Back to School at Jewish Gift Place!

Posted by Ulana Illiano on August 22nd, 2008 — in Symbolism | Click here to comment

A trip to your neighborhood Target will let you know that it’s back to school time again! For many, this means sending a son or daughter off to college for the first time. This can be a tough adjustment for everyone involved. Mom and Dad, who suddenly find the house just a little too quiet. The college freshman, who craved the freedom but never really anticipated how hard it would be to adjust to a whole new way of life.

Well, if your son or daughter is making that big step off to college this fall, or if your grandchild or nephew seems a bit reticent about being away from home, there is something you can do! By giving a parting gift that reminds your loved one of who they are and where they came from, you can help to make their adjustment to college just a little easier. Something to remind them that no matter where they go in life, they are loved and treasured. Something to make them feel protected and connected.

At Jewish Gift Place we always select items that are beautiful, but we also take pride in offering items that have meaning as well. Here are some items we think would make a lovely gift for that college bound student – a gift with sentiment and love.

A wall hamsa for the college dorm room would be a perfect way to make the recipient feel protected. The wall hamsa is an amulet of protection for the home. It symbolizes the hand of God and is, in all faiths, a protective sign. A wall hamsa can be hung on the wall or propped on a book shelf. Jewish Gift Place carries an extensive collection of beautiful wall hamsas handcrafted by artist Michal Golan.

If you love the idea of a hamsa but want something a little more personal, how about a hamsa necklace or pair of hamsa earrings? Whether hanging on the wall or worn on the body, a hamsa has the same protective meaning and will be a comfort to the person wearing it. No doubt your college rookie will feel like a pro wearing their hamsa necklace to their first college exam! They will feel like they can take on the world!

Jewish Gift Place also carries a large line of inspirational jewelry that can convey your heartfelt sentiment. Our Emily Rosenfeld Pewter Love Locket is the perfect way to show someone they are loved! Or, our J & I Incredible Tree of Life Necklace to remind someone that they have strong roots and you are giving them the wings to fly!

And, finally, what better way to remind them of who they are than to give them a sign of their faith? Reminding them of the responsibilities they have as Jewish men and women now that they are on their own as an adult. A Jewish star necklace would be the perfect symbolic gift or perhaps a mezuzah for their dorm room – a daily reminder of God’s love.

Transitions are always difficult but they are always a new beginning. Seeing them in this way and marking them with a special momento can create new traditions and evoke treasured memories.

So go ahead, shed a bittersweet tear or two, congratulate yourself on your success as a parent and take pride in the wonderful young adult you have just set free. The fun is just beginning!

Belts are Back in a Big Way!

Posted by Ulana Illiano on August 6th, 2008 — in Jewish Style | Click here to comment

For those of you who have been living under a rock for the last year – belts are back! Everywhere you look – magazines, movies, tv shows – belts are everywhere! These glorious accessories are a huge fashion statement and are expected to continue to be so through at least the summer of 2009.

Carrie Bradshaw got noticed wearing a belt throughout the new Sex and the City summer blockbuster – as did her chic gal pals.

Some of us have always appreciated belts – so this sudden revival comes as no surprise and feels more like a ‘so, what took you so long?’ Some of us are belt and belt buckle collectors – always looking for that new design to add to our collection. Well, whether you are a fashionista, a belt wearer from way back, or a collector of fine artisan crafted belt buckles, here at Jewish Gift Place we have some news that is sure to excite you!

This week we have added Jewish designer Michal Golan’s gorgeous line of belt buckles to our collection. They are simply stunning – meticulously handcrafted and decked out in Swarovski crystals and natural stones.

The belt buckles come in two different sizes – a smaller, more petite size for those of us who like to be noticed, but in an understated way. They also come in a larger, bolder size for those women who enjoy the ‘wow factor’ and, in many cases, suitable in design and size for a man. The belt buckles, which come along with a black or brown leather belt, are really versatile and can be worn dressed up to the nines at an art gallery opening or to a mommy and me class with your two year old. There is something here for everyone.

Buy one to congratulate yourself on a job well done at the office or for losing those last five baby pounds – you can see your waist now! Also think about these belts as bridesmaids gifts, birthday gifts, anniversary gifts, or for any occasion you’d like to show someone how special they are to you.

We hope you will take some time to check out the new collection of handcrafted belt buckles and please, let us know what you think! We think you will like what you see. Whether for yourself or a loved one, these belts will definitely be something that is reached for again and again to add that special ‘pop’ to an outfit that needs a lift!