The Gift Blog

Cold Cooking – Gift Ideas

tina — Wed, 05 Mar 2014 00:22:45 +0000

Autumn – you’ve come at full speed, and with no time to waste, you’ve well and truly made yourself clear – you’ve arrived. Say what?

Yes, Autumn is here, and before you know it Winter, Spring and Summer will all make their annual appearance, again. You’ll have to excuse this rant about the (consistent, by the way) bipolar weather changes – something that I seem to do more often than not, even I’m sick of reading about it.

If you hadn’t already guessed (despite my problem with the current and future weather changes), I do really have an appreciation for the colder seasons, while it sees us all put on a few extra kilos, there is something about baking when it isn’t quite so hot! I’m thinking chocolate pudding, drizzled with melted hot chocolate and vanilla ice cream, a choc-caramel pudding (Admittedly, I am completely biased towards chocolate [and pudding] – but let me ask you, was there ever a time that you never felt like chocolate, Winter is the perfect catalyst to eat more).

I can picture it now – feet up, blanket attempting to provide some warmth, tea in one hand, cake in the other (there isn’t any room for the remote – but here’s hoping you will be too far engrossed in that glorious slice of dessert, you’ll have to put The Real Housewives of _______? on hold).

If you are a winter chef enthusiast like myself, or you’d like to encourage someone to make more of a habit of creating beautiful dessert-like treats, Everything But Flowers has a select number of appropriate cooking ideas to make the colder weathers cooking experience that bit better than the last. For recipe ideas, this recipe book written by award-winning pastry Chef, Emmanuel Mollois brings everything sweet to life.

Presenting your winter desserts has become every bit more attractive with the Jansen & Co Cake Stand and the cutest bowl and spoon set by Alessi. And if you ever have the cookie craving that displays no fault in consistently haunting me, Avanti has the perfect tool for your average cooking creation (looks pretty serious if you ask me).

Happy Cooking readers!

The $80,000 2014 Oscars Gift Bag: Thanks for losing.

tina — Thu, 27 Feb 2014 03:05:22 +0000

Define: Os-car -

A trademark for a statuette awarded annually by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences for achievement in movies.

Don’t wreck your brain over that one.

There is always the eagerness that remains veiled while waiting till the end of the event before we are happily given that tiny gift bag filled with between 3-8 lollies (enough to settle the sugar craving) and an often apparent party blower, and we can’t help but consider whether the smile painted on the bearer of these gift bags is one of happiness with a genuine ‘Thank you for attending’ or the smile is a piece of imagery for the fact that they are glad their house full of people is no longer full. Compare the pair, choose your reason to smile?

Let’s sidetrack for a minute. In reference to the defined golden statue I opened this post with, I find there is a blurred yet strong connection to that of a party bag filled with those 3-8 lollies. The Oscars are a time of recognition for those who have demonstrated outstanding efforts within the motion picture industry. To me, that sounds like one hell of an achievement, accompanied by that glorious gold statue, Oscar.

Now for all of those who are not a winner of the infamous gold statue, bear in mind their loss is over quite quickly. You see, they will be the owner of a ‘glorified’ goodie bag, to ensure they are well and truly distracted the morning-after their loss, that way everyone feels as though they are a winner (An over-spoilt adult, rather). Sounds rehabilitated to me, and you haven’t even heard what is in these goodie bags. Think a home spa system worth over $2500, and a Las Vegas vacation package over $9000, and in case Vegas wasn’t enough a $15000 trip to Japan. Yes, you did read right.

ABC has the goss on what the 2014 goodie bags will contain.

Like me, at this stage of reading the post you’ll be wishing you were a Academy Award nominee, but in the mean time you can shop for some great gifts at Everything But Flowers. To get the Hollywood treatment for your losses, let me suggest the ideal dinner party essentials (here, here and here). Don’t let your misfortune of losing the opportunity for an Oscar deny you from a great feed with these great pieces.

EVERY AUSSIE AND THEIR DAY: THE PERFECT AUSSIE GIFT

The Day of Love…Valentines!

tina — Tue, 11 Feb 2014 23:17:21 +0000

The Valentine’s Day countdown is just a couple of days away, and to be honest, it becomes questionable as to whether this day offers an opportunity to express an endearing love for someone, or just another day spent questioning why you’re so damn lonely. Just kidding.

Whether Valentine’s Day is the day you choose to celebrate a love for someone special or not, it is an excuse to buy a bunch of roses, coupled with a box of expensive chocolate, to treat yourself or someone special. Let it not be just another day of watching countless romantic movies, whilst effortlessly cleaning out a box of Lindt.

In preparation for V-Day, Everything But Flowers has inspired a day of all-round loving for each and every one of you, with every opportunity to enjoy the day despite your relationship status (It’s complicated?)

From chocolates to a great bottle of champagne, it really isn’t that hard to make that special person fall deeper in love with you, more than what they already were…Right? In search of the perfect gift, you will find a range of gifts to suit the traditional Valentine’s Day celebrator or the one willing to veer from tradition. How does this sound?

It is possible to make that special someone fall head over heels for Valentine’s Day, and you will be guaranteed that this will make them embrace the cheese that is often condemned in most relationships (admit it; everyone has it!).

Get started on your Valentine’s Day shopping here.

Happy Chinese New Year: Feeling Hungry?

tina — Thu, 30 Jan 2014 22:41:43 +0000

Chinese New Year, to me, always feels like the event that is the country’s best kept secret, in my mind I picture it held in a back suburb of a dodgy city location that frequents the Asian culture. There is just something nerving about the entire celebration, but then vegetarian dumplings come to thought and my inner Asian foodie comes alive and I forget that it ever made me uneasy.

Having never been to China, I’ve heard the experience is next to none. With reference to food, nonetheless, I’d say I would see myself huddled in the locally recommended dumpling house, comparing and enjoying the different flavours a certain pastry with an infused filling provides (oh dumplings..)

Whether you celebrate the Chinese holiday or not, Everything But Flowers has inspired a meal truly fit for anyone celebrating the day of Chinese ancestors, or any of you craving a Yum Cha feed (like myself right now, writing this post). The Yum Cha Anyone? Gift set comes with a bamboo steamer, a set of 4 dumpling steamers, a set of chopsticks and a set of sauces for the beginning of what is sure to be a continued Asian tradition. Whether you’re in need of a gift or are having dumpling withdrawals, this gift set is the perfect excuse!

Admittedly, it’s one thing to enjoy the taste filled sensations that come with Asian cuisine, but to appreciate the origins of its beginnings (in a bamboo steamer) is something else, why just eat like they do when you can cook like they do in the comfort of your own kitchen. Good idea or good idea?

Happy Chinese New Year to you all, with dumplings included!

The ideal Chinese feast!

EVERY AUSSIE AND THEIR DAY: THE PERFECT AUSSIE GIFT

tina — Tue, 21 Jan 2014 23:58:03 +0000

Australia Day can either be labelled as the proud recognition of its namesake, or the excuse to use a well earned 24 hours to laze around, with beer in hand and feet in sand (the recommended position).

Australian’s are known to lead what can be named, an ‘easygoing’ lifestyle, much to an Aussie’s pride, this lifestyle is envied internationally. This can be held to Australian’s having a great appreciation for the little things that the country is known for: a meat-pie, combining a thick outer layer of pastry, a heavy amount of meat in the middle and slapped on top with tomato sauce. This Australian specialty is sure to paint a smile on any single person’s face. Now, pair this with a chilled beer, a colourful Pavlova, comfortable attire (preferably loose shorts, a Bonds singlet, and a pair of thongs) and you’ve found yourself a perfect Australian moment. Additionally, find yourself a pool or a sprinkler, pull up a chair and embrace the AUSSIE OI OI OI!

If you’re planning on staying put in your own backyard or heading out on to one of Australia’s beaches, Everything But Flowers has a range of gift ideas to help grow (and satisfy) your inner Aussie. What is more Aussie than a beer? Enjoy a taste testing session with the Aussie Beer Lover’s Pack, or the Aussie Gift Set, complete with a 6-pack of James Boags Beer and a set of Aussie cufflinks to help continue the Aussie celebrations all year round.

Perfect for creating a traditional Aussie feast (aka The Barbeque), The Great Aussie Bloke’s Cookbook is the perfect guide to a traditional laid-back meal, with easy and simple recipes, nothing reads Aussie like this book. To help make these recipes come to life, the Aussie Beer and BBQ Gift Hamper provides all the tools for perfect Aussie, outdoor entertainment.

With only a few days left, these gifts are ready for despatch, to be received just in time for the weekend’s events! Get on it fellow Australians, and make this Australia Day one to remember (or not?).

Longing for a sip of Sauvignon? Wet your appetite without our next day wine gifts!

eliza — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 00:18:00 +0000

As it was famously quoted,

“Compromise is for relationships, not wine.” – Sir Robert Scott Caywood

And, although we aren’t 100% sure exactly who he was, we totally agree. Which is why at Everything But Flowers we have searched high and low (and possibly sipped just a few….) to put together the perfect selection of next day wine gifts of only the most delectable drops.

And we haven’t compromised on delivery time either! Our fabulous range of wine gifts are ready and waiting to be dispatched, so you will have it just in time for your special occasion. With a huge variety to choose from, from the Chatto and Stars perfect for a casual BBQ offering (yes we have saved you from the frostbite after spending hours in the fridge aisle stressing over which brand of dips you should buy), to the romantic Heart to Heart with Cabernet gift to woo your lovely lady and a simple selection of award winning single bottles like the World Top 10 Champagne Gift , the Deep Woods Ebony Cabernet Shiraz Merlot and the Hahndorf Hill Pinot Grigio – there is definitely something for everyone. And lets face it, who can resist relaxing back with a chilled glass of chardonnay? (Tempted? Don’t worry, the end of the working day is almost over!).

Where wine is concerned, there really is no other gift that is so versatile. And even better, it is something that is meant to be shared, so if you have been longing for a sip of sauvignon, then you know just what to surprise your husband, wife, friend or flatmate with tonight!

SURPRISE its still sale time!!!! Next Day Gifts on Sale Now

eliza — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 02:24:24 +0000

If you thought the Christmas sales were well and truly over and the days of finding true bargains had disappeared for yet another year, think again!

Not sure what I’m talking about…? Well I’m going to let you in on a little secret. At Everything But Flowers you’ll find a huge range of our fabulous gifts, all on sale the entire year round!

From the absolutely delicious (and very addictive) Jelly Bean gift hamper (save $10!), to the Total Relaxation Gift Hamper (save $39), the Esky Beer Pack (save $37) and heaps more, you’ll find something for everyone!

And when you thought it couldn’t get even better, they are all ready and waiting to be dispatched the very next day, so your gift will arrive in no time at all! Saving time and money AND getting an awesome gift – you’ve found shopping Nirvana.

So forget waiting around longingly for the sales to start again, jump onto Everything But Flowers NOW and grab some fabulous gifts at even better prices.

Valentines Day Shopping as easy as ABC with the new Everything But Flowers Gift Finder!

Just Add a Squeeze of Lime – Unbeatable Beer and Spirit Gifts

eliza — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 04:26:56 +0000

To quote the one and only Homer Simpson, “Mmmmm Beeeeer….”

And he was definitely onto something – there is nothing better than taking the first sip of an ice-cold beer, or if like Homer you’re a true beer lover, opening your birthday present to find an esky full of all your favourite beers!

That’s why at Everything But Flowers we have embraced the Aussie beer culture and come up with a range of quirky and unique beer gifts that will have your recipient breaking out in drinking songs with delight! For the perfect gift for your man you cant really go wrong with an Esky beer pack or the Everything Australian Beer Hamper, both full of all his favourite beverages.

However if James Bonds famous “Shaken, not stirred” quote is more fitting and spirits more your style then the classy range of spirit inspired hampers should be your gifts of choice. The Scotch on the rocks and the Muscat dessert make great gifts for those with a palette for these more potent yet absolutely divine drops.

Whether you’re buying for a spirits gal or beer drinking guy, lager lady or gin loving gentleman, Everything But Flowers has a great selection of beer and spirit gifts each with their own special twist – all you will have to do is add the twist of fresh lime.

Valentines Day Shopping as easy as ABC with the new Everything But Flowers Gift Finder!

eliza — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 01:13:10 +0000

Just started dating and feel that a diamond ring might not be fitting but don’t know where to venture to find a cute Valentines treat? Want to surprise your best friend with a gorgeous gift to remind them just how special they are? Looking for a romantic gift for your lover that doesn’t entail the generic card and roses?

Lucky for you we have come up with a foolproof way to nail the perfect gift this Valentines that will make it appear you know your partner, friend or relative absolutely inside out!

The Everything But Flowers Gift Finder makes Valentines gift shopping even easier. Simply select who it is for, how much you want to spend, what type of gift you’re looking for – fun and flirty, unique and quirky, traditional and romantic, and…. Volia! You have the perfect gift.

You’ll be able to knock your partners socks off with a personal and romantic gift that appears to have had hours of thought poured into it, when really we have removed all the stress, done all the hard work, brain-racking and probably saved you a few packs of Neurofen in the process!

Don’t look at it as cheating, it’s more us at Everything But Flowers sharing the love and lending a helping hand, after all that’s what Valentines is all about, right?

Valentines Day Gifts they will Love to Love!

Marta — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 23:58:59 +0000

Valentines Day is just around the corner, and if you’ve been struck by Cupid’s arrow its time to start thinking about how your going to capture the love that’s all around.

But this doesn’t mean you have to go OTT! Even if you love your special one to the moon and back, stars and back and sun and back, it doesn’t mean you have to blow the dust of your cookbooks to try and whip up a 5-course gourmet degustation, set the smoke alarm off whilst attempting to become a soufflé master overnight, drape them in diamonds, stain the sheets with rose petals or make them cringe with another Hallmark poem. Remember it’s the simple things in life that make us smile, so a simple yet beautiful gift is the perfect way to show your someone special how much you care this Valentines.

We have selected only the sweetest and most unique Valentine’s day gifts that are the perfect way to spread your love! For something cute (and delicious) the chocolate filled Bucket of Love is sure to get a giggle. The Max Brenner Hug Mug set is a chocolate lovers dream and the Riedel Heart to Heart adds some adult sophistication with a gorgeous bottle Cabernet Sauvignon and some Valentines inspired glasses.

Pamper your man with the Men’s Pamper Pack or give him his three favourite things in the Make Fire, Cook Meat, Drink Beer hamper.

And remember Valentines is just as much about spreading the love to your friends and family. Whether you spoil them with Sweet Treats, take them on the Perfect Picnic or simply give them something to Unwind and Relax, we have something to suit everyone and make them feel warm on fuzzy on such a special day!

So forget the wilting roses and jump onto Everything But Flowers, where you’ll find a gift that to show that someone special that you love them like “the birds need the trees, a poet needs a pen and music needs a beat” (….sorry there had to be at least one cringe worthy quote, it is Valentines after all!)