Executive Gift Guide

Your boss is almost always really nice, right? Even when they may be a little down, it's still the holidays and that means gifts for everyone. Here in Indiana, there are luxury gift items that may seem over the top paired with smaller gifts for those who already know their bonus is coming. Feast your eyes on this year's Northwest Indiana Business Quarterly executive gift guide. It may give you some ideas about which side of your boss you need to butter.

For Him

Flying the friendly skies …

KGYY Jet Charter–For the boss who's a flying enthusiast, how about a charter flight from KGYY Gary/Chicago International Airport? Score big points with your boss when you hire a G-4 jet for the big game or concert. He'll feel like Donald Trump, and you'll feel like a winner. KGYY, which has 10 jets for rent, is located at the Gary Airport, 6001 Industrial Highway, and is open to the public.

WE RECOMMEND: Chartering the weekend flight. Call Lynn, the owner, way in advance because jet rentals are at a premium. For more information call (219) 944-1210 or toll-free (800) 892-8178.

Tee off …

White Hawk Country Club is bringing golf back in the Crown Point area and beyond. This 36-Hole facility has four beautiful nines that present a unique test of golf at every turn. There are 600 acres surrounded by tranquil scenery and wetlands. Excellent course conditions await members, their guests, and public play at this championship facility.

WE RECOMMEND: Located in Crown Point, White Hawk Country Club has some of the most unique gift items for that one-of-a- kind executive, including clubs and gear made by Ping and Titleist. Or, how about your favorite boss getting the inside track from a golf pro? White Hawk Country Club is at 1001 White Hawk Drive in Crown Point. For more information call (219) 661-1300.

For the executive who loves to entertain …

The Quest Eatery and Spirits–For the executive who loves to entertain, this destination restaurant is full of surprises such as homemade cinnamon French toast for brunch. It's at 1204 W. Lincoln Highway in Dyer.

WE RECOMMEND: Try the perch-generous portions of 20 and the baby back ribs paired with an expertly poured drink of your choice.

For an evening of laughter or holiday cheer …

Munster Performing Arts Center–Your boss can sit back and enjoy Sunday brunch at the Munster Performing Arts Center. Bacon, eggs, champagne and much more is the order of the day at this Broadway-like playhouse. Holiday Brunch (Easter, Mother's Day & Thanksgiving) is $26 for adults; children 4-11, $13.50; and under 4 years, $3.50.

WE RECOMMEND: See a first run play while you're there. It's perfect for the stressed out boss. The Center for Visual and Performing Arts is at 1040 Ridge Road in Munster. Phone: (219) 836-1930.

Morris Performing Arts Center–This year why not treat your boss to a fabulous day with a cappella group “Straight No Chaser” at the Morris Performing Arts Center? The group has its roots at Indiana University and sings songs from every era with a huge fan base. There also are Christmas shows galore at the center – enough for you and your boss.

WE RECOMMEND: Check out the Symphony's Christmas show at the Morris Performing Arts Center at 211 North Michigan Street in South Bend. For more information call (574) 235-9190 or Toll Free at (800) 537-6415.

Movie Tickets …

Why not purchase a gift card for the boss who didn't have to give you time off–but did. Treat your boss to tickets at the AMC Theatres in Schererville.

WE RECOMMEND: All theaters sell gift cards that can go for as little as $25 for that special someone. If you don't feel like going out to shop, purchase gift cards for local movies at fandango.com.

Boss Bling …

Highland Jewelers–Is your boss so unique he needs custom jewelry? You'll find affordable corporate gift items such as money clips, cuff-links, tie tacks or fine ink pens here in Highland. Hours are Mon. and Thurs. 9:30 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Tues., Wed., and Fri. 9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.; and Sat. 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Highland Jewelers is at 2839 Highway Ave. in Highland. For more information call (219) 838-2530.

WE RECOMMEND: Give your boss Chamilia retired beads that are 50 percent off. It's a win-win for both of you.

For Her

Everyone loves a day at the spa …

Massage Envy–Treat your boss like a boss! One of my favorite things to do is to treat myself to a spa day. Treat your favorite boss to the latest spa treatments, facials and even Swedish massages from Massage Spa Envy in Highland. Part of a popular chain, the spa offers gift cards and packages, but also has memberships available. Located at 10343 Indianapolis Blvd., Suite 107, Massage Envy is open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sundays.

WE RECOMMEND: A gift card for a comprehensive facial or massage. They start at $50. For more information call (219) 922-0900 or access www.massageenvy.com.

Vanis Salon and Day Spa–A relaxing spa package may make the difference between getting that promotion and not getting it. Vanis offers affordable packages that will make your boss turn heads. Among many skin solutions, Vanis offers glymed peels which can provide cell turnover making you look younger and more refreshed.

WE RECOMMEND: Peels don't have to be scary. There are many types of peels for all skin types and conditions. Vanis Salon & Day Spa is at 221 US Hwy 41, Suite J., Schererville. For more information about gift cards call (219) 322-5600.

If your boss is hoping that Santa leaves tickets for a Broadway play …

A trip to Hot Tix for half price Broadway tickets for your boss is in order. A program of the League of Chicago Theatres, Hot Tix sells half price tickets to a wide variety of theatre productions for the current week as well as future performances.

WE RECOMMEND: Hot Tix discounted tickets are available at three outlet locations in downtown Chicago as well as online. One location to purchase tickets is 72 E. Randolph in Chicago (between Michigan Avenue and Wabash Avenue, across the street from Chicago Cultural Center). For more information access www.hottix.org.

Flowers for a colorful boss

Central Florist–For a beautiful holiday centerpiece, check out the flowers at Central Florist at 6992 Broadway in Merrillville. They also offer corsages/sprays, balloons, fresh flowers, gift baskets and even gourmet baskets are available.

WE RECOMMEND: A gourmet basket filled with flowers and specialty food items and accessories. Best of all, the work at Central Florist is guaranteed. For more information call (219) 736-9077 or access www.centralflorist.net.

Weekend getaway …

The Inn at Aberdeen Ltd.–The beautiful Inn and its surrounding land lies less than two miles south of the Valparaiso Moraine and is part of the Kankakee River Basin, known and respected for its bountiful harvests and rich trappings and hunting preserves for centuries. Today the elegant inn is a premier bed and breakfast as well as a meeting center and more. Rooms have fireplaces, Jacuzzi tubs, and homemade breakfasts that make the day complete.

WE RECOMMEND: A gift certificate for a night at the Inn and a trip to its bucolic grounds. Aberdeen offers a gazebo set amid twinkling lights and more. The Inn at Aberdeen is a great getaway for bosses and clients at 3158 South State Road 2 in Valparaiso. For more information call (219) 465-3753.

For art loving bosses …

Copper Butterfly Fine Arts and Gallery gift certificates are a great way to showcase this highly unique shop which includes a large selection of original art and one-of-a-kind finds. The Copper Butterfly is a home town boutique with an uptown flair.

WE RECOMMEND: This quaint shop showcases affordable artisan jewelry, trendy fashions, and bath items. Copper Butterfly is at 120 S. Main St. in Crown Point. For more information call (219) 663-1506.

For chocolate lovers, you can't go wrong …

With many outlets in Northwest Indiana, Fannie May has every kind of confectionary from chocolate-covered strawberries to chocolate mint delights. When you're looking for a thoughtful gift for co-workers, family or friends, Fannie May Chocolates is the perfect present for any chocolate lover.

WE RECOMMEND: A box of candy from Fanny May. Sending or receiving a chocolate gift from Fannie May means you're a part of a gift that was carefully crafted and designed with you in mind. Shipping is free at www.fanniemay.com.

For the Epicurean …

Cooking classes at Mrs. Dornberg's is more than just a cooking class–it's the whole experience! From the moment you walk in the door, you'll learn new and exciting recipes, tips and tricks to make cooking fun, the basics as well as expert techniques, and the know-how to create your own kitchen adventures!

WE RECOMMEND: Cooking classes. During each class, you'll learn about a featured ingredient and walk away with everyday skills and techniques that you can use at home. The company offers a wide variety of classes that even those with special dietary needs can attend. Whether you're new to cooking, an experienced chef, or just looking for a fun night out with your friends, Mrs. Dornberg's has a class level for every style. Mrs. Dornberg's is at 2130 45th St. in Highland. For more information call (219) 922-4542.

For Employees

Cash is still king for many employees, but gift cards also will do the job.

A gift from Bon Femme Cafe offers elegance in a casual setting. In fact, that saying is the motto that drives the succulent cuisine at Bon Femme Cafe. Here, chefs have prepared an exquisite menu blending American and Continental European with a French accent.

WE RECOMMEND: Give your employees a gift card at the place that prepares a quiche that melts in your mouth. Bon Femme Cafe is at 66 W. Lincolnway in Valparaiso.

For fresh, home-cooked goodness …

Teibel's Family Restaurant has been in business for the past 80 years and offers a fine dining experience. The restaurant chef uses recipes handed down in the Teibel family for generations. Whether you fancy Grandma Teibel's fried chicken or their standout boned and buttered perch–an Indiana favorite–our diverse menu has something for Teibel's Family Restaurant.

WE RECOMMEND: A gift card good for the boned and buttered perch. Teibel's is at 1775 U.S. Highway 41 in Schererville. For more information call (219) 865-2000 or access www.teibels.com.

For employees who enjoy sporting events …

Stub Hub has something for everyone in the entertainment sector. The site offers hard-to-get tickets to sporting events for teams such as the Black Hawks, Chicago Bulls and the Bears.

WE RECOMMEND: Tickets from Stub Hub. For more information access www.stubhub.com.

For employees who need to laugh …

Second City–The theater that started it all and brought you John Belushi, Bill Murray, Gilda Radner, Mike Myers and Tina Fey presents comedy shows that are big on improvisation and, many times, audience participation. Shows run at various times weekly. Tickets are $23-$28.

WE RECOMMEND: The neighboring UP Comedy Club presents a show as well. Dinner/show packages available; no drink minimum. For more information access www.secondcity.com.

Fitness club memberships …

For the fitness challenged, there is lots to do and learn at Anytime Fitness. Treat your employees to classes, personal training, and more.

WE RECOMMEND: A limited membership card. Anytime Fitness is at 2151 US Highway 41 in Schererville. For more information: (219) 227-8895, anytimefitness.com or Charter Fitness-Schererville: 1642 US Highway 41, Ste. 5, Schererville, (219) 322-2424, www.bmwinschererville.com.

Hot Yoga …

Started by a Purdue graduate in Northwest Indiana, Pure Power Hot Yoga adds heat and humidity to training. Patterson has been involved with yoga for a decade, starting at a studio in Chicago. Five years ago she decided to become a yoga instructor.

WE RECOMMEND: A limited pass to classes at Pure Power Hot Yoga in Highland. Pure Power is at 2545 Main St., Highland. For more information call (219) 924-1990 or access www.purepowerhotyoga.com.

For Clients

Thank your clients with restaurant or gourmet popcorn gift cards that will make you a winner …

Theo's Restaurant has been a long time staple in Northwest Indiana. Theo's sets the standard of fine dining excellence. It's a classic steakhouse with a stylish, lively atmosphere and a place where you can celebrate with friends, family and associates.

WE RECOMMEND: Here, USDA Prime Steaks reign supreme along with delectable market seafood for those non-steak moments. Theo's is at 9144 Indianapolis Boulevard in Highland. For more information call 219-838-8000.

House of Kobe–This restaurant and bar is just the thing for an evening out with friends and family. It has hibachi grill concept that is great for dinner and a show. There are two locations in Schererville and Merrillville. House of Kobe is at 1951 US Highway 41 in Schererville. For more information call (219) 281-5784.

WE RECOMMEND: A gift certificate for dinner out and a glass or more of delicious Japanese hot sake. For more information call (219) 864-1377.

Chicagoland Popcorn is winning awards (can you say Food Network) from Hoosiers everywhere. The store makes specialty popcorns for area schools, such as Ivy Tech, that are selling like hotcakes. In fact, there are 250 popcorn flavors to choose from. Their staff can even make mini portions of popcorn for weddings and even employees.

WE RECOMMEND: Your own specialty blend of popcorn. For more information email info@chicagolandpopcorn.com or call Chicagoland Popcorn at (219) 940-1140. Chicagoland Popcorn is at 5470 E. Lincoln Hwy in Merrillville.

Everyone loves chocolate!

DeBrand Fine Chocolates are made from the purest, most natural ingredients. Whether they are imported Belgium chocolates, inclusions from around the world, or fresh local ingredients, the quality and freshness of each chocolate remains an absolute priority. The first DeBrand store was located on Wells Street in Fort Wayne.

WE RECOMMEND: A big box of fine DeBrand Fine Chocolates. For more information call (260) 969-8333.

South Bend Chocolate Company–got its start making chocolates under a license from the University of Notre Dame. The company now has 13 company-owned stores in Northern Indiana and four franchised locations throughout Indiana, Michigan and Ohio. The factory is located at 3300 W. Sample Street in South Bend and occupies 60,000 square feet.

WE RECOMMEND: The cordial cherry treats. South Bend Chocolate Company is at 3300 W. Sample Street in South Bend. For more information call (574) 233-2577 or (800) 301-4961.

For Holiday Entertaining

Gamba Ristorante–The former owners of the Venezia Bar & Grill and Cafe Venezia, Benito and Hilda Gamba, have combined their efforts into the Gamba Ristorante. Located in Merrillville, this restaurant is housed in an architectural masterpiece, which is hard to miss with its circular design and copper roof. Modeled after upscale restaurants in exotic European locations, the menu offers classic Italian cuisine.

WE RECOMMEND: A trip to the wine room. The wine room boasts storage space for 1,000 bottles inside of a banquet hall that holds up to 175 people and looks out onto an open courtyard. Gamba Ristorante is at 455 E. 84th Dr. in Merrillville. For more information call (219) 736-5000.

Avalon Manor–Prepare to be impressed as soon as you step into Avalon Manor Banquet Center's elegant foyer. Suitable for events ranging from wedding receptions and fundraising events to corporate training meetings and seminars. The huge facilities offer over 16,500-square-feet of meeting space to suit your needs. Choose an intimate meeting room, our spacious ballroom or the entire building.

WE RECOMMEND: Check out the largest freestanding banquet facility in Lake County. If you prefer an outdoor wedding venue, consider Avalon's picturesque gazebo. Overlooking a peaceful pond and fountain, the park-like setting has witnessed ceremonies of all kinds. Avalon Manor is at 3550 East US Route 30 in Merrillville. For more information call (219) 945-0888 or access www.avalonmanor.com.

Andorra Banquets offers plenty of room to get the party started. The atmosphere in this large facility is friendly and elegant. It is very spacious with delicious food offerings.

WE RECOMMEND: An evening at Andorra with family and friends. Andorra is at 1112 Route 41 in Schererville. For more information call (219) 865-1230.