Imagine a perfect Mother's Day: breakfast in bed, cuddling with your adoring children and glorious new iPad. If that is not in the cards for Mom this year, here are few luxurious gifts that will see her through until you give it to her for her birthday.
Terraliva Cherubino Olive Oil
Terraliva's extra virgin organic olive oil "Cherubino" was named so because legend has it that the Cherubini angels descended from heaven in search of the best olives, found them in Iblei Mountains of Sicily, and then produced olive oil at a farm named Terraliva before returning with it to heaven. I tasted this award winning oil (named Top Organic Olive Oil in a worldwide competition) on a recent visit to Dean & Deluca and it is quite simply amazing. It has an intensely fruity start and finishes with a bit of pepper. Suggested pairings: Drizzle raw on soups, stews, salads, roast meats and grilled fish. $45 At Dean & Deluca.
Le Tourment Vert Absinthe
This wonderfully smooth (and somewhat minty) Absinthe can be enjoyed in the traditional way (with sugar and water), but I like it best served over ice with water. I also like that it has a lower alcohol content than most absinthe. The bottle is also beautiful: etched glass with the face of a demon, women's faces and a green fairy. $29.99 at Bevmo.
Tatcha Aburatorigami Papers
Tatcha Aburatorigami blotting papers are a beautiful little everyday luxury. Dating back to Imperial Japan, authentic Aburatorigami paper was created by gold leaf artisans who used it to protect the precious metal they hammered into whisper-thin leafing to enrobe the majestic pavilions. In the 1800's it was discovered and became the beauty secret of Geisha for its skin benefits. Made of 100% Abaca leaf, they wick the oil and leave skin soft and velvety smooth. The packaging is gorgeous. $30 for a three pack of 90 sheets, or $12 for 30 sheets at Tatcha.com
Iittala Aalto Savoy Vase
Created by world-renown designer and architect lvar Aalto, this curvy glass vase is the perfect size for tulips and a work of art alone on a kitchen or dining room table. $50 - $123 at aalto.com.
Diptyque Candle in Pomander
This cult candle line by French fragrance house Diptique is simply the most elegant and luxurious candle I've found. These candles burn longer than most and the scent permeates your entire home. My pick: Pomander - a blend of orange peels, clove and cinnamon. $60 at Diptyque boutiques, Neiman Marcus and the company's recently launched e-commerce site diptyqueparis.com