The holiday season has officially kicked off, and for many of us, our holiday albums are going to look a little different this year. This year has been unprecedented with the coronavirus pandemic putting a halt to how the world does anything that we’re used to doing, much less celebrating the holidays. And for many of us, this year’s celebrations will be similar to the old song that goes “there’s no place like home for the holidays”. 

When thinking about this, a few thoughts come to my mind to get in the holiday spirit. It could be fun to come up with holiday projects if you have the time. I have a couple of suggestions that will bring the holiday spirit into your home. You can start a new holiday tradition of making your own holiday bows or holiday gift wrap. Whether the gifts are purchased or homemade, your uniquely wrapped presents can add to the excitement and anticipation of the holiday while at the same time bringing joy to others - especially those who will be alone during the holidays.

There are many different ways to personalize your holiday packages with bows and gift wrap adding that extra touch of sparkle. Not only will these gift wrap ideas make your presents more festive, but they will also show off your creativity.

The Basics of Creative Wrapping

Base Paper: Kraft paper, in my humble opinion is the best paper to use during the holidays (and year round). Often times, I feel really uninspired by the traditional wrapping paper that I find in stores. Kraft paper, in addition to being recyclable and more eco-friendly, it is also a great canvas for creative wrapping that will be sure to impress its recipient. Kraft paper is available in a select amount of colors, the two most common being brown and white. It’s also available EVERYWHERE. You can order it on Amazon, Michael’s, Staples, even the UPS Store. The best part is, it’s also very affordable!

Stamps: As you can see from some examples I found below, stamping Kraft paper is a great way to create a unique, customized paper. I love the Hanukkah “stamp” on the white craft paper. Who would have thought that a sponge in the shape of a dreidel and some paint could make such a unique way of wrapping, not to mention a fun family activity this time of year. If you don’t feel like cutting up a sponge to make your own stamp you could purchase this Hanukkah rubber stamp and blue ink pad to add dreidel designs customize your gift wrap.  For those who celebrate Christmas, a simple Christmas tree stamp and some brown kraft paper make for a really beautiful, simple Scandinavian wrapping style.

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own.

Tie It Up

Now that you have chosen your base paper, selecting a ribbon is an important part of your creative vision. If your paper is simple (plain brown or white) you’re going to want to go bold with your ribbon color or style. If your paper is busy (patterned), then I would suggest a solid colored ribbon. Tying up your package doesn’t mean that you’re limited to traditional ribbon. There are many alternatives such as bakers twine or garland that can really make your gift pop! There are a lot of YouTube tutorials on how to make a bow. The internet is a great place for gaining some inspiration!

Top It Off - Holiday Gift Toppers

As far as I am concerned, the gift topper is the most fun part! It’s an opportunity to really flex your creative muscle and assemble something that will leave a big impression on the person you’re gifting it to. The gift topper that you use can easily tie into the current holiday, or you can choose something more personalized that shows the receiver that you really know them. Craft stores like Michael’s also have cute little knick knacks that you can easily (and affordably) tie into your package design.

Baked Goods Packaging

We’ve all become better bakers since COVID came along, and because we’re spending more time at home, an edible holiday treat baked in your very own kitchen would be a perfect holiday gift this year! Anytime someone goes to the trouble of making something homemade to give as a gift, it’s so appreciated. It is a thoughtful and meaningful type of gift, as well as a nice gesture. Whether you choose to make a recipe that you’ve made a zillion times before, or a new one, the presentation of something homemade from your kitchen is just as important as the actual recipe.

There are many different ways to package baked goods or savory treats and below are some suggestions that will win over your friends and family members.  Here’s my banana bread recipe that makes a great holiday gift for anyone on your list. Just use mini loaf pans, wrap it festive and it’s sure to be a hit! A savory holiday recipe that would be a welcome edible holiday gift is the Everything Ranch Cheese And Pretzel Snack Mix from Half Baked Harvest. So perfect for movie night at home!

Another idea is to Zoom bake together with friends and family. It will make you feel good and help you feel connected to those you haven’t seen in awhile. I did this with friends from high school and college several weeks ago, and we had the best time. Who knows? Perhaps some of these ideas could even become a new annual holiday tradition! One thing I do know for sure is this, while you can’t control the larger force of the pandemic, you can still create a meaningful holiday season for yourself or for your family while still making it festive and joyful.

Below you’ll find some perfect packaging ideas for your edible holiday gifts - sweet or savory!

2020 has been a tough year for all of us, and I have to say that I am so thankful and appreciative of all of you who tune in here. I’m also REALLY looking forward to 2021! Whether you celebrate Hanukkah, Christmas or Kwanza - I wish you all the happiest of holidays! Take care my friends. Be safe. I’ll see you in the New Year!

xx Barbara