Category Archives: celebrations

Bake Cookies Day! And A Bloggy Tea Party!

Guess what we’ve been upto? It revolves around an oven, smells divine and can create instant, edible happiness! Yes, you guessed right, we’ve been baking up a storm and crafting gorgeous edible bouquets here at Con Affetto, but we decided to hop in here for a bit to wish all of you a Very Happy Bake Cookies Day! Yup, December 18 is Bake Cookies Day all over the world and what better time to celebrate baking and cookies than a week before Christmas?

It's bake cookies day and we're celebrating cookies, baking and edible bouquets at Con Affetto

Celebrate all things Cookie on Bake Cookies Day!

If you needed just that extra nudge to get your Christmas baking done, today is a great day to put on those oven mitts πŸ˜‰ It’s also a special day for us here at Con Affetto because it’s been nearly three months since we started this blog! Yes, it’s almost time for our three month bloggy birthday πŸ˜‰ and what better day to commemorate the occasion than Bake Cookies day? So we’ve decided to celebrate by having our very own Con Affetto Virtual Tea Party…

It's bake cookies day and we're celebrating cookies, baking and edible bouquets at Con Affetto

It’s Bake Cookies Day and we’re having a Bloggy Tea Party!

..aaannd everyone’s invited! So come on over, pull up a chair and pour yourself a cup of tea! Or hot chocolate, whatever rocks your cup πŸ˜‰

It's bake cookies day and we're celebrating cookies, baking and edible bouquets at Con Affetto

Cookies and hot chocolate; the perfect way to celebrate Bake Cookies Day :)

Comfortable? Let’s begin by telling you what we have in store for YOU on the blog. It’s been a fabulously fun journey so far, and you, our blog readers are what truly makes it rock. So while we were busy baking and crafting up some awesome edible blooms in the Con Affetto kitchen, we were also thinking up some fun stuff for the blog! Stuff that you can share! Are you ready to hear this? Help yourself to a cake pop first!

Our edible bouquets come in a wide assortment of products and flavours

Dig into a cake pop!

The thing is, we’re truly passionate about all things baking & blooming – we’re not known as the Blissed Out Bakeristas for nothing πŸ˜‰– and if there’s one thing we love almost as much as baking & edible bouquets, its blogging about them! We’ve also noticed that when we’re looking for something baking related, we often have to launch into a massive web trawl to find what we’re looking for, especially in the Indian context. Which is when it struck us! We could use our little space in the sunny web to blog about what we’re passionate about while also reaching out to others like us! What we want to do is make this space a haven for those who, like us, love baking.

So whether it’s recipes; baking hacks; tips and tricks; a look at baking reviews or equipment; discussions about the latest baking trends; or even features with bakers (of the celebrity as well as the home baker kind), we plan to cover it all.


A ready reckoner of all things baking, if you will. Like it? Have a slice of cake :)

It's bake cookies day and we're celebrating cookies, baking and edible bouquets at Con Affetto

Sit back, relax and enjoy our bloggy tea party :)

And of course, because we’re all about gifting and relationships too; we do plan to keep some great blogging in that space coming your way as well, along with some really funky features about life on the Con Affetto side. Plus there’s going to be loads of fun stuff as well, so watch this space!! :) You like? Help yourself to some more chai!

It's bake cookies day and we're celebrating cookies, baking and edible bouquets at Con Affetto

Drowning in tea and buttery cookies is the best way to spend a winter afternoon :)

And then tell us, what would YOU like to hear more about from us? Recipes? More about our products? Serious baking dilemmas you want answered? Questions on where to get the best snickerdoodle cookies in Delhi? Reviews of the best bakery in Mumbai? Whatever it is, bring it on! Here’s to much more happy baking…and fabulous blogging! :)

It's bake cookies day and we're celebrating cookies, baking and edible bouquets at Con Affetto

A chai-cookie toast to baking, edible bouquets and blogging this Bake Cookies Day!

We’re going to leave you with one of our favourite cookie recipes; we really can’t think of a better gift for Bake Cookies day :) Enjoy!

It's bake cookies day and we're celebrating cookies, baking and edible bouquets at Con Affetto. Try Con Affetto's Easy Christmas Cookies recipe.

Related: How To Bake The Perfect Brownie; 8 Must Know Hacks

Con Affetto’s Incredibly Funky Christmas Gift Ideas

It’s that time of the year when even the regular store round the corner looks a little magical with its collection of festive looking Christmas trees and X’Massy decorations. Yup, Christmas is upon us and there’s an air of festivity all around that makes you want to burst into a cheery Christmas carol! If you’re like the rest of us, it’s also the time when you start worrying about Christmas gifts. Apart from the joy of playing Santa and picking out the perfect Christmas gifts for friends and family, Christmas is also a good time to gift those you may have missed out during the rest of the year (Ooops!).Β  But before you start frantically Googling the best online flower and cake delivery options in your locality- STOP! Sure, Christmas is about cake, but why not banish the regular and gift something incredibly unique this Christmas? Read on for our carefully curated selection of fabulous and funky Christmas gift ideas that will make even Santa turn green with envy πŸ˜‰

Fabulously Funky Christmas Gift Ideas For Him

We’re yet to meet the man who isn’t fascinated with The Game of Thrones, the medieval fantasy epic of kings, queens, thrones and dragons. Help him celebrate Christmas and his own personal fantasies πŸ˜‰ with this very cool personalized Game of Thrones Flask. Perfect for long nights, favourite drinks or just making a statement!

A funky Christmas gift idea for Game of Throne lovers

A funky Christmas gift idea for dragon lovers ;)

Pair it with our Golden Moments cupcake bouquet; the perfect way to celebrate the golden moments from the year gone by.

Funky Christmas gift ideas, gift Con Affetto's edible bouquets

#giftediblebouquets Golden Moments Cupcake Bouquet

Incredibly Funky Christmas Gift Ideas For Her

Has she ever complained that your gifts aren’t meaningful enough? Surprise her this Christmas with the most meaningful gift idea ever! This customized fingerprint necklace in sterling silver, engraved with a message of your choice will ensure you (and your words) stay close to her heart forever.

A funky Christmas gift idea for the special woman in your life

A unique, meaningful gift she will surely cherish for many more Christmases! :)

Pair it with some Purple Love, our exclusive satin drenched edible bouquet of hand crafted cake truffles.

Funky Christmas gift ideas, gift Con Affetto's edible bouquets

#giftediblebouquets Con Affetto’s Purple Love Hand Crafted Cake Truffles

Unique and Funky Christmas Gift Ideas For Couples

Everyone knows at least one made for each other couple. The sort that completes each others sentences, laughs at the same jokes and even manages to have perfectly coordinated eye rolls! Celebrate their perfectly in sync love with these oh-so-cool customized couple magnets.

One of our funky Christmas gift ideas for couples, personalized couples magnets

Incredibly funky Christmas gift for the made-for-each other sort!

Pair it with our Ballerina cake pop bouquet, an ode to tender, sweet love.

Funky Christmas gift ideas, gift Con Affetto's edible bouquets

#giftediblebouquets Con Affetto’s Ballerina Cake Pop Bouquet

Unique Christmas Gift Ideas For Kids

Know a young ‘un who loves and lives Harry Potter and secretly wishes for the life of Hogwarts, Quidditch and disdainful looking down of muggles? Look no further for the perfect Christmas gift idea- a personalized Hogwarts bobblehead doll- no less :) (This one is a good bet for Harry Potter loving grown ups too- we know quite a few!)

One of our funky Christmas gift ideas for Harry Potter fans, customized Hogwarts bobblehead dolls

A funky Christmas gift for Harry Potter fans!

Pair it with a selection of our fun and fabulous cake pops and cookie wands.

Funky Christmas gift ideas, gift Con Affetto's edible bouquets

#giftediblebouquets Con Affetto’s Cookie Wands & Cake Pops

Meaningful and Unique Christmas Gift Ideas For Parents

Gifting can be tricky when it comes to the older generation but we can bet you’ll hit the sweet spot with this unique Christmas gift idea; a personalized family print that can immortalize your near and dear ones in the most incredibly fun way possible! You can even bung in a fictitious character for the fun of it πŸ˜‰ – or maybe use this creatively when you want to make that happy β€œyou’re going to be grandparents” announcement!

One of our funky Christmas gift ideas for parents, customized family prints

Charm your parents this Christmas with these personalized family prints!

Pair it with some Hello Sunshine; little pieces of sunshine crafted into a cakepop bouquet: the perfectly sun-shiny way to brighten up their sunset years :)

Funky Christmas gift ideas, gift Con Affetto's edible bouquets

#giftediblebouquets Con Affetto’s Hello Sunshine Cakepop Bouquet

We hope you’re feeling inspired by our incredibly funky Christmas gift ideas! Don’t forget to write in to us with what’s on your shopping list this season! Merry X’mas- and happy shopping!

5 Life Skills You Learn When You Have an Elder Brother

They can be incredibly sweet…and shockingly sour; heartbreakingly cute…and irritatingly sticky! Yup, elder brothers are a lot like candy! But whether they’re making you go ‘awwwww’ and turning you into a pile of mush (in a good way!) or making you tear your hair out in frustration (like literally!); one thing you gotta admit, you do end up learning a lot thanks to them. Its Bhai Dooj week and we’ve been musing about the unique bond between sisters and their big brothers :) One thing’s for sure, there are a few inevitable life skills you will learn (whether you like it or not!) if you have an elder brother:

Life skill you learn when you have an elder brother #1: How to grow a verrry thick skin

β€œGirls are disgusting…and you’re the worst of the lot!” β€œYou’re $#@#$$ (insert choice of adjective: ugly/ stinky/ fat/ a pile of poop)!” If you have an elder brother, you’ve been there, heard that. From being teased mercilessly, to being picked on endlessly, the favourite butt of all his (totally crass) jokes is you!

A life skill you will learn with an elder brother is how to take all sorts of teasing in your stride

You’re his FAVOURITE! The favourite butt of his jokes that is ;)

What this teaches you is priceless: how to grow a very thick skin and get on with the program. Sensitive cry baby you certainly are not and you got big bro to thank for that; as a bonus you also develop a very high threshold for tolerating terrible jokes!

Life skill you learn when you have an elder brother #2: How to be a tough cookie

Those wrestling matches that were an integral part of your childhood? The ones you always lost because big bro was well, bigger and stronger? They may have ended in tears at the time but they’ve gone a long way in making you toughen up. You learn to stay strong and won’t give up easily; well not without a fight at least!

An elder brother will teach you how to be physically stronger even if it is the hard way

He’s gonna toughen you up!

And hey, all that wrestling did teach you how to pull a few punches, both literally and figuratively!

Life skill you learn when you have an elder brother #3: How to skate (or dance) circles around bosses and bullies

Elder brothers are bossy. And bullies. Period. Okay, so they may not always be bossy or bullying the daylights out of you but more often than not they will. It’s ingrained in their DNA. Elder brother, remember? With elder being the operative word. And boy, do they take that seriously!

An elder brother will teach you how to handle bullying and bossing later in life as well

A different kind of Big Boss!

So what’re you gonna do? You’ll just have to learn how to live with it! And that’s going to come in incredibly handy later in life when you have to deal with bullies, which you will.

Life skill you learn when you have an elder brother #4: You’ll have a better understanding of them creatures from Mars πŸ˜‰

Yeah, even your stinky brother is going to grow up into a real (pun intended) man someday. And since you have no choice but to grow up together, spending all that time with him is going to teach you some invaluable life lessons about men in general.

An elder brother will teach you how to understand men better

Big Bro 101: A lifelong understanding of men

Like how they get less gross with time (or at least learn how to cover it up better), the best ways to communicate with them (even with a TV and video games competing with you) and how they can sometimes really get you. Mucho helpful when you deal with men later in life, trust us!

Life skill you learn when you have an elder brother #5: You learn that no matter what, someone always has your back

He might hold his nose when you walk past, always make fun of your hair and you’ll never be cool enough to hang out with him and his friends. But at the end of the day, this guy loves you (he does, he does!) and you know that no matter what he will always have your back– just watch out for that kick he’s aiming at your butt!

An elder brother will be there for you no matter what

He’ll always have your back!

When push comes to shove, you can depend on him and he will bail you out. Just be prepared to endure the never ending lecture about ‘how he told you so’ for the rest of your life!

Got any stories about your infuriating, crazy, yet totally endearing big bro? Tell us! And don’t forget to pick out a bro bouquet for him this Bhai Dooj, coz like they say, in the cookies of life, brothers are the chocolate chips :)

5 Diwali Dessert Recipes With A Twist!

Who doesn’t love a good twist in the tale? From Bollywod fusion hip hop to a little Mexican fusion in our Indian khaana, we want something hatke (a little like us πŸ˜‰ after all we are all about unique and quirky gift ideas)! So can Diwali dessert recipes be far behind? β€œWe’re bored of the same old laddoos and barfis every year!” is a common complaint come Diwali; leading to a spate of traditional Diwali recipes getting all sorts of funky makeovers. The result is melt in your mouth Diwali delights; your traditional Diwali dessert recipes in a never seen before avatar! We decided to make your Diwali preps a little easier this year by putting some of these awesome Diwali dessert recipes for you in one easy to find place! Think of it as our Diwali gift to you πŸ˜‰

Drool-worthy Diwali Dessert Recipes: Rangoli Macarons!

Step aside French macarons; our desi version of Rangoli Macarons are so much more drool worthy! These buttery little bites of perfection will transport you straight to a lazy Parisian afternoon. Whip up these delicate velvety pastries with this easy basic French macaron recipe and go for gold with some creative gold decoration on the macarons for that added festive touch!

Traditional Diwali dessert recipe with a twist Rangoli Macarons with gold decoration

Go for gold with these Rangoli Macarons! Image Credit: bubbleandsweet.blogspot.in

Get some golden piping inspiration here to pipe it right! These delights will not just go splendidly with your afternoon chai, they also make for a fabulous (and very unique) Diwali gift!

Biscuit Barfi: Diwali Dessert Recipes for the bachhas!

Diwali calls for something traditional like barfi but the kids prefer Oreo pops! Never the twain shall meet? Well, never say never is our motto! Presenting a finger licking biscuit barfi recipe that will have not just the kids, but the grown ups licking their fingers too!

Traditional Diwali dessert recipes with a twist Diwali Biscuit Barfi

Charm kids and adults alike with this delightful Diwali Biscuit Barfi

We love using this recipe with Oreos (satisfy that totally legit Oreo craving while you’re at it πŸ˜‰ and oh! watch this space for the scrummilicious Oreo Pops we’re going to be dishing out soon at Con Affetto) and having some fun with the toppings as well- think coconut sprinkles or candy melts! This is one recipe the kids can help you with too.

Decorated Diwali Dessert Recipes: Colourful Cookies!

It’s the festive season and if you’re like us and lurrrve mehndi, here’s a fun way to have your mehndi and eat it too! Yes, you heard that right! Mehndi is not just for the hands as you’ll see with these fantabulous henna inspired sugar cookies.

Diwali dessert recipes mehndi or henna inspired cookies

Get some mehndi…on your cookies! Image Credit: HennaLounge.com

All you’ll need is a batch of freshly baked sugar cookies (mmmm bliss!), some royal icing and then let your henna themed dreams take over the decoration! And when you can’t get enough of the diyas and the phooljhadis– ice them! Let your imagination run riot as you conjure up some delicious Diwali themed cookies!

Traditional Diwali dessert recipes with a twist Diwali themed sugar cookies

The Con Affetto version of pretty diyas and sparkly phooljhadis

Little girls will adore this Diwali dessert recipe…the making and the eating!

Diwali Dessert Recipe for a festive Diwali breakfast…

Diwali morning…the colourful hues of rangoli, the fragrance of ubtan, the preparation for Diwali pooja….but what’s for breakfast? The last thing you want to rack your brains over is wondering what to cook! But at the same time…its Diwali! How about a sumptous Diwali breakfast fit for kings and with the perfect festive touch too! Presenting a boondi and rabdi stuffed pancakes Diwali breakfast (brought to you by the Masterchef Sanjeev Kapoor, no less!).

Traditional Diwali dessert recipes with a twist boondi and rabdi stuffed pancakes

A Diwali breakfast fit for royalty!

Just don’t blame us if you’re too stuffed to do much else for the rest of Diwali day after gorging on this treat πŸ˜‰

Decadent Diwali Dessert Recipes: Cupcakes with a twist!

So the kids are going all Marie Antoinette on you and clamouring for cake? But cakes are for Christmas, who eats cake for Diwali?! You will, with these perfect for Diwali Gulkand Cupcakes with a delicate hint of cardamom! Let the kids eat cake and give a rose-alicious nod to tradition while you’re at it! Don’t forget to watch this space for some rosy treats coming your way- our paan gulkand cake truffles are launching soon!

Traditional Diwali dessert recipes with a twist Gulkand cupcakes

Rose-alicious! Gulkand Cupcakes at Diwali

Drooling already? Here’s to loads of blissful baking ahead! And if you have any funky Diwali dessert recipes you’d like to share with us, write in! A really hatke recipe may even get featured on our blog!

Con Affetto’s 21 Day Challenge to Romance Your Wife

Okay, we KNOW what you’re thinking! You’ve taken one look at the title and you think this is one of those smarmy articles magazines spew at you ever so often. Romance your wife with flowers, chocolates, take her out on a date yada yada yada… Hey, don’t you know us better by now? We’re all about the fun and the funky here, we’d never give you that boring tripe πŸ˜‰ But we do have romance on our minds coz its Karva Chauth today, the day to honour the love and commitment between you and your lady love.

Romance your wife with Con Affetto's 21 Day Romance Your Wife Challenge

We’ve got romance on our minds!

What better way to celebrate your beautiful bond than by committing to amplify the romance in your relationship? Because lets face it, when you’ve been together a while, its easy to get jaded. There are a gazillion thing to take care of in all our turbo charged lives and romance is typically the first thing to fall by the wayside, no? NO! We’re here to change all that with our 21 Day Challenge to Romance Your Wife (just call us the Love Gurus, guys πŸ˜‰ )! Think you’re up for it? Read on!

Step 1: Set up a meeting

Yes we’re still talking about you and your wife, we’re not going all heavy duty office on you here! Confused? Don’t be! Just set aside fifteen minutes every day, whatever time works for you, to sit down with your wife and talk. Ask her how her day was, what’s new, what was the best thing that happened to her all day. Focus on the conversation and on really listening to her. Just fifteen minutes everyday. So go on and schedule your meeting!

Romance your wife by taking time out to talk to her everyday

All you need are 15 minutes everyday

Step 2: Go tech free

Ok, this one is a toughie. Remember that fifteen minute meeting we told you about just now? Well, in case you were thinking you could talk to your wife while texting your boss, checking all the latest goss on your FB account with the TV droning on in the background…NADA. You gotta switch all of that OFF. Make it a totally tech free zone, and once you’ve gotten used to all of the peace and quiet, go sit with your wife. And leave your phone behind!

Romance your wife with tech free time spent with her daily

Mobile phones NOT allowed!

Step 3: Focus

That razor sharp focus you are renowned for at work? Your wife needs some of that too! No, that doesn’t mean you start giving her appraisals, we just need you to focus on her and ONLY her for the fifteen minutes you’re going to be spending together. So if you have kids, maids, pets and any other unidentified objects floating around the house, capable of distracting you, make sure they’re all out of the way. Also, tell your wife about your meeting well in advance so she’s free too. Hey, its only fifteen minutes– you CAN do it!

Romance your wife by really focusing on her and listening to her

When she talks, LISTEN

Step 4: Keep it a conflict free zone

Um, yeah, so just in case you were planning on telling her how you hated last night’s dinner, so could she please just fire that cook already; or how you think the kids really could do with some extra Math coaching…sorry! This is NOT the time and place for that. Yeah, we did say you were to set aside fifteen minutes to talk with your wife but we did NOT mean all the usual nitty gritties. Quick- read post title! Remember the woman you feel in love with? These fifteen minutes are to romance your wife and fall in love with her all over again. Which means you laugh and smile, stay positive and talk about fun, interesting stuff. Um, also run this past your wife, ok? So she doesn’t bring up how you really need to hit the gym (ouch!).

Romance your wife by spending fifteen pure fun happy minutes talking to her alone

Stay positive and don’t forget to smile!

Step 5: Seal it with a kiss

Okay, this is the fun part :) At the end of your 15 minutes, reach out and hug your wife, look deep into her eyes (for heaven’s sake STOP thinking about the missed calls on your phone), smile and tell her that you love her. Sounds too corny to believe? Just trust us and do it! It will be totally worth it when you see the look in her eyes.

Romance your wife by holding her close and telling her how much you love her

Seal it with a kiss!

Okay, so that’s it. Easy right? And we did not bring up flowers or candles or chocolates even once and you don’t even have to step out of your house (though it might be a good idea to do just that once in a while!). So, all set for your 21 Day Challenge that is totally going to transform your relationship?

Here’s what you need to do:

  1. Read our blog post
  2. Sign up for the challenge! All you need to do is drop us a line in the comments below, with your email, that says “I’m in!”
  3. Follow us on Facebook & Twitter to stay motivated for the duration of the challenge !
  4. On Day 21 check back with us on the blog; we’ll have a special post for you! In the comments section, write in and tell us about your 21 day experience- the good, the bad, the ever-so-romantic πŸ˜‰
  5. The quirkiest, most, fun, lovable comments will get an ultra romantic Con Affetto bouquet specially delivered to your wife from YOU! And that’s not all! You and your wife get a chance to be featured on our blog as the Con Affetto Cutest Couple Ever!

Are you still reading this? What are you waiting for? The Con Affetto 21 Day Romance Your Wife Challenge is calling! :) Sign up now!

Psst…wives, if you’re reading this, send it to them hubsters already!

Um…some rules!

*Only comments on the Con Affetto blog will qualify

**Contest restricted to Delhi, NCR only

***All decisions regarding contest rules, regulations and winner taken by Con Affetto will be considered as final

 

 

Con Affetto’s Last Minute Diwali Gifting Ideas

It’s that time of the year again! Diwali is within fragrant halwa sniffing distance and if you’re like us, you’re probably also looking forward to some Diwali chutti πŸ˜‰ But wait… is the thought of the upcoming Diwali season sending you into a frenzy of panic instead of ecstasy? Last minute Diwali gift shopping giving you the jitters, huh? Well, worry not, coz you’ve come to the right place! For starters, take a quick look at our snazzy gifting guide that tells you everything that you need to know about the art of gifting. Then, read on for our funky last minute Diwali gift ideas that will make you the toast of this Diwali gifting season. And no one will even guess about all that last minute Diwali shopping!

The last minute Diwali gift bucket

If you’ve been reading our blog regularly (good on you!), you know that one of the key tenets to a good gift is to make it personal. Well, our Diwali gift bucket, does just that and what’s more it’s perfect for the festival of lights too! Get one of these quirky lanterns and fill them up with thoughtful and personal gifts you know the recipient will love.

Fill up a festive lantern with little gifts for your very own Diwali Gift Bucket

Add some extra sparkle with a Diwali Gift Bucket!

Add in a few of our delightful cake truffles and this will be one gift even Santa’s Christmas sock will find hard to beat!

The last minute Diwali movie gift package

Everyone loves a good flick, right? But gifting someone a bunch of DVD’s is ever so BORING! But hey, what if you gift them the whole magical movie watching experience instead? And they don’t even have to leave the comfort of their (Diwali lit) home! Yup, we’re talking about a Diwali movie gift package.

A unique Diwali gifting idea is to create a movie package by gifting everything one would need for a complete movie watching experience

Rock the Diwali gifting scene with a Diwali movie package!

Fill it up with everything you need for the perfect movie night: popcorn, drinks, some comfy cushions or a throw, a bunch of scented candles for that special festive touch and a DVD (or two!) of their favourite movie/s. The perfect last minute Diwali gift for just about anybody– all you need to do is figure out their fave movie!

The last minute Diwali gift for your 3am buddy…

This is your go-to pal come hail or fine weather. They’ve not just been there for you through thick and thin, you’ve also been there, done that together. You’re probably even going to be spending Diwali evening with them. Want to get them something special but are running out of time and ideas? Hot chocolate is what you need! And we’re not just talking any old hot chocolate, but Adult Hot Chocolate!

A unique Diwali gifting idea is to make your friends some Adult Hot Chocolate

Spike up your Diwali gifts with some Adult Hot Chocolate ;)

Make up a (large) batch to have or go, team it up with some of our special sunshine and you’re set for a festive Diwali season! It’s the least you can do to make up for those 3am calls you’ve subjected your friend to!

The last minute Diwali gift for the person who has everything…

Okay, so this is probably your better half; your sis/bro; your pal whose birthday just got over or someone whom you simply cannot think what to gift for the life of you! What then? These super cool printable ‘breakfast in bed’ tickets! Or personalized business cards for those who really want to make a unique style statement. Get creative with your thoughts and get printing!

A unique Diwali gifting idea is to gift fun printable coupons tickets or business cards

Get personal and creative this Diwali with these fun printables

The last minute Diwali gift that keeps on giving!

Nope we’re not talking about creating a secret Santa for Diwali (would be a fun idea though!). We’re talking about something unique and thoughtful that will help you spread the spirit of giving not just at Diwali but beyond: gifting a charitable donation. Identify a charity or a cause that is close to the recipient’s heart and gift a donation in their name. A wonderful way of starting something new this Diwali that will truly spread the spirit of the festival of lights.

A unique gifting idea is to gift a charitable donation

Spread the true spirit of the festival of lights by gifting a charitable donation

So now that we’ve taken all of that Diwali gifting stress away, just sit back, relax and get ready to Diwali gift with our easy peasy ideas! And hey, you know we like hearing from you, right? Write in and tell us if YOU have any suggestions for last minute Diwali gifting ideas that helped you steal the scene!

All About Mummyji!

Sometimes sweet, sometimes bitter

Shades of sepia, a touch of glitter…

We’re talking about a lady you can either love..or hate…but if you have her in your life, you sure as hell can’t ignore her! Yup, you guessed it right, it’s the Mother in Law, also known more fondly (or not! πŸ˜‰ ) as Mummyji! Did you know that 25th October also happens to be Mother in Law Day? A fun occasion to show the Mummyji in your life some love; or give her a pre Diwali special something. Here’s a fun take on the different types of Mummyjis that abound in our lives and what YOU can gift yours this festive season!

1. The GH Mummyji

Her home is straight out of the pages of a design magazine and she has an avid interest in a variety of subjects pertaining to the home…she’s your Good Housekeeping Mummyji! Stylish and refined, she runs her home like a well oiled ship and is terribly house proud.

A house proud mother in law or Mummyji will like a home decor gift

Something for the home for the GH Mummyji

Gift her something to scatter around with style, with these silk brocade cushions with shimmering marigold or scent up her space with this elegant Ratnakara aromatherapy set.

2. Masterchef Mummyji

She can debate endlessly on the benefits of serving pineapple raita over boondi raita; her eyes light up at the mention of a new paneer recipe and she’ll be the first to try out that new fusion dish or that tough to bake cake. Say hello to Masterchef Mummyji! Passionate about food and all things cooking, this Masterchef in the making can cook up a storm and love every minute of it.

A mother in law or Mummyji who likes cooking will appreciate a cooking related gift

Charm her Masterchef Mummyji soul with a thoughtful gift

Charm her chef-fy soul with this awesome table top pizza oven or add some warmth to her favourite space- the kitchen!- with this ‘birdy’ tea pot set.

3. Have visa, will travel Mummyji

When in doubt, travel, is this Mummyji’s motto. Her suitcase is always packed and on standby, just waiting for that next exciting trip round the corner. From domestic destinations to Burkina Faso and Bora Bora, she’s been there, done that. And when she’s not travelling, she’s planning her next trip!

A mother in law or Mummyji who likes travel will love a thoughtful travel gift

Let her travel to see her newest sunset with a fab overnighter gift case

Get her really looking forward to her upcoming vacay with this hip overnighter travel case– she may just plan her next trip all around it!

4. Slightly bored and ‘I’m retired now beta’ Mummyji

Once passionate about her career and after working for many years in a job she loved, this Mummyji is retired now and at a bit of a loss. Her kids have flown the nest, and without a burning passion in her life, her days now seem to stretch on endlessly.

A mother in law or Mummyji who is retired may appreciate a new craft project gift

Help her discover a new passion!

This Mummyji needs a project! Help her get started with one with a crafting starter kit. Scrapbooking, card making, decoupage, wood carving…there’s a bunch of eclectic options out there, and you may just put her on to the next love of her life!

5. I’m too sexy to be called Mummyji!

Okay, so this Mummyji probably comes to your yoga class. Super fit, toned and with looks that defy her age, she might even pass off as your elder sister. She’s the fitness conscious Mummyji, well groomed, immaculate and terribly particular about her health and nutrition to boot.

A fitness conscious mother in law or Mummyji may like fitness related gifts

Super fit Mummyji? We have just the thing for her!

Let her go bonkers over these cool little nut cases; perfect for toting around that post workout snack! Or give her breakfast a little extra health boost with this Missisippy Muesli in fun flavours.

6. World’s Best Grandma Mummyji

She’s right there beside you cheering your kids on for their special days, events, school functions…even mundane occasions like playdate drop-offs or sit-by-the-sidelines-at-tennis-coaching. She understands your little one almost as much as you do, loves them to bits and sometimes, when they’re driving you up the wall, saves the day with her years of experience and wisdom. Yeah, she’s the World’s Best Grandma alright, and believe it or not, you and the kids are lucky to have her.

If your mother in law or Mummyji is a doting grandmother, give her a gift for the world's best grandmother

The world’s best granny needs the world’s best gift :)

The child in her will love this cheery mug– and it will remind her of her (and your) favourite little people even when they’re not around.

7. Busy Bee Mummyji

Business calls, urgent meetings, a full social calendar, a million and three lunches to attend; this is one busy Mummyji. Whatever her life stage or calling, she sure knows how to keep her days full. And if you want to spend any one on one time with her, you may just need an appointment!

A mother in law or Mummyji who is terribly busy will love a gift that helps her stay organized

Busy bee Mummyji will love something that helps her stay busy AND organized!

This Dino memo holder is purr-fect for the Busybee Mummyji to organize all her to-do lists! She may even pencil you in for some exclusive time with her πŸ˜‰

What’s your Mummyji type? And have you picked out that perfect Diwali gift for her yet? We hope our gifting ideas helped! Until next time, happy Mummyji gift hunting :)

5 Ultra Romantic Gift Ideas for Karva Chauth

Moonlight…candles….romance…and….the grumbling in her tummy πŸ˜‰ Yes, Karva Chauth is round the corner and while it is undoubtedly one of the most romantic festivals, it’s also one of the toughest- just ask the hungry gal who’s been fasting for you all day! Why not make her Karva Chauth extra special this year with some delectably romantic gift ideas? As SRK would say, this Karva Chauth….come, make her fall in love with you all over again!

1. Let her experience bliss…

A romantic gift idea for Karva Chauth would be to gift her a spa session

Get her mind off the hunger pangs with some spa style bliss!

…at the spa! Karva Chauth is on a Friday this year, so after a long week, a trip to the spa is just what the (love) doctor would recommend! What better way to get her mind off those hunger pangs than with some exotic massages which will take her to instant bliss! Whisk her away from work (or wherever she is) a little earlier and drive her to the spa where you’ve pre-booked a romantic special just for her. Scented candles, music, dim lights…you get the drift! Even better, join her for a couples spa session; a fab way to amp up the bonding and the romance.

2. Cook her a meal

A romantic gift idea for Karva Chauth is to cook her a romantic dinner

The way to HER heart can be through her tummy too- specially after a full day of fasting!

Sounds clichΓ©d? Dude, this is THE single most romantic thing you can do for your ladylove. And you’ll have her eating out of your hands- quite literally! If you are a good cook anyway (lucky her!), use those skills to whip up a culinary storm that will have her floored. Can’t even boil an egg, forget about cooking?Β  Check out these incredibly romantic dinners anyone can cook. If you’re still feeling overwhelmed, hop over to your nearest gourmet store and pick up a ready-to-cook meal kit. Now all you need to do is follow some very basic instructions and bring on the romance! We can’t think of a better way to show her how much she means to you-can you?

3. Check in…

A romantic gift idea this Karva Chauth is to take a mini hotel getaway in your city

Getaway for a day of decadence!

Take a day out of your busy schedules and check into a day of decadence …in your very own city! Several city hotels offer romantic gift packages; options tailored for a quick getaway without having to plan an elaborate vacation. Spring it on her as a surprise; pack her things (and yours!) and drive her to your destination without letting her in on the plan till you get there. There’s nothing more romantic- or fun- than an unexpected mini vacay! And we did mention that Karva Chauth is on a Friday didn’t we? All the more reason to extend your getaway into a weekend of romance!

4. Follow the clock….

A romantic gift idea this Karva Chauth is to give her a gift every hour all day long

Fill her day with love…and gifts!

….tick tock, tick tock….Um, no, we didn’t mean gifting her a watch (duh! BORING!). We were talking about another one of our super romantic gift ideas (ahem!); give her a gift EVERY hour, hour on hour, for the ENTIRE day! Let her awaken to a room filled with her favorite music (or balloons!), followed by a personalized pamper kit just as she heads into the shower (we’re thinking some delicious scented Cocoa Body Butter from the Body Shop, her favourite perfume, a peppermint foot scrub….sigh), a love jar hand delivered to her with romantic little scribbles from you, an essential oil aroma dispenser to scent up the rest of her day, a bundle of joy which is so gorgeous looking, she can feast her eyes on it all day- and share with you after dinner ;), a relaxing foot massage (home delivered!) when the long day is just beginning to get to her….and all the other creative options you can think of for in between!

5. Get someone to shoot her…

A romantic gift idea this Karva Chauth is to gift her a professional couples photo shoot

Shoot the hunger! With a couples photo shoot of course ;)

….a photographer, we mean! First, pre-book a care package at her favourite salon. Then, just when she’s looking and feeling her best and thinking this is the most romantic gift idea ever, spring the real deal on her- a romantic photo shoot for the two of you with a professional photographer! Then cozy up and… click click!

We’re feeling so moony-eyed we’re hoping our significant others read this too and get inspired! If YOU liked our ideas, spread some love and share or tweet this to your friends; you might just make someone’s Karva Chauth a li’l extra special :)

Boss-trology: A Sun Sign Guide to Your Boss!

Boss-trology!

B.O.S.S.-trology!

With all due apologies to singer Shaan of Loveology fame, we just couldn’t help getting a little carried away because it’s World Boss’ Day today!:D Do you have a meanie for a boss or are you one of the lucky ones with a genuinely nice boss?

A zodiac sign guide to help you understand your boss' management style

Use our Sun Sign Guide to get to know your boss better!

Meanie or sweetie, it’s always a good idea to get to know your boss a little better and what better way than by using their sun signs as a guide? Read on to get the full inside scoop on how to match your boss’s sun sign to their management style, and figure out what is a good gift to give your boss!

Aries

Remember the little powerhouses barreling across the playground full steam, back when you were a kid? The grown up version is your Aries boss. Dynamic; inspiring; trailblazing; the Aries boss is a natural leader and a demanding one at that! You can have a tough time keeping pace with an Aries boss, so if you’re the quiet, dreamy sort- pull up your socks or run! On the other hand, your Aries boss will hugely respect your individuality and be open to ideas and experimenting.

Your Aries boss will be demanding but also inspiring

You Aries boss can be more than a ‘little’ demanding!

Gift your fiery Aries boss an outdoor barbecue grill, a deluxe Swiss army knife or a dart game for the office- just make sure you stay in their good books or you might have those darts buzzing around your head!

Taurus

Bossy? The adjective derived from boss? That’s the Taurus boss for you πŸ˜‰ Slow, stable and hard working, your Taurean boss will take their own sweet time to give you direction but when its done expect it to be set in stone. Hugely trustworthy, fair and honest you can be sure your Taurean boss will always have your back.

A Taurus boss is exactly that, bossy!

BOSSY? You’ve got a Taurean for a boss!

Your Venus-ruled Taurean boss will appreciate tickets to a musical event, vintage art or a particularly unique antique find.

Gemini

Be prepared to be charmed; Gemini bosses are quirky, fun and super smart. Flexible and easy to work with, Gemini bosses are not natural born leaders, they prefer working at an equal level and enjoy being part of teams. Gemini bosses will be happy to delegate authority and let things run their course, but make sure you keep them in the loop on important decisions.

Maintain a clear line of communication with your Gemini boss

Keep your Gemini boss in the loop, always!

The latest best-selling book, a funky travel accessory or a snazzy tech toy are perfect gifts for your Gemini boss!

Cancer

Ever had a boss who would nit-pick your presentation in gory detail, down to the exact shade of font colour used? Cancerian! Extremely particular and demanding, your Cancerian boss will have high (sometimes unrealistic) expectations from you. Also very emotional and empathetic, it is important to be on the same emotional wavelength as your Cancerian boss.

Cancerians make for demanding bosses with high expectations

Your Cancerian boss can be a tad emotional!

A classic desk accessory, a vintage cookbook, a new coffee maker; even your Cancerian boss will have little to find fault with these perfect-for-Cancerian-boss gifts!

Leo

All hail the king of the corporate jungle! Natural born leaders, Leos just lurrve being bosses! Fair and impartial, Leos take great pride in their work. Intelligent, resourceful and natural risk takers, Leo bosses are typically the centre of attention at the office coffee machine- and don’t they just love that!

Leo boss loves the role of boss

Leo bosses just LOVE being the boss!

Your Leonine boss loves luxury; think a posh silver visiting card case, fine champagne or limited edition tickets to an event which has drama and flourish!

Virgo

Get ready to crunch! Not food silly, numbers! Pragmatic and great realists, Virgo bosses are great ones for facts and figures- so make sure you have yours at your fingertips. Hugely focused on results (sorry, excuses won’t make the cut!) Virgo bosses go for logic and evidence. They may seem unemotional at times, but they will hugely respect your time (as well as their own!) so you can expect to have a good deal of that elusive ‘work life balance’!

Virgo bosses like facts and figures

Virgo boss? Get, set, number crunch!

Virgo bosses will love an exciting new tech toy, a travel reading light or an intellectual book.

Libra

Um, this one is a tricky cookie! Perceptive, intelligent, charming, the Libra boss can be a pleasure to work with. As long as things are going well. But the minute conflict arises; disaster! Eager to please everyone and be liked, Libra bosses find it very difficult to handle conflict. If they’re able to get past that bit though, and it may just take an eternity, they are one of the most sociable bosses around!

Libra bosses are sociable but cannot handle conflict

Libra bosses are great to work with- until conflict strikes!

Anything to do with music works well for the Venus-ruled Libra boss; a portable music dock with speakers, a unique music collection, or a smart new electronic calendar to help them organize their dates.

Scorpio

Powerful and dominating, your Scorpio boss will set high expectations from everyone including themselves. Your Scorpio boss will push you hard and draw the best out of you, but will also protect you from unreasonable demands and reward you abundantly when deserved.

Scorpio bosses will push you and have high expectations

Your Scorpio boss has high expectations from you!

A classic book (thrillers or crime stories), a tarot deck or a tech security device will be sure to get your Scorpio boss’s attention; in a good way!

Sagittarius

It’s difficult not to like a Saggi boss! Optimistic, open, warm, they can cheer you up even on a blue funk Monday morning. On the flip side, they tend to be dreamers with their head in the clouds and a bit touchy, so make sure your lines of communication with them are clear and open.

Sagittarius bosses are well liked by everyone

Everyone likes a Saggi boss!

A sporty watch, a stylish passport case or a Swiss Army compass make for great gifts for your Saggi boss.

Capricorn

All work and no play makes for the serious Capricornian boss! Serious and hard-working, you don’t want them to catch you goofing off at the water cooler. Gifted and persevering, your Capri boss is awesome at cracking the toughest problems. Delegation doesn’t come to them naturally though, you may have to twiddle your thumbs a bit with your Capri boss!

Capricorn bosses are hardworking and serious

The Capri boss can be a tough nut to crack!

An intriguing historical book, a chess set with ivory pieces or a useful hiking accessory will have you a very happy Capri boss on your hands!

Aquarius

Creative, versatile and hugely independent, your Aquarian boss secretly hates being a boss! Hugely independent, Aquarian bosses don’t do so well with hierarchy and are happy doing stuff on their own. They are happy for you to do the same, as long as you’re resourceful and work on your own steam, no breathing down the neck here!

Aquarian bosses are fiercely independent and like working on their own

Your Aquarian boss might just wander off to get stuff done on his own!

Funky new speakers, a telescope to view the stars, a boxed set of their fave TV series; the funkier and more unusual, the better!

Pisces

Sensitive, moody, intuitive, Piscean bosses can be a bit of a mystery! Fluid and empathetic, Piscean bosses can make for excellent bosses. They can also be a tad overprotective and touchy, so its important to strike the right emotional chord with them.

Piscean bosses have a shroud of mystery around them

Your Piscean boss might just be surrounded in mystery!

A book on photography, a fitness accessory, a soothing aromatic water fountain will appeal to the artistic soul of your Piscean boss.

Any sun sign for boss tips you’d like to share too? Tell us!

6 Unique Birthday Ideas For Your Husband

Flowers…expensive cologne…fancy schmancy dinner…B.O.R.I.N.G. Does the thought of your husband’s upcoming birthday evoke a sense of blah instead of excitement because you’ve been there, done that? After all, when you’ve been together for what seems like forever, thinking up creative ways to celebrate each time can get tricky! Which is where WE come in with our specially curated countdown of fabulous, unique birthday ideas for his next big day! Go ahead, tick, tick…PICK!… one-or many!- this year and bring on the celebrations already!

6. Organize a karaoke night!

Organize a fun karaoke night for your husband's birthday

Karaoke your way into his birthday this year!

There’s nothing like letting go of those inhibitions with some good karaoke fun! Throw in some wine and good food, great company and sing in the birthday wishes for your beloved. Oh, and don’t forget to include all of the birthday boy’s favourite numbers; we can bet you’ll have him dancing to your tunes (quite literally!) by the end of the evening!

5. Organize a boy’s night out…

Organize a boys night in for his birthday with loads of munchies, beer on tap, his best buddies and endless TV!

Beer, snacks, TV and his friends; his idea of bday heaven!

…or in; much less stressful for the birthday boy when you don’t have to worry about picking up the tab or getting people back home safely! Put a bunch of his boys together in a room filled with beer, munchies and lots of TV/ video games- birthday boy gets to pick!- and they’ll think its heaven redefined! Let him hang out with his buddies and bond over boy stuff while you take care of all the party planning and organizing. It’ll be a fun-tastic birthday he’ll always remember and thank you for!

4. Turn him into a scavenger

A unique birthday idea: Plan a scavenger hunt for his birthday with the clues leading up to YOU!

When all the clues lead up to YOU!

By which we mean scavenger hunts, but of course! Remember the treasure hunts you played as a child? Set up one for him along similar lines but with lots of twists and some adventure thrown in for good measure. Make him work hard and get around a bit (take him back to your courtship days;)) and then lead the last clue towards YOU, with a special gift for all that effort (need gifting inspiration? check out our guide!).

3. Go on a picnic!

Unique birthday idea to celebrate your husband's birthday; organize a romantic birthday picnic

Organize a bday picnic for your little big boy

When was the last time the two of you let your hair down at a carefree picnic; the kind of stuff childhood fantasies are made of? Well, why not whisk him away for a surprise birthday picnic? Put together a personalized picnic hamper with the birthday boy’s favourite treats (we’re thinking silverware, champagne, smoked cheese and truffles, washed down with some strawberries and a spot of purple love); pick a spot where the two of can get away from the hustle and grind and watch your sweetheart turn into a little big boy again.

2. Take a class…

Unique birthday ideas to celebrate your husband's birthday; sign up for a class together!

Get your Salsa moves on for his birthday!

No, we’re not kidding! And hey, we don’t mean to take you back to your boring chem lab days…we’re thinking something fun like a cocktail making workshop, a cooking workshop if the two of you are foodies, or even a dance class (Salsa, anyone?)…anything that interests you. Sign up for one together, its a great way to have some fun and amp up the bonding!

1. Go on a long…elaborate…

Unique birthday idea to celebrate your husband's birthday; gift him a staycation

Gift him a stay-cation this birthday!

Staycation! Remember all the times you’ve hounded him for a vacation or a trip (we’re guilty as charged too!). Well, bust all that guilt by bringing the vacation to you! Organize a stay-cation with home turned into temporary resort and make it all about him. Sleep in till noon, birthday brunch in bed, movie marathons all day long (he gets the remote!)…you can even hire a butler-for-a-day to make the experience come alive! All you’ll have to worry about is getting him back to the normal routine when the birthday ends!

So forget the blah and boring for his next birthday and pick one of our ideas to truly make it a birthday to remember. And who says you have to stick to just one day? You can even make it an EPIC week long celebration with a countdown to his birthday! And don’t forget to write in and tell us how he felt!