B a last minute shopper - we won't tell!

Tis' the season...to shop til' you drop. If you haven't finished yet, there's still hope! These last minute gift suggestions will point you in the right direction if you somehow didn't cross everyone of the list this weekend (or got distracted and started shopping for yourself). It happens. Good luck!

If you're shopping for mom...

Get her a classic designer bag in a youthful color or pattern. She can appreciate the function and recognize the brand, while enjoy something that adds a little fun to her current collection. This particular Coach Madison Leather Crossbody Swingpack is perfect for mom's upcoming Caribbean vacation, and it retails for less than $200.


If you're shopping for dad...

Go for electronics...duh! So you brought him up to date last year with an iPod, but now he needs all the toys that go with it. Chances are, he already has an alarm, but this iHome Alarm Clock Radio works with an iPod or iPhone. Head to Brookstone for this techie-lovers no-brainer.

If you're shopping for your best friend...

Take some liberties here. They always say not to buy clothing or jewelry as gifts, because everyone has a different style, but if you don't know what your BFF likes, then you're not paying attention. Buy your girl (or guy) a stunning statement necklace, like this Cloud Necklace from J.Crew. It's the kind of thing that your girl has been eyeing, but doesn't want to buy for herself. Love this! (hint-hint, wink-wink)


If you're buying for a child under 10...

Set the little tyke up with a US Savings Bond. You purchase it at 1/2 the face value, and as the little one grows, his money constantly matures. Within 10 years or so, they'll have a nice little stash if they keep collecting. It's not monopoly money, it actually has value. I cashed in a nice stack a few years ago to pay for a grad school class...at NYU. True story.


If you're buying for a buying for a child/teen over 10...

Hook them up with an AMEX Giftcard. Trust me, these kids like "cash" gifts almost more than what Santa brings them in his big red bag. Giving a young adult the liberty to choose how they spend their holiday cash is empowering. Plus, they can get exactly what they want, instead of you making the unfortunate mistake of thinking they're still into Bratz Dolls.


If you're buying for a Holiday Hostess...

Buy a thoughtful sweet treat like holiday cookies or cupcakes. William Sonoma's Dancing Deer Baking Company goodies are cute, tasty, and have a fighting chance of getting consumed at the party. Let your gift stand out amongst a see of Merlot.

If you're buying for your boo...

Buy something that can be enjoyed as a pair! Most cities have a plethora of wine tasting classes you can purchase. It's educational, a little sexy, and it's just a jumping off point for a future trip to Wine Country. Plant the seed!


If you're buying for your boss...Keep it simple, and get him/her a bottle of champagne to toast the year's successes, near missed failures, more business in 2009, and most of all - keeping your job.
I'll drink to that!