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30 HOLIDAY GIFT & PARTY GUIDE • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, November 23, 2018
9
ways to maximize entertaining space
P
eople who live in compact homes or apartments may find space is at a premium during regular times of the year. When the holidays arrive, decorations, trees and presents can make homes seem even more cluttered. This can make it especially challenging for holiday hosts who want to open up their homes for festive gatherings.
folding chairs. Stow knickknacks in bedrooms or in closets.
Even if space is at a premium, all it takes is a little ingenuity to entertain successfully.
3. Collapse tables after meals. If a sit-down dinner is the goal, set up tables accordingly. Then break down the tables afterward to free up more space. Serve small desserts that can be easily transported from room to room.
1. Put nonessential furniture and other decor away. It’s impossible for would-be holiday hosts to move all of their belongings out of their homes to create entertaining space. But hosts can certainly cut down on clutter. Check out the flow of a room and then move pieces around as needed to open up floor space. Push tables or large pieces of furniture up against walls. Swap out armchairs for
2. Put benches and wide ledges to use. Narrow benches, such as those common to picnic tables, can seat three or four comfortably. Do not discount deep window ledges as potential seats, as these areas can be made more comfortable with pillows or cushions.
4. Use islands and countertops. Tables can take up valuable space. When entertaining a lot of guests, set up an all-purpose counter island and add barstools. This can be an area for food prep, eating and entertaining.
5. Create conversation areas. Encourage guests to spread out by setting up intimate spots in various rooms. This way guests won’t feel the need to congregate in the same space. Bistro tables in a den, a few floor pillows in front of the fireplace and stools by a kitchen island will create conversation areas. 6. Expand outside, if possible. Rent a tent that can be warmed with a space heater. If your home has a closed-in porch or patio space, cover screens with insulating plastic to create a comfortable added room. 7. Skip a sit-down meal. Large tables take up a lot of space, so serve a buffet, tapas or passed hors d’oeuvres so guests mix and mingle rather than sit down at one large table. 8. Use all available surfaces. Invest in some sturdy serving trays that can be placed on television stands, upright speakers, ottomans, or even wooden
crates. This will increase the amount of room you have to serve and store items. 9. Spread out refreshments. Avoid bottlenecks in common areas by putting food, beverages and other items in various locations. Fill up the kitchen sink with ice and make it an oversized beverage cooler. Holiday entertaining requires some creativity when hosting in compact spaces.
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News Times Newspapers, Friday, November 23, 2018 • HOLIDAY GIFT & PARTY GUIDE
31
HOT TOY LIST
for 2018
D
id you grab your L.O.L. Surprise dolls last year? What about Hatchimals the year before? Each year, a new crop of must-have toys surfaces. Smart shoppers who do their research and prepare in advance of the holidays can grab these coveted gifts. Each year, industry experts weigh in on which toys are sure to be hits with children and adults. This data can help shoppers become more informed consumers and may help prevent the last-minute rush when coveted gifts are already sold out and new stock is nowhere in sight. The following are some gifts children may want to see wrapped and waiting under the tree this year.
Pomsies by Skyrocket These are fashionable plush pets for children to nurture. They’re adorable and designed to travel with children in a backpack or wrapped around kids’ wrists. The kitties can be played with in a one-on-one setting and also have a mode for social play.
Luvabella
Think & Learn Code-a-Pillar
This is a life-like baby doll that features many of the same surprises that come with a real live infant. Realistic facial expressions and responses, as well as interactive accessories, can make this a true-tolife experience for young girls or boys.
This toy from Fisher-Price gives youngsters an early introduction to STEM. They learn basic coding, planning and sequencing skills by connecting segments of a cute caterpillar.
Blind bag toys Children seemingly can’t get enough of collectible playthings that focus on the act of unboxing. The Toy Association says sales for collectible playthings grew by 14 percent globally in 2017. The act of removing a surprise from packaging is just as exciting as the toy itself. Expect to find many more of these types of collectibles this year.
Mecard This is a battle-action game from Mattel based on the Korean animated series “Turning Mecard.� Mecards are cars that transform into hero or villain action figures when they drive over a power-charged card.
SelfieMic Selfie Stick Microphone Children who are into social media karaoke apps can transform themselves into pop stars. They can sing along to their favorite tunes as a solo artist or with friends in a group. This device works in conjunction with the StarMaker singing app available for iOs and Android.
Slimy squishy toys These types of toys were a big hit in 2017 and stand to remain big sellers this year. Make-your-own and premade versions of slime and squishy products are sure to be filling up the shelves of neighborhood stores. WeCool’s Squishy Like Slime is one option to keep an eye on.
K’NEX building sets These sets from K’NEX marry tangible building with interactive play. Once kids build the sets, which can include roller coasters and more, they can take them on a virtual reality ride. These are just some of the hot toys and gifts that are primed as big sellers for this holiday season.
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32 HOLIDAY GIFT & PARTY GUIDE • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, November 23, 2018
Traditions behind
How to buy clothes
holiday gifts
as holiday gifts
T
he holiday season is a time to celebrate with friends and family. Several holidays are celebrated in this relatively short time period, making this one of the most festive times of the year. Many holiday celebrations focus on the exchange of presents, which may be exchanged with relatives, friends and even coworkers. But are you familiar with the origins of exchanging gifts? Gift exchanges trace their origins to both religious and secular traditions, each of which has helped shape the holidays into what they are today.
Christmas People exchange gifts on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day all over the world. For Christians, Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, who Christians believe was a gift from the Creator. From a religious standpoint, gifting others around Christmastime can be traced back to the stories of the Three Kings (also referred to as the “Three Wise Men”) who visited Jesus after his birth. Frankincense, a fragrance involved in worship; gold; and myrrh, an incense associated with funerals, was presented. These gifts symbolized worship in Christ, that He would be the King of Kings, and that suffering and death would come to Him. Another giver of gifts is part of many Christmas celebrations. St. Nicholas, a fourth century saint, is a beloved figure across the globe who has a reputation for giving gifts in secret and helping the needy. The figure of “Santa Claus” is based on St. Nicholas, and the blending of the two has evolved as history has mixed with folklore and personal traditions.
Hanukkah Hanukkah is an eight-day Jewish celebration that commemorates the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem. The word “hanukkah” actually means “dedication” in Hebrew. The Jews, including Judah Maccabee, helped drive the Syrians out of Jerusalem. In one of Judaism’s most central texts, Maccabee and others witnessed a miracle at the temple. Even though there was only enough oil to keep a menorah’s candles burning for one day, the flames continued for eight nights. Traditionally, gelt, or money, was given as a Hanukkah gift. Many Hanukkah gift givers aim to give gifts that are thoughtful and sweet. Money is not exchanged as much today, with other gifts taking its place.
Kwanzaa Kwanzaa is an American holiday that pays homage to traditions and cultural influences from Africa. The holiday was developed in 1966 by Maulana Ndabezitha Karenga. The focus of Kwanzaa is on family and the harvest as well as certain principles, such as unity and faith. Gifts make up one of the seven symbols of Kwanzaa celebrations. However, gift-sharing is not the central part of this special holiday. Gifts are symbolic of the labor and love of parents and the commitments made and kept by their children. Gifts are exchanged in abundance this time of year. The traditions behind the giving of presents is far-reaching and based in religious, secular and cultural traditions.
H
oliday shopping lists are being made, and there is a strong chance that clothing has made many of those lists. Year after year, apparel, along with technology and books, dominate the top giving categories, according to Nielsen Global Holiday Spending Expectations. However, before rushing out to buy that new sweater or pair of slacks, shoppers are urged to follow a few tips that can make clothing shopping easier. • Mimic the recipient’s sense of style. Take your shopping cues from the types of clothing your loved one typically wears. Now is not the time to try to impart your own fashion sense on someone else. Enlist help if you’re not exactly sure of your loved one’s sense of style; retail associates are there to help. Stick with classics. Instead of mimicking his or her style, you can always select from classic apparel or general categories if they seem like they might be the right fit. Certain pieces, such as classic black pants or a skirt or a camisole and cardigan, always work
seamlessly in a wardrobe. A gentleman might appreciate a new dinner jacket or blazer for those special occasions like a night out on the town. Opt for muted colors unless the recipient to make a statement. Find out the right size. This can take some investigatory work, but enlist other friends or family members to determine which size clothing your loved one wears. Otherwise, do some subtle sleuthing. Indirectly inquire as to size in general conversation. Or you can be forthcoming and say, “I’d like to get you clothing as a gift, what sizes do you wear?” Discover his or her favorite stores. Through your relationship, you may have learned about your loved one’s favorite clothing stores. Such knowledge can give you a better sense of where to shop. Get gift receipts and learn the exchange policy. Even items purchased with the best intentions might not be right or fit correctly. Give the gift recipient an easy out by including a gift receipt with the present. This way he or she can exchange the gift for something else at full purchase price. Avoid retailers with especially stringent exchange policies. Enroll in a clothing subscription service. You don’t need to buy clothes to gift clothing. Another way to gift clothing is to enroll your loved one in a trial for a clothing service. Clothing services ask members a few questions, and then fashion specialists will choose select pieces to ship each month. The clothing can be kept or returned for new items. Clothing gifts are very popular. Giftgivers can help ensure they’re well received by selecting items with care.
News Times Newspapers, Friday, November 23, 2018 • HOLIDAY GIFT & PARTY GUIDE
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34 HOLIDAY GIFT & PARTY GUIDE • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, November 23, 2018
Holiday gift ideas for
How to budget for
avid gamers
holiday gratuities I
f the rate of spending during the holiday is any indication, generosity is in full force come the end of the year. During their second annual holiday debt survey, the financial resource MagnifyMoney found consumers who took on debt during the 2017 holiday season started the New Year an average of $1,003 in the red. That marks an increase of 1.7 percent over 2016.
Newspaper delivery person:
Rather than finding themselves in debt again next January, shoppers inclined to use their credit cards this holiday season must recognize the importance of budgeting for all holiday expenses — including those that may not immediately come to mind, such as gratuities for service providers.
Daycare staff or babysitter:
Gratuities are gestures of kindness and appreciation during the holiday season. Although gratuities are not entirely necessary, many etiquette experts say certain people, particularly those who provide year-round services, are worthy of a little extra money this time of year. Consider thank-you notes for those people who don’t land on this year’s gratuity list.
V
ideo games have a strong and enduring fan base. Since their inception in the early 1970s, video games have been a popular component of personal recreation and culture. The Entertainment Software Association’s annual report says 65 percent of homes in the United States own a gaming device, while 48 percent own “a dedicated game console.” The report also indicates consumers spent $25.5 billion on gaming in 2015, with $16.5 billion on gaming content alone. Although video games originated as arcade entertainment and one- or two-player games that were enjoyed exclusively in one’s home, they’ve expanded to be technical wonders that can connect gamers with other fans from all around the globe. Today’s multiplayer online games feature participants from all walks of life who connect via their gaming consoles, computers, tablets, and smartphones. The holiday season is a prime time to outfit gamers with new gear. When shopping for gifts for gamers, keep these suggestions in mind. New console: Gamers have more console options than ever before. Shoppers can choose between the ultra-portable Nintendo Switch; the Xbox One X, which boasts 4K capability; and the PS4. For those who don’t know where to start, a console upgrade can be the way to go.
Controller charger: Video game controller chargers and docks can give renewed power to controllers. Thanks
to a charger, controllers will always be powered up and at the ready when it’s time for hard core play. Content gift card: Gift-givers can offer gift cards to favorite video game stores and online gaming content, including Steam. Steam is a digital distributor platform for PC gaming that also features social networking services. Gaming headsets: The right headset can immerse gamers more fully in the sounds and actions of their favorite games. An attached microphone enables gamers to keep in contact with multiplayers. Classic game cartridge system: Retro game systems enable classic game enthusiasts to plug in their old cartridges and output them to the TV over HDMI. Wireless controllers: If the console didn’t come with a wireless controller, it’s time to upgrade. Wireless versions enable players to move wherever they need to and not be restricted by the length of a cable. Gaming keyboards: A gaming keyboard puts those who do the bulk of their gaming on PCs or streaming computer displays over TV in greater control. Sound bar: Turn that action into impressive sound with a sound bar hooked up to the television. Built-in bass or a separate subwoofer can amplify the tone even further. There are many options for getting coveted gifts for gamers this holiday season.
The following is a list of service workers whose efforts throughout the year are typically worthy of gratuities come the holiday season.
Postal workers: Postal workers face the elements each and every day to make sure letters and packages arrive on time. Their work is made even more challenging during the rush of the holiday season, when mail flow increases considerably. The U.S. Postal Service forbids carriers from accepting cash gifts, but gift cards or other tokens of appreciation can be fitting.
Gift the equivalent of one month of the subscription price, which may be between $10 and 30.
Trash/recycling collectors: Check with the local municipality for regulations on tipping public service providers, who can be tipped depending on your budget. Those tasked with caring for children are worthy of a little something extra. A gift between $40 and $70 can be fitting. In addition, include a handmade gift from the children if kids are old enough. The Emily Post Institute suggests gifting one week’s pay to a live-in nanny or au pair.
Housekeeper: Up to one week’s pay should suffice for housekeepers.
Personal caregiver: Gift between one week and one month’s salary for someone charged with caring for a loved one. In a nursing home setting, provide a gift the staff can enjoy, such as a catered lunch.
Teacher: He or she spends several hours a day with children. Pool resources with other parents to purchase a gift card or thoughtful gift. Other people that may be tipped include salon workers, building superintendents, doormen, tutors, and pet groomers whose services are required often.
News Times Newspapers, Friday, November 23, 2018 • HOLIDAY GIFT & PARTY GUIDE
Gifting ideas for budget-conscious families T
he holiday season is a magical time of year when many people celebrate their faith and express their love and appreciation for their families. Such expressions are often made through the exchange of gifts, which can stretch families budgets. The National Retail Federation reports that retail sales in November and December of 2016 reached $658.3 billion, marking a 4 percent increase over the same period a year prior. For budget-conscious families, entering the holiday spending fray can have lasting effects that cast a pall over their finances for months to come. Staying within budget is not impossible during the holiday season. It might take a little creativity and discussion among family members, but there are ways to exchange gifts and avoid debt this holiday season. Embrace a “Secret Santa� exchange. Large families can save money by engaging in a Secret Santa exchange. Rather than asking each member
35
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of the family to buy gifts for one another, a Secret Santa exchange asks each participant to pick a name out of a hat and then only buy gifts for that person. This is a great way to save both money and time, and it saves participants from the potential hassle of returning gifts after the season. Establish spending limits. Whether families embrace a Secret Santa exchange or not, they can save money by agreeing on a spending limit for each gift. Families participating in a Secret Santa exchange can set their spending limits a little higher than those families who will be buying gifts for multiple people. Share experiences in lieu of exchanging gifts. Adults tend to be more difficult to shop for than children, as many adults can simply buy their own gadgets, clothing and other items commonly given during the holiday season. To save money, adults
can forgo gifting traditional gifts to one another, instead resolving to provide an experience for a loved one. Invite a loved one over for a homecooked meal or offer to take a family member out to dinner once the holiday season has come and gone and there’s more room in the budget. Connect with your creative side. In lieu of purchasing a gift made by someone else, make your own gift. Skilled crafters can create a oneof-a-kind gift out of supplies they already have on hand, while woodworkers can follow suit. Such gifts are thoughtful and inexpensive, and they will likely prove more memorable than another video game or sweater. Budget-conscious families don’t have to sit out of holiday gift exchanges, as there are plenty of creative ways to express your love and appreciation for family without breaking the bank.
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36 HOLIDAY GIFT & PARTY GUIDE • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, November 23, 2018
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