Hello All. 2009 turned out to be our best year ever and as tradition would have it, ESSpa Kozmetika will be temporarily closing our doors from January 1st until January 10th to give our Staff some well-deserved time-off and allow us to continue to add to already unique and welcoming physical plant.

Here are some of the things that we will be working on during the break:

Adding a new treatment room.

Remodeling and repainting existing treatment rooms.

Upgrading all equipment in all treatment rooms.

Remodeling and upgrading the pedicure salon.

Upgrading our technology with the addition of new, high-speed computers, new phones and other new equipment to enhance guest relations and improve your ESSpa experience.

And there will surely be a few other additions that you will just have to keep an eye out for when we reopen next week.

Thank you again for a very successful 2009 and here is to an even more enchanting 2010.

Best Regards,

Eva and Scott Kerschbaumer

ESSpa Kozmetika Organic Skincare

17 Brilliant Avenue, Aspinwall, PA 15215, (412) 782-3888

www.esspa.net

Happy New Year!!

2010 looks like it’s off to a great start with many Sale on Sale coupon codes & discounts. Take advantage of the savings by shopping these sales today.

BANANA REPUBLIC

• Sale on Sale – Take an extra 20% off sale items for 3 days (ends 1.2.10) with “BREXTRA20″ at checkout.

DESIGNS BY STEPHENE

• 25% off all in stock styles store-wide for 4 days only with code “newyear2010″ at checkout.

DSW

• Take $20.10 off a $99 purchase through 1.4.10 with code “NYGIFT” at checkout.

HOBO BAGS

• Secret Sale – Shop the Pre-Sale and get pick plus 40% off with code “NYPRESALE” before the sale goes public. Valid through 1.4.10 at midnight.

We love the Melissa Patent Handbag in Shadow (also available in Black & Sangria) for $248, after Secret Pre-Sale coupon code only $148.80!

KIRNA ZABETE

• Enjoy an additional 10% off sale items with code “HAPPY2010″ through 1.7.10 @ 11:59 pm PST.

LA GARCONNE

• Sale on Sale – Take an additional 15% off all sale items (already marked at 50/60/70% off) with code “WINTER15″ at checkout through 11:59pm EST on 1.3.10.

NEIMAN MARCUS

• After Christmas Sale continues – get an extra 25% off already reduced prices. Receive free standard shipping when you use code “SHOPNM” in the promotion code box during check-out through 11:59pm CT on 1.4.10.

PANTIES REQUIRED

• Purchase $100 or more by 1.4.10 and receive a 30% off sitewide discount toward your next purchase.

PIPERLIME

• The Lime Tag Sale is still in full swing – shop women’s designer shoes, handbags, and apparel at up to 40% off.

SHE BOUTIQUE

• Sale on Sale – Take an additional 30% off all sale items through midnight CST on 1.1.10 with code “saleonsale”.

• Take 40% off with code “TAKE40″ at checkout through midnight 1.4.10.

URBAN OUTFITTERS

• Sale on Sale – Take an additional 25% off what’s already on sale! Discount will automatically appear in your cart. Offer ends 1.5..10 @ midnight.

This cute Silence & Noise Sequin Tee is only $26.25!

And these Seychelles Vamp Booties are a drop in the buck at $75!

I read today that the sixty-plus year American Television business model may soon be taking its final wretched gasps, a slow death that is taking too long for the likes of this viewer.

It’s called free TV but it’s really not very free. In fact, the cost appears to be much higher than many of the so-called pay channels and it’s not the programming because, as you know, both free and pay TV are equally guilty of subjecting the TV audience to a lot of nothing.

Free TV makes viewers pay by forcing them to endure endless cycles of sponsored ads. Sure, folks with TIVO and DVRs can help viewers skip over the torture but you have to pay to have them and that’s not very free.

Years ago there was a wider selection of TV ads and many were actually well written and quite creative. Now all the networks beat viewers over the head with a small handful of the same ads shown repeatedly over a short period of time. Most of the ads feature seizure-inducing jump cuts and often leave bewildered viewers wondering what the ad was actually trying to sell.

Do the company marketing managers who hire advertising firms actually believe these ads are effective?

Let’s take a moment and review this holiday season’s car and truck ads. First of all, who do you personally know that will be gifting a brand new vehicle during our little Recession? Probably none unless you happen to be one of the many Wall Streeter’s  who were nicely compensated once again for thrusting millions out of work but during the local six o’clock news, a mere 30 minutes, I was bombarded by the following;

• Lincoln’s “Wish List Sales Event”
• Audi’s “The Season of Audi Event”
• Nissan’s “A-Z Year End Sales Event”
• Kia’s “Year End Blowout Blitz” and “New Model Celebration”
• Hyundai’s “Hyundai Holidays”
• Ford’s “Year End Event”
• Lexus’ “December to Remember Event”
• BMW’s “Joy Sales Event”
• GMC Truck’s “Holiday Event”
• Acura’s “Drive Home Safely for the Holidays Event”
• Jeep’s “Seize the Day Year End Event”
• Chrysler’s “Year End Wrap Up”
• Honda’s “Happy Honda Days”

That’s thirteen (fourteen if you count Kia’s second ad) commercials, most of them “creatively” using the term “event”, in a mere half hour of TV programming.

I wondered how much marketing money was spent to not only produce these idiotically redundant ads but also to squeeze them together like a can of Acme sardines. Did these poor Bailout Recipients really believe this is effective marketing?

I’m sure the demographics all insist that it was the most effective type of ad and that the local news slot was the best time to air them.

These embarrassingly overpaid professionals simply wasted millions of advertising dollars while alienating their target audience.

All that money would have been more effectively spent simply by lowering the sticker price and letting folks know about the cuts through Facebook/Twitter and a few 15 second spots aired a half dozen times a day for a week.

Yes, the “events” are quite “eventless”. Perhaps someone on Madison Avenue will come up with an entirely new business model that actually requires a bit of quality creativity. Until then, I’ll just continue clicking the “Skip this ad” on my local news provider’s website. 

Women & Men

80’s PURPLE

• Save 20% sitewide with code “thankyou” at check-out through 1.4.10 @ 11:59pm PST.

BAD JOAN

• A Christmas gift from Bad Joan – take 10% off sitewide through Sunday (12.27) with code “XMAS10″ at checkout.

BANANA REPUBLIC

• Take an extra 15% off already reduced items with code “BREXTRA15″ at checkout through 12.27.

BASIC BOUTIQUE

• Take an additional 30% off with code “SAVEHUGE” through 12.28.09 @ midnight CST.

BCBG MAXAZRIA

• Take an additional 30% off all markdowns – no code necessary.

BEN SHERMAN

• Take 30% off button down shirts until 12.31 at 11:59pm EST.

BETSEY JOHNSON

• Take 25% off full-priced clothing with code “CHEERS” at checkout through 1.4.10
• Take 50% off Sale items with code “NEWYEAR” at checkout through 1.4.10

BROOKS BROTHERS

• The Semi-Annual Sale is going on now through 1.4.  You can save an extra 15% through 12.26- discount will be calculated at checkout.

CALVIN KLEIN

• No undies from Mom in your stocking this year? Then don’t miss the 25% off all underwear sale at Calvin Klein.

COUTURE CANDY

• Take 20% off sitewide (yes, SALE) with code “NEWYEAR” at checkout through 12.31.09.

DESIGNS BY STEPHENE

• New Year Sale 2010!25% Off all In Stock Styles with code “newyear2010″, plus Free Shipping over $100 through 1.2.10.

DOLCE VITA

• Shop the end of the year sale with savings up to 60%.

ELAINE TURNER

• Enjoy new markdowns at this fun handbags and accessories site.

EYE CANDY BUY CANDY

• 20% off sitewide with code “almost2010″ at checkout.

FORZIERI

• Post-Holiday Sale- enjoy savings upt o 50% off.

GAP

• Receive an extra 20% off all sale items through 12.27.  Use code “GAPEXTRA20″ at checkout.

JB and ME

• 25% off sitewide (and storewide if you’re in Holland, MI) with code “merry25″ at checkout.

J SHOES

• Receive 25% off your entire order plus a free leather cuff.  Use code “HOLIDAY” through 12.31.

KIRNA ZABETE

• Shop the 60% off winter sale going on now.

LAYLA GRACE

• Save 30% on Pine Cone Hill pajamas, robes and throws and get free shipping.  Use code”PCHTREAT” through 1.1.
• Save 40% on Pine Cone Hill Willow Knit Loungewear and get free shipping.  Use code “PCHWILLOW” through 1.1.
• These offers exclude sale items.

LINEA PELLE

• Shop Linea Pelle to save up to 50% at the Exclusive Dylan Sample Sale Event – Ends Midnight Sunday!

NEED SUPPLY

• New markdowns for guys and girls.

NORDSTROM

• Shop your favorite brands at the Half-Yearly Sale for men.
• Save up to 40% on winter styles for everyone.

PLAZA TOO

• Take an additional 25% off everything (including Sale) at their post-holiday Blitz! No code necessary – discount reflected at check-out.

PUMA

• Semi-Annual Sale – Shop the PUMA Semi-Annual Sale and receive up to 50% off selected merchandise!

REBECCA MINKOFF

• After Christmas Sale – To end the holiday season with extra cheer RM is holding their final sale of the year with prices you’ll adore, and to make it extra cheery they’re holding daily raffles (see Minkette.com for raffle details) and offering free ground shipping through 11:59 pm EST 12.29.09.

RILEE & LO

• 25% off all jewelry with code “2010″ at check-out through 1.4.10, plus free ground shipping on orders of $100 or more.

SINGER22

• Hundreds of new markdowns – save up to 90%, plus take an additional 20% off with code “EXTRA20″ at checkout through 1.3.10 @ 11:59pm PT.

SOIA & KYO

• Save 40% on Fall 2009 styles.

STANTON JAMES

• Take 20% off sitewide (yep, including Sale items) with code “take” at checkout!

THE TREND BOUTIQUE

• After Christmas Sale – Save 40-70% and enjoy fast & free shipping!

THOMAS PINK

• Save up to 40% off for men and women.

TORY BURCH

• Winter Sale – Take an additional 25% off all sale items.

URBAN MINX

• Take 20% off G-Star and Diesel with code “20DSTAR” at checkout.

Kids

BABY STAR

• Save up to 80% at the end of year sale.

BACK TO BASICS TOYS

• Take 15% off orders over $50 and get $5 flat-rate shipping. Use code “TOYSDEC9″ through 12/28.

CRAZY 8

• Shop the Semi-Annual Sale for up to 60% off.

• Save on select gear at the winter sale going on now.

HATLEY

• Boxing Day Sale: get 25% off the entire sale today only! Use code “BOX25″ at checkout on 12.26.
• Get 15% off pre-fall stock with code “HATSAVE15″ from 12.27.09–1.1.10.

MAGIC CABIN

• Save up to 50% in the clearance section.

NAARTJIE KIDS

• Find huge savings at the semi-annual sale.

TEA COLLECTION

• Semi-Annual Sale with savings up to 50% off.

THE LAND OF NOD

• Find savings of up to 50% at the Winter Wonder Sale.

Home/Gifts

COST PLUS WORLD MARKET

• Save 15% off your entire order (excludes furniture) with code “NWYRAFF” through 12.31.

GUMP’S

• Winter Sale- great finds for up to 60% off.

ROBERTA ROLLER RABBIT

• Shop the discontinued print sale and save up to 45% off through 1.31.

SUR LA TABLE

• Shop the Once A Year Sale and find your favorite kitchen and entertaining items for 20%-50% off.

THE COMPANY STORE

• Take an extra 10% off the entire clearance department which is already up to 75% off.  Use code “T9X10C” at checkout through 12.30.

THE CONTAINER STORE

• Closet in need of an overhaul?  Shop the annual Elfa Sale for 30% off.

Holiday Sales 2010 Holiday Sales 2010 gifts and ideas

SAVE 33%Great deal on ‘Canon Rebel XS 10.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens (Black)’ by Canon http://bit.ly/8QLgeZ

• 10.1-megapixel CMOS sensor captures enough detail for poster-size, photo-quality prints
• Large 2.5-inch LCD display; includes Canon’s EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lens
• DIGIC III image processor provides fast, accurate image processing; Live View Function
• EOS Integrated Cleaning system and Canon-designed Self Cleaning Sensor Unit, plus Dust Delete Data Detection in included software
• Stores images on SD/SDHC memory cards (not included)

• Product Dimensions: 4.9 x 3.8 x 2.4 inches ; 4.6 pounds
• Shipping Weight: 4 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Shipping: Currently, item can be shipped only within the U.S.
• ASIN: B001CBKJGG
• Item model number: XS Black
• Average Customer Review: // <![CDATA[// // <![CDATA[// 4.7 out of 5 stars See all reviews (169 customer reviews) // <![CDATA[//

  169 Reviews 5 star: (130) 4 star: (30) 3 star: (4) 2 star: (2) 1 star: (3) › See all 169 customer reviews…

• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #19 in Electronics

This whole series is brilliant.

FREE – UPGRADED – AND ON-TIME SHIPPING

Still shopping? Yeah, we are too. Don’t worry though – there are plenty of sites offering Free & Upgraded Shipping that will get your holiday gifts there in the (St.) Nick of time! By the way, we’ve combined all our categories (Women, Men, Kids, Beauty, Home & Gifts) on our home page to make shopping the deals easier for you.

7 FOR ALL MANKIND

• Free overnight shipping on orders over $175.  Use code “RUSH09″ at checkout.
• Check out their sale winter sale for up to 50% off.

ACRIMONY

• FREE Shipping on us! Place your order by 3pm (pst) on 12/23 and receive your package by Christmas. use code: freeship

AMAZON

You can find something for almost everyone at Amazon and with their Fast Shipping you still have time to get a great gift ordered and shipped to you before Christmas.

• Mon 12.21 – Standard Shipping Cut-off
• Tues 12.22 – Two Day Shipping Cut-off – order by 8pm PST
• Wed 12.23 – One Day Shipping Cut-off – order by 4:30pm PST

BETSEY JOHNSON

• Free Overnight Shipping on orders of $250 or more
• Take an additional 40% off clothing with code “SANTA09″ at check-out through 12.24.09. No word on whether you’ll get it in time for Christmas, but at 40% off who really cares?

BLUE NILE

Shop Last Minute Gifts & receive Free FedEx Overnight Christmas Delivery if you order by these deadlines & with code “GIFT49″ at checkout:

• Build Your Own Diamond Jewelry – order by 3pm EST Tuesday, 12.22.09
• Most Other Jewelry – order by 6pm EST Wednesday, 12.23.09

CALVIN KLEIN

• Shop Last Minute Gifts on Sale and today only enjoy 20% off all fragrances. Today (12.21) is also the last day for Free Ground Shipping & guaranteed delivery by 12.24.09.

CB2

• Free standard shipping ends Tuesday at noon on orders over $100.

CC SKYE

• 20% off your CC Skye jewelry order with code “iloveccskye”, plus Free upgrade for guaranteed delivery by 12.24.09.

eBAGS

• Last chance for 2nd Day Air Upgrade ends 12.21.09. You pay standard UPS Ground Shipping on your Quick Ship Gift items and they’ll upgrade the shipping to UPS 2nd Day Air for FREE!

GHIRARDELLI CHOCOLATE COMPANY

• Order today and get Free 2-Day Shipping for arrival before Chirstmas on select Last Minute Gifts that are on Sale too!

HOBO Handbags

• Enjoy Free 2-day shipping today & tomorrow (12.21 & 12.22) to ensure you receive your gifts before the holiday!

JACK SPADE

• Free overnight shipping on all orders of $100 or more.  Orders must be placed by 9PM tonight.

KIEHL’S

• Complimentary overnight shipping + 3 free samples on all orders over $75 or more placed by 12.21.09 with code “DELUXE” at check-out.

KITSEL

Pick your deal:

• Free USPS shipping on all orders over $30 with code “SEND” at checkout.
• Take 20% orders of $50 or more with code “HOLIDAY” at checkout.
• Coupons cannot be combined and cannot be used on furniture and jewelry.  Both offers expire on 12.22.

LINEA PELLE

• If you want to get it by Christmas, today is the last day!  Take advantage of the opportunity to get great gifts shipped for the holidays without having to pay extra for shipping!  SHOP Linea Pelle NOW – Hottest brand in Belts & Handbags

MAGIC CABIN

• Pay for standard shipping and they’ll upgrade your order to ship 2-day express with no extra charge.  Must order by 12.21 and ship express.

PINK MASCARA

• Free 2-Day Shipping on all orders over $200 with code “SHIPFREE” at checkout.

PIPERLIME

Tag Sale – Enjoy up to 40% off shoes, handbags, jewelry, apparel – women, men, girls, boys – so much on sale! Enjoy Free Shipping & Returns. For Holiday Delivery Guaranteed:

• Express – order by 3pm EST Monday, 12.21.09
• Next Day – order by 3pm EST Wednesday, 12.23.09

SIMPLY SOLES

• Get Free Expedited Shipping for Christmas on all orders over $199. Orders must be placed by noon on Wednesday, 12.23.09 for delivery before Christmas.

STEVE MADDEN

• 25% Off Entire Order $59.95 or More Plus Free EXPRESS Shipping with Code “WELOVEMADDEN25″ -  Now through 1.4.10.

URBAN OUTFITTERS

Why stress? Give an Urban Outfitters gift card – get FREE Guaranteed Holiday Delivery if you order by 10am 12.21.09. For Guaranteed Holiday Delivery Place Your Order by 10 AM EST On:

• 12/21 For FREE Standard Shipping
• 12/22 For 2-Day Shipping
• 12/23 For Overnight Shipping
• Free $10 Gift Card With $100 Purchase

JUST A BUNCH OF GREAT DEALS

We couldn’t resist sharing this list of coupon codes, discounts and holiday sales that are flooding our inbox – there are some amazing deals to be had!

BANANA REPUBLIC

• The Winter Sale has begun at Banana Republic! Hurry for the best selection. Ends 1.4.10.

BEAUTY.com

• Peter Thomas Roth up 75% off for a limited time. Order now and receive a free 20-count Un-Wrinkle Peel Pads with your order.

BLUE HEAVEN BOUTIQUE

• Take 25% off your order of $150 or more with code “GIFT25″ at checkout through 12.23.09 @ midnight CST.

COUTURE CANDY

• Take $50 off your order of $150 or more with code “CHRISTMAS” at checkout – offer good through 12.25.09.

E.L.F. COSMETICS

• 50% Off All Mineral Makeup On Purchases Between $20 and $100, Plus Bonus Free Upgrade To Express Shipping  with Code “50OFFPLUS”
• Spend $50 And Get A Free Starter Tools Kit with Code “ALLURTOOLS”
• Get a FREE 27 Piece Mini Makeup Kit With Any Purchase! Use code “LOYAL” thru 12.31

GENETIC DENIM

• Get 20% off your entire order at this hot premium denim line.  Use code “holiday20″ through 12.24.

HEELS.com

• Procrastination Sale! Save $50 OFF $180+ order with code “COOKIES” at checkout. HURRY! This Offer Expires Tuesday 12.22.09 at 6PM EST. Shop Today and get Free 2nd Day Shipping, plus Free Returns and 115% Price Protection.

KUSHIES BABY

• Take 15% off all orders until 12.23 + an extra 5% off for Kushies Facebook Fans.  Use code “facebookfans” at checkout.

LAYLA GRAYCE

• Save 10% storewide with code “LGSAVE10″ at checkout.
• Get 20% off Gift Certificates with code “goodidea” through 12.22.

SHOES.com

• LAST DAY – Take 20% off site wide with code “HOLIDAY20″ at checkout.
• Save 15% at shoes.com through the end of the year with promo code “SNOW”,  plus get Free Shipping! Valid through 12.31.09.

TOMS SHOES

• We feel like when you buy a pair (or 5 ) of TOMS Shoes you’re already getting a deal, because for every pair you purchase, TOMS will give a pair to a child in need. It’s called One for One. So buy a pair and you’ll be giving 2 gifts this year.

ULTA BEAUTY

• SAVE 20% on Smashbox, Too Faced, purminerals & more with code “24103″.

VINCE

• Save 40% in-stores and online on select men’s & women’s merchandise.

Gene Schulist, School-Pak, Inc

It’s getting a little rough out here as a small business.

First we have to fight off the big guys, Wal-Mart, KMart, Office Depot, Office Max, Staples, etc. You know you’re not getting the same prices as these guys. Plus, being a small business, you have no clout with insurance companies, elected officials, banks, government bodies, etc.

We just have to weather the storms and keep doing our best because, usually, it’s much better than the big guys.

But here comes one more way to get us.

Have you taken a look lately at what your bank is charging for processing your credit cards? Those rates are way out of line.

Someone used a Visa card? OK, how about 2.4 percent of the sale going back to the credit card company. Wait a minute. They actually used a “Rewards” card? OK, how about 2.55 percent of the purchase price. No, they used a “Rewards” card with their dog’s picture on it. How about 2.62 percent?

Get the picture?

Not only do they charge the customer up to 29 percent interest for their purchase, but they charge you too! So you lose even more on your “sale” price you went to so you could compete against Wal-Mart. Do you think they pay the same rate? Are there aliens walking around Roswell?

Dealing with schools are even harder. 68 percent of every dollar spent at a local store stays in the community. Only 32 percent of dollars spent at Wal-Mart (or other big chain stores) stay in the community. The other 36 percent are on the train to Wal-Mart offices in Arkansas.

The Obama administration is looking at ways to help small businesses. Perhaps finding a way that all businesses are treated equally. I know that people are treated that way under the Constitution (or at least are supposed to be). Shouldn’t small business people be treated that way as well?

That means the same tax breaks, employment laws, purchasing power, price protection, free shipping, etc. should come to us as it does to KMart or Target. I’d love to compete on a level playing ground. How about you?

Okay, after our long weekend off, were ready to hit you with a good list of sales going on. Now that it’s actually time to start thinking about your holiday shopping, here are some places to find goods for family, friends, or yourself.

Reiss Peak Lapel Tuxedo, $483

First, we want to point you to one of our favorite brands, Reiss, and their 50% off sale. They have a great European aesthetic without going overboard. Currently, you can snag yourself a gorgeous peak lapel tuxedo for $483 and their killer overnight bag for $200.

Next, it’s always worth checking out some of your go-to guys as they always have some good deals around the holidays. Ralph Lauren is offering up to 40% off most of its stocks online, with plenty of deals to be had in stores, as well. You can get a great cashmere knit tie for $70 or their gorgeous wool-angora three-piece suit for a mere $1,199. J. Crew always has a deal to be had online, which is nice for all of us that aren’t quite ready to buy our buddy a Ralph Lauren three-piece suit for Christmas. You can get tons of simple pieces, like their slim-fit crewnecks for $20, a simple swallow motif tie for $40, or a wool-cashmere jersey v-neck for $55.

Ralph Lauren Double-Breasted Blazer, $800

In the world of department stores there are also some deals to be had. Barney’s is currently taking 40% off of a lot of great merchandise, both in-stores and online. Bloomies is also chopping up to 40% off plenty of stock both in stores and online just in time for the holidays. Bergdorf is also giving a 40% discount off of their 3rd floor contemporary stock. Finally, Saks is taking off a modest 25%, but look for that to escalate a bit over the next few weeks.

Common Projects Achilles, $166

Finally, there’s always Gilt Groupe. Today they’re having a great Ralph Lauren sale as well as Dunhill accessories, Jack Spade bags and ties, Tim Hamilton clothing, and some affordable stuff by American Apparel. Tomorrow they’ll be hosting Hickey and Steven Alan, with Marc Jacobs Collection, Parke and Ronen, and Rogan on Friday. Here’s your invitation to Gilt Man. Also on the horizon is the Jetsetter sale for the gorgeous Gramarcy Park Hotel in New York, if you’re looking for a proper night out in the city over the month or two. Here’s your invitation to Jetsetter.

ACRIMONY

• Free Super Sunglasses (value $150) with any $200 purchase. Styles are chosen randomly – offer expires 12.24.09 or when quantities run out!

ARMANI EXCHANGE

• Take $50 off all orders of $150 or more through 12.21.09.

BLUE HEAVEN BOUTIQUE

• Take an additional 40% off select SALE items (that means they’re already reduced!) with code “SALE40″ at checkout.

CALVIN KLEIN

• Calvin Klein Fragrance Gift Sets – starting at $34 for men & women!
• Up to 50% off Holiday Gifts
• 20% off the Home Collection – including bedding, down and tabletop.
• SALE – additional markdowns taken. Now up to 50% off!
• All men’s & women’s Puffer Coats only $79.99 + free shipping!

CASTOR & POLLUX

• Take 20% off your entire order with code “CPHOLIDAY” through 12.18.09.

CHARM & CHAIN

• 25% off all purchases with “Blingle09″ through 12.25.09

DESIGNS BY STEPHENE

• Take 20% off all in stock merchandise with code “christmas2009″, plus Free Shipping on orders over $100 through 12.25.09.

DJ PREMIUM

• Take 35% off stocking stuffers for her and him with code “1HVoC2″ through 12.20.09

DOGEARED

• 20% off your order with code “GB2009″ + Free Priority Shipping = Great gift gets to you on time for Christmas!

eBAGS

• Enjoy an EXTRA 20% OFF plus FREE SHIPPING ($100 minimum purchase) with code “EMBESTBACK” through 12.17.09. Order by midnight 12.17 for guaranteed delivery by 12.24.

ELLA MOSS

• Shop the 12 Days of Ella for a great deal every day through Christmas Eve! Plus Free Shipping!

ENDLESS

• 40% off thousands of accessories – bags, sunglasses, travel and more with code “EXTRA40OFF” at checkout. Ends Wednesday 12.16.09 – Don’t miss out on another great sale at Endless!
• Take $25 off your $100 order with code “25OFFHOL”
• Take $50 off your $200 order with code “50OFFHOL”

FARFETCH

• Shop The Private Sale with up to 40% off Farfetch’s 40 European & US boutiques featuring over 400 designers…all on 1 website.

FREE PEOPLE

• Free Shipping on all orders over $150 through Thursday, 12.24.09.  Discount will automatically be applied during checkout!

GORJANA – 12.16.09 ONLY!!

• 25% off sitewide with code “HOLIDAY09″ at checkout + free shipping & delivery by 12.23.09!

IVY BLUE

• Get a $20 gift card with every $100 spent. No code necessary, valid through all purchases made between 12.14 – 12.21.

KARMALOOP

• 30% OFF all regular and sale items with code “TIMEOUT” at check-out.
• 20% OFF entire order with code “GOLDSTAR”, good until 12.31.09
• KARMALOOP HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE! Check out these great gift ideas, picked by the Karmaloop buying team!
• KARMALOOP Buy One Get One Free! Now through the holidays: Buy a gift certificate for someone else, get a second for yourself for free!

KATE SPADE

• Great gifts starting at $20 and free shipping.

LINEA PELLE

• $15 off orders of $90 or more with code “15YES” through 12.22.09
• $25 off orders of $135 or more with code “25YES” through 12.22.09
• 20% off your entire order  with code “TWENTY” through 12.22.09
• Get Great Gifts for Under $50 at LPCollection.com

MALUKA

• Take 30% off your order with code “SPARKLE” at checkout through 12.22.09

NATIONAL JEAN COMPANY – 12.16.09 Only!

• Rush Sale – Take 20% off your order with code “HOLIDAYRUSH” and it’s guaranteed delivery by Christmas!

NICOLE MILLER

• 50% off sale & complimentary shipping.

NIMLI

• 40% off Nixxi or Deux FM with codes “NIXXI40″ or DEUX40″ at checkout through 12.22.09

NORDSTROM

• The deals keep coming from Nordstrom! Sweaters for Her starting at $39!
• Plus 40% off women’s selected styles in handbags & accessories, shoes, and apparel!
• Beauty Under $35: Hot Gifts & Stocking Stuffers + $5 Shipping

OLD NAVY

• This Week’s Holi-Deals: Cozy sleepwear starting at $7!

OMELLE

• Shop the 50% off Friends & Family Sale at luxury footwear headquarters, Omelle.

PINK MASCARA

• Take 20% off your order of $250 or more with code “GIFTFORYOU” at checkout.

PIPERLIME

• Boots Under $100!
• Shop Kristen Bell’s Holiday Picks

RON HERMAN

• The Dress & Skirt Sale – Dress up the holidays with 50% off select dresses & skirts at Ron Herman through 12.25.09, plus free shipping!
• 50% off Accessory Sale

SHOP INTUITION

• Don’t miss your last chance to order Shop Intuition’s Ultimate Hollywood Holiday Gifts Under $100. Place order by 12.17.09 to receive order by 12.24.09.

SHOP ROBERTSON

• Take 20% off your order of up to $150 with code “GG20″
• Take 30% off your order of $151 or more with code “GG30″

URBAN OUTFITTERS

• Free Shipping is Extended! Get Free Shipping on  your order of $75 or more with code “OHJOY” through 12.18.09 at midnight EST. Excludes Bikes, furniture, and electronics.
• 40% Off Holiday items while supplies last!

VERONICA M. CLOTHING

• 25% off site wide sale with code “WINTER09″ at checkout.

VINCE

• 40% off select merchandise sale – starts 12.18.09!

6PM.com – Weekly Deals through 12.18.09

• L-R-G Apparel- All Styles 75% off This Week!
• Spy Optic Eyewear- All Styles $29.95 This Week!
• Betsey Johnson and Betseyville- Apparel and Accessories 60% off All Styles, Bags and Footwear All Styles 80% off This Week
• The North Face- Footwear, Accessories, Bags and More All Styles 40% off This Week!
• Marc by Marc Jacobs- Footwear, Accessories, Bags and More All Styles 60% off This Week!
• La Canadienne Footwear- All Styles 75% off This Week!
• Nike – Apparel, Footwear, Accessories All Styles 60% off This Week!

Sincerely,
Eva and Scott Kerschbaumer
ESSpa Kozmetika Organic Skincare

A poll conducted in October by The Associated Press and Petside.com, an Internet pet store and veterinary Web site, found that even though 93 percent of Americans said they would spend less than last year on holiday gifts, or about the same as a year ago, 52 percent of pet owners planned to buy their animals a holiday gift — up from 43 percent last year.

A strong start to the holiday shopping season helped push retail sales up nearly twice as much as expected in November, the government said Friday, signaling that consumers may be opening their wallets even in the face of a grim job market.

From personal health stores to electronics boutiques, sales were up last month, rising….

Read the full story here….

Well, that is really good news. On Nov. 13, I wrote that there is a very good likelihood that retail holiday sales this year will be better this year than last. This is a view not shared by NRF, though I would stick to it. That has been the trend so far and I think it is going to continue through the rest of the season. When compared to November, 2008, this month’s numbers are up by 1.9%! Click here for the news release from the bureau.

The best part is that while the total retail sales rose by 1.3%, most of the rise happens to be the real retail, as in without the autos. Autos did not contribute heavily to this number so that the retail without autos rose 1.2%. However, autos sales rose as well by 2.0% (6.7% over November 2008 numbers).

All in all, a definite up-trend.

Friday December 11th will be the 2nd annual Big 100 Show.  It’s like this 100 artists did 20 pieces for this monster.  The line up of artists is enough to make any collector’s wallet open and eyes water! Every piece in the show is going for $30!  $30, and $10 of it goes to the Oregon Food Bank!   Come by if you are ready for a bad ass time.  It will be at the Olympic Mills Commerce Building here in lovely SE Portland.  For more details and the full line up, check : http://portlandcityart.org/2009/10/12/big-100-art-show/

On Saturday and Sunday I will be downtown at the p:ear Gallery for their annual Art Sale/Swap and benifit.  15 % of artist’s sales go directly to p:ear.  They do amazing work mentoring creative homeless youth.  The have a very special place in my heart so come by and support.

Crafty Wonderland is also holding their monster amazing sale this weekend.  A bunch of my favorite people will be down there selling thier hand mades.  Hungry Eyeball will be down there selling a bunch of fantastic art from local artists, and will have some of my work as well as: Jason Graham, APAK, Bwanna Spoons, Justin “Scrappers” Morrison, and a ton of other awesome folks.  Hit them up.

So yeah, if you are in Portland, and by the end of the weekend don’t have your holiday shopping done, you’ve missed.  xooxox Heidi

The holiday book sale is scheduled the following  weekend on Saturday December 19th from 10 am to 5 pm, and Sunday December 20th from 1 pm to 4 pm at the Union City Library’s Meeting Room.   If you are a member of the Friends of the Union City Library, you have a privilege to preview at 9 am on the Saturday.

Just like before, there will be a good selection of books, DVDs,  CDs, videotapes, and even games that cover many genres for you to browse.  There will also be many, many VHS in different community languages such as Punjabi, Spanish … etc.  Since we are trying to get most of the items going home with you, the prices will be unbelievable good.

Mark your calendar and make some effort to be here.  There are treasures waiting for you. 

This is dedicated to all the businesses who deal with crazy customers day in and out and especially during the holiday season!! Enjoy!

80’s PURPLE

• Holiday Gift Guide – Shop Nixon, Ray-Ban, Cult Classic, Obey, Diesel, Report Signature.
• 15% off your first purchase with code “80snewbie” at 80’s Purple.

BANANA REPUBLIC

• 20% off $100 with code “BRHOL20″ through 12.13.09!

CALVIN KLEIN

• Ends Today – 40% off everything! Shop now to take advantage of the HUGE savings.

DJ PREMIUM

• Spend $200 and get 25% off your order with code “1HN9Ki” through 12.11.09.

• Spend $500 and get 35% off your order with code “1HQ2SY” through 12.11.09.

DOGEARED

• Free Priority Shipping through 12.17.09 – Don’t Miss It! Shop Dogeared’s Perfect Holiday Gifts section for hip, beautiful, and positive gifts.
• Shop for Her  – Gifts under $25
• 20% off with code “NDCJ2009″.

ENDLESS

• Today Only! 40% off Bearpaw Boots & Slippers at Endless.com today only. Discount taken at checkout, no code necessary.

ETSY

• 80 Gifts Under $50 – unique and handmade gifts.

We think these Hibiscus Slipon Coasters are genius. Set of 6, $24.

HOBO INTERNATIONAL

• Gift with purchase – shop now and receive a free gift with any purchase over $75! Hurry…supplies are limited and offer is good through orders placed through 12.15.09 only!

INTERMIX

• Sale on Sale!! Take an additional 25% off all sale items with code “SALE25″ at checkout through 12.17.09.

INTUITION

• Shop Intuition’s Hollywood Holiday Gift Guide where everything is under $100! They have a fun selection of chain jewelry, as seen on stylish celebs like Jessica Alba, Kristen Stewart, & Kim Kardashian, all for less than $50!

JOSEF BOUTIQUE

• 20% off your order with code “peacelove20″ at checkout through 12.31.09. Shop Wren, Twinkle by Wenlan, Found Denim, Yoana Baraschi, and more.

KARMALOOP

• GET 25% OFF all Regular and Sale Items 48 Hours Only with code “GOT25″!

• SPEND OVER $55 get 25% OFF any Regular or Sale item + Get a $20 OFF gift cert mailed to you for your next order! Shop Karmaloop’s NEW ARRIVALS from Mishka, RVCA, Joyrich, BLVCK SCVLE, 10 DEEP, CROOKS & CASTLES, LRG, SOCIETY, VGB, OBEY, Orisue, Sons of Liberty, Commune, ROCKSMITH, Creative Rec, CREEP STREET, Dorsia, Coal, Android Homme, Triumvir, Know1edge, G-Shock, Amongst Friends, Neff, Gourmet, Dissizit, Artful.

• Check it out! Customers can get free shipping on all orders with code “CRZY8″. And, 20% OFF orders of $75 or more with code “ONBLAST”.

LINEA PELLE

• Spend $250 and get a free small Agenda.
• Spend $500+ and take $100 off your order with code “ONEHUNDRED”.

MOUNTAINS OF THE MOON

• Free $20 Gift Certificate + 25% off at one of our favorite new eco-fashion outposts. That’s right, take 25% off your entire order  through Thursday 12.10.09 with code “HAPPYHOLIDAYS09″. Plus, the first fifteen customers who place orders over $50 will also receive a special gift :  A $20 Gift Certificate to use toward a future purchase or to give away, absolutely free.  Get shopping now!

NINE WEST

• Take 30% – 50% off select styles through 12.31.09.

• FREE STANDARD SHIPPING when you order by noon on 12.17  (you’ll receive your order by 12.24!)

NORDSTROM

• Wool Coats Under $100! Shop these colorful wool coats – they’re a “can’t miss” gift, especially at less than $100.
• Premium Denim for $88
• Gifts under $25 – Perfect stocking stuffers from a range of fabulously priced beauty favorites & cozy essentials at NORDSTROM.

OLD NAVY

• 60 gifts under $6!!! – Shop select styles while supplies last through 12.13.09.

PIPERLIME

• Get great gifts under $75 – or everyone on your list at Piperlime! Shop now while supplies last!

PLAZA TOO

• Shop the Plaza Too gift guide! Check the new kicks in the Under $50 section!

RILEE & LO

• 20% off all jewelry with code “GIFT” at check-out through 12.9.09 at midnight.

SIMPLY SOLES

• Check out Simple Soles Gifts We Love Under $100 and check a few more names off your shopping list!

STARS + INFINITE DARKNESS

• Biggest Sale Ever – Over 50 designer collections are on sale, hundreds of items – clothing, jewelry, gifts, swimwear, handbags, accessories, and more. Shop now to receive them in time for the holidays!

TOUTE LA NUIT LOUNGEWEAR

• 50% off 100% silk charmeuse nighties all week, plus free gift box & $5 flat rate shipping.

Since my fiance won’t let me get a dog for Christmas, I kind of want a Zhu Zhu Pet. Apparently, these little guys just cannot stay on the shelves. Too bad I just heard about them now. And if you are wondering, the answer is yes. I did have a Furby. His name was Coco.

Much like the Furby craze of the late 90’s, Zhu Zhu Pets are stealing the hearts of children everywhere and the lives of their parents. Good news is that these little furry bundles of joy are only $7.99, well unless you are one of those jerks on Amazon.com or Ebay. Give me a break. $40 smackaroos for a little fluffball on wheels? Pass. Can’t say I didn’t take a second look at the one for $30 though..

I am so interested in how we all come to decide on that token toy every year for Christmas. Was Tickle-Me-Elmo really that funny? Yeah, you right. He was pretty legit. Apparently all it takes is just having a few kids tell you what toy they like the best and then it’s like BOOM! Little mechanical rats are 40 bucks. I really don’t feel like Cepia, the company that produces the Zhu Zhu pets, has that great of a PR campaign for them. So what really does it? Are people just spreading this word of mouth? The local news? Blogs? What is it? Because I follow the news and I just heard about these today!

Anybody got a Zhu Zhu Pet they wanna sell me for like $20?