TV stars help themselves to freebies in gift suite

updated 10:50 a.m. ET May 18, 2007

NEW YORK - It seems as if celebrity gift suites, where stars are given loads of pricey items just for being famous, are as common these days as red-carpet events — but according to Anne Heche, that’s not so.

Of course, the actress was loading up on free swag at Lucky magazine's gifting suite, for TV stars in town for the networks' preview week of the next television season, when she said it.

"It is a pretty special moment for all of us," the star of ABC's "Men in Trees" told Associated Press Television this week at the suite. "We are here because our shows are getting pickup for the next season. This is a particular gifting suite for that event. It doesn't happen every week if that is what you are asking."

Heche was so excited about her gifts that she wore her new Dolce and Gabbana sunglasses, Stuart Weitzman purse and wallet, and L.A.M.B. jacket right out of the suite at the tony Ritz Carlton.

Among the other stars who showed up: "Heroes" stars Ali Larter and Hayden Panettiere, Debra Messing of "Will & Grace" fame and Chandra Wilson of "Grey's Anatomy."

Some of the celebs didn't just shop for themselves; they picked up goods for their significant other as well. "Scrubs" star Donald Faison received matching earrings and a necklace from the lia sophia jewelry collection. Faison coyly told the AP the gifts were for "someone special."

You didn't even have to be a TV star to load up on the free stuff. Lindsay Lohan filled up three bags of products from Milk Boutique before grabbing loads of designer sunglasses.

"She was in a whirlwind," says Stefani Altman who represents Luxottica Group, sunglass retailer. "She actually took seven pairs of sunglasses. She took them in every color. Now she has a new pair of sunglasses for everyday of the week. Apparently she only wears her sunglasses once and then she gives them the brush."

What about those who haven't made it to the A-list yet? Do they still get the same goods as those with hit shows?

"I go, 'I don't think so. You don't have what it takes. There is a criteria and I can't give it to you,'" Shelby Keyser, who represents the L.A.M.B. clothing line, said before adding: "Just kidding! We give it to everyone and everyone is welcome. We want as many people to be wearing it as possible."

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