Holiday Gift Guide 2021: LoveLit Candles Is Young Hailei Beckwith’s Labor of Love (Sans Beeswax)

Hailei Beckwith, owner of LoveLit Candles, receives a Young Entrepreneurs Day proclamation from Monroe, LA Mayor Friday Ellis. Photos courtesy of LoveLitCandles.

HEADS UP: Dear Reader, we’re back with a Holiday Gift Guide after a two-year hiatus! Until 24 Dec., the elves at The Wright Wreport will introduce at least one or a series of products, items, services and/or brands that we believe are worthy of consideration as holiday gift(s).

BY VW

HAILEI Beckwith has it going on!

Not only is she a good student, nice person, attractive girl and a pageant winner (Miss Monroe's Outstanding Teen 2022), the 17-year-old is an entrepreneur. And she’s been in the game for four years as the founder of LoveLit Candles. Since she was 13, in case you didn’t do the math.

Who’s to say? One day Hailei might be mentioned in the same breath as Mark Zuckerberg (Facebook), Frank DeLuca (Subway) and Mike Kittredge (what became Yankee Candle).

The LoveLit Candles Holiday Collection: Christmas Cabin, Mistletoe + Cranberries, Spiced Pomander and Winter Romance.

Today, she has peers like Maya Penn (Maya’s Ideas: sustainable fashion), Caroline Bercaw and Isabel Bercaw (Da Bomb: bath bombs) and Femi Adebogun (ScholarMe: platform for applying for college aid). All founded their enterprises in their teens; some are still teens.

There are no hard-and-fast statistics on the number of children in the United States who own businesses, but anecdotally the number is in the millions.

The LoveLit Candles room/linen sprays (Graceful Host, for instance) neutralize odors and refresh the air in various spaces.

It’s as though Hailei took the advice of former President Barack Obama: “We are the change that we seek.” Or many a grandmother: “If you want something done right, do it yourself.”

Undoubtedly, these are some of the self-starter/solution-oriented attitudes – plus, a bee allergy – that led the adolescent to start her Monroe, LA-based candle company.

“Most candles use beeswax and I wanted to enjoy candles and also allow that opportunity for other people that are allergic to beeswax to enjoy candles,” she explained during a recent interview after receiving a Young Entrepreneurs Day proclamation from Monroe, LA Mayor Friday Ellis (play video for the entire interview).

Don’t want an open flame? LoveLit Candles has you covered with Wax Melts (Brandied Pear, anyone?).

Beeswax-less Lovelit Candles come in a variety of scents: Mahogany Teakwood, Kakadu Plum + Amber, Southern Belle, Jamaican Me Crazy, Monkey Farts, Baja Cactus Blossom, etc. The Christmas Cabin candle – currently, the candle BFF of Yours Truly – is simply sublime. The evergreen, mess and pine notes combine to create an intoxicating aroma of the forest. Nothing cloying and clingy, here!

Add wax or aromatic oil of choice and plug in with a LoveLit Candles Pluggable Fragrance Warmer.

Each candle comes with care instructions. Who knew that the wick should be cut by one-quarter inch after the first use?! Or that one should burn candles for up to about three hours at a time? Such best practices extend the life of the candle and improve the burning experience. A nice little differentiator, no?

Surprise, surprise, the company peddles more than candles. For those concerned about open flames, there are Wax Melts in hot scents like Cool Citrus Basil. Amongst the stock, too, are Room/Linen Sprays, Pluggable Fragrance Warmers, Diffusers and Car Air Fresheners (new).

The LoveLit Candles DIY Candle Making Kit comes with supplies for two candles (jars, lids wax, wicks, wick stickers, wick bars, fragrance oil, warning labels and instructions).

Incidentally, all LoveLit Candles scented products are made from organic and eco-friendly ingredients. To that end, there may be extra-special enthusiasm for the DIY Candle Making Kit.

Peach Magnolia over here!

Visit https://www.lovelitcandles.com/ to learn more about LoveLit Candles.

Holiday Gift Guide 2021: High Hopes for Potentially Game-Changing (and Award-Winning) Kikkerland Design Turtle Tofu Press

According to Kikkerland Design, its award-winning turtle tofu press can drain tofu within 20 minutes. Photos and video courtesy of Kikkerland Design.

HEADS UP: Dear Reader, we’re back with a Holiday Gift Guide after a two-year hiatus! Until 24 Dec., the elves at The Wright Wreport will introduce at least one or a series of products, items, services and/or brands that we believe are worthy of consideration as holiday gift(s).

BY TAMARA BECK

FOR years now, I have been trying to figure out how to drain tofu. Piling plates over the logs I have laid out in a sifter was an improvisation that yielded less than success.

Such fits and starts would result in my leaving the tofu in the store’s refrigerated section. Some of you might consider that a gift in and of itself. After all, the stuff has very little flavor. But, oh gosh, tofu has a tremendous amount of protein, calcium and iron. And few calories! It is decidedly good for you.

But I digress. There is a possible solution to this drainage problem: Enter the Kikkerland Design Turtle Tofu Press, a design challenge winner. Alas, there is a problem with this possible solution: The tofu press is sold out. Another supply chain issue?

And more questions. How well does the turtle press drain tofu? Is it fast, or more like a snail (or turtle)? Will it make my Tofu Life easier?

Is it really as user-friendly and effective as Kikkerland says:
1. Insert tofu in the strainer
2. Place lid over it
3. Wrap silicone band around the press
4. Excess water is drained from tofu within 20 minutes

Meanwhile, the merits of tofu are many. When prepared in a quick-and-easy stirfry or scramble, it absorbs the yummy around it to make a delicious lunch or breakfast. Tofu complements bell peppers, especially the juicy red ones. And mushrooms, garlic and black pepper. Soy sauce and edamame are a nice addition, too. Well, this is making me hungry.

The Kikkerland Design Turtle Tofu Press is made from bamboo, which fights off bacteria.

Further considering this Kikkerland turtle tofu press, it is cute as a button and exotically fashioned of bamboo. This wood is a natural for use with food because of its antibacterial property. Its place in your kitchen depends so much on the answers to those burning questions. But if it were me reading the tea leaves, I’d say it's a keeper.

Let’s revisit this pressing matter in 2022.

Visit https://kikkerland.com/products/turtle-tofu-press to learn more about the Kikkerland Turtle Tofu Press.

Holiday Gift Guide 2021: What Is One Thing Oprah and David Spade Have in Common? All-Occasion, 'Gift Wrap My Face' Gift Wrap Paper (and More)

The "Gift Wrap My Face" Elfie Dance Smart Gift Wrap is designed with trademarked augmented reality that is activated by a QR code. See video below. Images and videos courtesy of "Gift Wrap My Face."

HEADS UP: Dear Reader, we’re back with a Holiday Gift Guide after a two-year hiatus! Until 24 Dec., the elves at The Wright Wreport will introduce at least one or a series of products, items, services and/or brands that we believe are worthy of consideration as holiday gift(s).

BY VW

YOU see it on the Wall Art, Banner, Gift wrap paper and so on. It is you or possibly someone you know.

Essentially, some likeness is superimposed onto items with themes associated with holidays, celebrations and events. One company – “Gift Wrap My Face” – makes the magic happen. As co-owner Aryel Rivero put it during a recent virtual press conference, “We make all kinds of things with faces on them.”

When the Florida-based company was founded in 2014, it mainly produced themed gift wrap paper. Now, “Gift Wrap My Face” plasters faces on items like Christmas stockings, Posters, Socks and Stickers.

The “Gift Wrap My Face” Little Miss Elfie Selfie Wine Socks – like all of the wine socks – can replace wine-type gift bags. After the bottles are removed from them, they will be ready to wear.

It’s all “kitschy but well-designed,” Rivero pointed out with a smirk.

It’s easy-peasy, too. On the website:
1. Select themed paper (Advent Calendar, Christmas Sweater, Evergreen Christmas, Menorah Head, Selfie Ornaments)
2. Upload a high-res photo
3. Select product and theme (Banner and Birthday)
4. “Gift Wrap My Face” team does its thing and you have your customized order in as few as three to four business days.

The items are tied to themes and occasions that include Anniversaries, Birthdays, Christmas, Everyday, Graduation, Hanukkah, Motivational messages, Pets, Superheroes, Thanksgiving, Weddings, etc. (All products are made in the United States.)

Of course, selfie gift wrap paper and the like aren’t new. After all, we live in a selfie culture.

The personalized “Gift Wrap My Face” banners are 60 inches wide by 24 inches high.

Part of what sets “Gift Wrap My Face” apart, however, is that it is truly custom. It does all of the work for you, saving you the botheration of going to a Zazzle, for instance, and doing much of the custom production – which can be rather tedious and user-unfriendly – yourself.

Further, “Gift Wrap My Face” uses trademarked Augmented Intelligence that can produce floating faces like the one on the paper that Rivero used to wrap a gift that he sent to co-owner and wife, Vanessa Clavijo, who at the time was his girlfriend.

Another “Gift Wrap My Face” product is Video Paper. It has a personalized and private QR code that allows gift givers to share a video message with recipients.

Quality-wise, the paper “Gift Wrap My Face” uses is different from the gift wrap paper one buys in a store in that it is matte and of a heavier stock, preventing ink from bleeding and smudging.

The company also eschews coated paper and paper made with “harmful shiny chemicals.” Socks are a polyester-spandex blend with a reinforced heel and Christmas stockings are made from 100% polyester.

The “Gift Wrap My Face” Money Maker and Aqua socks (inset) are a crew design made from a polyester-spandex blend. All styles come in adult and child sizes.

Not surprisingly, this outfit is on the radar of the celebrity set: Khloe Kardashian and David Spade. Its biggest endorsement to date has come from none other than king and queenmaker, Oprah.

Visit https://www.giftwrapmyface.com/ to learn more about “Gift Wrap My Face.”

Holiday Gift Guide 2021: When You, You, You and You Are Ready to Venture Back Out, Broadway (on and off) Lights Are Ablaze

Nkeki Obi-Melekwe as Tina Turner in “Tina - The Tina Turner Musical.” Photo byManuel Harlan.

HEADS UP: Dear Reader, we’re back with a Holiday Gift Guide after a two-year hiatus! Until 24 Dec., the elves at The Wright Wreport will introduce at least one or a series of products, items, services and/or brands that we believe are worthy of consideration as holiday gift(s).

BY TAMARA BECK

FINALLY! This year– and after all we've been through – we can return to the theater!

That in and of itself is a gift. But don't jump your personal gun. Do only what you are comfortable doing. When you're ready, the stage shows will be waiting for you to take your place among the vaccinated and enjoy a live performance.

FINALLY! This reporter could not help repeating herself.

So ... what would make a special holiday treat? Well, you can't go wrong with "Tina - The Tina Turner Musical."

Broadway serves up the icon's story of endurance, overcoming adversity and talent in a hard rocking entertainment. Adrienne Warren, who was nominated for a Tony last year and won it at this year's awards, has relinquished the role.

Stepping in to this work created by Katori Hall is Nkeki Obi-Melekwe under the direction of Phyllida Lloyd.

Other Broadway productions held over from the before-times include the fascinating and much lauded Hadestown. It's a Tony- and Grammy-winning hit that welcomes us back to Anaïs Mitchell's whimsical world. The playwright spins her yarn by modernizing not just one, but two Greek myths. Her imaginative retelling was developed with Rachel Chavkin who also directs this production.

History is still being taught in Lin-Manuel Miranda's "Hamilton," a clever rap and sung-through musical that earned all those big Tonys in 2016. (One of my commendations from back in that day: http://www.vevlynspen.com/2015/08/lin-manuel-miranda-ascends-new-heights.html?m=1.)

Tickets to this strikingly smart and funny musical were always hard to get and still are. It's worth all the work you're going to put into it, though

Adrienne Walker as Nala and ensemble in “The Lion King.” Photo by Deen van Meer. Meanwhile, a Disney-fied Broadway has proved to be a good thing. The shows the organization stages are heartwarming and filled with wholesome, old-fashioned values. "The Lion King," celebrating 24 years on the Great White Way, is positively exciting.

Likewise, "Alladin" is a genuinely pleasing experience for the entire family. Hits from the film version include Alan Menken's Academy Award-winning "A Whole New World," as well as a score full of toe tappers. It features a genius genie styled after jazz legends Cab Calloway and Fats Waller, played by Michael James Scott, a vereran of New York musical theater.

In fact, its cast and creatives are from top to bottom seasoned theater stars (interestingly, a couple are making a Broadway debut) with director/choreographer Casey Nicholaw at the helm. Michael Maliakel makes his Broadway bow as Alladin with plenty of priors in regional theater and a little work on TV. Ditto for Alladin's love interest, Jasmine, portrayed by Shoba Narayan. Her resume belies her youth and witnesses her talent.

Speaking of Broadway veterans and talent, the veteran Meredith Wilson musical is in revival starting 22 Dec. "The Music Man" stars Hugh Jackman and Sutton Foster, so there's 76 Trombones worth of excitement right there! The supporting cast features four Tony-winners: Jayne Houdyshell, Jefferson Mays, Marie Mullen and Shuler Hensley.. Buyers beware: I am told that ticket surcharges are out of control. A stop at the box office might be in order. But take heart that "Disney pays your ticketmaster fees."

Happy holidays and happy times on and off-Broadway!

Visit the following websites to learn more about the productions:
"Tina - The Tina Turner Musical"
https://tinaonbroadway.com/

"Hadestown"
https://www.hadestown.com/

"Hamilton"
https://hamiltonmusical.com/new-york/home/

"The Lion King"
https://lionking.com/

"Aladdin"
https://aladdinthemusical.com/

"The Music Man"
https://musicmanonbroadway.com/

Holiday Gift Guide 2021: Some Serious Reading to Do as You Begin to Transform Your Diet From Bad to Good (and Help the Planet in the Process)

The 50th anniversary of edition of “Diet for a Small Planet” contains scores of updated plant-centered recipes.

HEADS UP: Dear Reader, we’re back with a Holiday Gift Guide after a two-year hiatus! Until 24 Dec., the elves at The Wright Wreport will introduce at least one or a series of products, items, services and/or brands that we believe are worthy of consideration as holiday gift(s).

BY VW

THIS time you are serious; committed. You want to eat far better than you do now. REAL talk. You are sick and tired of being sick and tired.

If you're really on the real, real, first do some serious reading about what this might look like. Share these reads with the foodies in your network. By the way, loosen your belts, because you are going to be taken to the heart of the matters.

These titles break down – no mincing words here – how we became a nation and increasingly a world that is fat and sick because of the food we eat. The major culprits are various forms of colonialism, human rights abuses and capitalism on steroids (like much of the meat we consume). All are debilitating us and the planet.

The bottomline message in all of these books is that if we are going to heal, trim our bottoms and save the planet, we must take the necessary steps – on a personal and policy level – to become and remain bullish on fruits, vegetable and grains and far less reliant on animals for food. Further, to stop business practices that harm organisms and the planet.

In short as it regards food, a "Pword"-based diet (don't fret, recipes are provided) and I don't mean pudding or primerib.

Without further adieu …

DIET FOR A SMALL PLANET

Author(s): Frances Moore Lappé
Synopsis: In the 50th anniversary edition of this classic tome, food expert Frances Moore Lappe doubles down on the benefits of a plant-centered diet.

In chapters like “One Less Hamburger” and “Who Asked for Fruit Loops?,” she reminds the average Jane and Joe that they have the power to make change through what foods they choose to purchase. These choices, she asserts, can not only improve their personal health, but that of the environment and climate, plus promote democracy. The anniversary edition features 85 updated recipes with contributions from celebrity chefs, including José Andrés, Mark Bittman, Padma Lakshmi and Alice Waters.
Publisher: Ballantine Books
LINK to title: https://www.dietforasmallplanet.org/

INFLAMED: Deep Medicine and the Anatomy of Injustice

Author(s): Rupa Marya and Raj Patel
Synopsis: According to the authors, our planet, societies and bodies are inflamed, hence the main title. They explain, for instance, why you who live in the “global south” may have a perfectly goodlooking apple that may not be good for you while that one of your neighbor in the “global north” is probably good for her/him. It boils down to some type of inflammation.

This inflammation, they posit, is caused by all manner of global injustices, from pogroms to prejudice to pollution to poor health care. To connect dots, the book is divided into sections that use the language of the body, e.g., “Digestive System.”

“Salmon are to rivers what the heart is to blood vessels,” says co-author Rupa Marya, in the writers’ notes in reference to the section, “Circulatory System: Salmon Are the Pump.” Marya is also the co-founder of the Do No Harm Coalition. The authors cleverly and persuasively make the argument that societal ills from poor health to pollution to persistent forest fires and beyond are inexorably linked and perpetuated by the same forces.
Publisher: Farrar Straus and Giroux
LINK to title: https://us.macmillan.com/books/9780374602529/inflamed

VEGETABLE KINGDOM: The Abundant World of Vegan Recipes

Author(s): Bryant Terry
Synopsis: “Big Beans, Buns, and Broccoli Rabe” (page 95). Once you try this baby, you may not go back to meat, which would be just fine with James Beard award-winning chef Bryant Terry (“Afro-Vegan”).

In all of his books, Chef asserts that the vegetable kingdom provides enough bounty to more than meet our nutritional needs. In “Vegetable Kingdom,” he does not pander to carnivores by including recipes made with meat substitutes. Here, it’s straight, no chaser. Recipes are separated by plant types – bulbs, fruits, roots – making the cookbook uber user-friendly.

One chapter is dedicated to tools, ranging from the familiar like the knife and food processor to the uncustomary “mortar and nestle” (Terry uses them to “pound spices, crumble nuts, and make pastes.”). Of course, there is a “soundtrack” (a Terry staple) as varied as the recipes: Stevie Wonder, OutKast, Mongo Santamaria

The father of two believes that food should be kid-friendly as are the recipes in “Vegetable Kingdom,” most of which were tasted and greenlit by his daughters, Zenzi and Mila, his inspiration for the book. He writes in the introduction: “I wrote this book to make a diversity of foods of the plant kingdom irresistible to them, to inspire their curiosity, and to show them the pleasure of a lifelong adventure with good, nourishing food.”

To wit, “Pan-seared Summer Squash Sandwiches” (p. 121), “Jerk Tofu Wrapped in Collard Leaves” (p. 143), “Barbecue Sunchoke Chips” (P. 186).
Publisher: Ten Speed Press
LINK to title: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/564101/vegetable-kingdom-by-bryant-terry/

More titles to come shortly.

Holiday Gift Guide 2018: Coach Door Edition From Lincoln Won’t Fit Under Tree, But This Stocking-Stuffer Won’t Be Returned for Another Size

Echoing the '60s Continentals: 17+ feet of luxe highlighted by easy-in/easy-out doors. Photos from Lincoln Continental.

HEADS UP: Dear reader don’t fret / We didn’t forget / You don’t have a clue / Thankfully we do … Until 24 Dec., the elves at The Wright Wreport will introduce at least one or a series of products, items and brands that we believe are worthy of consideration as holiday gift(s).

BY JOEL LEVIN

GRANDEUR, uniqueness and exceptional build quality highlight this custom-bodied Lincoln Continental 80th Anniversary Coach Door Edition.

This tribute to the iconic Continental of the early ‘60s, with its pioneering center-opening doors and elegant unadorned-slab side panels, is the very definition of exclusive and distinguished. Just introduced on 17 Dec., it can be yours now for summer delivery. Place your order(s) now.

Full-length console with personal controls forms indulgent backbone of first-class cabin.

Allow me to expound on its qualities:
Grandeur – acres of leather, 19-speaker audio, a huge twin-panel moonroof, seats that adjust 30 ways and Black Label trim in a variety of leather liveries and woods.

Practicality – A 400-horsepower, V-6 and secure all-wheel-drive will transport you quietly and securely over the river and through the icy woods to grandmother’s or to Brooklyn. Or wherever you are going.



Distinctive rear-hinged back doors open a full 90 degrees for graceful exits.

The distinction factor – Only 80 will be built for the 2019 model year. The one you order will be adorned by an individually numbered engraved mini-plaque set into a door sill.

For those who prefer to buy American, be assured that the Coach Edition is a thoroughbred. Its special chassis was constructed in Michigan. Body-lengthening and extensive handmade touches were completed in Massachusetts by a custom builder.


Custom bodywork and commodious rear compartment explain the name "Coach."

Not for Scrooges – A sticker price of above $100,000. That is more than 30 grand beyond the progenitor model with its conventional doors. But consider the value of being able to gracefully enter and exit the rear seat wearing a long gown or tight skirt. That rear compartment seats only two because of a huge snazzy console, but the automobile has the largest legroom of any sedan in its class.

To get this type of accommodation and rear-hinged back doors elsewhere would require an upgrade to a Rolls Royce. And a sticker price starting at three times the price of the new Continental!

The Continental Coach wears gleaming, tasteful jewelry in grille and lighting.

Bonus: You can keep your hands clean because ownership of the Coach Edition includes lifetime free car washes and interior detailing.

Visit https://www.lincoln.com/luxury-cars/continental/coach-edition/ to learn more about the Lincoln Continental 80th Anniversary Coach Door Edition.

Holiday Gift Guide 2018: Joining the Big-Screen, Flat-Screen Television World With a Sceptre

The 50-inch Sceptre television has many attractive features. And the price is right. Images from Sceptre website.

HEADS UP: Dear reader don’t fret / We didn’t forget / You don’t have a clue / Thankfully we do … Until 24 Dec., the elves at The Wright Wreport will introduce at least one or a series of products, items and brands that we believe are worthy of consideration as holiday gift(s).

BY NEIL WOLFSON

WHAT would the holidays be without a buying recommendation
from "real deal" Neil?

Decided to join the world and go big-screen TV. Also embarrassed to admit I’ve just stepped up to wireless Internet at mi casa. Spectrum offered streamable speed access for $20 a month.

Having missed Black Friday and Cyber Monday, I was tipped off to an $189 active sale at Walmart for a 50-inch Sceptre TV. Final price $206 delivered in two days.

Sceptre is lightweight (under 25 pounds ) and super thin (flat).

That’s not all, though. Consider some of the bang I got for my buck(s): Surround sound, LED (of course), MEMC 120 (auto-enhanced picture quality; good for action scenes), MHL (allows streaming from smartphones / devices to Spectre). And it’s green (Energy Star V7.0)

Such a deal!

Visit http://www.sceptre.com/ to learn more about Sceptre and where to purchase its products.

Holiday Gift Guide 2018: Robbox Tools Has in Its Arsenal an Astonishingly Capable, Award-Winning Driver

The Robbox Tools Driver comes in white and black. Images from Robbox website.

HEADS UP: Dear reader don’t fret / We didn’t forget / You don’t have a clue / Thankfully we do … Until 24 Dec., the elves at The Wright Wreport will introduce at least one or a series of products, items and brands that we believe are worthy of consideration as holiday gift(s).

BY VW

I could use a driver. Could you use a driver? Methinks that most of us can. And I am not talking about someone to ferry me or you, you, you and you around the town.

No, I speak of the award-winning, patent-pending gadget from Canada-based Robbox Tools. The mission of this outfit, from the horse's mouth: “to innovate for safety. We are making hand tools safer, smarter and more efficient with the use of robotics, AI and other advanced technology.”

Mission complete with the new driver. It is a hand-held tool that takes repurposing to other, better levels. With the use of a mobile phone and various attachments, the driver can be used to achieve all manner of tasks around the home, garden and workshop.

Mop jet attachment.

The wonder tool – depending on the attachment – can become a scrubber (on various surfaces), trim hedeges, drill and do grinding work.

The driver was another discovery that Yours Truly made last month at CES Unveiled in New York (Consumer Electronics Show, the kick off to CES Las Vegas next month). The Tetra Countertop Dishwasher also impressed my socks off, http://www.bit.ly/2EDBhxv

Hedge trimmer attachment.

To reiterate, the driver's capabilities go far beyond repurposing the coffee cup to hold paper clips, pens and pencils. Or transforming a shallow candle holder into a storage bin for hairpins and makeup brushes.

The driver, winner of the 2018 Pinnacle Innovation Award from the United Inventors Association Of America (UIA), can also be used to vacuum, do pressure washing as a garden tool and become a skill saw in the workshop.

Scrubber attachment.

Professionals can avail themselves of the Robbox Robotic Driver/Drill, featuring digital motor, intelligent communication, built-in measuring system, Bluetooth.

The p.r. says it all: “Reduce your storage space and investment cost using one Robbox robotic tool to complete any home, garden or workshop project. Robbox attachments will help you eliminate the need to purchase multiple tools, batteries and chargers.”

Floor vacuum attachment.

One tool. Many purposes. Just sayin’.

Visit https://www.robboxtools.com/ to learn more about the Robbox Tools Driver.

Holiday Gift Guide 2017: In 'The Little Black Book of Backstage Etiquette,' Brenda Braxton Tells Show Business Types How to Act

In "The Little Black Book of Backstage Etiquette," Brenda Braxton dispenses advice about how performers should act backstage.

HEADS UP: We're back – from outer space – and touch down to find you here with that stupefied look upon your face. Don't be petrified. We will be your guides ... As per usual, til 24 Dec., the elves at The Wright Wreport will introduce at least one or a series of products, items and brands that we believe are worthy of consideration as holiday gift(s).  You will survive (the Yuletide season and beyond)!

BY TAMARA BECK

"IF a project is due at noon, have it ready at 11:30 if possible."

"Don't be afraid to admit what you don't know and ask questions."

"Once again, gratitude goes a long way. A smile and a “please” and “thank you” should not be a thing of the past."

You want a successful career in the theater, or show business in general. However, you take your behavioral cues from the divas of reality TV. To be a star, you believe that you should be a brat. Your sense of entitlement is colossal.

You, my friend, are on an express train toward Nobodyville, that is unless you get your hands on a copy of Brenda Braxton's "The Little Black Book of Backstage Etiquette." And heed the aforementioned wisdom and more (common sense stuff, actually) as if your career depends on it, which it does.

The Broadway star, who got her break in 1976 when she was cast in "Guys and Dolls," will help you reset your manners meter. Good manners, she says, work best for you backstage just as they do in life. She should know.

A poster of Brenda Braxton as Velma in "Chicago."

BB has gone on to star in such shows as the long-running Broadway musical, "Chicago," in which she played Velma as well as a member of the chorus. Her work in "Smokey Joe's Cafe garnered her a Best Actress Tony nomination. The New York native has also choreographed for several productions of "Dreamgirls."

"You just never know when the question might come up, 'Can someone stand in for so-and-so?' " "You'll be able to raise your hand and say, 'I know those lines',"that is, if you've learned those lines.

"The Little Black Book of Backstage Etiquette" grew out of backstage conversations over the years between BB and young performers seeking advice about longevity in the industry.

Visit https:/www.brendabraxton.com/new-books/ to learn more about "The Little Black Book of Backstage Etiquette," including purchase information. The book is also available on Amazon.

STOCKING STUFFERS: Traveling Coach and Making Delightful Discoveries

The Harman Kardon Soho Wild Beast Wireless Headphone is a Coach exclusive. Photos from Coach Web site.

HEADS UP: We know, it seems like only six months ago that ‘twas the season to be jolly. How is it that every year you have no idea what in the world to get those on your list?! Never fear, the elves at VEVLYN’S PEN are, of course, on the case. Up until 24 Dec., we will introduce at least one or a series of products, items and brands that we believe is worthy of consideration as a holiday gift(s). Also look for at least one article dedicated to stocking stuffers and at least one highlighting themed gifts. Could be theater. Or food&drink. Fashion, maybe? You’ll just have to stay tuned and read all about it. Happy, responsible shopping!

SHOPPING for men is just so much more fun now that Stuart Vevers is at the design helm at Coach.

Check out the state-of-the-art Harman Kardon headphone in Coach's Wild Beast (also in Varsity Stripe ). Trimmed in nappa leather. Wow! Style and function to the max!

The Harman Kardon headset is also available in a varsity stripe motif.

At $275, pricey, but perfect! animal prints are always in style.

Visit http://www.bit.ly/1Od21mr to learn more about the Harman Kardon Soho Wild Beast Wireless Headphone.
– MARIE T. DRISCOLL

Down to Earth With the Smith Series of Pumps From Coach

The black Smith Beadchain Heel pump from Coach is one of three in the new series. Photos from Coach Web site.

BRINGING sensible back. Leave it to Coach to do it with the Smith series.

The Smith Heel and Smith Beadchain Heel are classic pumps. Right down to the height of the heel at either 3¼” and 3½,” respectively.

The Smith Heel purple-floral pump.

Part of the new class, in black, chalk (off white) and beechwood calf leather, the beadchain style is sold exclusively online. It get its name in part from the series of beads that decorate the perimeter of the shoe.

The regular Smith, available in stores and online, comes in an Exploded cloud floral print leather and a Python-embossed leather.

Another mark of sense and sensibility as it regards the Smith series is the price: $235 ($255 for the floral print).

Visit http://www.coach.com/shop/women-shoes to learn more about the Smith heel series.
– YOURS TRULY

STOCKING STUFFERS: Maille Black Truffle and Chablis Mustard Has Tastebuds in a Tizzy, While Thiénot Black Ball Champagne Is A Pleasing Goodwill Ambassador

Maille Black Truffle and Chablis Mustard is poured from the tap into a refillable, stoneware jar, then corked. Photos from Maille Web site.

HEADS UP: We know, it seems like only six months ago that ‘twas the season to be jolly. How is it that every year you have no idea what in the world to get those on your list?! Never fear, the elves at VEVLYN’S PEN are, of course, on the case. Up until 24 Dec., we will introduce at least one or a series of products, items and brands that we believe is worthy of consideration as a holiday gift(s). Also look for at least one article dedicated to stocking stuffers and at least one highlighting themed gifts. Could be theater. Or food&drink. Fashion, maybe? You’ll just have to stay tuned and read all about it. Happy, responsible shopping!

STEP up to the tap for a pour of your favorite. Do note that this is not a conversation about beer, though a lager, hops or IPA could nicely compliment the topic under discussion.

The topic under discussion is mustard – not just any mustard – but master, mustard-maker, Maille. There are many variety from which to choose, between sweet and savory. However, the one that captures this imagination is the Black Truffle and Chablis Mustard. Yum, a million times, yum!

Available in a corked, stoneware jar in three sizes from around $43 to $108, with refills slightly less, the Black Truffle and Chablis Mustard is sublime and, divine. Procure it online or at one of the La Maison Maille shops in France, Australia, UK and United States.

Black Truffle and Chablis Mustard is availalbe in 18.6-, 8.8- and 4.4 ounce jars.

You are encouraged to stockpile, for it is only available from October through April.

Visit http://www.maille.com/ to learn more about the Maille Black Truffle and Chablis Mustard and other varieties.

With Every Sip of Thienot Black Ball Champagne, A Happy Reminder

Thienot Black Ball Champagne (2007) is tied to a very good cause.

FIRST impression is that it is very drinkable. Second impression. slightly tarty.

Third impression of the limited edition Thienot Black Ball Champagne (2007) is that it can stand up well to food – at least cheese and fish. May have a battle with beef of the T-bone, sirloin and London broil variety. However, it will likely knock along well enough with veal.

The Black Ball Champagne launched last month during the 12th Annual Keep A Child Alive [ KCA] Black Ball.

Fourth impression, semi-neat finish. No, there is a burst of fruit, then a long, smooth, descent.

A portion of proceeds from every bottle of Thienot Black Ball Champagne purchased goes to KCA, the charity co-founded by Alicia Keys in 2003. It is dedicated to eradicating AIDS/HIV from the lives of children and their families through physical, social and economic empowerment. (http://www.keepachildalive.org/)

Fifth impression of this blanc de blancs, from a house that was launched in 1985, it is only slightly yeasty to a palate that thinks a little yeastiness goes a long way.

Alicia Keys and Lenny Kravitz perform during the 12th Annual KCA Black Ball. Photo courtesy of Getty Images.

The Thienot Black Ball Champagne ($150) is available exclusively at Sherry-Lehmann Wine & Spirits and Sherry-Lehmann.com (http://www.bit.ly/1Pmz9XR)

Sixth impression, this palate has just experienced a refreshing, restorative elixir. And so will yours.

Think about it, with every sip, you can reflect that you or someone you know has done a small thing to make the world a better place.

Sante! Cheers! Salute!

Visit http://www.thienot.com/ to learn more about Thienot Black Ball and its other champagnes.