It’s officially holiday time! Have you finished YOUR shopping? I know, I know. Everyone is asking that question. It’s a legitimate question, though.

So have you?

If you’re like me, you think you’ve finished but there’s always someone nice you forgot. We’re crazy busy these days.

Or maybe you haven’t even started. Hey, that’s cool. No one wins a prize if they finish first. It’s a marathon, not a sprint.

So if I may, might I make a suggestion to help you finish up that list?

Gourmet food!

Everybody enjoys food. Seriously. So why not gift them something they’ll appreciate? Steaks fall into this category quite nicely.

Here are some gourmet gift ideas under $100:

1. Ever tried Crown Filet Mignon™? It’s cut thicker so it’s tall and juicy and very impressive. They’ll love it!
2. How about Bone-in Tenderloin Filet? The bone adds fantastic flavor and creates a gorgeous presentation. This makes YOU look good.
3. Kansas City Strip Steaks. They’re a great gift for those who want something hearty and tender.

There are all types of steak that would fit into the under $100 category, but there are lots of other gourmet gifts that are fantastic, too. Steak is not the only option – just my favorite!

How about a beautiful cutting board for the at-home chef?

Or a Prime Rib Roast or Whole Turkey?

Rack of Lamb is a definite gourmet gift that they will remember for years to come.

How about some very nice steak knives? You know, to go along with all those steaks.

There are many, many choices in this category. Need more inspiration? Check out this Gift Guide for gourmet gifts under $100. There’s sure to be something for everyone on your list.

You really can’t go wrong with the gift of good taste!

We’ve arrived here at holiday time and there seems to be some confusion about proper holiday gift etiquette.

So what are the DOs and DON’Ts of gift giving?

Most of the time, common sense will prevail in these situations. But some forethought – however small – might just be your best friend at this time of year.

Trust me.

Number one:  You never want to leave anyone out. Going over to Cousin Verne’s house to exchange Christmas gifts? Make sure to ask exactly WHO will be in attendance.

You don’t want Uncle Larry to sneak up on you when you assumed he would be in Detroit this year. Ask. Then, ask again. Just to be sure.

But to be extra, EXTRA sure, bring along some additional Christmas steaks to give as host/hostess gifts and to those whose appearance is a mystery to you.

Oh, hey Larry. Didn’t see you over there. What a nice surprise! Enjoy these steaks…

Number two:  Is a knitted toilet paper holder really the best choice for holiday gifting?

Miss Manners would say not.

Again, the gift of gourmet edibles is always a smart choice. Everyone has to eat, so why not make it enjoyable? People really appreciate good food. It’s universal.

And it’s something everyone in the family can agree on. Those topics may be few and far between. So bask in them and keep directing the conversation back to neutral topics.

Number three:  When RECEIVING a gift, always be grateful. Even if you are wishing it was something delicious in return – and it’s not. At least they were thinking of you when picking out that potholder. Be gracious.

But I don’t have to tell you that, right?

Most of all, let’s just treat each other with kindness this holiday season. That’s the best etiquette tip of all.

Happy holidays, everybody!

The holidays are fast approaching. It’s mid-December. Can you believe it?

Don’t panic, but it’s definitely time to get your holiday shopping in full gear if you haven’t already! Because ready or not, the holidays are coming!

I personally LOVE to give gifts of gourmet food for the holidays. Something that fills the belly and the soul is always a great choice. And the best steak cuts make fabulous gifts.

Ribeyes! T-bones! KC strip steaks!

Check. Check. Check.

And, to be mindful of our wallets, let’s keep it under $50, please.

So, what are some more ideas for gourmet gifts that are sure to be winners?

Filet mignon for Aunt Sue? Yes! You know she likes this delicate, tender cut so give it to her. Let her know you’re paying attention!

Or how about a beautiful gift of delicious Beef Wellington? The lucky recipients of this gift can just heat and serve this tender beef inside a flaky crust. No prep – just enjoyment.

I just love it when my gifts are unexpected and much appreciated. And you just can’t go wrong with beautiful food and drink.

Speaking of drink – how about a special wine to go with those incredible steaks or that gourmet meal?

Check out this wine gift collection for vino inspiration. There’s sure to be something they’ll love that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg.

Want to give something special and gourmet but can’t decide exactly what? Give ‘em a gift card for any amount you like and let them choose their own gift of beef, ham, turkey, desserts (like Red Velvet Cake, Cheesecake Bites and Buche de Noel), gourmet side dishes (Gourmet Mac and Cheese!) and more.

Let THEM decide what gourmet goodies to choose and you’ll be on the “Good” list for sure. For this year, anyway. And they’ll absolutely love you for it.