I’m a gift giver and gift receiver kind of gal. Wrapping gifts is the creative extension of giving. 

Christmas is the ultimate gift giving time… It can be stressful with all the to-dos, shopping, parties, gifts, teacher gifts, etc. So much to remember, so much to do and wrapping may end up at the bottom of the list. Right? 

It would be easier to use a gift bag or card to present your gift. Trust me I do this too! However, there are ways to make a present special with keeping it simple and the costs down. What works for me is to be prepared. I think ahead… like seasons ahead. Having the supplies or the basics on hand can be very helpful when you’re ready to wrap.

True story… When I was little my mom asked me what I wanted for Christmas and I vividly remember saying… “I like things bland.” Haha. What my 10-year-old self was really saying… I like things neutral. That’s me I guess, bland and neutral! It’s not that I don’t appreciate trends and different colors, but when it comes to how I choose my design and décor, it’s neutral. Why am I telling you this? This style may not be everyone’s preference… But I’ve noticed in the years that keeping the big items neutral and adding trends in small ways will cut down the costs and keep design timeless. 

This same idea can be used in wrapping. Buying “Kraft paper” or solid color gift wrap are great basics to have on hand year-round. You can simply dress them up or down with ribbon, twine, or gift tags. I then will add 1-2 patterned or trendy gift wrap. This year I added black and white buffalo plaid and natural gold snowflake wrapping. It’s just the right amount of pattern without adding too much under the tree.