Unless you’re living under a rock it’s clear that the fashion capital of the world is right here in New York City. If you’re strolling down 5^th Avenue, acclaimed “the most expensive street in the world” or Madison Avenue “the most fashionable,” the high end designer stores are hard to miss. From the distinguished department store Bergdorf Goodman to Louis Vuitton, Tiffany and Co., Gucci, Cartier, Saks Fifth Ave, Prada, Salvatore Ferragamo, Jimmy Choo, Chanel, Hermés, Christian Dior (you get the point) it’s all there!

Unfortunately, I am not able to afford the high end prices at these stores and I am green with envy every time I stroll past the shoppers making their purchases. Well, for the rest of you out there like me, look no further! I would like to introduce you to the world of online sample sale sites. These sites offer the very same designer fashions at incredible prices, usually 70% off or more on retail prices! The sites feature new sales about every 48 hours and supplies are limited so you have to be quick with your mouse to grab the best sales!

Gilt

Gilt Groupe offers sales on men’s, women’s and children’s fashions. Each Gilt sale starts at noon ET and lasts 36 hours and features specific selected styles from a single designer.

http://www.gilt.com/

Hautelook

HauteLook hosts private, limited-time sale events with today’s top brands for women, men, kids, home, and beauty. Lasting between 48-72 hours, these sale events offer a wider selection of the best merchandise at exclusive prices of 50-75% off retail.

http://www.hautelook.com/

Ideeli

New brands are featured each day at up to 80% off. All events start at 11:00 a.m. eastern. Sales last up to 36 hours, or until items are sold out. Ideeli also has weekly giveaways that have a surprise start time and last at least 7 hours (in most cases). Members are notified by email, SMS, facebook and twitter each time a new sale starts.

http://www.ideeli.com/

Ruelala

An exclusive, invitation-only online destination where Members discover premier-brand, private sale Boutiques, each open for just a brief window of time. Their focus is a well-edited collection of sought-after offerings from the best brand names in the world - combined with helpful service.

http://ruelala.com/

Beyondtherack

Beyond the Rack is a private shopping club for women and men who want designer brand apparel and accessories at prices up to 70% off retail. They obtain authentic designer merchandise and provide it exclusively to members through limited-time events. Each event starts at a specific time and typically lasts only 48 hours.

http://beyondtherack.com/

Most of the sites, however, are by invitation only and you need an invitation code to sign up or you can be placed on a waiting list to join. Chances are, your fashion savvy friends may already be a member, so you can simply receive an invite from them! If not there are many sites you can Google that offer invites to these exclusive websites and (just your luck) I have included one of those sites below. To obtain invite codes visit Gavethat.com at (http://www.gavethat.com/2009/03/online-sample-sale-sites-invitations.html).

Happy shopping!

Clarissa

So it’s that time of the year again: Christmas trees are laying on the sidewalks, the smell of pine is piercing through your nose, and you sometimes hear a Christmas song coming from a car or a store while walking down the streets of New York… You really can’t escape the smile you put on your face, even if you try to resist it!

Along with the general holiday cheer and happy memories of Christmas past, comes a lingering question: How should I spend my New Year’s Eve? And maybe most importantly these days, how should you spend your New Year’s Eve without spending all your money?

The world-renowned tourist destination is of course Times Square, but I’m sure you’ll have a hard time finding a New York City resident that is willing to be stepped on, shoved, yelled at, and stand and freeze for at least 5 hours that night (or any night for that matter!). For New Yorkers, the best way to see the ball drop is indoors: in a warm and not-insanely crowded space. Which brings us to some cost-effective ideas for that highly-anticipated night of the year:

v Instead of spending hundreds of dollars to go to one of the hottest clubs and event spaces from 10 p.m., you can gather with friends and watch the ball drop from the comfort of your own house, and then head to the clubs. Places like the Pink Elephant (http://www.pinkelephantclub.com/), Duvet (http://www.duvetny.com/about.html), and most of the other clubs and event spaces have special After 12.30 Admission tickets starting from $30.

v Not up to clubbing? You can stay home for a more private party with just the people you want to see in the dawn of the New Year. Gather all your friends, put some music on, and party until the sun goes up! You can tell everyone to bring a bottle so the cost is minimized for all, and then you can share and mix.

v If the weather helps, you can enjoy the city outdoors: there are organized walks on Brooklyn Bridge that night, where you can have a spectacular view of the fireworks from Staten Island, Brooklyn, Central Park, New Jersey and the Empire State Building light show. There is even a New Year’s Eve Midnight Run in Central Park!

You don’t have to limit yourself to the most common destinations on a night like this… Think outside of the box, and find your own unique and cost-efficient way to jumpstart the New Year in the city of endless possibilities.

‘Twas The Week Before The Holidays

‘Twas the week before the holidays, when all through the workplace

Every creature was stirring, with a smile on their face.

The Penta girls were assisting clients with care,

In hopes their events would cause bystanders to stop and stare.

Even at night, when the girls are nestled all snug at their beds,

Visions of decorations and Holiday cocktails dance in their heads.

At work with their blackberries and paper and pencil,

They settled their brains to talk decorating with garland or tinsel.

Any event, personal or corporate,

Choosing Penta to plan is a sure fit.

Thinking cost-effectively in this crazy economy,

Penta considers every event’s autonomy.

Then on the phone there arose such a clatter,

No worry of the problem, Penta can solve the matter.

Away to the dilemma they flew like a flash,

The clients never knew and it was a successful bash.

Their eyes-how they twinkle! Their dimples so merry!

The clients’ walk into the event, no longer are they wary.

The decorations, treats and entertainment were fantastic!

A couple drinks down the hatch and the crowd was enthusiastic.

Laughing and singing to Holiday tunes we all know,

You would think they were Santa’s elves dancing in the snow.

Penta watches from afar and surveys their work of art,

All the crowd’s smiles warm their heart.

With time running out and Holiday parties to plan,

The team can’t lose their attention span.

Strange desires from clients and last minute requests,

Penta does the work so you don’t have to stress.

As you remember the good times as this year ends,

Have fun at your parties with your family and friends.

Good luck with your New Years Resolutions,

Happy Holidays to you from Penta Dynamic Solutions!

—Emily Ohnstad

Movies that the girls at Penta cannot imagine the Holiday Season without:

How the Grinch Stole Christmas:

“The original cartoon version of the movie is a true timeless holiday classic…what’s not to love about this film? It’s hard to find a movie that represents the true meaning of Christmas and does so in a very funny and entertaining way. I don’t think anyone will ever grow too old to enjoy this movie.” Michele

“I like the idea of a scrooge being triumphant for the majority of a movie (and Jim Carey is one of the funniest men ever, hands down). This movie is very entertaining, I found myself laughing at Jim Carey’s facial expressions alone–hahaha.” Alexis 

“Circa 1996. Even though I can recite the whole story (and know where each commercial break is); I still must watch this grumpy green creature’s heart grow three sizes, pretend to know the words to the Whoville song and laugh at the little ‘reindeer’ Max pull an enormous bag of toys and decorations. This feel good story always warms my heart and reminds me of the spirit of Christmas.” Emily

For more information see http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0170016/.

A Christmas Story:

“A classic holiday film. I like this movie because the story is about childhood and wanting that one gift that was more important to you than anything (or at least that’s what you thought). TNT plays it continuously on Christmas Eve, so if you have never seen it, I “double dog dare” you to check it out this year…” Michele

Tim Burton’s: The Nightmare Before Christmas:
“Christmas begins to seem so sappy when people start singing and “acting” happy for no reason. Give your family a good scare with one of the few critically acclaimed Christmas horror/ thrillers. Set in “Halloween Town”, Tim Burton’s classic storyline will leave you watching every moment of this movie. A perfect way to go against tradition- expect to see rag dolls, ghost puppies and of course walking talking animated skeletons!” Alexis

“Tim Burton, enough said. I am a huge fan. You may argue that this is a Halloween movie (my favorite holiday) but I do not mind watching this two times a year…or five.” Emily

For more information see http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0107688/.

Home Alone:
“Almost everyone has had a sibling pick on them, and a parent punish them. Little Kevin McCalister (Macaulay Culkin’s character) received the worst treatment of all when his entire family accidentally leaves for the Christmas without him. This kid becomes a brave hero in what is a very entertaining, most-watched American classic.” Alexis

“A must see movie for this season. It is entertainment for the entire family. It shows us that even when we sometimes don’t get along with our families, having them disappear and leave you alone for a while is not as great as one would think.” Miriam

The Christmas List:
“This is a silly feel-good movie about a woman who enters her Christmas List into Santa’s mailbox at the mall, and all her outrageous wishes come true. I will admit, this is one of the worst movies every created, but I love it. I must watch this with my mom and a Snuggie close by.” Emily

A Charlie Brown Christmas:
“This movie touches my heart, especially being an apartment dwelling resident in New York City. With no room for a grand Christmas tree that I would have at my parent’s house, my ‘Charlie Brown Christmas Tree’ fits very nicely in the nook, I call a living room. I am not the only one who loves this movie; it has won both an Emmy and a Peabody award.” Emily

Go to http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0059026/ for more information.

Love Actually:

“Great cast, great stories, very well done, not stupidly romantic, puts you in the best holiday mood because it sort of makes you feel that there’s hope for everyone (happy endings or not).” Irene

A Christmas Carol (the original version):

“Simply because it’s a classic… Makes you go back to the child in you, and try to be a better person! (I’m not as romantic as I sound)” Irene

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation:

“It’s hilarious! It’s like an exaggerated version of holiday mishaps that most people can relate to. There are some scenes that remind me of moments with my father decorating the house.” Michele

Gone With the Wind

“This movie is quintessential, timeless and absolutely embodying cinematographic art. the Hollywood hills can be really proud of. What can be better than watching this reassuring and encouraging saga of love, dream and victory of spirit on the eve of Christmas and New Years – the season of hope and believing that something wonderful is just around the corner? Watching the victories and defeats of audacious Scarlet O’Hara are equally gripping in any season of the year.” Yana

Casablanca
“This movie is loved by virtually everyone – and we all know its tender love story and the famous lines that became legendary over time, ‘Here’s looking at you, kid’, and of course ‘Louis, I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship.’ Because we know this movie so well, we tend to overlook it, choosing something newer and more relevant. Christmas is the season of traditions and getting back to our roots so why not celebrate with the classiest movie of the time.” Yana

“A timeless classic. This is a romance that will never grow old. Perfect to get into the holiday mode.” Miriam

Click http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0034583/ for more information.

When Harry met Sally
“The fact that the most romantic and touching scene of the movie takes place at a New Years party (where Harry gives a love speech to Sally) is enough to put this movie on your Netflix list for December. Sally’s restaurant scene is hilarious and brings about laughter at any time of the year.” Yana

“Emotions will flood through you. From hilariously funny to heartbreakingly sad, this one has it all.” Miriam

Any Claymation Movie: Santa Clause is Coming to Town, The Year Without A Santa Clause, Rudolf the Red Nosed Reindeer, etc.

“I love the catchy songs, the creative art and the stiff, robotic walk each character possesses. Each story is as cheesy as the next and still as entertaining as it was when I was young.” Emily

~Miriam Hentze

How To Enjoy The Holidays In The City, When Far Away From Home

My office is truly a diminutive version of this melting pot we call New York, where a couple of American ladies are getting more and more accustomed to Greek, Indian, German, Guyanese and Russian accents everyday.  Throughout all our silly banter, one major question is – to skedaddle to our native countries OR entertain the exhilarating idea of welcoming Santa right here on American soil. (AND get this: no grueling multi-hour plane ride required)

While some loyal daughters and sons already started packing with firm intentions to unwrap their Christmas presents in Germany, India or Greece. I’m not as quick to flee to my native land, Moscow, Russia.  I truly believe a very Merry Christmas in American fashion is going to be so much more fun!!!

I’m going to treat myself to an American Christmas and this can’t be done anywhere as well- as in NEW YORK CITY!

My Possible Itinerary:

• Sophisticated Christmas shopping.

This kind of shopping may be done in Moscow as well, but who cares about Moscow stores.  They charge you an arm and a leg when Union Square is the best inspiration for “somewhat off-beaten track” gift ideas - handmade ornaments, gourmet food, authentic clothes, just to begin with…

• Yes we ARE skating this time of the year!

I don’t care that some Scrooge-like coworkers of mine might turn up their noses to these “super cheesy, already shown in any possible chick flick” recreations. Even being a little bit of a klutz, I’m going to hit a rink this Christmas – and yes it’s going to be one of these very quintessential New York locations – Rockefeller Center, Central Park or Bryant Park.

• The New York Opera is an all-season delight that is so much more delightful on Christmas Eve.

Oh yes, I’m fully aware that an opera trip at this time of the year might add up to a pretty hefty bill but let’s splurge here. And Boy it’s going to feel good! In addition to celebrating those classic holiday values – peace, love, hope - there are so many other perks. You have the pleasure of dressing up into that super classy and very lady-like cocktail dress you’ve been meaning to wear forever, sip champagne with the upper class and have a highly sophisticated conversation about how hot the dancer was who played the Nutcracker was.

The list can go on forever. Truthfully, it is not even that important where I will spend the “most wonderful time of the year,” it’s more about who I am with. I am already excited to embrace a highly mixed and very international rehearsal Christmas party my colleagues and I are going to have here in our office, all the way downtown in Financial District.

-Yana

Everyone knows a person who insists on not needing presents this holiday season. Chances are those claiming to have everything are hardest to please. In an ideal world you can take them up on their offer and surprise them with the perfect gift of nothing. However on Planet Earth, arriving Christmas morning empty-handed will result in blatant contempt. To avoid contending with loved ones “who have it all” take heed. Psychologically, nothing spreads holiday cheer like to the act of giving. For this reason Penta has compiled a list of great gifts to give the insurmountably content:

1. Give the Gift of Gadgets: giving the gift of technology will work wonders. Mobile phones today are fully equipped with extraordinary features. Best sellers of the year include: Blackberry Bold (9700); Samsung Flight, Motorola Droid, Motorola Clip and the Samsung Intrepid. Other fast approaching competitors to watch are Palm Prix and highly raved about Google phones. Best sellers sourced from Mobiledia.com (http://www.mobiledia.com/shop/best-sellers.html)

    
2. Go Astronomical. Pieces of planet Mars and Earth’s moon are up for sale. For the person who has everything, this gift is out of this world. (Literally) At the Lunar Federation celestial purchases start as low as $29.95. Naming star(s) after a loved one is also monumental and magical. (For details visit Lunar Federation : http://www.lunarfederation.com/index.php)

 
3. Personalized Items: Exceedingly sentimental, personalized items are always a winner. Suggestions to impressed loved ones include: jewelry, golf clubs, coffee cups and mugs. Personalized newspapers signifying a milestone are also big hits. Above all personalized shot glasses are also a big hit..(Think Headlines: Retirement Year, World’s Best Grandpa etc) To really wow the crowd, try a newspaper circulated during the year of their birth. (Great ideas are at http://www.personalheadlines.com/products/newspapers.php) Also see:( www.ponddoc.com/…/PersonalizedShotGlasses.jpg)

                                                              
4. Other Unique Ideas. Know someone with malfunctioning memory? Help their decrepit minds with items such as the Lost-Key finder. One top notch idea for the “woman who has everything” is the Miss Army knife. Similar to the Swiss army knife, this gadget can include a mini flashlight, nail file, needles, pen, bottle- opener and even screw driver. Another gift for her includes irresistible gourmet chocolates. For that hard to please guy tickets to a favorite sports team game or autographed sports memorabilia. For the Miss Army knife see: www.cookiepots.com/Ms-Army-Knife.htm

Alexis Todd

Blast at Banc Café in Midtown

So the coworkers and I stumbled upon a wonderful bar called Banc Café. While there, we enjoyed a plethora of drinks. Made with a splash of vermouth, Metropolitans served here became an instant favorite. At $6 per glass (during happy hour) who can blame a girl for wanting to frequent this place. Other yummy drink options include: “Blueberry Banc Mojitos” and the sweetest “French Kiss” cocktails ever! This outing was a well deserved reward for all the diligent work we are currently doing. I have taken the liberty of including some pictures taken.

With that said the Penta team is searching for new candidates for the spring 2010 internship. Be sure to apply now to increase your chances of working at a spectacular company! Here your chance, email your resume now to eohnstad@pentaevents.com. Best of luck! Check out Banc Café at www.banccafe.com

It is often said that any gift is better than no gift at all, but that does not always hold true. Here is a list of gifts that we can do without:

Socks: Most people have enough socks in their sock drawer. Everyone will buy their own socks.

Ugly sweaters that don’t fit: Buying (or knitting) clothes for anyone is always a problem. Finding the right style, size and color pose major obstacles.

Chain letters that ask for donations: Especially inappropriate in the current economic situation, where everyone is budgeting. It is nice to think of the less fortunate, but if I wanted (was able to) make a donation I would do so on my own, and don’t need your guiding hand.

Fruit cake: Not everyone enjoys it.

Age inappropriate: Getting gifts for your niece, nephew or grandchildren can be a challenge, but before you buy the newest “In” toy of the year, make sure its age appropriate. Just because last year Jane loved horses, it doesn’t mean she still will this year. If everything else fails, but be afraid to ask the parents if the child has expressed any preferences or already owns certain toys.

Not coordinating with others: If you are planning on the big family celebration, make sure to coordinate with others. Ending up with 3 calendars for 2010, or 2 complete works of Shakespeare is more than anyone ever needs.

Generally Inappropriate: Personal Hygiene Products (including deodorant, soaps, etc) are not good gifts. Gym memberships and subscriptions to Weight Watcher’s Magazine fall in the same category. They suggest that the person receiving them needs them, and therefore is either smelly, dirty or in need of a diet. No one wants to be told this on Christmas Day; it is supposed to be the day of love and acceptance, not the day of subtle hints.

“I have just the same one”: Buying gifts for people, based purely on personal taste, might not be the best idea. Just because you like it and want one for yourself, it does not make a desirable object for everyone.

The time of making gifts “personal” is over. Gifting a “Snuggie” to the person who is always cold, might be nice thought, but might not be the best gift. Most people will return unwanted gifts, or they will end up gathering dust in the darkest corner of the closet. If you are unsure what to give, you can always ask for hints from the receiver. A nice card, filled with wishes and the means for them to buy their own gift (cash gifts). Gift cards to the receiver’s favorite store (clothing, bookstore, coffee shop) are appropriate gifts to people not very close to you (coworkers, distant relatives).

-Miriam

How to Save a Bundle This Holiday Season

In these despondent economic times the thought of buying a truck load of holiday presents can be down right depressing. The nightmare of having to please everyone on your list is terrifying. Well have no fear, the Penta team is here. Our entire office contributed ways in which to save enormously this Christmas/Holiday Season. Continue reading to see the most popular ideas.

By All Means Re-Gift! Rules of re-gifting are relatively simple and work wonders when carried out correctly. Below is a checklist of items that should be kept in mind:
-Never Re-gift within the same circle. If your mom gave you that ubiquitous holiday sweater, please do not rewrap and give to a sibling. Instead hand that contraption over to a co-worker.
-Keep price tags and manufacturer seals in tact. Also if possible gifts should remain unopened.

Secret Santa: The old tried and true Secret Santa is a cost-effective way to ensure everyone receives a present. Be sure to set a maximum $ (dollar) amount and strict instructions not to go over budget. Extraordinary gifts arise by way of the Secret Santa. Participants may choose to write a name of a coveted item along with their own name on a piece of paper. Another option includes writing your name on a piece of paper (without names of gifts) then dropping in a hat for others to choose.

Spend Less. Give More: Nothing beats warm cookies, brownies or even cake during the holidays. Have an affinity for baking? Then share the wealth with family and friends. For practically pennies a batch you will delight hearts of many. Bake a few cookies or brownies and put them in a festive bag along with the recipe and you’ll be the most adored this season. For the young professional on your list, consider giving a business card holder.  Giving business card holders are angelically thoughtful yet wickedly inexpensive.

Alexis Todd

Inexpensive Holiday Parties

The Holiday season is here. Now the all mighty question that lingers is…to have or not to have that Holiday Party. Even with the current economic situation in mind, we at Penta agree that a Holiday Party is a must. We collected a few inexpensive ways to celebrate the season.
Why should you provide everything needed for a party? Have your guests contribute to the fun.

- Potluck and BYOB: These popular practices are back again this year. Have your guests bring a food item or a drink (alcoholic or not) large enough to share with others. Set it up buffet style, this way everyone gets a taste of everything. Make sure that not everyone ends up bringing lasagna, a very popular potluck item. If the drink needs to be mixed the person should bring all required ingredients.
- Theme Parties: Bring a little extra to your party. This does not require you to dress up or decorate the entire place. A theme can be displayed in the selection of food, drink and music. Some theme ideas: Wear an ugly Christmas sweater party, dress up in Christmas related costumes, Cookie Decorating, or a Crafts Party (make decorations for the season)
- Around the World Party: Here in the office we found this theme intriguing and yet simple to create. Every person selects a country of their choice and prepares a food or drink that is traditional to that country. Once set up, have labels that states the country, name of the food and Holiday traditions in that country. Serve a hearty, traditional Hungarian Goulash Soup, that will warm you from the inside, beside an all American Apple Pie.
- Soup Night: Perfect for the cold season. Almost everyone likes soups and everyone has their own favorite. Think beyond cream of tomato and chicken noodle, all time favorites that belong on every party buffet. There are many options, almost every nation has their own soups, from miso in Japan, Tom Yum in Thailand, Goulash in Hungary and Lentil Soup in the Middle East.
- Use A Public Location: There are many places you can hold your Holiday Party. NYC has many beautiful parks. Central Park, Bryant Park or even the often forgotten Prospect Park (designed by the creator of Central Park). Each has its unique features, from “Great Lawns” to BBQ grills. Chose a meeting point that is easily accessible, and close to restrooms. In certain areas picnic benches and tables are available and sometimes even a little roof to provide shelter from bad weather.
- Ice Skating: If you are already out in any of these parks, you have the opportunity to go ice skating. Byrant Park offers free admission and Skate rentals at $12, Groups of 10 or more get special deals, check out the website for more information and online reservations (http://www.thepondatbryantpark.com/skate/info). If the park isn’t for you than maybe a trip to the South Street Sea Port is. Restaurants, a mall and other places provide a place to warm-up again after a circling the ice. The Seaport Ice will open again this season. Admission is $5 and Skates rent for $7. Take a look at their website for more details and hours of operation (http://www.thenewseaport.com/icerink).

~Miriam (Intern)