Josh Elledge - Chief Executive Angel
There are “little extras” when gift-giving that can add up to big bucks. Use these suggestions to save and still have lovely packages.
(1) Save on gift tags by using up the odds and ends of Christmas card sets. You can either cut out the pictures on the front or use them whole. By using them whole, your children will enjoy lots of blank space for a keepsake-worthy personal message to their loved ones.
(2) Instead of buying gift wrap, use papers that come home from school or unneeded pages you have from printing items out at home. Wrap small gifts, blank side out, and decorate with personal messages ““ use stickers, markers, Christmas cards, anything you can think of. This is another way for kids to be involved in gift-giving as they go crazy with their creations.
Another idea to replace the expense of gift wrap is to use fabric you do not need. Scrap fabric pieces from various projects can make pretty wrap. Or consider cutting the sleeves off a stained shirt for a nice gift “bag”. Creative options like this make for interesting conversation and great holiday memories.
(3) Instead of buying ribbons and bows, use handmade ornaments or ones you thin from your holiday collection. Add fun to the mix by creating homemade ornaments with your children. These make lovely package embellishments and add a festive touch.
(4) Photographs make special stocking stuffers or package “decorations”. Keep them inexpensive and easy for the recipient by giving the photo already framed. The easiest are magnetic frames. They come in various styles, the simplest being clear acrylic for full photo viewing.
(5) Forget adding an expensive greeting card. Greeting cards have gotten outrageous these days – and aren't really necessary when giving a gift. Consider using one of the options above instead, to tag your gifts OR write the person's name and a little note write on the outside of the wrapping.
(6) Use different patterns for each person, instead of tagging every gift. For example, if you have 2 children: wrap one set of gifts in one wrap, the other set in different wrap. This saves time, and receivers can immediately tell which gifts are theirs.
Whatever you do to make your holidays special, remember, the joy of family and friends is what matters ““ and that is the most beautiful!
