More Than Social
Do you think Facebook is just for posting your vacation pics or spying on old flames? Think again. Take advantage of the site's popularity to network or find a job. Apps like Branchout can help you create a professional profile on the site, and it allows you to dig through your network to find job openings and friends who work in your field. branchout.com
Wine in a Can
These adorable cans of Sofia Mini Blanc de Blancs, a sparkling blend of pinot blanc, riesling and muscat, are perfect for receptions and special events in outdoor locations that don't allow glass. The cans, from Francis Ford Coppola Winery, cost $20 for a four-pack. (877) 329-3266; store.franciscoppolawinery.com
Recycle Your Event
Consider starting a program like Kelly Acock's: The Kansas City, Mo.-based florist, event designer and owner of Monarch Flower Co., sick of the waste she saw in the events industry, launched her own green endeavor. Called ReEvent, it's a biannual consignment sale of repurposed and leftover event items, with part of the proceeds benefitting a local charity. thereevent.com
Pet Project
Kickstarter, a platform for funding creative endeavors through the Internet, is a great way to find start-up projects close to your organization's mission or type of business, e.g., music, technology, food, fashion or publishing. Donors can pledge any amount; contributions can be made in the name of a firm or an individual. Kickstarter.com
Farm Share
Here's a thoughtful, green gift idea: Give top performers or clients a "lease" on farm produce or dairy products through Rent Mother Nature. The Vermont-based firm, which represents small local farmers, sends a certificate for the lease of your choice to the recipient; when the produce is ripe or the cheese (from goats or cows) is ready, they get a delivery straight from the farm. Cost: $30 and up, bulk discounts available. (800) 232-4048; rentmothernature.com
Double Duty
These lightweight, protective cases feature full-size keyboards that make working on your tablet 10 times easier. Another bonus: Flexible hinges on both cases prop up the screen for easy movie watching. Cost, $149 for the ClamCase (top, clamcase.com); $150 for the KeyPad Ultra (bottom, neimanmarcus.com).
Cabernet to Candle
Rewined gives a second life to old wine bottles by repurposing them into scented soy candles. Whether you're an enthusiast of red or white varietals, there are nine vino-inspired scents to choose from. Cost: $27 each. rewinedcandles.com
Edible Gems
Chocolatines' gold-covered "Chocouture" truffles are almost too pretty to eat. The on-trend "Rose Gold Diamond" collection features 72 percent dark chocolate mixed with Grand Marnier. Customization for corporate gifts available. Cost: $25 for four pieces. (224) 653-2700; chocolatines.com
Sugar High
More installation art than cupcake holder, Cake Hole Project's stunning centerpieces hang from above and can be used to hold other objects, like ramekins. Cost: From $25 for a six-piece holder; custom orders available. The company offers a 15 percent discount on orders of three or more. cakeholeproject.com
Cool It
The ingenious Corkcicle is a freezable plastic "ice" spear that eliminates the need for a cumbersome ice bucket. Pour the first glass of wine, then insert the cork/spear to keep the rest of the bottle at its ideal temperature. Cost: $22.95. (866) 780-0007; corkcicle.com
Let's Get Physical
If you're serious about making a change in 2012, consider investing in the Gruve. This small device hooks on to your waistband and tracks every move you make, letting you know how close you are to your daily caloric burn goal. Cost: $179.99, which includes a one-year subscription to Gruve Online. (612) 605-7963; www.muveinc.com
On Track
Megan Freedman, who taught a session on staying healthy while traveling at IMEX America in October, says to remember to snack to keep hunger and fatigue at bay and avoid binging at dinners and receptions. Freedman, who works as a personal trainer and fitness instructor in addition to her position as international program director for the American Society of Association Executives, recommends all-natural energy bars, E.G. Larabars and KIND bars; whole grain crackers with cheese; nuts; pre-cut fruits and veggies and Starbucks' Bistro Boxes. "When selecting a packaged food, look for low sodium, low sugar, and a low number of ingredients," says Freedman. "We also sometimes mistake thirst for hunger, so stay hydrated." Pictured: Starbucks Tuna Salad Bistro Box