WILL YOU BE WATCHING?

Unless you have been hiding under a rock the last few days you have no doubt heard the leaders' debate had to be rescheduled so not to compete with ratings blockbuster MasterChef. What does this say about the state of a nation when the only televised debate between the two possible leaders is trumped by a reality tv cooking show? Is anyone really surprised at this? Can we really blame the average joe for becoming disillusioned with national politics or should we bow our heads in shame for being more interested in people we will never know and who will have no influence over our lives?





















The leaders' debate is "traditionally" scheduled for the first Sunday after the election is called and normally held in the 7.30pm time slot. The current PM decides the number of debates, rules and timing. I say "traditional" as the first televised leader's debate was held in 1984 between Bob Hawke and Andrew Peacock so it's hardly an ingrained part of our social fabric (speaking of Hawke, since watching the telemovie on Sunday night I can't erase the image of his withered old man chest - so unattractive yet in such contrast to his manly head of hair *shudder*). The debate has generally favored opposition leaders which may explain why Julia is only prepared to engage in one debate. Over the years the popularity of the televised event has steadily declined. 


















The MasterChef phenomenon is unprecedented. It is the most watched television show in our history. Last year 3.72 million viewers tuned in to the season finale, this year punters are predicting over 4 million will tune in. As far as water cooler shows go, MasterChef is a pearler - people obviously relate to it and love to talk about it. Michael Idato TV critic for the Sydney Morning Herald explained it beautifully on last night's 7.30 Report when he said of MasterChef "Food is fundamental part of our lives and it really taps into that without being cynical, with out being brutal, without being nasty, it's gentle and illuminating and they are very, very rare qualities". On the same show, Marc Brennan from the University of Sydney explained that one series of Big Brother drew more votes than the general election held that year which goes some way to illustrating the bond people have with reality tv over politics.
  
It appears to me there is a massive disconnect between our leaders and the general public. It is a sad state of affairs when the wider public feel they have more of a connection with ordinary people who ultimately have no influence or effect over our lives (ok, so they may influence the odd decision re. what to cook for dinner but that's about it). The same can't be said for our two leaders. It may not be the most interesting election campaign, it has been described in the media as the Seinfeld election, however this election will determine who will lead our country. Surely that warrants more interest in the debate? It saddens me to think of all the people who have died for their right to vote in other countries and we as a nation can't even feign any kind of faux interest in our upcoming election. 
 


Julia suggested that she wouldn't be 'dancing nor cooking' on Sunday night and that Australians will make up their own mind as to what they will watch. Maybe she should try a little Tango? On second thoughts absolutely not. It's fascinating stuff - both Julia and Tony are pretty authentic people in so far that they both wear their hearts on their sleaves. You may not agree with either one but you can't accuse either of being fake. I may not want to see her dancing and I think Abbott's budgie smugglers get far too much air time but I do want to see a genuine attempt to reconnect with the Australian public. Abbott's appearance on Hey Hey last night was risky but he seemed to get away relatively unscathed. Personally I find it extraordinarily uncomfortable watching our leaders on variety tv but if that's what it takes to connect, then that's what it takes.

I have to admit that I am a fan of MasterChef, not the most loyal viewer but what I have seen I have enjoyed; probably because I love being able to sit back and criticise or compliment each contestant as I see fit. So being a fan of MasterChef and someone who takes an avid interest in the characters that are charged with running this great country I am grateful that the decision was made to change the debate's timeslot.

Will you tune in to either show?

In late May I blogged about our Corporate Gifts including our tailored gift service. I touched on employee incentive and recognition programs and today I wish to continue that conversation. Good employers engage in incentive and recognition programs in order to motivate and retain quality staff. There are a number of reasons for wanting to motivate staff but first let's break down exactly what incentive and recognition programs are as they are often confused.

INCENTIVE PROGRAMS
The principle aim of an incentive program is to promote a specific selling activity that will result in increased "Cha Ching!" sounds at the register. If you want to motivate employees to do a specific task over a short period of time, for example increase the number of widgets sold, you would need to incentivise them with a point system for every set sold. When they reach a pre determined set of points they receive a cash or non cash reward.
Incentive programs can increase performance by 44% in teams and 25% in individuals*.Generally incentive programs motivate staff to sharpen their customer service skills which contributes to improved sales.


RECOGNITION PROGRAMS
If you want to create a corporate environment that continually motivates, generates enthusiasm, fosters loyalty and increases overall productivity then an ongoing recognition program is most appropriate. Recognition programs generate a psychological benefit AFTER a specific action or behavior has occurred. Recognition programs are designed to put the spotlight on well deserving employees both on a personal and public level. Corporate values should be reflected in the work of employees that receive recognition rewards. Good help is hard to find, keeping good help is even harder to do so if your goal is to increase retention and overall productivity then an effective recognition program will do the trick.

HR MUMBO JUMBO?
I hear you asking why you would bother engaging an incentive or recognition program. Employee motivation is the short answer. There are so many distractions in the work place these days especially with the advent of the internet and social media that it's a wonder any work gets done at all!

KEY ELEMENTS OF SUCCESS
As stated an effective incentive or recognition program motivates employees to work more diligently thus contributing to productivity levels. Regardless of the type of motivational program your company engages there are a few guidelines that will ensure its success.

KISS
The program must be simply and succinctly explained to employees, so follow the time tested advise and keep it simple stupid! If employees don't understand the program how are they supposed to act upon it? Complicated rules and regulations can bring even the best programs undone. Achievable and clearly defined goals will increase staff participation rates and propel momentum.

KEEP ON TRUKIN'
Programs must be ongoing as this clearly demonstrates a level of commitment from management as well as maximising staff participation rates.


FRESH IS BEST
The type of program you engage in must be exciting, relevant and contemporary. You don't want to run the risk of demotivating staff - that would be a disaster. The best programs continually evolve and change, bringing an element of surprise to the workplace. As soon as a particular reward is expected by an employee the psychological effect is diminished.



CASH v's NON CASH
There has been much debate about the effects of cash versus non cash rewards. Obviously different people are motivated by different outcomes so what's best? Cash awards work best for short term goals that seek to increase tangible outcomes. However, cash rewards get lost in the overall remuneration package and therefore forgotten or taken for granted. Cash rewards can become expected thus losing significance. Further to this there is no 'trophy' value in cash; this is important as rewards must satisfy the need for public recognition and boost the ego.

Non cash awards are most suited to non tangible goals where the employer seeks to improve motivation, loyalty or general corporate culture. Non cash rewards recognise employee efforts in a personal way; they demonstrate to the employee that the employer recognises them a humans, not just a number! It's a great opportunity to connect with employees thus strengthening relationships. Giving an employee a personalised gift that is relevant and meaningful to them significantly increases the positive impact of the reward. Quite literally it's the thought or message behind the gift that counts.

Giving a mass produced gift with a company logo emblazoned all over it is hardly relevant to an individual; these kinds of rewards only serve to make the employee feel half acknowledged. The reward must be appropriate to the employee's output and position. Cheap and cheerful gifts will not be appreciated however extravagant gifts can generate jealousy amongst peers. The reward/s on offer must most importantly be desired and valued by employees. This is why tailored corporate gifting has become an effective method of rewarding staff. 


 
BOULE SET $66                                  BBQ COOKBOOK $24.95   BBQ TOOLS AND APRON $49.95 

Giving personalised gifts demonstrates that the employer recognises that the employee is not just a numbe and has a life outside of work. It's all about nuturing successful employer and employee relationships!

GET CREATIVE
Often in slow economic times rewards and incentives are the first thing to be cut. Can you really afford to do this? By cutting out rewards you are also going to cut levels of motivation, moral, loyalty and ultimately productivity which will result in decreased sales. When times get tough, get creative! Take the time to personally thank your staff. Better yet, thank them over a few friday afternoon drinks at the office. Inexpensive and personal can work a treat - you just have to take the time to do it! 

* (Incentive, Motivation and Workplace Performance Study, by International Society of Performance Improvement)

LOVE JEWELLERY? LOVE A BARGAIN? YOU WILL LOVE THIS ....

Red Ribbon Gifts currently has a huge sale on its unique range of costume jewellery which includes designer labels Susie M, Lisa Marinucci, Jual and Zoda.

You will save 25 - 45% off RRP - these are genuine savings so get clicking!

Everyone loves a scoring a bargain, but the BEST bargains are those that make a contribution to your wardrobe! The easiest way to update your look is with accessories and you are sure to find a beautiful necklace or pair of earrings in the Red Ribbon Gifts jewellery sale!

SUSIE M
Susie M is an Australian label that creates classic pieces that appeal to ladies of all ages. The hoops are a beautiful gift for a younger female and the disco balls in clear and blue are perfect for a more mature recipient. The range is made from the best materials so you are assured of quality and with 35-45% off all Susie M jewellery you are assured a bargain as well!

       
Susie M Hoops                             Susie M Disco Blue                 Susie M Disco Clear
Were $99.00                                 Were: $64.90                          Were: $64.90
Now $54.45                                    Now: $42.20                         Now $42.20

LISA MARINUCCI
You will have to hurry to score a saving on one of the last pieces from Lisa Marinucci as the designer has now wrapped up production on her stunning label in order to pursue other opportunities. Lisa Marinucci hand crafts each of her unique designs using only high quality materials. We currently have 35-45% off Lisa Marinucci stock. Each of the designs stocked by Red Ribbon Gifts is perfect for formal or cocktail wear and so the perfect gift for a special occasion. 

         
Victorian Crystal        Precosia Earrings                        Peach and Gold Drop
Were $80                  Were: $185                                Were: $88
Now $52                   Now:$ $101.75                           Now $57.20

ZODA
Fun, fresh and fashion forward - Jual's designs will instantly update your look without breaking the bank and now you can save even more at the Red Ribbon Gifts Jewellery Sale. We currently have 25% off all Zoda so zip to it and zap a bargain - zazing!!


Aphrodite                       Athena                    Hestia                             Hera
Was $55                          Was $35                 Was $32                        Was $50
Now $41.25                      Now $26.25              Now $24                       Now $27

JUAL
Bold, captivating and contemporary are words that best describe the stunning designs from Jual presented by Cerri. Jual's specialised silversmiths use only the best materials to create their unique pieces. We currently have an amazing 35-45% off Jual. The Bombole necklace is well suited to women of all ages whilst the Pietra is most appropriate for a mature woman. 

      
Bombole                            Pietra
Was $375                          Was $290
Now $206.25                     Now $188.50

It has been exactly one month since my last post and whilst it was never my intention to leave it so long between drinks it has been one hectic month! You know how everyone you talk to these days is just SO busy being busy? Well, I can honestly say I have been BU-SY! 

The time finally came for us to pack up our things and move back to the country. I was in absolute denial about the whole affair so there were no emotional outbursts encouraged by pregnancy hormones. I decided it best to disengage a little about the whole thing so I could keep it together and get the job done. However, I knew deep down ... deep, deep down that it was the right thing for us to be doing with pending parenthood looming.


BOXES .... EVERYWHERE!

I mentioned a couple of posts ago that we had decided to move back to the country as we are due to have our first child later this year. Husband and I both have our own businesses so in order to continue operations and have our first child we decided it best to move home where we have a huge family network that could offer lots of support.

We had spent the last five years living in Brisbane and what a time we have had. We knew that we weren't going to be there forever so we worked hard and played hard. We lived in a fabulous little apartment that was in walking distance of a several brilliant dining and shopping precincts. We had a fantastic social life, there was always something on, so you could imagine my trepidation and enforced denial.


FAB FRIENDS, FOOD AND FINE WINE ... ALL WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE! HOW COULD I NOT MISS THIS?

I don't want to paint the wrong picture - it's not like we were moving back to Hicksville. No, the town is actually quite beautiful with some great schools and a university which keeps the vibe fresh and adds an element of culture. It's just very much a change of pace .

So here I am, sitting in my new office in very different surrounds. It has taken a little while to settle in - unpacking a house and a business is well, a business! We have moved into Husband's late Grandmother's house which is at least 60 years old. It's big, old and very cold! I have decided that our generation is exceptionally feeble compared with our grandparents. Rather than complaining about the cold our grandparents would just put another jumper on and get on with it! Not us though, no, I am a self declared wuss! So much so that we had new heating installed throughout the house and to be quite honest I am happy to spend as much as it takes to keep this abode warm. I mean, I wouldn't live in Brisbane without aircon so I'm not going to live in a cold climate without adequate heating.



I have been pleasantly surprised over the last couple of weeks reacquainting myself with the town. To my surprise the coffee culture here is thriving. There are several cafes that have opened up since our departure and I have thoroughly enjoyed discovering each of them. Who has the best coffee in town is quite topical with the locals and I love the fact that there is such competition.

Viticulture is also a young but growing industry that is thriving in the area. There are a number of cellar doors that are set on beautiful grounds not too far from town. So you can imagine my delight at hearing this information. Whilst I can't drink now, I can't wait till we can enjoy some local produce!

So, we are here now, and whilst we still need a little more time to settle in I don't think it will be too long before we feel at home again.

Red Ribbon Gifts started off specialising in boutique gifts for women and has since branched out into gifts for men and corporate gifts. When I started this business the thought of moving it in other directions didn't really occur to me, however sometimes small businesses can develop a mind of their own and you have to be open to new opportunities. The corporate side of Red Ribbon has really taken off and we now look after a number of small to medium sized enterprises.

The corporate side of Red Ribbon has followed a similar theme to the personalised gift side in so far that we offer high quality products and service to our customers. We didn't want to go down the cheap and cheerful promotional product path, there are already plenty of companies that have that area covered and it's not really my style. Furthermore I believe the days of the promotional pen are limited ... I mean they never seam to last anyway! Customers and employees must see value and quality in the gift otherwise you are wasting your time.



















Corporate gifts should form part of your marketing plan. According to the Australasian Promotional Products Association (APPA) consumer tastes have become more sophisticated and refined. It's simply not good enough to give cheap promotional products to customers anymore. The association concludes that clients who receive products of no use or that failed to work, directly connect a negative connotation to the company. If a client perceives a corporate gift to be thoughtless or useless their respect for the company can be dramatically reduced and can do more harm than good. A tangible gift deemed appropriate by the recipient becomes a powerful marketing tool as it becomes a constant reminder of your service and continues to build goodwill for an extended period of time.

The same theory can be applied to employee gifts and rewards in so far that employees must see value in their gifts. Employers give gifts to their employees for different reasons including motivation, inspiration and to thank them for a job well done. I will delve a little deeper into employee incentive and recognition schemes over the next blog or two.


Thanks, but no thanks!

At Red Ribbon Gifts we take a more personalised approach to corporate gifting. Firstly we conduct a fact finding mission to get to know our clients and gain a thorough understanding of their company and related corporate gift requirements. We then source a range of corporate gifts that suitably reflect the company's brand, culture and values. Once the gift range has been approved Red Ribbon Gifts provide a secure company specific dedicated webpage with the range of gifts accessible 24/7 - kind of like a virtual storeroom. All this at no extra cost.

If you would like to more about how Red Ribbon Gifts can tailor a range of corporate gifts that suit your company's need please contact Kate on 1800 RED RIB (733 742) or fill out our enquiry form at our corporate gifts page.

I hope you have enjoyed the last couple of posts about gift etiquette and that a few of your questions have been answered in the process.

Today I digress as I feel a little rant coming on, yes today I feel the need to vent about my shopping experience last weekend. It wasn't just your average shopping expedition, this friends was our first attempt at shopping for our first child.

In typical fashion husband and I had left the baby shopping experience till the last minute. We had one weekend and one weekend only to purchase all the big ticket items before we move back to the country. We have been so busy in the lead up to our move we really only had one weekend to dedicate to this mammoth task. Mistake number one - creating unnecessary time pressure; good for getting assignments done, not so good for pregnant women's blood pressure.

I had done a little bit of research purely through circumstance - I put my back out last week and spent three days flat out on the couch. One of my gorgeous gal pals who has recently had a beautiful baby girl bought over some delicious soup, lamb shanks and a huge pile of baby magazines. I had only purchased one or two preggo mags thus far as at $15 a pop I find them a little hard to swallow, especially as their articles are recycled more than Bec Hewit's latest "crisis" in New Idea.

We have been very lucky as we have been given some of the big items on our baby list. The cot, all linen, bassinet and high chair are all taken care of thanks to generous family members.

Aside from that we still had quiet a list of items to purchase before leaving the big smoke. So we set out to "Baby World" full of Dutch courage and coffee last Saturday morning, which leads me to mistake number 2; baby shopping on a Saturday morning.


BONNY BABY? YES PLEASE! Image Scott Hamilton

We enter the store which is more like a warehouse full of all the baby related paraphernalia one could imagine and we are confronted with dozens of other pregnant women and their partners wandering haphazardly with not nearly enough sales staff to go round. I was completely overwhelmed, I had no idea where to start and quiet frankly had never seen so many pregnant women in the same room at one time!

I tried to make a quick run for it but Husband wasn't having a bar of that. Thank God only one of us has raging hormones to deal with. Calm, courageous and curious as ever, Husband starts at the top of the list, which was the pram. No, sorry that was bumped to second after electric breast pump on the advice of my very experienced and wise friend. "If you want any kind of freedom, life or even just a damn drink after your baby comes along get a good pump" she advised. What the what - a drink? That was enough to take it straight to number one baby.

By the time we got to the pram the only help we were able to enlist was that of one of the trainee assistants. From where we were coming from anything that came out of her mouth was going to sound genius to us so trainee or not, it didn't really matter. Lucky for us she was one of those maternal types who has had the names of her children picked out since she was 14 and knows her Peg Peregos from her Bugaboos. All I knew about the pram situation was that I wanted to leave the orange flashing light and "wide load" sign at home when we finally venture out for a spot of shopping. Oh, and a cup holder - I really wanted a cupholder. Needless to say helpful Hiedi was able to recommend a pram that did that and a whole lot more.

The fact that I have the back of a 60 year old meant that we had to spend a little more than we normally would on things such as the pram and baby carrier but it also means that we bought good quality that will see all subsequent children though. I learnt the true meaning of hand me downs that day. It's more than a cost saving exercise, hand me downs are given to children so parents are subject to baby shops when there is absolutely no other option.


BABY SHOPPING - JAPANESE STYLE! Image Pjan Vandaele

We also bought some things that others, say my Mother, may deem completely unnecessary. Like the bouncer that bounces automatically with the slightest movement from the baby. As I will continue to work from home I could easily justify a bouncer that does the work for me so I can squeeze in some work that I may not have otherwise.

By the time we finished our whirlwind adventure and bought all of our new baby wares home, I couldn't help but be filled with a true sense of joy and excitement. Three months from now we are going to welcome a new life into our family, one that we created. I'm not saying that you have to buy the latest gizmos and gadgets to give your child the best start in life, but I did feel a sense of accomplishment and anticipation that we were well on the road to doing just that. Now, to those instructions ....

One of my favorite things is dining out at good quality establishments. I worked in hospitality for a number of years and if I wasn't doing what I'm doing now then I would probably have a little cafe somewhere. I am a very cool customer, I very rarely complain - I just won't go back and I will tell people about my experience good or bad. In saying that, as much as I love to dine out I do love entertaining at home. I don't do elaborate - relaxed, hearty and fun are more my style.


FRIENDS, FUN, FINE WINE AND FOOD - IN THAT ORDER! NOW THAT'S MY STYLE!

It seems to me that more and more people are entertaining at home these days. The continuing success of shows such as Masterchef could be influencing this trend or maybe I'm just getting older and my clubbing days are behind me! I love attending friend's dinner parties / BBQ's as I am always intrigued by dishes served up by my gorgeous friends. I always come away with a new recipe that brings a little variation to our repertoire. In order to thank my host with the most I always take a little something to show my appreciation and today I will guide you through a couple of do's and don'ts with regard to hostess gift etiquette.

DINNER PARTY
So you have been invited for your excellent company, good wit, charm and supposed good looks - let's not ruin your rep by getting off on the wrong foot. As your host is providing you with food, accompanying beverages, atmosphere and taking care of the clean up the least you can do is take a small gift to thank them for their generosity. It is most appropriate to give the gift on arrival however the gift must not distract the host from their task at hand which is entertaining.


     Bold and Beautiful $80              Lily Divine $68                   Bright Delight $68

If you want to take flowers, make sure you take them in a vase or send them ahead of time so the host doesn't have to deal with it there and then. A bottle of wine is an obvious choice but be prepared that it may not be shared with you at the gathering. If you take food make it gourmet or home made and ensure that it is wrapped so the host doesn't feel pressure to serve it. After all, your host may have gone to great lengths to prepare and coordinate the menu. Seasonal gifts such as an ornate an Christmas bauble /decorations also make for unique and appropriate hostess gifts. You shouldn't expect a thank you note from the host for your gift - you are the one doing the thanking!

            
 Cheeseboard $25     BBQ Cookbook $24.95            Alessi Keyring $39.95

CASUAL BRUNCH/BBQ
If the do is a casual affair, then a gift is optional. However it is thoughtful and just plain nice to take some kind of contribution to the meal. If you do decide to take food ask ahead of time so you can bring something that will compliment rather than distract from the occasion.

OVERNIGHT STAY
If your visit involves an overnight stay or is for an extended period of time then a gift is mandatory.
The longer the stay the more cashola you should spend. Ideally you should give the gift on departure however it is also acceptable to send something a couple of days after your stay. If you are staying for more than one night and you have the time to purchase a gift take note if there is something in particular your host may need and accordingly ensure it will work with their decor. Gourmet gift hampers are a very easy option that won't offend - check out the Red Ribbon range of gourmet hampers below.....

           
Sweet & Savoury $100                         Super Sweet $75                        Sweet Surprise $50

NOT ATTENDING
If you have to decline an invitation to a dinner party / casual gathering there is no need to send a gift. 

Following my theme of gift etiquette, this week I am going to cover baby shower gift etiquette. I have previously mentioned that I have been to a truck load of weddings and that has ensured one thing - I am now attending LOTS of baby showers! In fact, I am attending one this Saturday!

If your not the maternal type then attending a babyshower could equate to a couple hours of hell - in which case I highly recommend taking a bottle of France's finest to get you through all the "oohhing and aaahhhing". If you do fancy all things petite then you will no doubt have a ball. Which ever side of the fence you sit, the following tips will help you pick the perfect present!

A LITTLE HISTORY

Traditionally baby showers were held so that women could share knowledge and wisdom about motherhood, however the trend of giving gifts at baby showers began in the 18th Century in New York. Baby showers were traditionally held for the first baby however this has also changed as subsequent showers may now be held for additional children or indeed adopted children. Time has eroded many baby shower traditions which can lead to confusion and frustration when it comes to choosing the most appropriate baby shower gift.

PERSONAL SITUATION
With tradition seemingly out the window, it's best to employ a little common sense. Consider your recipients personal situation with regard to the gift you choose. If the recipient is struggling financially then practical gifts will be most appreciated. Practical doesn't have to be boring though - some elaborate gift wrapping and inspirational gift card will still ensure a wow factor. Similarly, you may wish to consider a gift specifically for the Mum to be as she will be spending any extra dollars on her new bub rather than herself so it may be nice to receive something just for her. If on the other hand the Mum to be is gilding her nursery borders in gold leaf than you can be a little more frivolous.


This baby gift from Red Ribbon
comprises two complete outfits yet is
elaborately packaged which makes it the
perfectly practical gift for any shower!

Heaven Scent $115



FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS
If the Mum-to-be has set up a gift registry (as they often do these days) respectfully follow her wishes and choose a gift from that. Just be sure to get in early before all the of the good stuff (read "something within budget") goes. If you leave it too late then it is ok to buy something not on the registry. It could be a good idea to consult with the Mum-to-be's Mother/Sister/close friend to get an idea of a gift that would be appropriate.

CLOTHES
Maternal or not, baby clothes are adorable which makes it very tempting to choose an item of clothing for your baby shower gift. However I don't think they are a great choice as babies grow so quickly, you may not know the sex of the baby and clothes are the first thing that Grandparents and Aunts/Uncles to be rush out and buy when they hear the news - trust me I know this from experience! As a general guide:

Size 00000:      Premature
Size 0000:       0-3 months
Size 000:         3- 6 months
Size 00:           6-9 months
Size 0:             9-12 months

So maybe plan ahead and buy a bigger size that is going to last a little longer. If you don't know the sex of the child stick to neutral colours and unisex items or go for some accessories. And again, if the Mum to be is on struggle street be practical otherwise what baby doesn't need a Gucci change mat?

BABY SHOWER GIFT IDEAS FROM RED RIBBON GIFTS


Baby Blanket $49.95                   Plush Toy $31.95                 Nappy Bag $129.00 


INAPPROPRIATE GIFTS
Pregnant women experience a multitude of changes with their body throughout pregnancy and afterwards. It is a very personal and sometimes private experience that some women may not be entirely comfortable with. Strech marks, skin tags, pigmentation and the obvious weight gain are all constant reminders of this change so don't compound the situation by giving stretch mark creams or weight loss aids of any kind. The Mum-to-be is likely all over the Bio Oil situation so don't add insult to injury! 


GIFT WRAPPING
Baby showers are all about the ceremony of showering the Mum-to-be with lots of attention and gifts. Opening the presents is a central part of any shower and much time and focus is given to this part of the shower. When it's your turn to bestow the recipient with her gift all eyes WILL be focused on your gift, and lets cut the crap, they WILL be secretly judging your gift starting with the gift wrapping. My advice - make it elaborate. Go for good quality gift wrap, use gift seals (not tape), paper bands and finish with a ribbon. The card is an important part of this flamboyance so spend the extra couple of dollars and make it a good one. All quality gift stores offer complimentary gift wrapping so be sure to ask.

GIFT ETIQUETTE

I am often asked about the etiquette for gift giving for different occasions so I decided to do a series of blog entries dedicated to gracious gift giving. The world of gift etiquette is quiet extensive and far reaching so in order to break it down a little I will cover a number of occasions over the coming weeks. This week I will discuss gift etiquette for weddings. Let me know if there is a particular gift occasion you would like me to cover and I will happily oblige.

WEDDING GIFT ETIQUETTE

One of the most common concerns regarding gift etiquette is for wedding gifts. I have learnt my fair share of wedding gift etiquette over the past couple of years as my husband and I have been to 25 weddings in the past two years including our own! Whilst most people I know love celebrating the nuptials of their nearest and dearest, an invitation in the mailbox is often cause for a bex and a good lie down. When you take into consideration the engagement party, hens/bucks, travel to the wedding and accommodation the cost of being a wedding guest these days can be the equivalent of a down payment on a house (ok humpie).

In saying that I do want to point out that being invited to a wedding is an honor and privilege and should not be taken lightly. If you have ever faced the task of compiling a wedding guest list you will understand too well what I am saying. It’s a nightmare. So, in short consider yourself lucky to be invited and remember it’s a hell of a lot cheaper to attend a wedding than to throw one.

     Alessi Tray $89                     Dibbern Teapot $128                      Alessi Vase $89

REGISTRY

Show a little respect to the bride and groom and follow any guidelines they give regarding their gifts whether it be cash or gifts from a registry. If they have gone to the trouble of organising a gift registry than get in early and pick a gift from that. It is ok to choose a gift off the registry if you leave it too late and are left with a choice of a $10 garlic crusher and $400 food processor. The gift you give is supposed to be a tangible good to wish them well on their new journey so if it’s off the registry or not just follow the golden rule and put some thought into it!

CASH

Cash gifts at weddings often stir the most controversy however it’s time to get with the program people. Cash is considered perfectly acceptable in many cultures and it’s perfectly acceptable in 2010. Fogies I’m talking to you so turn up your hearing aids. These days most couples live together before tying the knot and have accumulated most of the mod cons required to live happily ever after or till he leaves you for a tattooed model who has the words ‘pray for us sinners’ tattooed across her forehead (seriously Jesse James!). If the couple have indicated that they are having a wishing well, then respectfully oblige and go with the cash option. It is not your wedding so leave your judgements at the door, thank you.

 Generally the happy couple will put the money towards good use and purchase any large ticket items they require for their home or put it towards renovations or a house deposit. On the off chance that they blow it all on their honey moon in Vegas is their bad luck and bad judgement (should have put it all on black kids!) and again – we are not here to judge!

HOW MUCH?

The amount you spend on a gift is the main source of contention when it comes to wedding gifts. I have heard some cracking theories regarding this matter – a guy I know calculates the amount spent on a gift according to the cost of food and beverage he will consume at the wedding. Interesting theory but not the way to go about it. According to Brides.com the most popular price point for a wedding gift is in the vicinity of $100-$199, but really it comes down to your budget. Most couples appreciate the fact that you are up for the cost of new threads, travel, accommodation, the latest Chloe handbag, oh, uh ... as I was saying, newly weds appreciate that it is expensive being a wedding guest and don’t expect you to     break the budget on their gift. So, give what you can afford.

RSVP

If you can’t make it to a wedding then you should still send a gift. As I mentioned it is a privilege being invited to a wedding and the point of the gift is to wish them well on their new journey so send them something in your absence. Just because can't make it because of [insert plausible excuse] is no excuse. Sending a gift is a lot cheaper than actually attending the wedding as previously discussed so send a gift and your best wishes and go have a bex and a good lie down anyway! 

FINISHING TOUCHES

I often like to repeat myself - it's great practice for impending motherhood - so once again I will say it IS the little things that count. If you are going with a cash option ensure you choose a beautiful card or one that reflects your personality (without going overboard - it's a wedding not a 21st!) or if you purchase a gift ensure it is beautifully gift wrapped. Most places offer complimentary gift wrapping services so be sure to ask. Take it from someone who had over 300 guests at her wedding - it is MOST helpful to include your name on the card as well as what your gift is. Include the gift information discretely on the bottom left or right corner of the card as some couples will record this information so they can write meaningful thank you cards. Ensure the card is securely attached to the gift. In the event that you forget the gift or are unable to take it with you to the reception it is ok to send a gift ahead of time or after the event. You have a two week window of opportunity to get the gift to the couple as some may get an early start on their thank you cards.

I hope everyone had a great Easter. We didn't go anywhere which is a nice change for us. It was quite novel to stay put and not spend half the break traveling to and from our destination. Four whole days of relaxing and eating - it was exhausting! 

As my husband and I are from the same country town we would normally travel home for Easter as the vast majority of both families reside there, which is in a word, convenient. However we decided against that this year as we are making the mammoth move back in a couple of months. The decision to move was inspired by my husband's financial planning business which began operations in our home town. Although I wasn't pregnant at the time we were trying like troopers in the hope that I would be by the time we moved back.

As fate would have it I will be six months pregnant when we move back. Although Husband and I feel the move is a bit 'one foot in the gravish' I couldn't imagine raising kids anywhere else. It was always our intention to move back one day but I think that day rolled around a little quicker than we envisaged. In saying that, we have certainly made the very most of our childless time in Brisbane. We have worked hard and partied even harder. There is not much we have said no to, in fact, I don't thing we have said no to anything! There was one wedding but that was one out of 25 in a two year and a half year period, not freakin bad if you ask me!

Now that I am slowly getting my head around being pregnant (and the fact that I am really and truly not going to drink a drop of vino for a significant period of time) I am actually looking forward to the move back to a simpler life (ok, I retract the single drop part, I have snuck the odd sip but considering I could have been medically classified as a binge alcoholic pre preggo days, it's nothing short of miraculous). There are not nearly as many options for entertainment in our home town so we have no choice but to simplify an uncomplicate our lives. I will definitely need to re-read this blog when we have moved back and remind myself that I am not bored, I am just simplified. I am going to need a hobby or two. Does shopping online count?

On the upside we will have the support of both families to lean on which is why the move is so attractive. I don't think I could continue to operate a small business and have a baby without family support in the city. Hats off to anyone that does so. So the move back couldn't have been timed better. Actually, the timing could be a little better as we are moving back at the start of winter which is long and bitter in our home town. After four years in Brisvegas, Winter 2010 is going to be a little longer and a bit more bitter than normal!