Kelleher International

Three Rules for Valentine's Gifts

Even though it is only a few days away, I’m still getting ten calls a day of “what’s the right gift for this stage of our relationship? Help!”
 
Let me start with Congrats! Despite all of the unnecessary pressure we put on ourselves around this holiday, there is still something exhilarating and wonderful about Valentines Day.
 
Now, I don't want to stand between you and your desire to get her that tennis bracelet the two of you admired last weekend (you’re welcome, ladies!), however, gifts really should reflect the stage of the relationship – too much, too fast can deliver a confusing message.
 
The most important thing is that, whatever the price point, the gift follows a simple formula: CPR – Classic, Personal and Recognition.

 

Classic: Twelve fabulous red roses. Exquisite La Parisienne chocolates.   Classics are classic for a reason – they are tried and true gifts that please. Shifting from the ordinary to the extraordinary is all about stepping it up a notch in quality and personalization.

 

Personal:  Hand write the note on those delivery flowers; insert a simple Hersey Kiss amongst those decadent delights. This is not the time to delegate to your assistant or the purchasing power of the plastic. Show that you’ve given the gift of your time. Dine out at a cozy romantic restaurant, or cook a candlelight dinner for your loved one. Use your imagination for the dessert.

Recognition: Finally, the best gifts are those that show you have paid attention. Whether it reflects a hobby she enjoys, a preference she revealed, or a special time the two of you shared. The personal touch is what creates the WOW. If you had a special weekend at a seaside town, find a small watercolor from one of the local shops. If she’s an avid reader, pulls some strings and get a signed hardback from her favorite author.

 

Most importantly, relax, and enjoy the pleasure of spoiling someone you’re beginning to care about!

Three Great Gift Ideas

I probably get three frenzied calls a day from our clients asking “what should I get her for Christmas?  How can I find something she likes, I am terrible at gift giving!”  First, relax.  Gift giving is about the sentiment and the thoughtfulness and the expression of love at the holidays.  But that doesn’t mean you can’t get her a great gift that will light up her eyes and warm her heart.

 
This year my favorite gifts revolve around an exciting 2010 I have planned, full of travel to wonderful destinations – some for the first time, some for the tenth!  These gifts will tell your holiday Santa that the New Year holds adventure for the two of you, and adventure should be enjoyed in style. 

Nothing takes me back to the unfolding magnificence of a new destination like the spice-filled smells of a Arabian marketplace.  My first recommendation will transport you back to the Grand Bazaar and the swirl of sounds and smells of that truly unique experience. With echoes of Arabian nights, Annick Goutal's limited edition trio of fragrances is the ideal gift for any discerning nose.

Annick Goutal Les Orientalistes limited-edition coffret, $750. saks.com.

 
Next, on long flights I like to keep a small set of “essentials” at-the-ready for the entire flight, and nothing helps me do that better than a couple of getaway-chic Coach Pouches that slip over my wrist and stay my constant companion. Keep travel essentials close with these Coach wristlets. 

Coach pouches, $248 each. 877-COACH-04.

Finally, the right luggage transforms a vacation into a journey.  That is all I need to say to introduce Globe-Trotter Erdem suitcase from The Conran Shop, £775
Fashion designer Erdem Moralioglu has been making waves for all the right reasons on the catwalk this year, but now has his eye on a very different kind of runway with this chic suitcase. Created in partnership with luxury luggage company Globe-Trotter, it's the ultimate in designer travel accessories.

Welcome to Kelleher International

Whether you are a new client flying off to Paris for your first match or have been happily married for more than twenty years, Kelleher International wants to be your resource to make your journey of love wildly fulfilling, exciting, dynamic, and deeply passionate.

We'll talk about strategies for dating success, navigating relationship land mines, and the mindset it takes to find love and make it blossom.  We will put current events in the context of seeking love and even give you a little window into the match making business and how a centuries-old tradition continues to evolve in our modern world.  The "right one" is out there for you, so check back weekly for updates or follow us on Twitter to make the most of our partnership in your future.

Let us come with you on your journey!

Jill & Amber