Wednesday, 4 December 2013

Trini Christmas Gift Guide


Even the Grinchiest of us cower at the smell of baking hams, soaking fruits and steaming pastelles. Christmas time in Trinidad and Tobago is particularly special since family from abroad escape the cruel winter and come to us! What I'm always most excited about is the gift giving! I research how to wrap them extra fancy every year, and plan way ahead exactly what I'm giving to whom!
I remember last year, I went to collect specially ordered stickers I had printed abroad, that were meant to be labels on my ponche-de-creme. The Skybox courier office was ram packed! This went on for weeks! I did not get my stickers until January! In an effort to avoid that catastrophe this year, I'm getting everything locally!

I have put together a Trini Christmas Gift Guide. Here are some great gift ideas for everyone on your checklist! Did I mention they're all available right here in Trinidad?

1. For the Out-of-Towners

Dek's Black Sorrel Pepper Relish 
At some point each one of us has had to tote bottles of pepper sauce across borders to get to our family and friends abroad. What a great gift this Pepper Relish makes for them! It marries the hottest peppers in the world, with a Trini Christmas staple; Sorrel!
Large Jar TT$50, Small jar TT$20
To Order Contact Dek's at 868.498.9898, deks.tnt.gmail.com, fb.com/deks.tt

I really believe in making food with Love. Good people really just channel their positivity into what they do! I first met the maker of this fantastic and festive hot relish at an Outlet Market. I got there super late and famished, to find that all the food was finished! (Was really looking forward to his shell-less crab and dumpling!) Observing my disappointment and I'm sure after hearing my tummy growl, the gentleman offered me his own lunch! Will never forget the courtesy! Thank you Dek!

2. For the new Home-Owners

Hand Painted Silk Cushion Covers by Melanie Pontifex
Trust me, when you get into your own home, it's your baby! These absolutely exquisite cushions act as a conversation piece, as well as a room brightener. Bring luxe and style to the new home, and excited smiles to the gift receivers! More styles and colours available, including fuchsia for the bold statement makers!
Contact: melaniepontifex@gmail.com, 868.345.3269, fb.com/melaniepontifexartist






3. For the Girls

Amara Organics Savons des Artisans
This beautiful handmade soap collection results from a special collaboration with Artist, Danielle Boodoo Fortune. Amara Organics is already known for wonderfully made soaps, scrubs, balms and butters. This Limited Edition Collector's item just pushes it over the edge. They come in “LOVE SPELL”, “CHERRY MIST”and “LILY OF THE VALLEY” fragrances. Your girlfriends would feel special to be of the select few to have these! The 3 piece Collection costs TT$200.
Contact:868.384.0715, amara.organics@gmail.com, fb.com/amara.organics



4. For the glamorous ones
GLAM GOODIES

My favourite Salon EVER, Cahoots, is having a massive 40% off sale on all Redken, Matrix and Schwarzkopf and Body Bling products! This big name styling products are used by top hair stylists worldwide. They can be quite pricey, but with this amazing discount, put together gifts sets for  mom, sis, the in-laws and hey, why not do one for yourself?
Call Cahoots at 868.622.5393, Located just off of Long Circular road, Port-of-Spain



5.For the special lady in your life

Floralies
Your lady will love you forever if you were keen enough to have her unwrap these on Christmas morning! These gold plated earrings are sprinkled with white swarovski crystals. The design is classic yet simultaneously whimsical and charming. They come from the Anoushka  Line, which is brought to us from Ilmes Jewellery designer, Anna Sabga.  Other exclusive pieces from the Collection are available at Stechers Long Circular, Gulf City and Piarco branches. Floralies cost TT$1110.
To contact the designer email: info@ilmesjewellery.com



6.For the Guys

Dappered Bowties by Mark Eastman
Bowties look great on guys from casual to cocktail! Designer Mark Eastman has brought out "Dappered", his accessory line, catering to the stylish individual. Check out his City Series, inspired by the moods of Port-of-Spain. Styles vary in colour and print, suited to a range of personalities! Look out for them at The Cloth's Pop -Up shop at The Propaganda Space #24 Erthing Road Belmont. Each cost TT$125
Visit fb.com/DapperedbyMarkEastman/info

My fave is the "9 to 5"






Photo by Arnaldo James




7. For your special Guy
 Cufflinks From Rachel Ross

Make him feel special by presenting him with a tiny box this year (we all live by the small package adage). Rachel Ross creates stunning pieces of wearable art. Her Cufflinks are timeless and special, made with sophistication and detail. They are available at Phillipa on Saddle Road Maraval, as well as The Gallery in Long Circular Mall. Listen out for pop-up shops where you may find the designer.
Contact the designer at rrossjewellery@gmail.com, fb.com/rachelrossjewellery



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