Queen City Sparkles with Gifts

Thursday, December 1, 2011

Jacket from the new upscale boutique statement on Hanover St.

More Info

Need more suggestions? Visit me on Facebook. Happy Holidays!

Think "Tasteful"

Foodies will savor anything wrapped in ribbon from Angela's Pasta & Cheese Shop, 815 Chestnut St. Artisan dipping oils, imported cheeses, fresh breads and bread making mixes, Italian, French and German wines paired with designer biscuits make perfect gifts. Check out the luscious selection of thick gourmet olives for the martini lover on your list. Don't forget the kids with marshmallows from Planet Marshmallow in Milford. Last-minute hostess or neighbor gifts might include a scrumptious slice of pâté or a chunk of mango ginger white stilton cheese tied with a bow. For the hard-to-buy-for boss, check out the already assembled baskets or have one custom made. Angela's is as magical as The Polar Express.

Fashion Statements

Head to Hanover Street and sneak into statement, 34 Hanover St., a new ultra-fabulous upscale women's boutique bursting with European style. Every item on hangers in this store could be considered one-of-a-kind wearable art. Contemporary clothing in sizes 4 to 20 guarantees that you'll find the perfect dress that is figure-flattering, sexy and flirty. Designers include: Desigual, Lauren Vidal, Ronen Chen and other très chic stylists. Visit www.statementse.com. Just a few doors down (52 Hanover St.) is where you'll find statement's sister store, Shop Estella, the perfect accessory shop bursting with bling and one-of-a-kind costume jewelry. Look for the sword through the red gem heart necklace - it's haunting.

Slip in to Benton Shoe, 814 Elm St., and pick up a pair of oh-so-styling oxfords for the teen on your list at a fraction of the going price ($33 vs. $100). This Manchester favorite is the place to pick up great scarves and earrings for those best friends on your list.

Gifts with Spirit

Not quite into the holiday spirit? With Heart & Hand gift store, 823 Elm St., offers more twinkle than Tinkerbell. Decorated Christmas trees wrapped in lights and hung with unique ornaments will knock the humbug right out of you. Lovely holiday wreaths and plenty of charm fill this store.

For a "little something" that makes a ginormous statement, come in from the cold to the warmth of Elizabeth's on Elm, 889 Elm St. This is where to find extraordinary custom-designed jewelry. Elizabeth is known for her fabulous engagement rings and other dazzling creations. Check out the bezel-set diamond in a halo setting for that simple, sophisticated look.

(Editor's Note: Sadly, Elizabeth's on Elm will be closing. Currently much of the store's merchandise is being offered at discounted prices.)

Not quite finished with your list? Head over to the Currier Museum of Art gift shop where you'll find lovely cards, fun toys and plenty of stocking stuffers. Still need help? Segway of Manchester, 42 Hanover St., has terrific gift certificates and indoor ideas for the adventurous.