mercedes benz of houston north
vegas helps roll in the all-new R-Class grand sport tourer

( + click photos to enlarge )

WHAT: It was an evening of casino, cocktails and cars as Mercedes-Benz of Houston North and over 300 guests gathered for the official launch of the all-new 2006 R-Class Grand Sport Tourer. Guests tested their luck at blackjack, roulette and craps for a chance to win the grand prize, a "Weekend Getaway Prize Package for Six" in Corpus Christi, that included a weekend rental of the new R-Class, hotel accommodations provided by the Omni Hotel and six dinner gambling cruise tickets provided by Texas Treasure Cruises. However, the most popular game of the night proved to be Game Four of the World Series. Organizers acted quickly days before the event to ensure that guests would not have to miss this crucial game and broadcast the Astros race for the pennant. If luck be a lady tonight, it was lucky winner Stacie Giroux whose $130,000 winnings earned her the Grand Prize Package.

THE VEHICLE: Throughout the night, anxious guests wandered around the two vehicles draped in back silk, waiting for the official unveiling. Curiosities grew as emcee Lisa Malosky formally introduced Walter Weibel, General Manager, to finally reveal the night's star - the all new 2006 R-class. Flanked by four stunning showgirls in true Vegas fashion, music and lights erupted the crowd as the brand new R-Class was instantly welcomed with applause from the audience. A true luxury vehicle that captures the imagination as easily as it holds up to six adults in style, the 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class is an altogether different, all-new class of vehicle - visionary design, panoramic space, first-class comfort, and dynamic performance. The 2006 R-Class is truly a vehicle that changes everything.

THE HOSTS: General Manager, Walter Weibel, played the role of "Pit Boss" while "Head Dealer" Houston Modern Luxury magazine served as the Press Sponsor of the event. "Hospitality Hosts" Mikel Marketing made sure the events of the night went off without a hitch.

THE WHO: The night's "Rat Pack" was consisted of Valinda Weibel, Katina Pontikes, Monty McDannald, Lou & Meredith DeLone, Joe Danna, Glen Scott, Lisa Gochman, Lisa Fenberg, Krishan Magon, Sally Templeton, Jhanvi Jawala, Catherine Noyes, Emcee Lisa Malosky of Channel 2 and even an appearance from The King.

THE FOOD: Vegas is known for its fine cuisine, and this casino party was no different. Delectable hors d'ourves provided by Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar and Bossa Cuban Bar & Latin Cafe, as well as a Ceviche Bar setup by Of Course! Catering, Inc. helped satisfy the appetites of the hungry gamblers.

THE DRINKS: What casino party would be complete without flowing libations? Gentleman Jack quenched the thirst of party-goers while a martini bar provided by Finlandia Vodka allowed guest to sample Finland's best. Red and White Wines provided by Five Rivers kept guests crowded around the bar as well as the craps table.

The dealership is conveniently located at I-45 North and FM 1960 and is open Mondays thru Fridays from 9AM to 8PM, and Saturdays from 9AM to 7PM. For more information on Mercedes-Benz of Houston North or to schedule a test drive of the new R-Class Grand Sport Tourer 350 or 500, please call the dealership at 281/ 233.6000 or visit their website at www.mbhoustonnorth.com.

ISES houston chapter meeting

the houston symphony welcomes tony bennett

Grammy Award winner Tony Bennett will perform at the Houston Symphony as part of the 'American Expressions' series. Bennett's long list of career accomplishments include twelve Grammy Awards, 24 songs in the Top 40, and 50 million records sold worldwide, including platinum and gold albums. The event will take place on Friday, November 4 beginning at 8 PM, at Jones Hall, downtown Houston at 615 Louisiana St.

For more information visit www.houstonsymphony.org.

art crowd- young professionals seasons greetings at rienzi

Begin the season's festivities with a fabulous cocktail party at the unique museum home, Rienzi. All decked out for the holidays, enjoy live music by Holiday Brass and hors d' oeuvres catered by City Kitchen while touring this spectacular masterpiece.

Reservations are required.

This event is for Art Crowd members and admission is free. To join the Art Crowd phone 713-639-7551 or visit www.mfah.org. Art Crowd members may purchase guest tickets for $25 each, and may be purchased in advance until December 2, 2005 by phoning 713-639-7550.

Tickets will NOT be sold at the door.

Art Crowd is a dynamic group of young MFAH members in their 20's and 30's who gather to enjoy a lively mix of art and entertainment. Art Crowd gatherings include tours, cocktail attire functions, and invitations to selected MFAH benefit events. Join the Art Crowd and revel in Houston's vibrant art and social scene!

world-renowned bice ristorante selects houston as first location in texas

-7,500 square foot restaurant and lounge will occupy two-levels in Galleria III; opening is scheduled for mid-November-

Eat, drink and be seen. Such is the moniker that Bice Ristorante has embraced for more than seventy-five years. Now, the hip, 'see and be seen' Italian restaurant for the modern world, will bring their famed reputation to Houston. Bice Restaurant Group announces that construction is underway for Bice Ristorante in The Galleria. Bice will occupy 7,500-square feet in the former Polo Shop beside the Saks Fifth Avenue entrance in Galleria III.

The restaurant that began life in Milan in 1926, as a small trattoria, has since conquered the world with more than 40 locations worldwide including Milan, Monte Carlo, Tokyo, Palm Springs, NYC, Chicago and Madrid. Bice offers patrons a contemporary yet comfortable dining experience featuring an appealing northern Italian fare menu.

"We're very excited about expanding Bice into the vibrant Texas market- the climate, backdrop and energy of Houston is a perfect fit for this style restaurant," said Raffaele Ruggeri, grandson of Beatrice (Bice) Ruggeri and Executive Vice-President of Bice Restaurant Group. "Bice clientele is made up of an elite club that travel the world and expects that Bice will always be there. Therefore, the city of Houston was a natural choice for a new location-this city is booming and is a prime business destination for many international travelers."

The Galleria Mall location will house a Bice Ristorante on the first floor that will seat approximately 120 in both the dining room and patio. The second floor of this location will be a Bice Private Lounge that will seat an additional 50 and is an exclusive members-only lounge with memberships starting at $1,000. The lounge not only reflects the world renowned chic atmosphere of Bice Ristorante it offers a contemporary place to relax and socialize before or after dinner in casual elegance with a luxurious specialized menu that tantalizes the senses.

The menus of both Bice Ristorante and Bice Private Lounge have been carefully planned by Executive Corporate Chef Giuliano Baker to include a variety of Bice specialties newly created items. Bice Ristorante will feature menu items such as: endive salad with gorgonzola cheese and roasted walnuts in a Dijon dressing; veal and spinach "Ravioli" in a creamy mushroom and Marsala wine sauce; Papparedelle "al Telefono" with fresh mozzarella, in a tomato cream sauce with fresh basil; Braised Veal "Osso Buco", over creamy saffron risotto "Alla Milanese." The Bice Private Lounge will feature menu items such as: fresh caviar; Risotto with French Champagne; roasted Beef Tenderloin with foie gras, Barolo wine and black truffle sauce; and Grilled Sea Bream "Cartoccio style" with fresh vegetables.

Bice will be open for lunch and dinner from 11 AM to 10 PM Sunday through Thursday, and 11 AM to 11 PM Friday and Saturday. Bice Private Lounge will open Monday through Sunday 6 PM to 2 AM with music every night and live entertainment on weekends and special event evenings. Reservations can be made at 713/ 622.2423.

Bice's USA operational headquarters are located in New York City and Miami, Florida. There are currently 24 Bice restaurants in the world of which 17 are BICE. Another 15 will open by 2006. Bice's president, Roberto Ruggeri, his son Raffaele, and his partner Stefano Frittella oversee a group of more than 40 restaurants including concept restaurants, Bice Grand Cafe and Cafe Med by Bice scattered all over the globe.

Houston finally joins the ranks of New York, Los Angeles and other big cities with the opening of ZAKE, an authentic Japanese and sushi restaurant with a diverse menu and stimulating atmosphere. ZAKE is a comfortably flowing environment with several distinct areas, each offering its own mood and ambiance. Offering high style with a laid back attitude, ZAKE includes a lounge, a bar, two sushi bars (one for rolls, another for sashimi), cozy velvet lined booths and a back room with optional sheer curtains for privacy.

ZAKE's decor serves up a diverse atmosphere for any occasion, whether sipping drinks in the lounge or bar, hanging out on the covered patio, or enjoying your meal in your favorite niche of the restaurant. The space features interiors splashed with bright colors and custom made gunmetal textured walls that are lit from below and offset by stainless steel accents.

The price tag is reasonable and the food is fresh, healthy and of the highest grade. Favorite appetizers include the 'Must Try Calamari' and 'Zake Tar Tar' which features tuna and salmon on a bed of crispy chips. The chef's specialties are served in generous portions and beautifully displayed. The 'Fahrenheit' - a peppered tuna and jalapeno roll garnished with spicy tuna and snow crab bits - and the 'Skydiver' - a soft-shell crab, cucumber and green onions roll topped with Unagi and avocado - are two signature rolls that are like nothing you have ever tasted. The menu also features hibachi items with vegetables and Japanese fried rice.

ZAKE also provides fast and affordable lunch options. Lunch items include sushi and sashimi combos, Chef's Daily Specials, and Hibachi & Bento combinations - all between $8 and $10 each. ZAKE's diverse space is perfect for your power lunches, with areas of the restaurant that can be pre-arranged to set the tone, music and mood from relaxing to simulating.

Zake, is located at 2946 S. Shepherd Drive, is currently open for business. Doors open at 11AM Monday through Friday, and 12 Noon Saturday and Sunday. Friday and Saturday are open 'til 2 AM. To book a private event or make dinner reservations, please call 713/ 526.6888.

For more information visit www.zakerestaurant.com.

christmas gift ideas

The Neiman Marcus Christmas Book has arrived for all those that need to get a jump start on your holiday shopping. The book includes exclusive fantasy gifts such as a limited edition NM 2007 Lexus GS, custom photo booth, private concert by Sir Elton John, M400 Skycar prototype, vintage jewelry, and much more! There are also exclusive gifts from Neiman Marcus under $100 that make perfect stocking stuffers for loved ones and friends.

For more information on the Neiman Marcus Christmas Book and to shop online visit www.neimanmarcus.com.

white christmas getaway

Looking for the ultimate getaway this Christmas season? Try the Hot Springs Resort of Potosi, Montana. Winter is the season when Potosi becomes a truly unique destination resort. Their remote location has the rare privilege of being accessible year-round by the county plowed road. The combination of isolation, accessibility, and amazing comforts makes Potosi a true winter paradise. Activities include fishing on the Madison River to skiing at a number of ski resorts in the area. Potosi is within a day trip of Big Sky, Bridger Bowl, Grand Targhee, and a number of other ski hills such as Lost Trail, Maverick, and Discovery Basin. Along with the many activities available to their guests, Potosi in the winter is the perfect setting to simply relax and recuperate. Having no agenda: just enjoying the fire in the cabins, the amazing water of the hot springs, spending time in their new sauna, or getting a fantastic massage. Potosi offers its guests the ultimate chance to do nothing, but relax and enjoy. Potosi's true magic reveals itself in the winter.

For more information on winter specials go to www.potosiresort.com.

the latest in extensions

Hair extensions? So passe. The latest in extensions is lash extensions. Specialist Salon & Spa has the answer you have been looking for through their new eyelash extension service. Unlike regular false lashes, which usually last only a night or two, eyelash extensions stay on for up to six to eight weeks. They are very natural looking. An aesthetician uses tweezers and a non- irritating glue to adhere a falsie near the base of an individual lash. A full eye requires 40 - 50 fake lashes. The process takes about 90 minutes to two hours, depending on the number of lashes applied. The extension lashes start to fall out after about 6-8 weeks. To remove the lashes, an aesthetician uses a solvent to break down the glue bonds. To remove the lashes yourself at home, saturate them in a rich, oily substance such as baby oil or mineral oil, and let set for about 10 minutes. The lashes should then slide off easily.

Specialist Salon & Spa is conveniently located at 1411 Haddon @ Waugh in the River Oaks area.
To make an appointment, call Patsy Medina at 713/ 522.5010.

fall sale

Experience tremendous savings storewide at Roche Bobois. They offer the best designs paired with the finest materials to create lasting trends for your home interiors. Save on European design and furniture November 5 - 13 at Roche Bobois's Houston area location, located at 4810 San Felipe.

For more information visit them online at www.roche-bobois.com.

the houston symphony league bay area hosts sixth annual
"a day by the bay" home tour

The Houston Symphony League Bay Area will host the 6th annual "A Day by the Bay" Home Tour on Saturday, November 5 and Sunday, November 6. The tour highlights four magnificent homes located within the Nassau Bay, Seabrook and Taylor Lake communities. Houston Symphony League Bay Area docents will be on hand at each residence to provide guests detailed information about the featured homes. Proceeds from the Home Tour benefit the Houston Symphony League Bay Area education programs in local elementary schools.

The following homes will be featured on the tour:

18718 Martinique, Nassau Bay: This recently-renovated residence with phenomenal waterfront views and an in-house artist studio is the perfect muse for the creative owners. The upper landing offers two distinctive wings with guest bedrooms and a master bedroom with a balcony at opposite ends of the home. The homeowners' Polish heritage is displayed in various pieces throughout the home, while other unique features include the home office that is reminiscent of an airplane cockpit.

2422 Baycrest, Nassau Bay: This 5,000 square-foot abode featuring four bedrooms, two bathrooms, spectacular lakeside views and a breathtaking entrance with decorative double-cracked arched glass with a slate porch, is absolutely magnetic. Tour attendees will gush over the striking, white marble fireplace, porcelain tile floors and inviting Italian lighting throughout the home. The living room's seamless glass provides unparalleled views of the water, while the two-level infinity pool blends perfectly into the lake adjacent to the home.

1318 Coral Way Court, Taylor Lake: The warm personalities of the owners are evident in this charming home facing Taylor Lake. The home features an eye-catching master bedroom with matching his and her closets, a guest room, a study/library, a utility room, pool room, a spacious pantry and a great room/kitchen, which serves as the hub of this residence. Custom cabinetry, granite table tops, an expandable table, Spanish tile flooring with radiant heat and pendant lighting vibrantly set this space apart. Tour attendees should be sure to observe the outdoor pool and waterfall which blend into Taylor Lake and the sleek second-floor attic addition over the garage.

605 Bay Vista, Seabrook: The 1,000 square-foot seaside home, originally built in the late 1950s, was revamped in 2004 and reconstructed into a 4,000 square-foot structure with loads of luxurious trappings. This home, with a storied past, boasts many precious family treasures. The home features glorious views of the water from several rooms, warm terra-cotta tiled flooring, glass walls in the kitchen, bedrooms and bathrooms that overlook the lake/pool and an elegant nautical theme.

Advance tickets for "A Day by the Bay" Home Tour are $15 and may be purchased Oct. 1 - Nov. 4 at Arlan's Market (corner of Nasa Rd. 1 and Kirby) and Oct. 25 - Nov. 4 at the Arts Alliance of Clear Lake (corner of Nasa Rd. 1 and Upper Bay Rd.). On-site tickets are $20.

For more information or tickets, please call 281/ 218.9818.

legal expertise from the law office of e. derick mendoza

The Law Office of E. Derick Mendoza concentrates in Business and Real Estate transactions such as review of business (employment and services) contracts. In addition, Mendoza provides services in Probate law and Wills. He also has nearly 3 years of experience in civil litigation.

Derick Mendoza is currently of Counsel for, and affiliated with Dieringer Law Firm along with Karen Pettigrew and firm owner, Lana R. Dieringer. The Dieringer Law Firm concentrates in the following areas of law: Commercial litigation; Banking and finance; Securities; Construction; Family law; Tax planning; General corporate; Real estate; Mergers and acquisitions; Wills and Probate; Complex transactions. Mendoza has experience in the above areas as well.

The Law Office of E. Derick Mendoza has a professional support staff of paralegals, legal assistants, and secretaries who are highly trained in all aspects of client support. Their support staff is composed of extremely well qualified and experienced people who work together to contribute to the overall legal needs of their clients. They strive to provide all clients with the attention and care they need regarding legal matters. The Law Office of E. Derick Mendoza is conveniently located Downtown at 600 Jefferson (at Smith), Suite 750, please call 713/ 655.7734 for this location and in North Memorial/Old Spring Branch at 7514 Shadyvilla Lane, Suite 100, please call 713/ 688.0801 to contact this location.

* Not certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

houston partnership walk

Come to the Houston Partnership Walk and take a step to end global poverty. The Partnership Walk raises awareness and funds to help communities in Africa and Asia become self-reliant. Grassroots projects ensure that mothers and children have better health care, more girls and boys stay in school, and farmers are taught to improve agricultural productivity so they can feed their families and increase their incomes.

Partnership Walk is a day of fun and learning for people of all ages, where you can enjoy a rich diversity of entertainment, music, dance and a picnic lunch. You and your colleagues can register as a team from your company and be eligible for the Team-High or Team-All awards. Walk alongside over 8,000 families, business people, celebrities, students and leaders in government, media and the arts that care about building a better world.

The theme for Partnership Walk 2005 is "Investing in People." Investing in global economic growth - which will have a crucial effect on our own economic future-means investing in people. The Foundation invests in people to enable communities and families in poverty seize the opportunity to improve their own lives. Partnership Walk 2005 will be held on Sunday, November 6, registration begins at 9 AM followed by Opening Ceremonies at 11 AM. The Walk will take place at the University of Houston Main Campus located at 4800 Calhoun.

For more information or to registrar online go to www.partnershipwalk.org.

child advocates angels of hope luncheon & fashion show

Child Advocates will kick- off the holiday season with their annual Angels of Hope Luncheon and Neiman Marcus Fashion Show, featuring the Spring 2006 Collection of Oscar de la Renta. Co- chairs Lynda Transier and Yvonne Cormier will honor "model mom" Page Parkes - Eveleth. The former Child Advocates court appointed advocate volunteer, board member, and owner of Page 713 and Page 214 modeling agencies will be recognized for her commitment to the Child Advocates mission and the welfare of children. The Angels of Hope Luncheon will be held at the Westin Galleria Ballroom, Tuesday, November 29, beginning at 11:30 AM.

For Sponsor table and ticket information go to www.childadvocates.org.

march of dimes signature chefs auction

Eighteen chefs will gather to create one fabulous fete for the March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction. Come and savor the international wines and gourmet delights with Chairmen Amy Lee, Natalie L'Efevre, and Lucinda Loya. Entertainment will be provided by Yvonne Washington. The event will be held on Wednesday, November 2 beginning at 6:30 PM at the Westin Galleria. Tickets are $125, tables are available.

For more information please call 713/ 964.5422.

The March of Dimes is committed to improving the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth, and infant mortality. They carry out this mission through research, community services, education and advocacy to save babies' lives. March of Dimes researchers, volunteers, educators, outreach workers and advocates work together to give all babies a fighting chance against the threats to their health: prematurity, birth defects, low birthweight. For more information visit www.marchofdimes.com.

enter your chance to win a nokia smart phone

Neiman Marcus and Nokia have teamed up to bring you the Nokia Video Phone Sweepstakes just in time for the holiday season. There is no purchase necessary. Contest is open to U.S. residents, 18 years or older at time of entry, except employees (and their families) of The Neiman Marcus Group, Inc. (the Sponsor) or its affiliates. Deadline for entry is December 31, 2005, midnight CT. All winners will be notified by January 15, 2006 by the e-mail supplied during entry. Approximate retail value of each prize is $800.
To enter, go to NeimanMarcus.com and fill out all of the required information. Three prizes will be awarded. Each prize is one Nokia N90 video mobile phone. Prizes are non-transferable and cannot be redeemed for cash. One entry per person. Three separate winners will be randomly selected to win each of the three prizes.

photography for events, social functions, and parties

Brad Sechler Photography offers a high quality CD of images perfect for prints, newsletters, or web sites. There is no limit on the number of pictures, so all the fun impromptu shots that capture the atmosphere of your event will be included. If your party has been planned down to the last olive, make sure you have good photos too! Contact Brad Sechler at 281/ 744.2105 to schedule and discuss the details of your next event. Mention Mikel Advertising for a promotional price of $150.00 per event.

For more information and details on other photo services available visit www.bradsechler.com.

hip new restaurant & lounge looking for hosts and bartenders

HOSTS & BARTENDERS: Houston's hottest new restaurant and lounge is looking for you! Zake Japanese Cuisine & Lounge is looking to add host staff and bartenders to their hip S. Shepherd location. Already causing a buzz with the restaurant and nightlife crowds, Zake offers authentic Japanese cuisine all the while entertaining clientele with a gorgeous lounge and patio, including DJs spinning on Thursday, Friday & Saturday nights.

Hosts and Hostesses pay: $8/hour
Bartenders pay: $5/hr. + tips.

Call 713/ 526.6888 today to set up an interview. Zake is located at 2646 S. Shepherd @ Alabama. Check them out online at www.zakerestaurant.com.

yvonne's floral delights seeks three talented individuals

YVONNE'S Floral Delights currently has three part time positions available. They have a very comfortable work environment with very pleasant people and are looking for people who enjoy their work and have great interpersonal skills. YVONNE'S Floral Delights has been in the business for 3 years and is experiencing phenomenal growth. They are currently looking for the following positions:

Office Assistant - Part Time; 10-20 hours - very flexible. Must have good computer and organizational skills.

Floral Designer - Part Time; 2-3 days per week. Semi-flexible hours. Experienced applicants only. Looking for a Designer who can design 'out of the box' or is adaptable for such designs.

Delivery Help - Flexible hours, approximately 6-15 hours per week. Deliveries made in company van. Must know how to use Key Map and have knowledge of Northwest Houston. Must have good driving record. Position also includes several other duties around the studio.

YVONNE'S Floral Delights is located 15 minutes northwest of Tomball. To apply contact Yvonne M. Wilson at 281/ 252.3233 or fax your resume to 281/ 259.4811 or email yvonne@y-f-d.com.

reach new customers and save money

Total Body magazine, Houston's health and wellness magazine, is celebrating its second anniversary. But instead of receiving gifts, they're giving them away! For the January 2006 issue of Total Body, new advertisers will receive 15% off regular rate card prices and a free web ad to be placed on www.totalbodymag.com. The deadline to advertise in this issue is December 2, 2005.

With an audience of more than 60,000 health-conscious Houston consumers, Total Body puts your marketing message in the hands of affluent readers who are making valuable decisions regarding their family's health and well-being. Readers can find this bi-monthly, free publication in more than 600 locations throughout the Houston area.

For more information, call 281/ 955.6143 or visit www.totalbodymag.com.

comics, calendars, caricatures and columbia

With the holiday season upon us, add a twist of humor with caricatures. The 2006 calendar features a behind the scenes look at Rajan's designs, inventions and comics. Pick up Rajan's 2006 calendar at these locations: Brazos Bookstore 713/ 523.0701, Black Heritage Gallery 713/ 529.7900, Nan's Games & Comics, Third Planet 713/ 528. 1067. Call 713/ 291.9889 or review samples at: http://www.artjar.com/cartoon.htm

Rajan works across a wide range of disciplines to create everything from chairs, household objects, new inventions, urban design and automotive concepts for clients based in Canada, Europe and North America. With a client list of BMW, HP, Hyatt Hotels, Igloo, and Bob Marley Footwear, Rajan's work continues to provoke new ideas in the creative world. www.artjar.com features the latest work featured on PBS, WB, and FOX. From industrial design, invention and comics, Rajan's 'form follows funky' mantra continues to transcend boundaries.

Download comics, animations & messages to your cell phone at: http://clearimagecontent.com/dtable/index.php?18011001

For those hitting the books at Columbia University, look for Rajan's comics in the text of 'Teaching and Learning in the Multicultural Classroom'. The class strives to stimulate discussions about a range of issues related to student diversity in schools and classrooms throughout the United States. Rajan's cartoon asks questions regarding male - female dating patterns in the Asian American community.

*Check www.artjar.com for updated locations in Houston and New York City.

who's gonna organize your holiday parties?

The Holiday season is nearing and the parties are right around the corner. Let us free you from holiday party stress and organize your party for you. Our event coordination team handles all aspects of event planning: theme concept, invitations, catering, beverage, location, entertainment, special promotion, staffing, rental, staging, decor, and consulting. Well known for innovative ideas, our events have earned major press coverage and wide recognition. Nothing shows current clients and staff more appreciation than a great corporate party. Whether you want to have a small-scale office event with your staff, or a large and extravagant gala for your clients and potential clients, let Mikel Marketing create your vision. A seasonal party is a great way to impress both current and potential clients by providing an unforgettable experience. Holiday events also assist in acquiring new clients. Potential client, who attend your party organized and facilitated by Mikel Marketing, see not only the quality and caliber of the event, but also the positive expression of your company as a result of the event, and how much fun everyone is having, thus, might lead to new accounts. Mikel Marketing recently received an award for the 2005 Houston Special Events from ISES (International Special Events Society).

Our specialties include: Event Promotion and Marketing - Corporate consulting, sponsorship programs, fund-raising strategies. Event Coordination - Promotional events, special events, celebration parties, launch parties, client appreciation parties, company parties, grand openings, fund-raisers, auctions, etc. Fashion Show Production - A fashion show is one of the most captivating and effective forms of entertainment at any event. However, it always looks deceptively easier to coordinate one than it actually is. Without appropriate skills and experience, the task can become overwhelming. With over 20 years of experience in fashion show productions, we will ensure a top notch, immensely powerful and unforgettable fashion show for you. Event Services - Talent booking (disc jockeys, musicians, dancers, commentators, celebrity appearances, hosts, hostesses, greeters, models, entertainers, etc...) Services range from consulting to executing each detail of production. (For Mikel Marketing's list of experience, click here). Please contact us for a quote at 713-807-1133 or mimi@mikelmarketing.com.

Readers may email their comments or opinions about the Blog topic as well as suggest new topics to discuss by emailing us at info@mikelmarketing.com and typing "blog" in the subject heading. Submitters can choose to remain anonymous or submit their name. Each response will be reviewed and we will randomly select the best responses to post in our next newsletter. This will allow insight into how people think and feel about certain topics that might interest or concern Houstonians. For additional information about the blogosphere trend that is spreading across America, email info@mikelmarketing.com.

Don't let the warm Fall temperatures fool you. The holiday season is upon us yet again, and with all the fun holiday festivities comes the seemingly-endless, ever-growing shopping list. What's the appropriate etiquette for gift giving in the office? So where does it end? Or begin? What is an appropriate amount to spend at the office? Who is it appropriate to buy for? Should you buy gifts for clients? Who can you accept gifts from?

The first thing to consider is if gift giving is allowed. Some businesses forbid the practice and some have gift giving policies in place (such as maximum amount one can spend on a gift).

If gifts are allowed, think next of appropriateness. Some gifts could potentially embarrass or anger a person. Perfume, jewelry or flowers given by a man to a woman could be considered too personal. Keep in mind personal affiliations such as religion. A gift basket with a ham would be inappropriate to one whose religion forbids the eating of pork. Along the same line, remember that not all religions celebrate holidays the same holidays. Keep gifts general enough so that as to not offend. Each gift should be a thoughtful gesture.

If giving to clients, giving gifting should be done very carefully. Gifts should find a happy medium between too extravagant and too frugal. A fine bottle of wine with a special label (if it is allowed) to your best clients; with calendars, stationery, pens, and letter openers being a satisfactory gift to smaller clients. A thoughtful card for those with whom the giver rarely has contact is also appropriate.

Gift giving to bosses from employees is fairly simple, or at least should be. A subordinate giving a gift to a supervisor could be viewed as trying to gain favor. Plus, it may create a situation where others feel as if they must give also. Yet, as in the case of an office assistant who works closely and well with his supervisor, a small gift is fine, such as home cooked treats, something for a pet, book, stationary, or a box of candy. The key here is to keep it simple.

Bottom line: think it through. Choose each gift for each person. Remember, it's not how much you spend on the gift but more about how tasteful, thoughtful, creative, and appropriate it is.

Let Mikel help you with gift giving this year: Did you know that Mikel Marketing can help you with corporate gift items that are not only creative & unique but also give your company powerful brand staying power? Forget about those tacky promotional items that are widely seen at typical corporate functions. At Mikel Marketing, we will help you come up with unique gift ideas that best express your company's image & creativity, while being a tasteful reminder of your company. Click here for more information about our promotional / corporate gift ideas.

Tell us what you think. What do you plan on buying for your office associates this year? How much are you planning on spending? What would you do if a co-worker presents you with a gift and you do not have a gift in return to give? Email us your comments and suggestions to info@mikelmarketing.com and your response could be featured in next month's Mikel Newsletter. Happy Holidays! ...and Happy Shopping!