Gifts and Tips, Edition One

Over the next few weeks I thought I would share some fun, easy gift ideas and tips! These posts will include some very basic ideas, charity opportunities, my favorite things and much more. I hope you enjoy these posts as much as I have enjoyed collecting all involved!

In his week's edition of "Gifts and Tips" I am sharing easy and inexpensive gift options. It is often important to watch your budget, especially during the holidays. Below are some less expensive (yet still very classic!) gift options for anyone on your list!

GIFTS:

We all have photos we have taken on trips or of/with family members. Photos are one of the most inexpensive things to give at this time of year and they put a smile on just about anyone's face. This gift idea is by no means anything new, but consider printing a number of photos out in black and white (5x7's are my favorite size for gifts) and stopping by your local TJ Maxx or Marshall's and stocking up on silver frames. This is an ever so classic item for any recipient! If you are short on photos consider purchasing some lovely cards (Caspari is a great option) and framing these. I have a dalrin double frame with two Caspari floral cards on my desk. It is just lovely and the cards look like small works of art!

Also seen in the above photo is a lovely silver mint julep cup. Instead of spoiling your hostess with yet another bottle of wine purchase mint julep cups and make small, festive arrangements with grocery store flowers and greenery (do not forget the boxwood!!)! This is a perfect idea for neighbors or co-workers too. No one can resist fresh cut flowers!
With the weather having taken a turn it is time to bundle up! Scarves are everywhere and anywhere! You can find a lovely scarf in your recipient's favorite color for well under $10. Buy up a handful for all your best friends and have them monogrammed in a contrast color. People love to wear their initials with pride and there is no better way to brighten a dreary winter day than with a color pop of color!Baked goods are a plenty during the holidays. As mentioned before presentation is everything! Many of you have inquired about my toile making boxes and I am finally ready to let you in on the secret (an inexpensive secret too!). BakingBoxes.com is your one stop shop for darling monogrammed baking boxes. Twenty boxes cost $9.99 so you can order enough for the entire block! Bake basic chocolate chip cookies and package them in your toile boxes with coordinating ribbon and you are sure to be the talk of the town!
TIP:

In keeping with the idea that presentation is everything remember to dress up your gifts. I like to add a small adornment to every package. You can add a sprig of greenery or a small ornament- these small touches make all the difference in your presentation. Many ornaments are on sale so you can even pick up a number of extra pretty ones and tie them on to baking boxes and have a duo gift! If you feel so inclined you might even consider picking up a small box of pearl ornaments and personalizing them for every recipient. The small details do NOT to unnoticed!

GIVING:

Finally, during the holiday season it is always important to remember all the charities you support. As you know, many charities continue to suffer. The Dallas Salvation Army still has 8600 angels that have yet to be selected this year (I am sure many of your cities might have similar numbers). Consider adopting and angel. It is so easy as you can even register for many online now!! Get a group of friends together (that is what I did!) and adopt one or two. You can all meet at Target after school or work and pick out your child's needs and wants. Make a night out of it and go out to dinner or drive around with Starbucks looking at lights after. No gift it too small and no fellowship is unimportant!

If you have any suggestions or questions for December's "Gifts and Tips" please do email me. Christmas is near so be full of GREAT cheer!