November has just started, and Thanksgiving is weeks away, but many Southwest Orlando residents feel they are already behind schedule in their search of those spectacular holiday gifts for family and friends. Southwest Orlando Bulletin’s annual Holiday Gift Guide provides a comprehensive listing of various stores, as well as gift ideas — from always-appropriate jewelry to car services to cosmetic treatments and more — that are sure to please everyone this holiday season.
✥ Accessories ✥
Dynasty Gallery & Gifts, 1067 S. Clarke Road, Ocoee, 407-522-4400, www.dynastygallery.us, is Orlando’s premier gallery for fine gifts of distinction this holiday season. Since 1996, Dynasty Gallery, located outside the West Oaks Mall, has been the largest destination for the very best brands, including Pandora jewelry, Brighton accessories, Vera Bradley, Swarovski crystal, Lladró sculptures and more. Dynasty Gallery & Gifts prides itself on providing unparalleled customer service, including complimentary gift wrapping and shipping, while making every event one to remember. Operating hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.
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The Pink Chalet, 7940 Via Dellagio Way, Suite 118, Orlando, 407-363-7465, www.thepinkchalet.com, is Orlando’s newest preppy chic connection. Located in Dellagio in Dr. Phillips, the store provides the answer to fun and unique holiday gift-giving. From Vera Bradley accessories to the aromas of Lampe Berger, Voluspa Candles and Low Country Luxe, shoppers can find gifts for all, while buying for themselves, as well. As a Vera Bradley Platinum retailer, The Pink Chalet is offering a free Blue Rhapsody Holiday Tote on Black Friday with any Vera Bradley purchase of $100 or more. The store will host an open house Nov. 14 and Nov. 15, during which patrons can receive a gift with any $50 purchase and be entered in drawings throughout the day.
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Polka Dotz Personalized Gifts at the Florida Mall, 8001 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Suite 304A, 407-582-9990, www.polkadotz.com, and Polka Dotz “chic” in the Winter Garden Village at Fowler Groves, 3017 Daniels Road, Suite 106, Winter Garden, 407-877-2222, invites holiday shoppers to view the store’s wide variety of Vera Bradley products, including new winter patterns and the Frill Collection. Both locations also offer a large variety of Pandora bracelets, beads and matching jewelry, including new and leather bracelets. Polka Dotz “chic” carries exclusive Brighton jewelry and accessories, as well as merchandise from brand names such as Life is good, Natural Life and Be As You Are. Shoppers at either location will receive an exclusive Holiday Tote on Black Friday with any Vera Bradley purchase of $100. In addition, on Nov. 28 and Nov. 29, shoppers who purchase $75 in Vera Bradley will receive a free zip case.
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Shoooz provides Masai Barefoot Technology footwear at its Dr. Phillips location, 8015 Turkey Lake Road, Orlando; and Winter Park location, 303 N. Park Ave. MBT footwear is the gift of comfort and good health, as it improves posture, increases muscle activity, and reduces stress on hip and knee joints. Gift certificates are available. For more information, call 407-351-4560 for the Dr. Phillips store or 407-647-0110 for the Winter Park store.
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Stella & Dot independent stylist Jaime Silveira, 407-625-9686, www.stelladot.com/jsilveira, offers the boutique-style jewelry of Stella & Dot through in-home trunk shows and her personal online store. Stella & Dot jewelry has been featured in a variety of fashion magazines, including Lucky, Cosmopolitan, Modern Bride, InStyle and more. The line is not available in stores and includes semiprecious and sterling silver heirloom pieces, as well as trend-setting styles in real turquoise, vintage glass and mother-of-pearl. The new charm collection makes gift-giving easy and personal. Prices range from $29 to $250, and all jewelry is backed by a 90-day return policy. Holiday shoppers also can indulge friends and family with a personal boutique experience at home or the office by hosting a 90-minute, casual trunk show. Show hosts receive free jewelry and shop at half-off.
✥ Body & Hair Care ✥
A Spa Affair, 407-876-0575, 519 Main St., Windermere, www.thespaaffair.com, understands how spirituality uplifting it is to feel good about one’s appearance, and the full-service salon caters to each client’s unique style and personality. The salon’s first-class services include the most advanced coloring and hair management techniques with a Redken master colorist. The salon is now offering a botanical keratin treatment that is guaranteed to remove frizz for up to four months, and clients also can receive 40 percent off the treatment with the ad in this issue. Holiday shoppers can treat themselves to luxurious, customized facials and hour-long massages that will transform body and spirit. Gift cards and special packages are available.
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Breeze Laser Center Inc., 407-370-9142, www.breezelasercenter.com, 7565 W. Sand Lake Road, Orlando, provides complimentary consultations and solutions to make patrons look and feel their best for the upcoming holiday season. Located at The Fountains, the cosmetic laser center is the leader in Central Florida for tattoo removal, VelaShape for cellulite reduction, laser hair removal, laser hair growth, fraxel skin resurfacing, acne treatment, photorejuvenation, skin care, Botox Cosmetic and injectable fillers. Breeze Laser Center carries the best medical skin-care products available. Operating hours are Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and select Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Shoppers who mention Breeze Laser Center’s ad in this issue will receive a holiday discount.
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Stylists at Hair Dynamics West, 407-523-3188, 3300 S. Hiawassee Road, Suite 102, in Ashley Park in MetroWest, can fill stockings with gift certificates for a variety of services, including haircuts, hair color, highlights, corrective color, perms, waxings and massages. The salon offers many gifts priced less than $20, including terrific gifts for teachers. To entice thrifty shoppers, day packages are available at 15 percent to 25 percent off during the holidays. Hair Dynamics West is open Tuesday through Saturday, and hours vary. Gift certificates are available by telephone. Credit cards accepted: DV, MC, V.
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Longenix is a one-of-a-kind center focusing on optimal health and is considered to be the premier anti-aging center in Orlando. Bonnie Dean, M.D., has been serving the area for more than 30 years as a family doctor, and now has added noninvasive cosmetic procedures to her practice — most popular among them is the nonsurgical face-lift/skin tightening. Dr. Dean, along with Gretchen Legler, A.R.N.P., shows patients that the combination of face and neck tightening is easy, surgery-free and reasonably priced. Longenix, located at 7932 W. Sand Lake Road, Suite 200, Orlando, also offers Botox Cosmetic, facial fillers, laser hair removal, micro laser peels, brown-spot removal and more. SkinMedica and Neova products also are available. Gift certificates are available. For more information, call 407-355-7759 or visit www.longenix.net on the Web. Credit cards accepted: MC, V.
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Luxury Nails & Spa, 4848 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando, 407-876-3401, is a full-service salon where shoppers can expect to be attended to by thoroughly trained professionals dedicated to creating relaxing and memorable experiences. Services offered at the spa include manicures, pedicures, facials, waxing, chair massages and treatments for men. Gift certificates are available, and they make a wonderful holiday gift for friends and family. Operating hours are Monday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome. Credit cards accepted: AE, MC, V.
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With more than 5 million massages to its credit, Massage Envy, 8081 Turkey Lake Road, Suite 100, Orlando, 407-354-3689, www.massageenvy.com, is the nation’s foremost provider of therapeutic massage. Massage Envy’s top-quality therapists, comfortable clinics and affordable prices put an hour of relaxation only moments away. Gift cards are available in any amount and can be applied toward massages (member and nonmember rates) and gratuities. And with more than 500 locations nationwide, a Massage Envy gift card can be given to family members and friends both near and far. Operating hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
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John L. Meisenheimer, M.D., of The Meisenheimer Clinic & Day Spa, 407-352-2444, www.orlandoskindoc.com, 7300 Sandlake Commons Blvd., Suite 105, Orlando, is the expert to contact for gifts that beautify. Special services offered include laser facial rejuvenation, Botox Cosmetic, Sculptra and Juvéderm. The Meisenheimer Day Spa offers customized facials, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, waxing, massage therapy and more. Gift certificates are available, and cosmetic consultations are complimentary. Operating hours are Monday through Thursday from 7:45 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Friday from 7:45 a.m. to noon. Credit cards accepted: AE, DV, MC, V.
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Salon Salon, 407-447-9898, www.salonsalonhair.com, with locations in downtown Orlando, Lake Buena Vista, MetroWest and Dr. Phillips, introduces the concept of wellness-, beauty- and environmentally conscious gift-giving that is available to all during the upcoming holiday season. This year, Salon Salon is offering a variety of thoughtful gift packages that are ideal for loved ones, employees, managers or special clients. Salon Salon offers customizable Aveda gift sets and salon services at a variety of prices to satisfy all holiday shopping needs.
✥ Home & Garden ✥
Budget Blinds of South Orlando offers free in-home consultations to provide customers with the highest quality shutters and blinds, as well as advice on which products look best in each individual situation. Budget Blinds carries name brands, including Hunter Douglas, Norman Shutters and Kathy Ireland. It also has its own exclusive Budget Blinds Signature Series. Budget Blinds prides itself on its ability to give customers quality service from the initial appointment to installation and beyond. Gift cards are available. For more information, call 407-841-9151 or visit www.budgetblinds.com on the Web. All major credit cards are accepted.
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Hanging holiday decorations on a new fireplace mantel or bookcase will make the season even more special.
www.CarolinaCabinetry.com is a supplier of custom cabinetry and furniture serving the entire state of Florida. Attention to detail, precision and quality, and many years of innovative knowledge go into all the products designed by Carolina Cabinetry. Every item is built to order, including custom home theaters, bookcase units, fireplace mantels, home offices and more. Carolina Cabinetry is open for appointments six days per week, as well as evenings. Carolina Cabinetry is the No. 1 cabinet company for all HHGregg stores in Florida. For a free in-home consultation or more information, call 407-249-2877 or visit www.carolinacabinetry.com on the Web.
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Letting Mr. Handyman, 407-358-9600, complete “to do” lists gives families more time to spend together. Mr. Handyman is a professional service where all work is guaranteed to give 100 percent satisfaction. From hanging curtains to installing tile to repairing drywall, no job is too small for Mr. Handyman. Its technicians have more than 15 years of experience and are fully insured, licensed, background-screened and reliable. They arrive in uniform, on time and ready to work. Operating hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday by appointment. Gift certificates and more information are available at 2901 Curry Ford Road, Suite 212-A, Orlando, or www.mrhandyman.com on the Web.
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Pictures & Mirrors International, 407-423-7011, 3450 Vineland Road, Orlando, www.picturesandmirrors.com, offers art and décor to create the same looks seen in stunning homes, chic hotels and trendy restaurants. Pictures & Mirrors is able to offer a wide variety of choices and amazing prices to all holiday shoppers because it is the manufacturer of its products, almost all of which are made in the U.S. Pictures & Mirrors offers hand-colored engravings, giclées, original oils on canvas, limited editions and thousands of framed prints, as well as extensive mirror choices, including oval, vanity, ornate, contemporary and custom-made mirrors.
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The Pool Pleaser II, 407-351-7761, www.poolpleaser.net, located in The Marketplace at Dr. Phillips, 7601 Della Drive, Suite 11, Orlando, offers a wide variety of swimming-pool chemicals, pumps, filters, motors, pool cleaning accessories, automatic pool cleaners, salt-chlorinating systems, heat pumps, repair parts and toys. Open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., The Pool Pleaser II also offers swimming-pool service and repair. Gift certificates are available. Credit cards accepted: DV, MC, V, as well as debit cards.
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Royal Brick Pavers, 2204 Hempel Ave., Gotha, 407-296-8545, www.royalmulchandnursery.com, offers holiday shoppers the chance to visit Orlando’s largest outdoor showroom for brick paving. Royal Brick Pavers offers complete design and installation services for patios, pool decks, walkways and retaining walls. A family-owned and -operated business, Royal Brick Pavers offers unsurpassed customer service with free estimates and attention to detail. Royal Brick Pavers prides itself on supplying customers with only the best quality, prices and courteous staff members to supply its customers’ homes or businesses with beautiful pavers that will last for years to come.
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Royal Mulch & Nursery/Royal Landscape & Maintenance Inc., 2204 Hempel Ave., Gotha, 407-296-3042 or 407-445-4644, www.royalmulchandnursery.com, offers the gift that keeps on growing. Royal Mulch & Nursery features more than 18 beautiful acres of landscape foliage. Shoppers can find quality shrubs, trees, palms, sod, mulch and more to beautify any landscape. Family-owned and -operated, Royal Mulch prides itself on providing only the best quality, price and selection. Royal Landscape also specializes in landscape design and installation. Gift certificates are available. All major credit cards are accepted.
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ShadesToYou, 1676 E. Semoran Blvd., Apopka, 407-889-0049, www.shadestoyou.com, has been serving Central Florida for more than 20 years. The store’s 25,000-square-foot facility is privately owned and operated, and the company works with more than 20 independent neighborhood window-covering consultants, so ShadesToYou can provide clients with convenience and savings. In an effort to make it even more affordable to refresh homes for the holidays, ShadesToYou is offering the following specials through Dec. 15: 58 percent off 2.5-inch wood blinds; 10 percent off 2.5-inch plantation shutters; 50 percent off installation; free upgraded valances for all horizontal blinds; and free in-home, no obligation consultations.
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TM Landscape Lighting Concepts, 407-262-3311, www.tmlandscapelighting.com, is offering elegance, warmth and ambiance for holiday shoppers with Oriflamme Fire Tables. These multifunctional tables are made in the U.S. and can work as a heat source or coffee table, as well as an ice bucket, with optional accessories. The tables are offered in any granite color and are 42 inches in diameter. With 30 colors of heat tempered glass and thousands of unique designs, Oriflamme Fire Tables are completely customizable. Each purchase comes with free local delivery and setup, and two full 11-pound propane tanks. TM Landscape Lighting Concepts is owned and operated by Todd Meyer, who conceptualizes, designs and installs outdoor lighting for residential and commercial sites. Credit cards accepted: MC, V.
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Window blinds, custom draperies, valances, wallpaper, upholstery and custom bedding are specialties of Windows & Walls, 407-298-2626, www.windowsandwallsbyann.com, 6416 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando, in the Village West Plaza. Wallpaper prices are discounted by 20 percent, and gift certificates and free in-home consultations are available. Store hours are Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. After-hours appointments may be scheduled. Credit cards accepted: AE, MC, V.
✥ Pet Presents ✥
PetsFirst Pet Sitting Service Inc., 407-532-5050, www.petsfirst.info, offers complete pet-care services for busy professionals in MetroWest, Dr. Phillips, Bay Hill, Windermere, Gotha, south Winter Garden and south Ocoee. Services include midday walks and morning and evening pet visits, along with home care, such as watering plants, collecting mail and adjusting lights and blinds. Home-care packages are offered for people without pets, as well. PetsFirst Pet Sitting Service is available seven days a week, 365 days a year and is licensed, bonded and insured. It is also a member of Pet Sitter International and the Orlando Chamber of Commerce. Gift certificates are available for pet/home care, and all major credit cards are accepted through PayPal.
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The holidays are often vacation time, but sometimes it is inconvenient to take pets along. V.I.Pet Resort, 407-355-3594, 6600 Kingspointe Parkway, Orlando, www.vipet.net, is the ultimate vacation spot for cool cats and hot dogs. Here, pets receive VIP treatment. V.I.Pet Resort offers boarding, day care and full grooming services. The lobby is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Gift certificates and gift cards are available. Credit cards accepted: MC, V.
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Woof Gang Bakery, 5024 Dr. Phillips Blvd., Orlando, 407-292-9663, www.woofgangbakery.com, is a one-stop shop this holiday season for superior pet necessities, all competitively priced. Woof Gang Bakery offers handmade gourmet dog treats; premium dog and cat foods; and a unique collection of fashionable collars, leads, bowls and apparel. The store carries fun, fuzzy, floatable and tough toys and a variety of pet grooming products. Woof Gang Bakery specializes in healthy, natural products, including hypoallergenic and wheat-free selections, as well as food, treats and supplements that are formulated for dogs with hip, joint or weight issues. The store, which is open seven days a week, is dedicated to providing wholesome quality products that enhance the well-being, health and happiness of beloved animal companions.
✥ Restaurants & Entertainment ✥
Bice Ristorante, located at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando, 5601 Universal Blvd., Orlando, 407-503-1415, www.orlando.bicegroup.com, invites the public to join the Bice Ristorante family. All holiday shoppers are invited to become part of the exclusive Preferred Guest program, which provides priority reservations and seating, and up to 20 percent off purchases year-round. Bice’s employees are honored to have become a part of the Southwest community, and the restaurant is currently accepting reservations for holiday parties. Gift cards also are available. For more information, e-mail gmorlando@bicegroup.com.
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Cricketers Arms English Pub & Eatery, 5250 N. International Drive, Orlando, 407-354-0686, www.cricketersarmspub.com, is the oldest and most authentic English pub in Orlando. Diners looking for a relaxing atmosphere will find it at Cricketers Arms in the Festival Bay Mall at International Drive. The pub provides live entertainment starting at 10:30 p.m. weekend nights, and it also broadcasts live European soccer matches. Open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 2 a.m., Cricketers’ menu provides the best British-American fare, and patrons can sample any of 26 beers on tap. Gift certificates are available during the holiday season.
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Shoppers can celebrate this holiday season with gift cards from Fiorella’s Cucina Toscana. Located in The Westin Imagine Orlando, 9501 Universal Blvd., Orlando, Fiorella’s Cucina Toscana offers upscale dining for breakfast, lunch and dinner in a relaxed atmosphere. The menu offers Italian dishes from the regions of Tuscany and northern Italy. Fiorella’s also offers a wine list with Old World selections from Italy and New World tastes from California and emerging wine regions. The dining-room ambiance combines Tuscan charm with casual elegance. This season, Fiorella’s also will offer special holiday menus. Clients who book holiday parties in one of the restaurant’s banquet rooms Monday through Thursday receive a complimentary coffee and cordials bar with assorted holiday cookies. For more information, call 407-233-2950 or visit www.fiorellasorlando.com on the Web.
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Hard Rock Cafe, 6050 Universal Blvd., Orlando, 407-351-7625, www.hardrocklive.com, offers music fans true Jingle Bell Rock this year. Hard Rock Cafe gift cards, which are available in multiple denominations, are valid for food, beverages and merchandise at Hard Rock Cafes in North America and Europe. Holiday shoppers also can make their next visit to Hard Rock a special event by booking a party. Hard Rock Cafe can bring the party to any home or office with off-site catering, as well. In addition, Hard Rock Live concert tickets make great stocking stuffers.
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The Melting Pot invites diners to dip into something different with a fondue dining experience they will not find at any other restaurant. Located in The Fountains at 7549 W. Sand Lake Road, Orlando, The Melting Pot offers a perfect evening with a relaxed atmosphere, private tables, attentive service, fine wines and fabulous four-course fondue dinners for parties of all sizes. This holiday season, The Melting Pot is offering gift certificates and a new Melting Pot Cookbook for purchase. Operating hours are Monday through Thursday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Friday from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. For more information, call 407-903-1100 or visit www.meltingpot.com on the Web.
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Holiday shoppers can make gift-giving simple by purchasing Miller’s Ale House gift cards while enjoying a meal themselves, or shoppers can stop in and be out in minutes with a gift that everyone will love. With 11 convenient locations throughout the Orlando area, Miller’s Ale House gift cards can be purchased and used at any location. When shoppers buy $500 in gift cards, they will receive an additional $50 in cards, making buying in bulk a great way to give more for less. Miller’s Ale House features classic cuisine, including steaks, seafood, pasta, chicken, sandwiches and more. For more information, visit www.millersalehouse.com on the Web.
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Diners delight in award-winning authentic Japanese cuisine and sushi at Nagoya Sushi, located at The Marketplace at Dr. Phillips, 7600 Dr. Phillips Blvd., Suite 66, Orlando, and in Winter Springs at 5661 Red Bug Lake Road. All of the entrees are artistically created, and the elegant dining facility includes a full sushi bar. Gift cards and sake gift sets are available for the holidays. For more information, call 407-248-8558 for the Dr. Phillips location or 407-478-3388 for the Winter Springs location, or visit www.nagoyasushi.com on the Web. Credit cards accepted: AE, MC, V.
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Gift cards from TooJay’s Original Gourmet Deli, 407-355-0340, www.toojays.com, can take the bite out of holiday shopping lists. Located in The Marketplace at Dr. Phillips, 7600 Dr. Phillips Blvd., Orlando, TooJay’s specializes in overstuffed sandwiches, traditional favorites and tempting sweet delights. TooJay’s is casual, lively and open Sunday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Friday and Saturday until 10 p.m. for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Dine-in, takeout, delivery and catering are available. All major credit cards are accepted.
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Guests will love The Venetian Room’s Mediterranean-inspired ambiance, world-class wine list, and exquisite continental cuisine. The restaurant, located in the Caribe Royale All-Suites Hotel & Convention Center, 8101 World Center Drive, Orlando, features selections from an a la carte menu or seasonal prix fixe menu. The Venetian Room is the recipient of AAA’s prestigious 4-Diamond Award 2009, Orlando Magazine’s Best Restaurant and Service in Orlando award for 2009, Most Romantic Restaurant 2008 in AOL/City’s Best, Orlando Home & Leisure magazine’s 2008 Silver Spoon Award, and a rating in America’s Top Restaurants by Zagat reviews in 2008. Gift cards are available. For more information, call 407-238-8060 or visit www.thevenetianroom.com on the Web. All major credit cards are accepted.
✥ Sports, Fun & Fitness ✥
The Cycling Hub, 1200 Oakley Seaver Drive, Suite 111, Clermont, 352-536-2453, www.thecyclinghub.com, offers one-stop holiday shopping. Voted the No. 1 bike shop in the Orlando area by WESH 2/CW18 A-List Awards voters, The Cycling Hub specializes in bicycles for the entire family, repair and maintenance packages, cycling clothing and accessories. Popular gifts include bicycle lights, cycling computers, water bottles and cages, basic bike tool kits, flat repair kits and winter cycling apparel. It also offers gift cards and Trek credit card financing with up to one year of no interest and no payments. The Red Bow Sale starts Nov. 27 and runs through Dec. 24. Operating hours are Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.
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Gold’s Gym, 407-226-9996, 7733 Turkey Lake Road, Orlando, www.goldsgym.com, offers the gift of health with special membership gift certificates this holiday season, available to fit any budget or timeline for loved ones, family members and friends. Gold’s Gym offers pro-shop items, including gym bags, T-shirts, personal-training packages, tanning, Pilates classes, hydro bed massage therapy, and services through Massage by Cynthia. Gold’s Gym is open 24 hours a day, and there are additional locations serving the Altamonte Springs, Mount Dora and St. Cloud areas. Call for more information. Credit cards accepted: AE, DV, MC, V.
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The lifesaving gift of swimming can be given to everyone on one’s shopping list with gift certificates from SouthWest Aquatics, 407-905-0999, www.southwestaquatics.com. Swimming instruction makes a great gift for family members or neighbors who need to enroll their new babies in the Basic Training Program. Located in Winter Garden at 205 Windermere Road, SouthWest Aquatics has private and group stroke development classes, the SouthWest Stars swim team, and individualized adult masters swim programs. The facility features an indoor, heated teaching pool, as well as an outdoor competition pool. Operating hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
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Victory Martial Arts, located in Suite 120 of The Marketplace at Dr. Phillips, 7512 Dr. Phillips Blvd., Orlando, 407-903-1133, specializes in reinforcing empowering habits, such as discipline, confidence and respect in its students. VMA has added three more schools in Southwest Orlando, with facilities in Hunter’s Creek, 407-857-0520; Ocoee, 407-877-6800; and Windermere, 407-654-7372. The school’s main goal is to shape confident, responsible, passionate, joyful people into leaders, preparing them to conquer the challenges they will face and inspiring others to do the same. VMA also offers self-defense classes for children and adults and is now offering a special three-week course that includes a free official Victory uniform for $49. A free, no obligation introductory class is available for first-time clients. Locations are open Monday through Saturday.
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Vixen Fitness invites women to pole and chair dance their way to fit and fabulous bodies. Vixen Fitness is Orlando’s premier women’s alternative fitness center. Located at 2751 Old Winter Garden Road in Ocoee, just 10 minutes from downtown Orlando, Vixen Fitness offers pole dancing, chair dancing, Zumba, “pole-ates” yoga fusion, belly dancing, sexy cardio and more. Unlimited monthly classes start at $75, and unlimited monthly classes excluding pole classes start at $39. Gift certificates are available for classes or the Vixen Fitness boutique. Private bachelorette, birthday, divorce or girls’ night out parties also are available. For more information, call 407-654-7399 or visit www.vixenfitnessonline.com on the Web.
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Yogamatrix Studio, located in The Marketplace at Dr. Phillips, 7601 Della Drive, Suite 5, Orlando, offers gift certificates for either individual yoga classes or packages. Prices range from $20 for a single class to five for $65, 10 for $120, 20 for $200, and monthly memberships for $150. Private yoga classes are available for $100. The studio is open all day Monday through Friday and Saturday mornings. Times vary depending on class schedules. For more information, call 407-354-0909 or visit www.yogamatrixstudio.com on the Web. Credit cards accepted: MC, V.
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Zero Gravity Fitness, 407-654-2600, 2910 S. Maguire Road, Ocoee, www.zerogravityfitness.net, is the No. 1 spot for holiday shopping this season. The beautiful facility offers all the amenities needed to achieve any wellness goal, as well as caring and knowledgeable staff members who design programs to meet individual needs. The privately owned and operated business has been catering to everyone from novices to athletes for the last six years. Zero Gravity’s goal is to take intimidation out of the exercise equation and support its clients on their journeys to wellness. Zero Gravity’s services include Pilates, personal training, yoga, Russian kettlebell, Zumba, group fitness and massage. Facility tours and gift certificates are available. Credit cards accepted: AE, DV, MC, V.
✥ Odds & Ends ✥
College Nannies & Tutors, 352-389-4331, 4327 S. Highway 27, Suite 427, Clermont, www.collegenannies.com, prides itself on safe, educational nanny care for children from infants to high schoolers. College Nannies provides part-time, full-time and on-call nannies from four to 50 hours per week, depending on each family’s needs. Gift certificates for on-call services are available and include care whenever it is needed (during errands, date nights, etc.) and one-on-one tutoring. Nannies are fully trained, certified in CPR and first aid, background-checked and energetic individuals waiting to aid families.
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Edible Arrangements offers the perfect holiday gift. With more than 800 stores nationwide, Edible Arrangements is a true one-stop shop for friends and relatives. Arrangements, which are delivered fresh every day, can provide a centerpiece for the Thanksgiving table or treat for a holiday party. Each arrangement is made by hand in the store that delivers it. Edible Arrangements has local stores at 4104 Millenia Blvd., Orlando, and 7357 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando. Operating hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Millenia location is now open for pickups and deliveries Sunday from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. For more information, call the Millenia location at 407-903-0900 or the West Colonial Drive location at 407-296-7430, or visit www.ediblearrangements.com on the Web.
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EZpurchases, 407-371-5272, www.ezpurchases.com, is the perfect one-stop shop for all holiday needs, as well as throughout the year. EZpurchases offers something for everyone, including gifts, collectibles, indoor and outdoor home décor, fountains, furniture, hammocks, wind chimes, jewelry, religious items, candles, clothing, bath and body items, baby and children items, games, stuffed animals, dolls and more. It also provides a Reminder Service, so shoppers will never forget to purchase a gift for someone again, as well as a gift registry. Gift cards are available.
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Garden Music School, 40 S. Main St., Winter Garden, 407-654-5277, is offering a free guitar with registration for at least three months of lessons. Whether shoppers are looking to treat themselves or family members, Garden Music School provides individual, private instruction for students of all ages on a variety of instruments, including guitar, piano, drums, bass, woodwinds, brass and string instruments. For more information, visit www.gardenmusicschool.com on the Web. Credit cards accepted: AE, DV, MC, V.
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High Line Car Sales Inc., 407-877-3841, 2718 Rew Circle, Ocoee, www.highlineinc.com, has been at the same location for 12 years. High Line Car Sales provides automotive repairs and sales, including consignments for retail and wholesales of European and other imported vehicles. Shoppers are invited to use the coupon featured on the ad in this issue for special savings on automotive repairs. Operating hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and limited hours on Saturday. Gift certificates also are available. Credit cards accepted: AE, DV, MC, V.
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L.A. Acting Workshop, 407-876-0006, www.laacting.com, offers a gift for the holidays that will continue giving throughout the year. Director Amy Allen guarantees that a gift from L.A. Acting Workshop will last a lifetime by encouraging confidence, individuality, creativity and academic achievement. Year-round, day and evening classes in acting, on-camera technique, improvisation, storytelling and voice-over techniques are offered at L.A. Acting Workshop, located at 1575 S. Maguire Road in Ocoee. A free introductory class is offered to all new students. Credit cards accepted: DV, MC, V.
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Since 1982, The Maile Image, Modeling & Acting School, 407-628-5989, 999 S. Orlando Ave., Winter Park, www.lisamaile.com, has been offering classes for children, teens and adults. The Maile School’s team of professionals can help clients build better self-image and confidence. Students learn how to work in the professional modeling industry or prepare to act on-camera for TV, commercials and film. All classes are hands-on and taught by qualified industry experts who teach in their areas of expertise. The school also offers a free professional industry seminar that prepares clients for head shots, agents, booking jobs and more. Children and teen programs are available Saturdays, and all-adult classes are available in the evenings. Gift certificates are available, and all major credit cards are accepted.
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Office Furniture Outlet has moved to a beautiful 50,000-square-foot, air-conditioned showroom, located at 440 Kennedy Blvd., Suite 4, Orlando, in the original Costco building near Lee and Wymore roads. Office Furniture Outlet features new and pre-owned, quality office furniture for less. Its giant sale is going on now, with additional discounts on already great prices for home and commercial offices. Operating hours are Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, call 407-316-0101 or visit www.ofo-orlando.com on the Web. Credit cards accepted: AE, DV, MC, V.
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Residents are invited to kick off the holiday season with big savings at Parchment’s holiday open house from Nov. 6 through Nov. 8, when all Christmas items will be 20 percent off. Shoppers can choose from decorations, boxed Christmas cards, holiday gift-wrap, party invitations, serving pieces and more. Parchment also has hundreds of reasonably priced gifts for almost anyone on one’s holiday shopping list. Pandora, Vera Bradley, Brighton and many other treasures found at Parchment are always appreciated by recipients. Complimentary gift-wrapping and convenient parking make shopping a breeze. Located in Plaza Venezia at 7822 W. Sand Lake Road in Orlando, Parchment is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. For more information, call 407-248-0750 or visit www.parchmentpaper.com on the Web. Credit cards accepted: AE, MC, V.
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Peterbrooke Chocolatier, 407-877-0048, in the Winter Garden Village at Fowler Groves, 3310 Daniels Road, Winter Garden, has served more than 250,000 people since 1983. Its sumptuous chocolates offer the ultimate in gift selection. Treats are appreciated by everyone, young and old. Peterbrooke Chocolatier’s chocolate-covered popcorn, gift baskets, chocolate assortments and custom molds make perfect gifts for every occasion. Peterbrooke Chocolatier also is the perfect venue for office parties, as participants can have fun while making their own chocolate. The confectioner offers party platters, catering and strawberry trees. Holiday hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Gift certificates are available, and all major credit cards are accepted.
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Shoppers and diners alike will find this season’s holiday gifts at Pointe Orlando, 9101 International Drive, Orlando, 407-248-2838. Pointe Orlando now offers shoppers a secure and safe option for holiday gift-giving, providing shoppers and diners with the opportunity to purchase mall gift cards in any denomination of $20 or more to be used anywhere at Pointe Orlando where Discover cards are accepted. Pointe Orlando gift cards make great gifts because they can be used at a variety of retailers, restaurants and entertainment venues, all located at Pointe Orlando. Operating hours are Monday through Saturday from noon to 10 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 8 p.m. For more information, visit www.pointeorlando.com on the Web.
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Ryan’s Hallmark Shops, 2433 S. Hiawassee Road, Orlando, 407-297-8672, is Southwest’s favorite card and gift shop. Conveniently located next to Publix in MetroWest, Ryan’s Hallmark Shops carries the full line of Hallmark products, including Keepsake Ornaments. The Hunter’s Creek and MetroWest locations recently received the new line of quilted handbags from Marie Osmond. The store also routinely stocks products from Yankee Candles Co., Jim Shore, Precious Moments and more. Shoppers also can use the free Crown Rewards Card to earn points toward reward certificates. Ryan’s Hallmark Shops are open daily, with locations in MetroWest, Hunter’s Creek, downtown Orlando and Kissimmee.
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Studio 6 Pottery, 2910 S. Maguire Road, Suite 1003, Ocoee, 407-903-7278, www.studio6pottery.com, offers a variety of fun pottery and glass-fusion projects, as well as Paint Me Wearable Art. All items are handmade by clients, and they make perfect gifts for loved ones this holiday season. Studio 6 Pottery frequently hosts events, including movie madness, ornament decorating, Christmas trees, ladies night, date night, kids night out, Thanksgiving and winter break day camps, badges for Scouts, team builders, field trips and more.
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Not only does The Wine Barn, 407-704-8816, 1711 33rd St., Orlando, www.thewinebarn.net, have the best wine at the lowest prices, but the staff’s knowledge, as well as the atmosphere and hand-picked selections, set the store worlds apart from the competition. The store is packed with great wines at all price points. The no-nonsense shop is run by winemaker and Southwest resident Andres Montoya. Shoppers are invited to experience Orlando’s only wholesale wine market that is open to the public. Operating hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.
Guide to credit cards accepted: AE, American Express; DV, Discover; MC, MasterCard; and V, Visa.
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