At Home Hair Glaze

Yikes, I'm not sure if this should even be on the market. Isn't this what trained professionals are for? I actually used this for quite awhile, and liked it a first. The thing is though, it says to apply it roots to tips (obviously because otherwise you would end up with funny colored roots), but the formula is so heavy that it really weighs your hair down. I just felt like it ended up a little to greasy. Shiny good. But greasy bad. I think I will leave this one to the pros...

For the 'Wino' or 'Wino-to-be' With Everything

We all have that one person...or persons, who are impossible to buy gifts for, and here is a great solution - the 'Le Nez du Vin wine aroma kit' from Williams Sonoma. This wine tasting set would be such a fun present for an entertainer or a couple. If they are already into wine they could hone their senses. If they aren't, all the better, they could have the neighborhood over to drink a little and learn a little. There is really no down side, and if you get it for your parents they might buy better wine next Christmas!

Is That a Penny on Your Finger, Or...?

Some really funky round cocktail rings have been popping up in the fashion mags lately. The one pictured ($68) was in Lucky recently, and the website (allisondanieldesigns.com) has a ton of other cute ones too. Check out the 'moonstone ring' and the 'round ring'. I'm sure you could browse the vintage stores and kick-knack shops as well to lower the price point if you wanted the investment to be a little more fad-worthy.

Gimmicky Goods

These 'Beauty Magnets' might make you laugh a little, but what a cute adder to a bachlorette gifty basket. Supposedly the ancient ritual of putting these tiny charged discs on your face makes your circulation increase...soooo....you look like a million bucks! I'm not sure, but a map of wear to put them onto your face comes with the set up, good thing.

Filling Smoothie from Jackie Keller

I really dislike breakfast, in addition to not having time for it...I'm just not ready to eat that early. Here is one way I've found to start out healthy and full. Blend one cup of frozen blueberries, 1/2 cup pomegranate juice, 2 cups apple juice, 6 oz. soft tofu and 1/2 frozen banana into a smoothie. It has everything you need to start your day, without all the sugar!

Cuticle Oil That Works!

Solar Oil...I swear by this stuff, it is the absolute best. The bottle is cute, lasts forever, and has a diagonal side so you can tilt it toward you without holding it. Genius! The oil feels really silky when you massage it into your hands and your cuticles look better right away. No delayed gratification here. It has been a favorite for so long, I can't believe I haven't written about it yet. I am going to have to dig into my own medicine cabinet to remember the great stuff that I've been holding out on!

Xmas Sweet Treats

Yum, yum, yum....these look so good! Who says the perfect hostess gift can't be edible? Not me - and definitley not when I'm playing the host. Both of the treats pictured are from Williams Sonoma holiday. Ever heard of 'Perfect Endings'? Maybe on Oprah or when planning a wedding? This Napa Valley bakery is famous for their wedding cakes (which can be shipped) and their cupcakes. You get 9 cakes in the box (all pictured above) sent right to your door. Spendy...but so sought after! If your budget is a little less though, no need to show it, just get the Black and White Caramels with Sea Salt. They come in a cute box of 16 (only $16.50) AND you can pick it up right at the store when you are running late to that next holiday party. Perfect.

Kukui Products

Here is the new secret ingredient: Kukui. It is in all sorts of lotions and oils, even Proactive uses it. I'll add more products to the list too...

Belt It!

We've known we were back in the 'belt it' phase for a while here at Sovanda, but we had yet to find a really great belt to recommend. Until now. Love the Crocodile-print leather belt at Banana Repubulic for all sort of options. Cinch a jewel toned dress, and show off your cute middle..too much of this empire waist stuff going on anyway!

Black Work-Able Flats

These are such great flats from Steve Madden ($73.95). I have another pair that I like for work, but these are even better. The buckle ensures less of a kidsy looks so they are professional enough for work, but finally comfy too!