When it comes to gifting family and friends, figuring out what to get them is one thing. Read this gifting thoughtfully guide
here if you need some help. But the other struggle is actually having the pretty gifting goodies on hand to personalise and present your gifts well, and avoid that last minute rush. Items like gift wrap, gift bags, greeting cards and gift tags. A way to elevate your thoughtful gifts with a handwritten note from you to cherish a loved one on a special occasion.
There have been many times where I am on my way to a birthday party or celebration, and have to stop at a store (any store!) on the way to quickly choose from the handful of greeting cards or gift tags to add to my present so that they know it's from me! It's not the best and is a tad stressful when you can't find anything you like but you have to choose something so here are some ideas on how to avoid the last minute rush, and instead, be a thoughtful gift giver.
Find a small space to store gifting goodies
It doesn't have to be a whole cupboard, a small container will do. It's an easy way to keep your gifting items together, and you'll be able to quickly note if you're running low on anything. Find a small place in your home to keep a handful of beautiful greeting cards, gift tags, tape, ribbon and wrapping paper or gift bags.
Bonus points if you keep a greeting card and gift tag in your car's cubbyhole for those last minute events!
Stock it with artful and inspiring goodies
Essentially, have a small supply of artful and inspiring goodies to elevate your gifts. This way, you'll be prepared whenever a special occasion pops up. The key is to keep items on hand that you usually forget when wrapping your gift and personalising it.
Consider having a set of complimentary items so that your gifts feel thoughtful and well put together. Matching greeting cards and gift tags are great and help personalise your gifts with a handwritten touch.
Learn how to write a meaningful note
Sometimes I think greeting cards and gift tags are forgotten about because we've lost the ability of writing a few words down to celebrate a loved one. Knowing a simple formula to cherish others can really turn a good gift into a great one because of the thought put into it.
Should you need some ideas of how to jot down a meaningful handwritten note, read this
journal post for some inspiration.
Brainstorm various occasions you could gift
Consider not only the people you'd be gifting, but the various occasions that pop up during the year. This is a great way to be prepared for any celebration and avoid the last minute rush to personalise your gift!
Here are some ideas to get your gifting juices flowing
- birthdays
- teachers' gifts
- celebrating a new job / role
- wedding gifts
- baby showers
- Christmas
- kitchen teas
- bachelorettes
- anniversaries
- hostess gifts
- baptisms
Support local when stocking up
Shop local brands and creative small businesses to stock your gifting drawer. Not only will you be supporting a local business, but their goodies are usually made in small batches which means your gift will look stand out. Browse through gift stores at your nearby mall, shop in-person markets and check out local online shopping platforms that enjoy showcasing locally made goods and inspire your gifts with unique gift tags, greeting cards and accessories.
Having a gift drawer is not to collect random items that won't be used. It's a wonderful way for you to reduce overwhelm when a celebratory occasion strikes and inspire you to be a joyful gift giver! Why not choose one of the ideas above to update your gifting drawer, and enjoy the benefits of being a calm and prepared gifting goddess whenever the time arises.
SHOP Carlita Hearts Gift Tags which are first painted with watercolour before creating them into artful gift tags
READ this journal post to learn Simple Ways to Support A Small Business (Part 2)
