Kurlan Music Store
Going to a big holiday celebration? Sometimes bringing over a nice big arrangement of specialty foods or wines is the best way to go. The gesture of bringing something that you put together yourself will mean a lot to your host or hostess, plus the actual items will be appreciated because, well, they’re yummy (and seriously, who doesn’t look forward to some wine or fancy spirits during and after the holidays ~ it’s tradition!)! Mix it up and combine perishable and non-perishable items so that the gift lasts a little longer ~ the idea is for your host/hostess to enjoy your gift once there’s time to relax post-holidays. Places like KJ Baaron’s in Worcester, Julio’s Liquors in Westborough, Ed Hyder’s Mediterranean Market in Worcester, Romano’s Market in Fitchburg, Wyman’s Liquor Mart Inc & Bonn Wine Room in Leominster, D’Errico’s Market in Worcester, Bahnan’s Marketplace in Worcester, Tom’s Marketplace in Northboro, and Patel Indian Market in Shrewsbury all have a great selection of unique items.
Even if you don’t have to worry about bringing a “thank you for inviting me” gift, bottles of wine make a great stocking stuffer for everyone (age 21+) on your gift list ~ and if there’s someone particularly special, splurge on a bottle of champagne! If you have your eye on a certain someone and want him or her to “get the hint,” make it a bottle PLUS two champagne flutes…could be the start of something that will last beyond the holidays!
Sweets and Treats
If you want to make your gift extra memorable, top it off with some decadence ~ cookies, brownies, cakes, fudge, decorative chocolates…who doesn’t love dessert! Stop by Wholly Cannoli in Worcester, Trudie’s Treats in Lunenburg, Joyce’s Pies and Bakery in Leominster, Prifti’s in Worcester, Priscilla Candy Shop in Gardener, Widoff’s Bakery in Worcester, Aunty Ellen’s Creative Confections in Leominster, the Roma Bakery Shop in Fitchburg, or Hebert Candy Mansion in Shrewsbury to pick up something totally mouthwatering (some of these shops will even personalize their creations, so make sure to ask).
One of the best reasons for shopping at these local businesses is that they all have knowledgeable staff on-hand to help you make just the right choice ~ whether you’re just buying “liquid refreshment” or pairing it with some food items ~ so make sure to take advantage of their expertise ~ and if they offer to wrap your purchases, definitely say yes!
Gift Certificates/Cards
One of the greatest things about living in Worcester County is that we have so many restaurants to choose from ~ there really IS something for everyone, from traditional American and Italian to tapas and Middle Eastern to Asian and Vegan to pub fare and Indian ~ there are casual dining spots, elegant restaurants, laid-back diners, funky cafes, and more. Gift certificates are the perfect way to let your friends or loved ones try a new place that they might not ordinarily have thought of ~ and since so many restaurants now offer extravagant brunches, entertainment, and special nights, you’ll be giving a lot more than just a “free meal” ~ you’ll be giving someone a night (or day) to remember! In these tight times, too, a lot of folks cut back on dining out ~ so being able to go out, relax, and not worry about the tab really will be a treat. Try a “combo pack” approach ~ you can get a gift card to a place you know your friends like (think of it as a “safety”), and then choose a place that you think is a little off their usual path. Or what about one nice casual place and then something fancier? And if you want to throw in an extra special touch, how about arranging for a limo to drive them to and from the restaurant? And if that’s too pricey, how about offering to be their chauffeur for the evening?
Some of the restaurants we’d recommend are:
Worcester
El Basha, Mezcal, Hamilton Bistro, The Sole Proprietor, The Jewel Box, Citizen, Bocado, Tweeds, Webster House, Last Minute Café, Red Lantern, The Kenmore Diner, 55 Pearl, Leo’s Ristorante, Nancy Chang, Via, Morocco, 111 Chophouse, Junior’s, Zipango, Beechwood Hotel, Fifth Amendment, Crowne Plaza Restaurant, Squires, and Tortilla Sam’s
North County
Il Camino Restaurant Inc in Leominster, Il Forno Brick Oven Pizza in Fitchburg, The Luxury Box in Leominster, Lidio’s Restaurant in Leominster, La Pasta Mia in Leominster, Monument Grill in Leominster, Border Grille & Bar in Leominster, Slattery’s Restaurant in Fitchburg, Gardner Ale House in Gardener, Joseph’s Bistro in Westminster, Paisanos Pizza in Leominster, The Devens Grill in Devens, and Cornerstone Restaurant in Leominster
Other
Wachusett Mountain Restaurant in Princeton, Carmella’s in Brookfield, Sonoma in Princeton, 12 Crane in Southbridge, Tailgaters in Clinton, Cedar Street Restaurant in Sturbridge, El Basha in Westboro, Point Breeze in Webster, The Manor in West Boylston, and Black Sheep Tavern in Sterling
And while you’re there, why not pick yourself up a gift card, too ~ or look for special discounts, since some places will offer, for example, a $25 gift card with every $100 spent.
Bon appetite!
BLING
Ok guys, you know what I’m about to say is SO true…if you’re at a certain point in your relationship, buying jewelry is really the only way you’re going to be allowed to live ‘til the new year. But that said, jewelry can also be the perfect gift for siblings, friends, and parents ~ even the very sweet but odd co-worker who always makes you cookies during the holidays ~ she’s probably love a charm for her charm bracelet or a pin that reminds her of her beloved feline Puffernutter. There are so many kinds of jewelry for both men and women (plus the option of having something designed specifically for someone, or having an existing piece engraved with a special sentiment) that the possibilities are nearly limitless. Talk to your local jewelers ~ it’s their business to know about stones, gems, metals, etc. Know what the person you’re buying for prefers, too ~ many people simply won’t wear gold if they’ve worn silver or platinum their whole lives, and vice versa, some people hate bracelets but love necklaces…you get the idea…and make sure you know a person’s ring size before you make a purchase ~ sure, rings can be resized, but it’s a lot more fun for the person receiving the gift to be able to wear it right away. Check out Sharfman’s in Worcester, George’s Fine Jewelers in Leominster, Sach’s in Shrewsbury, Duvarney Jewelers in Fitchburg, Guaranty in Worcester, Neil Rosenblum in Worcester, Crowne Jewelers in Leominster, Elliott’s Jewelers in Fitchburg, and Pucci’s in West Boylston.
Body Art
Now, remember when I said there are so many kinds of jewelry out there? Well, one kind that’s definitely appropriate for your significant other ONLY (unless you have an INCREDIBLY cool mom or dad who would get a kick out of being presented with a nipple ring or small gauge plugs) is body jewelry. Get creative, have some fun, pick out pieces that add a little sparkle to his or her…whatever. It’s definitely an intimate gift ~ and you can pretty much rest assured no-one else will be getting your sweetie the same thing! And nothing goes hand in hand with body jewelry better than ink, so why not design ~ or have a professional custom design ~ a tattoo for your sig. other? Now, don’t go forcing anyone to get a tattoo if he or she isn’t into it, but if you’re calling someone your “sweetie,” you should already now if he/she is “ink-friendly.” Some great places to try for body piercing/jewelry and ink? Unholy Grail in Worcester, Flesh by Design in Fitchburg, Miraculous Creations in Worcester, Tattoo 101 in Leominster, Piercing Emporium in Worcester, Secret Society in Worcester, Main Street Tattoo Parlor in Gardner, Rogue Tattoo in Fitchburg, and Out of the Dark Tattoo in Worcester.
If you like the work or item you get at the place you choose (and we’re sure you will), grab a bumper sticker and display it proudly on your car, in your dorm room, wherever ~ it’s a great (and free) way of showing your support and giving an extra little shout-out to a local business.
HOME Décor
Money’s tight these days, and a lot of people who might have put a bunch of dough into updating their homes ~ inside and out ~ are holding off until the economy gets a little better. But we all know that it’s easy to get sick and tired of staring at the same old furniture, lamps, linens, throw pillows, etc. ~ so why not treat someone to a new piece or two that will add new life to his/her home? It’s amazing what a difference a couple of pillows or even a really unique lamp can make to a room ~ add in a couple of candles or a nice, soft throw and you’ve got a great gift for anyone who owns a home, rents an apartment, or even has a dorm room (bean bags and foofs are especially great for college living!). It’s personal and we guarantee it’ll be greatly appreciated! For décor items big and small, try The Futon Company, Light Lab, and Rotman’s, all in Worcester.
Going to a big holiday celebration? Sometimes bringing over a nice big arrangement of specialty foods or wines is the best way to go. The gesture of bringing something that you put together yourself will mean a lot to your host or hostess, plus the actual items will be appreciated because, well, they’re yummy (and seriously, who doesn’t look forward to some wine or fancy spirits during and after the holidays ~ it’s tradition!)! Mix it up and combine perishable and non-perishable items so that the gift lasts a little longer ~ the idea is for your host/hostess to enjoy your gift once there’s time to relax post-holidays. Places like KJ Baaron’s in Worcester, Julio’s Liquors in Westborough, Ed Hyder’s Mediterranean Market in Worcester, Romano’s Market in Fitchburg, Wyman’s Liquor Mart Inc & Bonn Wine Room in Leominster, D’Errico’s Market in Worcester, Bahnan’s Marketplace in Worcester, Tom’s Marketplace in Northboro, and Patel Indian Market in Shrewsbury all have a great selection of unique items.
Even if you don’t have to worry about bringing a “thank you for inviting me” gift, bottles of wine make a great stocking stuffer for everyone (age 21+) on your gift list ~ and if there’s someone particularly special, splurge on a bottle of champagne! If you have your eye on a certain someone and want him or her to “get the hint,” make it a bottle PLUS two champagne flutes…could be the start of something that will last beyond the holidays!
Sweets and Treats
If you want to make your gift extra memorable, top it off with some decadence ~ cookies, brownies, cakes, fudge, decorative chocolates…who doesn’t love dessert! Stop by Wholly Cannoli in Worcester, Trudie’s Treats in Lunenburg, Joyce’s Pies and Bakery in Leominster, Prifti’s in Worcester, Priscilla Candy Shop in Gardener, Widoff’s Bakery in Worcester, Aunty Ellen’s Creative Confections in Leominster, the Roma Bakery Shop in Fitchburg, or Hebert Candy Mansion in Shrewsbury to pick up something totally mouthwatering (some of these shops will even personalize their creations, so make sure to ask).
One of the best reasons for shopping at these local businesses is that they all have knowledgeable staff on-hand to help you make just the right choice ~ whether you’re just buying “liquid refreshment” or pairing it with some food items ~ so make sure to take advantage of their expertise ~ and if they offer to wrap your purchases, definitely say yes!
Gift Certificates/Cards
One of the greatest things about living in Worcester County is that we have so many restaurants to choose from ~ there really IS something for everyone, from traditional American and Italian to tapas and Middle Eastern to Asian and Vegan to pub fare and Indian ~ there are casual dining spots, elegant restaurants, laid-back diners, funky cafes, and more. Gift certificates are the perfect way to let your friends or loved ones try a new place that they might not ordinarily have thought of ~ and since so many restaurants now offer extravagant brunches, entertainment, and special nights, you’ll be giving a lot more than just a “free meal” ~ you’ll be giving someone a night (or day) to remember! In these tight times, too, a lot of folks cut back on dining out ~ so being able to go out, relax, and not worry about the tab really will be a treat. Try a “combo pack” approach ~ you can get a gift card to a place you know your friends like (think of it as a “safety”), and then choose a place that you think is a little off their usual path. Or what about one nice casual place and then something fancier? And if you want to throw in an extra special touch, how about arranging for a limo to drive them to and from the restaurant? And if that’s too pricey, how about offering to be their chauffeur for the evening?
Some of the restaurants we’d recommend are:
Worcester
El Basha, Mezcal, Hamilton Bistro, The Sole Proprietor, The Jewel Box, Citizen, Bocado, Tweeds, Webster House, Last Minute Café, Red Lantern, The Kenmore Diner, 55 Pearl, Leo’s Ristorante, Nancy Chang, Via, Morocco, 111 Chophouse, Junior’s, Zipango, Beechwood Hotel, Fifth Amendment, Crowne Plaza Restaurant, Squires, and Tortilla Sam’s
North County
Il Camino Restaurant Inc in Leominster, Il Forno Brick Oven Pizza in Fitchburg, The Luxury Box in Leominster, Lidio’s Restaurant in Leominster, La Pasta Mia in Leominster, Monument Grill in Leominster, Border Grille & Bar in Leominster, Slattery’s Restaurant in Fitchburg, Gardner Ale House in Gardener, Joseph’s Bistro in Westminster, Paisanos Pizza in Leominster, The Devens Grill in Devens, and Cornerstone Restaurant in Leominster
Other
Wachusett Mountain Restaurant in Princeton, Carmella’s in Brookfield, Sonoma in Princeton, 12 Crane in Southbridge, Tailgaters in Clinton, Cedar Street Restaurant in Sturbridge, El Basha in Westboro, Point Breeze in Webster, The Manor in West Boylston, and Black Sheep Tavern in Sterling
And while you’re there, why not pick yourself up a gift card, too ~ or look for special discounts, since some places will offer, for example, a $25 gift card with every $100 spent.
Bon appetite!
BLING
Ok guys, you know what I’m about to say is SO true…if you’re at a certain point in your relationship, buying jewelry is really the only way you’re going to be allowed to live ‘til the new year. But that said, jewelry can also be the perfect gift for siblings, friends, and parents ~ even the very sweet but odd co-worker who always makes you cookies during the holidays ~ she’s probably love a charm for her charm bracelet or a pin that reminds her of her beloved feline Puffernutter. There are so many kinds of jewelry for both men and women (plus the option of having something designed specifically for someone, or having an existing piece engraved with a special sentiment) that the possibilities are nearly limitless. Talk to your local jewelers ~ it’s their business to know about stones, gems, metals, etc. Know what the person you’re buying for prefers, too ~ many people simply won’t wear gold if they’ve worn silver or platinum their whole lives, and vice versa, some people hate bracelets but love necklaces…you get the idea…and make sure you know a person’s ring size before you make a purchase ~ sure, rings can be resized, but it’s a lot more fun for the person receiving the gift to be able to wear it right away. Check out Sharfman’s in Worcester, George’s Fine Jewelers in Leominster, Sach’s in Shrewsbury, Duvarney Jewelers in Fitchburg, Guaranty in Worcester, Neil Rosenblum in Worcester, Crowne Jewelers in Leominster, Elliott’s Jewelers in Fitchburg, and Pucci’s in West Boylston.
Body Art
Now, remember when I said there are so many kinds of jewelry out there? Well, one kind that’s definitely appropriate for your significant other ONLY (unless you have an INCREDIBLY cool mom or dad who would get a kick out of being presented with a nipple ring or small gauge plugs) is body jewelry. Get creative, have some fun, pick out pieces that add a little sparkle to his or her…whatever. It’s definitely an intimate gift ~ and you can pretty much rest assured no-one else will be getting your sweetie the same thing! And nothing goes hand in hand with body jewelry better than ink, so why not design ~ or have a professional custom design ~ a tattoo for your sig. other? Now, don’t go forcing anyone to get a tattoo if he or she isn’t into it, but if you’re calling someone your “sweetie,” you should already now if he/she is “ink-friendly.” Some great places to try for body piercing/jewelry and ink? Unholy Grail in Worcester, Flesh by Design in Fitchburg, Miraculous Creations in Worcester, Tattoo 101 in Leominster, Piercing Emporium in Worcester, Secret Society in Worcester, Main Street Tattoo Parlor in Gardner, Rogue Tattoo in Fitchburg, and Out of the Dark Tattoo in Worcester.
If you like the work or item you get at the place you choose (and we’re sure you will), grab a bumper sticker and display it proudly on your car, in your dorm room, wherever ~ it’s a great (and free) way of showing your support and giving an extra little shout-out to a local business.
HOME Décor
Money’s tight these days, and a lot of people who might have put a bunch of dough into updating their homes ~ inside and out ~ are holding off until the economy gets a little better. But we all know that it’s easy to get sick and tired of staring at the same old furniture, lamps, linens, throw pillows, etc. ~ so why not treat someone to a new piece or two that will add new life to his/her home? It’s amazing what a difference a couple of pillows or even a really unique lamp can make to a room ~ add in a couple of candles or a nice, soft throw and you’ve got a great gift for anyone who owns a home, rents an apartment, or even has a dorm room (bean bags and foofs are especially great for college living!). It’s personal and we guarantee it’ll be greatly appreciated! For décor items big and small, try The Futon Company, Light Lab, and Rotman’s, all in Worcester.
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