Now that we finally have some great summer weather here in NYC, I thought I would give some quick gift ideas to all of you heading to a friends weekend house anytime soon. With many of us watching our budgets more than ever this year - you might not be renting that Hamptons share you have in the past. If that is the case, I'll bet you will be a guest of your friends who has a weekend retreat to call their own! If you are a guest for the weekend - don't forget that you must bring a small token of your appreciation for your host or hostess. While many people are favoring more practical gifts this year, don't forget that you should think of something your friend might not buy for themselves - but would really enjoy.
I have three companies that have very chic products that will appeal to a wide range of tastes.
KRIGLER -ESTABLISHED COGNAC - $59.00Krigler is a 5th generation perfumer that I have written about before. The collection of candles, parfum, and soaps are made in small batches in the company workshop near Grasse, France. The same techniques and formulas are employed today that were created by the Patriarch of the family over 100 years ago. The company re-launched the collection earlier this year in The Plaza Shoppes in New York City.
You can also order products on the company website. One of my favorite things in the collection is the Established Cognac Candle pictured. There is a great balance between sweet and musk in the cognac scent. You might think a candle is a cliche gift - however - these are so luxurious - they are unlike any your host has ever burned!
Visit the website www.Krigler.com or call 212-371-1122 to order your items today.
Next up is a collection of gifts that covers everything from platters to coasters to waste bins. John Derian is an interesting guy. 
JOHN DERIAN PAPERWEIGHT -$30.00 He has transformed the arts and crafts technique of decoupage into a designer application that can hold its own with any high end decoration. 
Celebrating 20 years, Mr. Derian has two shops in NYC on East 2nd street and also has a large selection available at Bergdorf Goodman on the coveted Decorative Home floor on 7. His stores are full of such unique items it is worth the trip downtown - even if you are visiting NY and located mid-town. When I left a very busy position last year at Chanel - a friend gave me my first piece from the collection - a paper weight that sits on my desk and inspires me every day! Click on John Derian above to visit the website.
Last but certainly not least, is a collection from the South of France that is guaranteed to charm any host or hostess the minute they open the package. Travaux En Cours (TEC for short) is a collection of home/ garden accessories that are chic and colorful and not covered with logos. 
TEC - HAND WOVEN STRAW TOTE - $150 AT B.G. What is so different about these aprons and totes are they are made from the finest fabrics from France and Italy, offered in bright happy colors, and are durable - as home products should be. Designed by two women living on the French Riviera who wanted chic accessories that they could wear while cooking, gardening, or running to the market.
Bergdorf Goodman has a selection of the super chic stone-washed aprons and this beautiful hand woven tote- perfect for a day at the beach or running to the market. The totes are available at BG in Blue, Pink, Chocolate, & White. A great gift for your hostess - giving her an excuse to grab her favorite magazine and beach towel and head for the surf! Call Berdorf Goodman at 212-558-1855 and ask for the Decorative Home department.
Remember, no matter which items you choose - your host will appreciate the gesture and that you gave him or her something they didn't know about already. Also keep in mind, you can spend a little more since you are saving money on that rental you didn't do! See you in the Hamptons!