cellular damage.smooths out skin for a gorgeous close shave.

All Hommage products are scented with an amazingly sophisticated cologne. It's addictive. The products are available online at Hommage and Luxury4Him. Hommage was created specifically for men. But before you know it, he'll be catching you dipping into his Hommage.

Continue reading Luxist Gift Guide 09: Hommage Men's Grooming Line

LuxistLuxist Gift Guide 09: Hommage Men's Grooming Line originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gifts for menGiftsForMenholiday giftsholiday gifts for menHolidayGiftsHolidayGiftsForMenhommagemens groomingmens spa treatmentsMensGroomingMensSpaTreatmentsWed, 25 Nov 2009 15:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Nantucket Island's Christmas Stroll ]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/nantucket-islands-christmas-stroll/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/nantucket-islands-christmas-stroll/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/nantucket-islands-christmas-stroll/#commentsFiled under: ,


One of the best kept holiday secrets on the East coast is the annual Christmas Stroll on Nantucket Island. The island located off the coast of Massachusetts, has long been famous as a summer destination for the wealthy and occasional celebrity or well known politician. It is also renown for maintaining its charm and old fashioned feel, accomplished through strict development and zoning laws that regulate what can be built.

The holiday season begins the first Friday after Thanksgiving when the Chamber of Commerce sponsors an Annual Tree Lighting and Community Caroling event. Nothing could be more picturesque that the antique cobblestone filled town illuminated by over 150 Christmas trees while sounds of the carolers fill the air. The 36th annual Christmas Stroll is held over the weekend of December 4th-6th as part of the month long Nantucket Noel Celebration.

Some of the highlights include a Main Street parade featuring Santa and Mrs. Claus, who arrive by Coast Guard vessel rather than sleigh and ride up Main Street in a horse drawn carriage accompanied by the town crier, carolers in Victorian costumes and a Magical Talking Tree to entertain the little ones. The shops and restaurants are all open and feature holiday themed window decorations and often offer hot toddies and cookies to visitors. A charming way to experience a little bit of an old-fashioned Christmas as well as get some early shopping accomplished.

There are many lodging options available for the special weekend. The Chatfield-Taylor Real Estate company has set up a special website for homes to rent for the Christmas stroll weekend. Many are quite conveniently located either in town or with in a short walking distance of the festivities and come in all sizes in case you'd like to bring the extended family or just want a romantic couples retreat. There are numerous Inns and Bed & Breakfast in town as well as the famous The Wauwinet a Relais & Chateau property located on the beach.

Gallery: Nantucket Stroll

Town CrierBell Ringers

LuxistNantucket Island's Christmas Stroll originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Christmas for dogschristmas shoppingChristmasForDogsChristmasShoppingholiday shoppingHolidayShoppingnantucketRelaisChateauxwauwinetWed, 25 Nov 2009 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Own Original Works of Art - MoMA and Peter Norton Team Up To Raise Money for P.S. 1 ]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/22/own-original-works-of-art-moma-and-peter-norton-team-up-to-rai/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/22/own-original-works-of-art-moma-and-peter-norton-team-up-to-rai/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/22/own-original-works-of-art-moma-and-peter-norton-team-up-to-rai/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Would you like to own a unique piece of privately commissioned artwork? Now is your chance. The Museum of Modern Art in New York is offering up for sale limited quantities of collectible works.

Entrepreneur and art collector, Peter Norton is known not only for his genius in creating computer software but for commissioning art and for his philanthropy. Every year since 1988 he has asked artists whose work he collects to create unique pieces to be sent as gifts to his family and friends. This year he is donating various pieces to be sold to the public through MoMA with all proceeds to go to P.S. 1. For those who are not familiar with P.S.1 Contemporary Art Center it is one of the oldest and largest non-profit art institutions in the United States. It is an exhibition space and devotes its resources to displaying experimental contemporary art.

Some of the artworks featured include:
Untitled (Condoms), Daniel Martinez, 1990
Freedom, a Fable: A Curious Interpretation of the Wit of a Negress in Troubled Times, Kara Walker, 1997
Untitled (Dollhouse), Yinka Shonibare, 2002
Untitled (Music Box), Christian Marclay, 2005 (shown above)

Certain items can be bought individually with prices ranging from $150 to $1,000 dollars, while other pieces must be purchased as a complete MoMA set" for $6,200. To see a samples of the various works in person, head to the bookstore on the second floor of the museum, otherwise the works can be viewed and ordered online.

Gallery: Own Original Works of Art - MoMA and Peter Norton Team Up To Raise Money for P.S. 1

Untitled (Dollhouse), Yinka Shonibare, 2002Freedom, a Fable: A Curious Interpretation of the Wit of a Negress in Troubled Times, Kara Walker, 1997Untitled (Condoms), Daniel Martinez, 1990


LuxistOwn Original Works of Art - MoMA and Peter Norton Team Up To Raise Money for P.S. 1 originally appeared on Luxist on Sun, 22 Nov 2009 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charityMoMAmuseumMuseum of Modern ArtMuseumOfModernArtP.s.1ContemporaryArtCenterPeter NortonPeterNortonSun, 22 Nov 2009 10:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Luxist Gift Guide 09: FitzGerald Coleman Curated Desk Sets]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/20/luxist-gift-guide-09-fitzgerald-coleman-curated-desk-sets/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/20/luxist-gift-guide-09-fitzgerald-coleman-curated-desk-sets/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/20/luxist-gift-guide-09-fitzgerald-coleman-curated-desk-sets/#commentsFiled under:



Building the perfect stationery set can be a real challenge. To build the ideal collection, you want to find pieces that both reflect your personality and pull from a wealth of design sources. Fortunately FitzGerald Coleman has come to the rescue this holiday season, and done all of the work for you. Introducing curated desk sets, each three-tiered secretary box is expertly filled with elite paper goods from brands like Herman Yu, Pancake & Franks, Paper & Cup, Snow & Graham, TokyoMilk, and John Derian.

Choose your personality: the Romantic, Minimalist, Innovator, Traditionalist, Connoisseur, Humorist, or Modernist, and find a box packed to the brim with luxurious paper goods tailored directly toward your own style. If you love gorgeous die cuts and pop outs, go for the Innovator. If Victoriana is more your style, choose the Traditionalist. If you like to make people laugh, the Humorist is the box for you. In addition to standard stationery, you'll find wrapped cards for every holiday and occasion of the year, all on delicately printed handmade paper. Click through the images to see some of the intricate designs. The boxes are even topped off with a matching pen from Montreal company Pierre Belvédère.

At $145, including shipping, fine paper is the luxury that anyone can afford this holiday season. It's a perfect gift full of wonderful surprises for anyone on your list. Head to FitzGerald Coleman to find your own paper personality.

Gallery: FitzGerald Coleman Curated Desk Sets


LuxistLuxist Gift Guide 09: FitzGerald Coleman Curated Desk Sets originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>desk setsDeskSetsfitzgerald colemanFitzgeraldColemanholiday giftsHolidayGiftsstationerywritingFri, 20 Nov 2009 14:01:00 EST<![CDATA[How to Have a Stress Free Thanksgiving, Dine Out]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/15/how-to-have-a-stress-free-thanksgiving-dine-out/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/15/how-to-have-a-stress-free-thanksgiving-dine-out/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/15/how-to-have-a-stress-free-thanksgiving-dine-out/#commentsFiled under: ,

What is the best way to have a Thanksgiving spread that turns out looking like the glossy photographs in your favorite foodie magazine? I'm sure some readers are expecting a list, organizational techniques or special tips on how to create the perfect meal when you are working full time.

It seems that a better idea is to not slave over the stove, but take you and your family to the nearest upscale restaurant for the special meal. Eat, drink and relax, the turkey will be cooked to perfection. Handing the responsibility for a beautifully cooked Thanksgiving feast over to someone else might even make spending the day with your annoying cousins just that much more bearable.

Another bonus of not preparing your own Thanksgiving meal at home is that often the menu includes items for those at the table who really don't like turkey. It may be considered heresy, but there are many who, out of hunger, force down what is often a dry uninspired main course because that is the only option. There is often at least one vegetarian at every table who sits glumly while the rest of the guests are feasting.

For example, at Ken Aretsky's Patroon in New York City, pictured above, executive chef Bill Peet presents a family-style menu in the warm dining room of this midtown restaurant. In addition to the traditional free range turkey with all the old fashioned fixings (mashed potatoes, stuffing, roasted Brussel sprouts and giblet gravy) you will find chateaubriand as well as Scottish salmon for the vegetarians in your group. The restaurant will charge $85 per adult and $45 per child for the meal. Whether you live in the tri-sate region, are in the area visiting family or to see the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade I can't think of a better way to make you meal truly stress free.

For those of you who live around the country and are watching the parade or the games on t.v., there are great Thanksgiving menu options at the Craft and Craftsteak restaurants, run by the award winning chef Tom Colicchio, located in Atlanta, Dallas, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas. (New York too!) The restaurants offer holiday prix fixe menus - everything is served family style, except the choice of main course.

Leave the turkey in the freezer, save it for a random winter weekend, and eat out!



LuxistHow to Have a Stress Free Thanksgiving, Dine Out originally appeared on Luxist on Sun, 15 Nov 2009 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cookingCraftCraftsteakfood and drinkFoodAndDrinkMacys Thanksgiving Day ParadeMacysThanksgivingDayParadePatroon RestaurantPatroonRestaurantstress reductionStressReductionThanksgivingturkeySun, 15 Nov 2009 10:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Luxist Gift Guide 09: Clinton Vineyards Cassis]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/10/luxist-gift-guide-09-clinton-vineyards-cassis/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/10/luxist-gift-guide-09-clinton-vineyards-cassis/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/10/luxist-gift-guide-09-clinton-vineyards-cassis/#commentsFiled under: ,

clinton vineyards cassisThis weekend I journeyed along the Dutchess Wine Trail, a popular travel destination for wine lovers out East, which tours local vineyards along the gorgeous Hudson River Valley, just 90 miles north of New York City. To reach the most popular destination, Millbrook Vineyards, you must drive down a dusty road surrounded by fields overlooking the Hudson Valley. The standard wine tasting includes a tour of the grounds, and taste of olive oil imported from the owner's Italian estate Villa Pillo estate.

The highlight of the trail was the smaller Clinton Vineyard, housed in an historic green barn. Specializing in one grape, the seyval blanc, the vineyard offers one particular bottle which makes the perfect present this holiday season: Cassis Wine. Paying ode to the Brits, who put cassis syrup in anything from Guinness to fruit pies, to draw out natural flavors, the cassis wine is a lighter alternative with exponential flavor. The Clinton bottle, which has won Gold Medals and Best in Class at the Los Angeles International Wine Competition, might just be the best cassis liquor available in the States. Add a splash to champagne for a Kir Royal, the perfect end to any meal, or even to a glass of chardonnay, to add a special tartness to your daily glass of wine.

LuxistLuxist Gift Guide 09: Clinton Vineyards Cassis originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 10 Nov 2009 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cassisclinton vineyardsClintonVineyardsholiday giftsHolidayGiftswineTue, 10 Nov 2009 14:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Luxist Gift Guide 09: Sensai Holiday Gift Sets]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/06/luxist-gift-guide-09-sensai-holiday-gift-sets/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/06/luxist-gift-guide-09-sensai-holiday-gift-sets/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/06/luxist-gift-guide-09-sensai-holiday-gift-sets/#commentsFiled under: ,



If only Pamela Anderson had discovered the new SENSAI Platinum Edition Coffret Gift Set, before she let her platinum addiction drive her into bankruptcy. The new luxury gift set out just in time for the holidays offers for the first time ever, platinum, in a soft pearl powder and highlighting platinum body lotion. If that sounds decadent to you, it is. Forget the latest diamond cremes, platinum is the new luxury ingredient, straight from the renowned Japanese beauty line, which counts Scarlett Johansson and Jennifer Aniston as fans. The Platinum Gift Set, which includes the powder, flawless brush, and body lotion packaged in a velvet clutch is available exclusively at Bergdorf Goodman, and retails for $80. It's literally all you need to take to any party this season. But use sparingly. A brush of powder is all you need to make your whole face glow.

Continue reading Luxist Gift Guide 09: Sensai Holiday Gift Sets

LuxistLuxist Gift Guide 09: Sensai Holiday Gift Sets originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cosmeticsholiday gift guideholiday giftsHolidayGiftGuideHolidayGiftssensaiskin careSkinCareFri, 06 Nov 2009 14:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Luxist Gift Guide 09: Catherine Malandrino for Cointreau]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/05/luxist-gift-guide-09-catherine-malandrino-for-cointreau/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/05/luxist-gift-guide-09-catherine-malandrino-for-cointreau/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/05/luxist-gift-guide-09-catherine-malandrino-for-cointreau/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

catherine malandrino for cointreauThis holiday season two unique luxury brands Catherine Malandrino and Cointreau, both brought to the States via France, have teamed up to deliver the ultimate gift bottle. Malandrino chose the symbol of the Statue of Liberty, arguably the best thing the French ever gave us, to mark the limited edition Cointreau bottle.

The Cointreau bottle has remained remarkably unchanged for nearly 160 years, making this one of the hottest collector's bottles of the season. Malandrino's romantic bottle remains true to the silhouette, but is dressed in stars and lace, calling to mind the signature detailed cuts and handicraft trims of her ready-to-wear collection.

Cointreau is a must to give our favorite cocktails that slight edge of "Je ne sais quoi" sweet and bitter oranges, making for the most perfect margaritas or cosmopolitans. Bring this luxury gift to your hostess this holiday season to spice up any cocktail hour.


Cointreau Cosmopolitan Recipe
2.5oz Vodka
1.5oz Cointreau
1oz Cranberry Juice
0.5oz lime juice
Shake and strain into a martini glass. Garnish with twist of orange to bring out the flavor of Cointreau.

Gallery: Catherine Malandrino for Cointreau

LuxistLuxist Gift Guide 09: Catherine Malandrino for Cointreau originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Catherine MalandrinoCointreauFashionliqueurspiritsThu, 05 Nov 2009 19:01:00 EST<![CDATA[McParlin Partners: Portraits in Words]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/27/mcparlin-partners-portraits-in-words/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/27/mcparlin-partners-portraits-in-words/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/27/mcparlin-partners-portraits-in-words/#commentsFiled under: ,


Here's a novel gift idea that is more thoughtful and less flashy than mere jewels. What accessory could be more individual or luxurious than your own book? New York-based McParlin Partners boasts a team of highly experienced former Forbes and Dow Jones editors as well as former Time Inc. art directors who will craft anything from a memoir or family history to a coffee-table book in praise of your spouse.

McParlin writers produce a portrait in words, complemented by your own photographs, commissioned photos and/or original art, that depicts the person you fell in love with or want to thank. It is the perfect way to celebrate an anniversary, wedding, graduation or other significant milestone.

Want to honor someone upon retirement? Consider a tribute book, full of reminiscences and career highlights. This is also a professional way to document a dynasty with a family history, ideal for handing out at that annual reunion or to favored clients.

McParlin editors work with clients to distill their management philosophy into a book or tell the story of their rise to the top. "People deserve the chance to tell their own stories in their own voice," says McParlin co-founder Kasia Moreno, an editor at Forbes for more than 20 years.

Moreno notes that, although McParlin also does corporate editorial work and has affiliations with custom publishers in Russia and China, the firm's individual services are a labor of love. "A family history," she says, "is a precious legacy that will be handed down over generations."

Indeed, the firm is named after Alida McParlin (1867-1957), a woman who wrote a memoir about her doting father, Brig. Gen. Thomas McParlin, an Army surgeon who served as Medical Director of the Army of the Potomac during the Civil War. That book sparked the fascination with family history for McParlin co-founder Hugo Moreno, who is also McParlin's great-grandson.

Every McParlin project is completely customized. Prices vary depending on length of the project. For example, a book-length executive memoir starts at $30,000, while a version the length of a magazine cover story can be had for $10,000. A coffee-table book full of commissioned photographs and striking layouts can run into six figures.

LuxistMcParlin Partners: Portraits in Words originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessories-awardDow JonesDowJonesForbesgiftsHugo MorenoHugoMorenoKasia MorenoKasiaMorenoMcParlin PartnersMcparlinPartnersTue, 27 Oct 2009 18:02:00 EST<![CDATA[The Luxist Guide to Wedding Gifts]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/05/26/the-luxist-guide-to-wedding-gifts/http://www.luxist.com/2009/05/26/the-luxist-guide-to-wedding-gifts/http://www.luxist.com/2009/05/26/the-luxist-guide-to-wedding-gifts/#commentsFiled under: ,

Wedding gift display at Buckingham PalaceWe at Luxist want you to be prepared and properly educated for all situations. Summer wedding season is nigh, so here is our guide to wedding gifts, created with the help of NYC Lifestyle Concierge Lora Chio, a personal shopper to the Manhattan elite. Lora answered all our etiquette questions and gave us some great ideas -- tips for brides and grooms getting ready to register, too!

Luxist: If you can't make the wedding, do you still have to send a gift?

Lora Chio: If you get an invitation, you have to send a gift. Yup. This means that if you don't know the bride, but she invites you to her shower, you need to send a gift (regardless of whether or not you attend; regardless of whether or not she knows your name).

L: Is sending money ever okay? How much should you send?

LC: The unspoken rule of thumb for giving cash is to basically pay for your plates. For example, if you are at a wedding where you believe the reception rings in at $100 per head, and you were allowed to bring a date, you should give $200. That's just a starting point -- many other considerations should be made before you decide on a dollar amount:
  • How close are you with the couple? Very? Give a little more.
  • Did they give you money at your wedding? If yes, you should give the same amount (or $1 more, just to be clever).
  • Did you have to travel for the wedding (and therefore pay for a hotel, a rental car, plane tickets, etc.)? Feel free to knock the dollar amount back a little -- you've already done a lot to be there for the special day.
L: When it is okay to get a gift that's not on the registry?

LC: Buying off-registry is totally acceptable if you feel like you know the bride or groom well enough to give them something they will love. Registries were designed to give a newly married couple a little boost -- a starter kit, if you will. While registering for gifts is very exciting (you get to point a gun at stuff!), many trigger-happy couples regret having to keep half of Bloomingdale's in their storage units because their 700 sq ft apartment doesn't have room for soft-boiled egg cups.

L: What's a good example of an appropriate off-registry gift?

LC: The key to success with a rogue gift (i.e. not on the registry) is having an alternative that you are sure the couple will love. I like to do personalized gift baskets with lots of little things that will make the recipient happy. Ten years ago, before sushi was in corner delis, I sent a friend a home sushi set because she loved sushi -- I wrapped each individual piece as a gift and put them all in a big glass floor vase. She loved being able to open 35 little gifts.

L: Since you often shop for other people, you don't always know the bride and groom. Are there any safe bets for good wedding gifts -- even for people you don't know?

LC: Safe bets for good wedding gifts are often consumable -- something that can be used up and help create a experience for the couple long after the circus has left town. Everyone loves getting nice wine, tickets to a great show, gift certificates for fancy dinners, but if you want to give a tangible present, here are some of my favorite things to give and get:

Gallery: Recommended Wedding Gifts

A nice wine rack filled with bottles of wine. Matching monogrammed cashmere blankets. Weekend totes. If you must purchase kitchen wares ...Personalized stationery.

LC: Actually, I have two more.

Continue reading The Luxist Guide to Wedding Gifts

LuxistThe Luxist Guide to Wedding Gifts originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 26 May 2009 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>giftsinterviewsLora ChioLoraChioluxist-guideswedding giftsweddingsTue, 26 May 2009 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Luxury Bouquets Tailored to Your Mother]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/04/14/luxury-bouquets-tailored-to-your-mother/http://www.luxist.com/2009/04/14/luxury-bouquets-tailored-to-your-mother/http://www.luxist.com/2009/04/14/luxury-bouquets-tailored-to-your-mother/#commentsFiled under: , ,

BouquetWe chatted with 1-800-FLOWERS.com bouquet designer Juiie Mulligan about what makes a Mother's Day bouquet really special and luxurious.

She gave us some tips and told us all about spotamom.com, a 1-800-FLOWERS.com project which recommends different bouquets for moms by "type;" like a New Mom, a Pet Lover Mom, a Foodie Mom, and so on. Have a look through our gallery to see all Julie Mulligan's elegant and cheerful designs, get tips (such as adding flowering branches to a colorful bouquet like she did at right), and plan a decadently beautiful floral gift for your mother this year -- even if she's the type who already has everything she wants, including flowers.

The site also allows readers to share stories about moms they know and win $100 gift certificates. If you have a good Mom story, enter it by April 29th and she (or you) could even win a Beaches Resorts trip to Jamaica or the Turks and Caicos.

According to Julie Mulligan, luxury is all about personalization.

Gallery: 1-800-FLOWERS.com Designs and Tips for Mother's Day

Foodie MomMom of a MomOn the Go MomDIY MomPet Lover Mom

LuxistLuxury Bouquets Tailored to Your Mother originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 14 Apr 2009 09:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1-800-FLOWERS.comflowersjulie mulliganJulieMulliganmothers dayTue, 14 Apr 2009 09:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Harry Winston "Talk To Me, Harry Winston" Watch]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/03/25/harry-winston-talk-to-me-harry-winston-watch/http://www.luxist.com/2009/03/25/harry-winston-talk-to-me-harry-winston-watch/http://www.luxist.com/2009/03/25/harry-winston-talk-to-me-harry-winston-watch/#commentsFiled under: ,

harry winston talk to me harry winston
The last batch of Harry Winston watches I saw were complex technical marvels with highly unique designs suitable enough for magazine covers. Now the shock-watch luxury brand brings a more elegant lady's watch to the table with the "Talk To Me, Harry Winston" watch. It isn't obvious when you view the watch, but it has a little gimmick to it. Consider the fictional "king of diamonds" who for pleasure rolls loose diamonds in his hands and between his fingers. This concept is metaphorically transcended into the Talk To Me, Harry Winston watch via a roller on the side of the watch (that bears the title of the watch). This roller can be spun to reveal the entire title of the watch, as well as the 24 diamonds on the ring as is spins around the watch case - something to do with your hands when idle. According to the name of the timepiece, you may even speak to it, but don't expect it to talk back.

With an 18k white gold case bearing 290 applied diamonds, the glitzy sun-burst pattern makes for a striking, but simple woman's timepiece. There is also an even more 'diamondier" version of the watch with a full 340 diamonds on the case. Inside the watch is a Swiss quartz movement and the strap is satin. Look for a release at Baselworld soon.

Ariel Adams publishes the watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.

LuxistHarry Winston "Talk To Me, Harry Winston" Watch originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 25 Mar 2009 12:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>diamondHarry WinstonHarryWinstonTalk to meTalkToMetimepiecewatchWed, 25 Mar 2009 12:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Valentine Essentials: Wine]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/02/13/valentine-essentials-wine/http://www.luxist.com/2009/02/13/valentine-essentials-wine/http://www.luxist.com/2009/02/13/valentine-essentials-wine/#commentsFiled under: ,

heartsValentine's Day just isn't complete without a glass of good wine. Instead of focusing on the most expensive and impressive wines available I decided to add to the ambiance with romantically-inclined labels to help set the mood. Fun, fanciful and approved by cupid these wines or vineyards pay tribute to heartfelt emotions and amorous longings celebrated each year on February 14th. This list should at least get your gears turning in the right direction:
If none of these fit your Valentine's plans perhaps a pink-hued champagne would strike the right, bubbly note.


LuxistValentine Essentials: Wine originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 13 Feb 2009 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amorecupids arrowCupidsArrowseductionterra valentineTerraValentinevalentine winevalentines dayValentinesDayValentineWinewineFri, 13 Feb 2009 11:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Valentine Essentials: Sexy Lingerie]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/02/09/valentine-essentials-sexy-lingerie/http://www.luxist.com/2009/02/09/valentine-essentials-sexy-lingerie/http://www.luxist.com/2009/02/09/valentine-essentials-sexy-lingerie/#commentsFiled under: ,


The thought of confused men wandering aimlessly around the lingerie sections of department stores this time of year makes me laugh, and it also makes me wonder how many men actually buy lingerie as Valentine's Day gifts? I think these days it's more about women buying it for themselves, and then the wearing of it is the gift for the man in their lives. Lingerie can be expensive, but I think it's totally worth the splurge. After all, it's one of the few things that makes both people happy.

So ... red, white, or black? That is the question.

Gallery: Designer Lingerie Perfect for Valentine's Day

Betsey JohnsonLa PerlaIsabellaVictoria's SecretSimone Perele

LuxistValentine Essentials: Sexy Lingerie originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 09 Feb 2009 11:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lingerievalentinevalentinesvalentines dayValentinesDayvdayvday09Mon, 09 Feb 2009 11:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Valentine Essentials: Mauboussin Rings]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/02/08/valentine-essentials-mauboussin-rings/http://www.luxist.com/2009/02/08/valentine-essentials-mauboussin-rings/http://www.luxist.com/2009/02/08/valentine-essentials-mauboussin-rings/#commentsFiled under: ,

ring
Who doesn't like package deals especially when it comes to 'wow-ing' your honey on Valentine's Day. Mauboussin, a French jeweler known for capturing emotion in their exquisite pieces, is offering a fantastic deal in partnership with Eleven Madison Park. If a patron purchases $1,500 worth of jewelry at Mauboussin's flagship store on Madison Avenue they will be treated to a complimentary three-course lunch including wine, tax and gratuity on Valentine's Day at the nearby French restaurant. Of all their unique glittering items, often using colored stones, the 'Sexy pour Toi' for $21,490 was my personal favorite but below in the gallery are the pieces recommended by Mauboussin to treat your Valentine this year.

Gallery: Mauboussin Rings

Chance of LoveFou de ToiFou de ToiNuit d'AmourTrop Fou de Toi

LuxistValentine Essentials: Mauboussin Rings originally appeared on Luxist on Sun, 08 Feb 2009 11:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eleven madison parkElevenMadisonParkmauboussinmauboussin in nycmauboussin nycMauboussinInNycMauboussinNycvalentine jewelryvalentine ringsValentineJewelryValentineRingsvalentines dayValentinesDaySun, 08 Feb 2009 11:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Valentine Essentials: A Diamond Ring]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/02/05/valentine-essentials-a-diamond-ring/http://www.luxist.com/2009/02/05/valentine-essentials-a-diamond-ring/http://www.luxist.com/2009/02/05/valentine-essentials-a-diamond-ring/#commentsFiled under: ,


Put "Valentine's Day" and "diamond ring" together and most people's minds will go to "engagement" next, but there are plenty of other reasons to give, get, or wear a diamond ring this Vday. There are anniversary bands, fashion rings, and of course the "Right Hand Ring" is growing ever more popular as women decide that they don't have to wait for a man in order to wear a beautiful diamond.

Engagement rings might be the most common type of diamond rings given and worn next week, but they certainly don't have to be the only type!

Gallery: Diamond Rings for All

Diamond in the Rough Band RingSareen Two-Tone RingHearts Desire Diamond Channel RingHappy Diamonds in Rose GoldDavid Yurman Diamond Crossover Ring

LuxistValentine Essentials: A Diamond Ring originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 05 Feb 2009 11:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>diamond jewelrydiamond ringdiamond ringsDiamondJewelryDiamondRingDiamondRingsdiamondsvalentinevalentinesvalentines dayValentinesDayvdayvday09Thu, 05 Feb 2009 11:02:00 EST