A shopping blog of cool gift ideas

My life in the city is pretty hectic. Between a full-time job, catching a show when I can, going to dinner parties, meeting girlfriends for happy hour, and squeezing in the rare workout, there's not much time left to find a quiet spot and just sit. That's why I love the idea of this Lands End Picnic Wine Basket — it encourages people to escape the insanity and head to the park or even out to the country for a relaxing afternoon.

With four china plates, four goblets, cloth napkins and a tablecloth, two insulated bags (one for wine and one for cheese and fruit), and a stainless steel service set for four, the picnic wine basket has all the trappings for a perfect day in the park with close friends or loved ones. A perfect anniversary or birthday gift!

Lands' End Picnic Wine Basket starting at $299

It seems like every time I turn around, another someone is getting engaged, and now that Valentine's Day has passed, I fully expect another crop of "save the date" cards from more brides and grooms-to-be. While I'm not exactly like Katherine Heigl in 27 Dresses–thank God–I have been in and seen enough weddings to know first-hand the kind of stress a bride is under before the big day. That's why I love to give an engagement gift that will help her relax and remind her to take some time to pamper herself.

The Philosophy product line from Sephora is one of my favorites and their Bridal Party Shower Gel Set is just the thing to jump-start the pampering for the bride-to-be. With three different products, including a Wedding Cake shower gel, the set not only promotes luxurious relaxation–it celebrates the big event. Perfect!

Philosophy The Bridal Party starting at $30

If you still don't have a gift for Valentine's Day (that's today!) you're in trouble. But don't run out to the drugstore just yet. I've got the perfect last minute gift idea for you: a romantic hot air balloon flight. It's quick and easy to set up but will look like you spent a ton of time planning—and isn't that what you want?

You'll enjoy a calm, peaceful ride over beautiful countryside–an ideal backdrop to a very romantic excursion. By the time you land, your sweetheart will be on cloud nine. Which is way better than where a box of cheap chocolates will get you. Print off the certificate and line up a date for your ride now and present it to your Valentine over dinner. You do have a dinner reservation, don't you?

Hot Air Balloon Flight starting at $200

The new season of Dancing with the Stars just started and I'm excited to see if Jennie Garth is as good at backbends as she was at backstabbing on 90210. With Jane Seymour, Marie Osmond and Wayne Newton as additional stars taking a spin on the on the dance floor, this season is bound to be a hit.

But why let the stars have all the fun? If you're stumped thinking of the perfect birthday gift for your friend who "has it all," give the gift of dance class! You just might turn him or her on to a new hobby and chances are you'll even get a couch-mate to tune in and see how far old Wayne can take it.

Dance Class Series & Art Classes starting at $49

I give a ton of gifts, and when you work for a gifts company, people expect your gifts to be unique and fabulous. No pressure! That's why I always have a short list of surefire gifts at my fingertips. I'm going to let you in on one of my all-time best gifting secrets: Wine-of-the-Month Club.

This sophisticated, hassle-free gift never fails to get rave reviews. Each month, the recipient receives two new bottles of their favorite varietal or region. It's the gift that keeps on giving. I love giving it for weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, housewarmings—any excuse for toasting their happiness. Hint: Make sure to arrange for delivery at a business address. The law requires someone 21 years or older to sign for the bottles.

Wine of the Month Club – 3 Months starting at $107.85