A shopping blog of cool gift ideas

Every woman needs three things for the perfect night out: a little black dress, new shoes and a fun cocktail shaker — preferably one with a splash of color. This Red Metro Bar Cocktail Shaker fits the bill and would be an excellent addition to any bachelorette party.

With a contemporary, leak-proof design, built-in strainer and a retro look, this cocktail shaker is the perfect gift for the woman who doesn't plan on giving up ladies night just because she's getting hitched. Give her the encouragement she needs to stay one of the girls even after she ties the knot and remind her that the fourth thing every woman needs is a girlfriend who knows her well enough to always give the perfect gift.

Metro Bar Cocktail Shaker Red starting at $19.99

Right now every girl across the country is asking herself one thing: What am I going to wear to see Sex and the City: the Movie? Silly? Perhaps. But diehard SATC fans have been waiting four years for the show to hit the big screen. If you have a BFF who's dying to know whether Carrie marries Big or if Samantha has finally settled down, whet her appetite with these inspired gifts.

If she's the Carrie of the group, she'll love bringing back the nameplate yet again with a Personalized Script Name Necklace made just for her.

Every true fan needs her own hand-painted martini glass for—what else?—cosmos. This shopaholic one is perfect for Manolo addicts.

If you can't afford to get her Jimmy Choos, these fabulous (and more affordable) triple-strap pumps are sure to turn heads.

Not everyone has a Magnolia Bakery right around the corner. But assorted dozen cupcakes from Mrs. Beasleys should more than suffice.

Now all she needs is her very own Mr. Big. 

I know lots of independent ladies who don't have the time or energy for a boyfriend with needs, baggage and lack of commitment. My friends called my ex-boyfriend the "suitcase." If only I had the Instant Adoring Boyfriend to help me realize they were right sooner!

This guy's got nothing but the good stuff and he's only got it for you. Try before you buy, watch the YouTube clip I found of the Instant Adoring Boyfriend–it's definitely worth a laugh!

This is the perfect Valentine's Day gift for the gal pal who wants a drama-free V-Day or for the girl who needs a little extra moral support and lots of ego-boosting compliments (from a hot guy) after a recent break-up. It's even great for moms who have a sense of humor and an affinity for strong, blond, polo player types. Besides, every girl likes a little flattery, right? 

Instant Adoring Boyfriend starting at $14.98

I’ve been to a lot of bachelorette parties, and I mean a lot. I’ve been to the Chippendales-drink-all-night-fests, the destined-to turn-ugly drink and gossip sessions, the mellow (mature) eat-dinner-and-be-home-by-10 p.m. snoozers and the increasingly popular destination events.

No matter what her party style is, the bride-to-be deserves one last night out with her girl friends before tying the knot. Here are some of my favorite gifts to make it a memorable night for the guest of honor.

Party Starters: Before a wild night on the town, kick off the night at someone’s home so she can open her gifts and have a few warmup cocktails.

Something Sexy: It’s mandatory to give the bride-to-be a few gifts to that’ll make her blush like a baby doll nighty or a book of bedroom tricks.

For the Bar: Make her wear something that’ll draw attention to her. I’m particularly fond of the ever-classic tiara.

A.M. Relief: If you’re planning on an all-nighter, stock the medicine cabinet with aspirin and this kit to help with the morning after recovery.

Tame Ideas: If she’s not the bachelorette party type (or simply over the whole crazy night out thing) try a fun experiential gift instead. You could get the girls together for an urban scavenger hunt, a wine tasting tour, or a day at the spa.

Whatever you end up doing, just remember that it’s her day and there’s only one more of “her days” to go - the BIG day!

TGIF. You've got your paycheck in hand and we've got a few ideas on how to blow it—on family and friends, of course. But feel free to treat yourself, too. Nothing wrong with a little self-gifting.

For the weekend kickoff: Need to bring beer down the road? To the beach? Across town? No problem if you've got a battery-powered cooler. Hey, it's an eco-friendly way to travel!

For your little American girl: Give her a star-spangled shirt so she can show off her patriotism with style.

For the bachelorette bash: All the beauty products you need to get ready for the big night out and save yourself from the disheveled after-party look at 2 a.m. For the campfire: It's not summer without s'mores and this rotissiere gadget promises perfectly toasted marshmallows.

For future chefs: Take your kid to see Ratatouille then spark his interest in the kitchen with this cookbook. For the guy saving you a patch of grass: Use this folding chair as a bribe if you need someone to save you a spot at the 4th of July parade or fireworks show.