The holidays are here, and with them comes the joy (and sometimes stress) of wrapping gifts. Whether you’re preparing for stress-free holidays or looking to elevate your wrapping game, these tips will help you wrap gifts like a pro and keep the season merry.
Supplies You’ll Need for Wrapping Success
The right supplies make all the difference when it comes to efficient and beautiful gift wrapping. Stock up on these essentials to streamline the process:
- Quality Wrapping Paper: Look for durable paper with grid lines on the back to make cutting easier.
- Invisible Tape: Keeps wrapping clean and seamless.
- Gift Tags and Bows: Add personality and flair with decorative tags and handmade bows.
- Reusable Gift Boxes: Perfect for last-minute wrapping or adding a touch of elegance without the effort.
Expert Tips for Wrapping Gifts Like a Pro
Take your wrapping skills to the next level with these thoughtful techniques:
- Cut Precisely: Use wrapping paper with grid lines for straight cuts that save time and effort.
- Fold Edges Neatly: Tuck in sides and corners tightly, folding over any uneven edges for a polished look.
- Secure Invisibly: Opt for clear tape to keep everything in place while maintaining a professional appearance.
- Add Finishing Touches: Embellish gifts with bows, ribbons, or holiday cards to make them feel extra special.
Tips for Travel and Delivery
Sending or traveling with gifts can add another layer of complexity. Here’s how to keep things simple:
- Shipping Deadlines: Plan ahead to ensure your gifts arrive on time. Simplified can help you manage shipping deadlines and packaging.
- Flying With Presents: Avoid wrapping gifts before flying, as TSA may need to inspect them. Instead, bring flat wrapping paper and ribbons to finish wrapping once you arrive.
- Sturdy Packaging: Use durable boxes and cushioning to protect fragile items during shipping or travel.
Gifts You Don’t Have to Wrap
If you’re short on time or looking for environmentally friendly alternatives, here are some creative ideas:
- Reusable Gift Bags: Choose festive cloth bags that can be reused by the recipient.
- Experiential Gifts: Give the gift of an experience, like tickets to an event, a gift card, or a personal shopper service for the recipient to enjoy.
- Subscription Services: Opt for subscriptions like meal kits, streaming services, or specialty gift boxes that don’t require wrapping at all.
- Charitable Donations: Make a donation in someone’s name for a meaningful and thoughtful gift.
Holiday meals, beautifully wrapped presents, and thoughtful gestures all contribute to the magic of the season. Simplified’s concierge team can handle all aspects of your holiday preparation, from choosing wrapping paper to organizing Christmas tree delivery or even helping you shop for gifts at the best Hanukkah gift shops. Let us take the stress out of the season so you can focus on enjoying the celebrations. Learn more about our holiday services!
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in December 2016 and has been updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.