How to Hold a White Elephant Gift Exchange

Dec 202010
 

Crazy Gifts are Best for White Elephant Gift Exchanges (Photo Courtesy of Thirteen of Clubs)

Lots of holiday parties have them– white elephant gift exchanges. It’s festive and fun and can be incredibly entertaining. A white elephant gift exchange is a great way to break the ice with guests and get people talking. Not sure how to organize one at your Christmas party? Here are some tips.

Set Up the Rules

Let guests know ahead of time that you plan to have a white elephant gift exchange at your party. Set a spending limit. This typically can be anywhere from $5-$25. Just keep your guests in mind and what they may be able to afford. Be sure to tell them to bring the gift wrapped. That way it will be a surprise.When guests arrive, put the presents in a pile in the middle of the room.

Draw a Number

Have guests each draw a number. This will determine the order in which you open presents.

Start Opening

The person who draws number one will start. They get to choose any gift they want from the pile. Have them open the gift and show it to everyone else. The person who drew number two will then get to decide whether they want to steal number one’s gift, or choose another one from the pile. If they choose to steal number one’s gift, number one will then get to choose another gift from the pile to open.

Give Everyone a Gift

This continues until everyone has a gift– either one that they opened from the pile or stole from another guest. Keep in mind that you’re not allowed to steal back a gift that was just stolen from you. As the party host you may want to have some extra wrapped white elephant gifts on hand in case someone forgets to bring one.

Need some creative ideas for white elephant gifts? Usually the crazier the better, but do keep the crowd in mind. Here are some wacky white elephant ideas:

  • Cheap figurines
  • A picture frame with a photo of you inside
  • Half empty bottles of liquor
  • A funny t-shirt
  • A poster from the movie Twilight
  • Cheesy Christmas music

How to Find Free Printables for the Holidays

Dec 092010
 

Why buy party invitations, gift tags and even wrapping paper when you can find it for free online? There are plenty of extra expenses during the holidays, but we discovered there are also lots of freebies! Here are some free holiday printables that will make your packages prettier and your parties even more festive.

Make Your Packages Look Extra Pretty (Photo Courtesy of Spin Spin)

Wine Bottle Labels: It doesn’t matter if you bought that bottle of wine at the discount super store because it will still look fancy with this free printable wine bottle label from Martha Stewart.

West Elm Party Packs: West Elm has a bunch of great printable freebies that include everything from menu cards to gift tags. There are four different designs for entertaining and four designs for gifting.

Printable Wrapping Paper: This may not be practical for big gifts, but for tiny packages you can definitely use this free printable wrapping paper from designer Mae. It comes in six colors and designs. There are also two sets of free printable wrapping paper with coordinating tags from designer Kellie Medevitz.

Holiday Party Invitations and Matching Address Labels: Here’s a fabulous freebie from designer Emmy Lu. Rather than buy fancy invitations here are some great ones you can print for free. The designs also come with coordinating address labels that can be printed on a full sheet label and cut out. There’s no doubt that your invites will appear far more fancy and festive with the help of this great designer.

Custom Gift Tags: These free gift tags from Life As Mom come in two designs: snowflake or Christmas holly. They are especially great because you can type in the name of the gift recipient and the name of the giver. No need to ruin a pretty package with messy handwriting.

Simple Free Gift Tags: Here’s another style of free printable gift tags from TipJunkie.com. So no matter what color your wrapping is you should be able to find a free coordinating gift tag.

Martha Stewart Monogrammed Gift Tags: Here’s another great freebie straight from one of the world’s most creative people. Print out these cute monogrammed gift tags at MarthaStewart.com. Cut out the letters you need for each of your holiday packages.

How to Add Flair to Your Holiday Packages

Nov 262010
 

Make Your Gifts Memorable (Photo Courtesy of craftapalooza)

You spend lots of time picking out the perfect present. You toil over whether to buy the crimson shirt or the maroon one. You stress about the decision of whether your grandma would like gloves or mittens better. But often when it comes to wrapping those lovely presents we just shove them in an old gift bag or pull out last year’s wrapping paper and hope there’s enough left on the roll to make it around the box. This year, resolve to put a little more thought into what’s on the outside. Here are some tips for adding flare to your holiday packages.

Stick with a Color Theme

Rather than adding a hodgepodge of wrapped gifts under the tree, pick a color scheme. It doesn’t have to be the traditional red and green, either. By sticking with your color theme you’ll create a cohesive look with your gifts and make more of a style statement.

Always Include Ribbon

A Christmas package without ribbon just seems incomplete. Stock up at your local craft store. Buy ribbons that work well together and on their own. Try stacking a thicker ribbon under something thin and sparkly. And don’t be afraid to recycle the ribbon once you’re done with it.

Head to the Office Supply Store

Gift tags are like earrings for a package. Don’t overlook this important accessory. You can even get creative with them. Simply head to an office supply store and purchase some jewelry tags. Embellish them with stamps, glitter, or even by stitching on some ribbon. Get as creative as possible.

Use “Green” Tissue

Instead of buying tissue paper, try something more creative, cheaper and more green. Put old, discarded wrapping paper through the paper shredder. You’ll end up with a colorful and earth-friendly alternative to tissue paper.

Put a Gift on the Gift

Use your ribbon to tie a small gift onto your package. Include a Christmas ornament, small picture frame or even a gift card holder onto the top of the box. By making the outside so appealing, you’ll build even more excitement for what’s on the inside.

How to Find Favors for Thanksgiving Guests

Nov 252010
 

Planning to host a holiday feast this Thanksgiving? Not only are you opening your home to loved ones for one of the biggest meals of the year, but you want them to feel welcome. One way to do that is by offering your guests a favor that will serve as a piece of memorabilia for Thanksgiving 2010. Here are some ideas for finding favors for your Thanksgiving guests.
iconTurkey Lollipop

Handmade chocolates are always a nice gift– even when you’re feeling stuffed. Give your guests a chocolate lollipop in the shape of a turkey from RottiePrincess.com. It comes decorated with M&Ms.

Fall Leaf Cookie Cutter

Your guests will “fall” in love with these leaf-shaped cookie cutters from FavorAffair.com. Guests will be able to roll out memories of your fabulous meal when they pull out this cookie cutter at home. These run $1.70 each.

Fingerstache Tattoos

Want to bring some light-hearted fun to the dining table? Give guests the Fingerstache Tattoos from Patinastores.com. You’ll snag some great photos and make some unforgettable memories at the same time.

SnackTAXI

Send guests home with a turkey sandwich or a leftover treat stored away in the super cute SnackTAXI. The Silverware print is perfect for your food-themed gift. Not only will it help guests remember this special day but it will save thousands of plastic baggies from ending up in the landfill.

Party Games for Adults

Give each guest their own copy of the Party Games for Adults book from SpoonSisters.com. Inside you’ll find icebreakers and party games that will help you burn calories and share some laughs at your Thanksgiving feast.

How to Find the Perfect Gift for Bike Lovers

Nov 112010
 

Lovely Gifts for Bike-Lovers (Image courtesy of.Kara.)

Recently cyclists from all over the world descended on my town for a professional bike race. The community of cyclists is definitely a passionate one. If you’ve got cyclists in your life, finding a fun gift that they’ll love can be very easy– especially with our help. We’ve found some great gifts for bike lovers.

Bike Accessories

No matter where you live, cycling can be a great way to get around. It’s affordable and earth-friendly. But unlike a car, there’s no trunk space. So why not pick up your bike-loving friend the Nantucket Wicker Bicycle Basket from The Bicycle Muse. It’s just $25 and would be perfect for holding purchases from the farmers’ market. And to help pedestrians move out of the way there’s the Public Federico Red Brass Bell for $12. Pee-Wee Herman had one so it must be cool.

Bike Clothing

Europeans love crocheted bike gloves and now you can pick up a women’s version for $15 or a men’s version for just $7.50 at PublicBikes.com. These Smooth Rider Socks from Anthropologie would make a great accessory for the cyclist in your life.

Bike Safety Gear

It may not look like safety gear, but the reflective bird pin is also functional. It sells for $18 at PublicBikes.com and comes in lime, silver or orange. Similarly, the Yakkay Tokyo Blue Stripe helmet may look like a fashionable bucket hat, but it’s actually a must-have piece of safety equipment.

Kids’ Bike Stuff

As a kid, there’s nothing better than the freedom of a bike. Encourage the little riders in your life with a gift that makes their bicycle even cooler. This Ladybug Bell from AdelineAdeline.com will do just that.

Bike Art

The bicycle is an iconic image which makes it a great focal point for art. This vintage bike photo taken in Holland is simple, yet beautiful. For a truly custom gift, enlist Kara Ginther to create a one-of-a-kind bike saddle that turns the seat of any bike into artwork. And if you’re buying this as a thank you gift for the bike-lover in your life, pick up this colorful bicycle greeting card at Luxe Paperie to complete the theme.

How to Help Someone De-Stress with a Gift

Oct 282010
 

Gifts Can Ease Stress. photo courtesy of stuartpilbrow

We all know people who are frazzled, strained, worried and tense. With the holidays approaching chances are you’ll encounter this even more. Want to help your loved ones de-stress and calm down? Here are some gift ideas that can spread a little relaxation to your over-worked friends and family members.

Stress Relief Tea

This warm relaxing tea will wash away tension. It’s one of the best sellers on LocalHarvest.org. Pick up 12 bags for $10.50 or six for $5.51.

Stress Relief Games

Games can be a great way to chill out. Give your loved one the Puzzle-a-Day Sudoku so they can have a few minutes of stress-free enjoyment each day. The book is $9.35 at BarnesandNoble.com.

Stress Relief Yoga DVD

Exercise is one of the top ways to reduce stress. Not only is it healthy for your body, but it’s good for clearing your mind, too. Encourage others to relieve stress with a healthy habit like yoga. The Stress Relief Yoga for Beginners sells for $11.86 at Walmart.com. Or try Yoga for Stress Relief on Overstock.com if you need a more advanced option.

Stress Relief Massage

For the super stressed, pamper them with a trip to the masseuse. Massage is a great stress-reliever and provides a way to ease tense muscles and quiet busy minds.

Anti-Stress Neck Pillow

The microwavable Anti-Stress Neck Pillow from HealthSuperstore.com is made of super soft material and filled with herb-infused flax seeds. The aromas of lavender, chamomile and citrus will help ease worries and prompt relaxation.

Custom Stress-Reliever

Think about what’s causing your friend or family member’s plate to overflow. Do they need help with household chores? Childcare? Or perhaps they could use a meal away from the kitchen? Give them a thoughtful gift that you know will take something off their to-do list and lighten their load.

How to Ship Gourmet Desserts for Gifts

Oct 162010
 

Did you know October is National Dessert Month? Maybe it’s designated the sweetest month because of the quest for candy so many trick-or-treaters embark on, but there’s no need to wait for October 31 to celebrate. Just about everybody enjoys a sweet treat now and then, so why not give the gift of indulgence with a gourmet dessert? Here are some tips for finding and shipping the best gourmet desserts safely.
icon
iconReview Shipping Policies

Shipping policies are very important to consider when ordering gourmet desserts that could be perishable. For instance, at CheesecakeFantasy.com, shipping prices are calculated into the cost of the product. But there are many circumstances where your dessert will not be covered if it doesn’t arrive on time, including weather delays or if the recipient wasn’t home to accept the delivery.

Look for Proper Packaging

If you’re considering buying perishable dessert items, do some research into how the company packages them. According to the Food Safety and Inspection Service, items should be packed in foam or heavy corrugated cardboard and shipped with a cold source.

Spring for Overnight Shipping

Overnight shipping can be expensive but it is usually the way to go when buying gourmet desserts online. This way there is less chance for the gift to sit on a hot truck or airplane waiting to be delivered.

Alert the Recipient

Although it’s nice for gifts to be a surprise, let the recipient know to expect a gift. Tell them the expected arrival date so they can make sure someone is there to receive the package. That way they’ll know that the box needs to be opened right away, and possibly refrigerated.

Check the Temperature

If you receive a perishable dessert in the mail, check the temperature. According to officials it should be below 40 degrees when measured with a food thermometer. If it shows up warm, alert the company and don’t eat it. But if the temperature seems good, go ahead and dig in.

How to be a Halloween Hit for Trick-or-Treaters

Oct 082010
 

Make Halloween Super Special (Photo courtesy of DrVoo)

It’s a holiday kids all over the country eagerly anticipate. Don’t let them down this Halloween. Instead give them the gift of excitement and thrill by becoming the hit of the block this October 31. Here are some simple ways to make your home spookier, crazier and more fun for Halloween night.

Use an Animated Candy Bowl

Don’t stuff your candy in a boring bowl. Kids of all ages will get a thrill from sticking their hands in the Animated Raven Halloween Candy Bowl. The treats are placed in a footed bowl with a life-like black bird flapping its wings perched in the middle. Another fun option is the Animated Candy Bowl with Hand. A green, bony hand protrudes from the center of an orange bowl.

Play Halloween Music

Music can really set the stage for your Halloween home. Download free music at TheHolidaySpot.com or pick up the Haunted Harmonies CD from Target. Put the speakers in the windows by your front door so trick-or-treaters can hear it as they approach your home.

Give Gifts for Great Costumes

Reward creativity and inventiveness by giving special trick-or-treaters something in addition to candy. Pick up some low-cost toys like these plastic spider webs and hand them out to the best-dressed boys and girls. . Or give them something a little more special than bite-size candy bars by handing out Fluffy Stuff Spider Webs Cotton Candy Packs.

Decorate Outside

Typically you decorate the inside of your home for a Halloween party, but why not decorate the outside for trick-or-treaters? Pick up some low-cost glow in the dark spider webs for $3.99 and fun window clings for $3.99.

Get Dressed Up

Children aren’t the only ones that get to dress up for Halloween. Put on a costume to hand out candy and you’ll make it even more fun for all the boys and ghouls that ring your door bell.

How to Throw a Minute to Win It Party

Sep 202010
 

Minute to Win It is a hot game show on NBC where contestants race the clock to complete seemingly simple challenges using household products. With a million bucks dangling before them, the excitement level is always high. Since the 60-second challenges involve items you probably have around your house, lots of people are throwing Minute to Win It parties. Here are some tips for making your Minute to Win It bash a party people remember for a long time.

Choose Fun Games

All of the games played on Minute to Win It are fun and the majority of them could work in your own home. But take into consideration the number of people you plan to have at your Minute to Win It party, as well as the space available for playing these games. Check out this library of games that have been featured on the show and select about a half dozen to feature at your party.

Serve Food that Fits the Theme

Any good party needs great food. Perhaps you could serve Mexican dishes including a taco bar with a sign that says “Taco Time!”. Give cupcakes a shot and arrange them in a circle. Number them like the face of a clock. There are lots of fun ideas that would be great for a Minute to Win It party.

Show the Video Blue Prints

Give your party a high-tech feel by showing the blue prints (aka. rules) for each game just like they do on the real Minute to Win It game show. You can find the videos on YouTube, commercial free. For instance, here’s the blue print for the game “Face the Cookie.” Showing these professionally produced videos will make your party feel more like the real thing.

Award Prizes

You’ll definitely want to reward winners for their hard work and competitive spirit. Try clock-themed prizes like funny watches or timers. This round wooden ready-to-decorate clock from Oriental Trading Company is just $6.99 and would make a fun prize. You don’t have to spend much, but it will create a more festive feel.

 
 

Vintage Clock Magnets Make Great Favors (Photo by Alison Storm)

Hand Out Favors

Everyone likes to go home from a party with something. A great (and affordable) party favor for your Minute to Win It game is this DIY mid century clock magnet from How About Orange. Spray paint some bottle caps and use Mod Podge to adhere the printable clock designs. Hot glue a magnet onto the back and your favor is complete. It’s a great gift that will remind your guests of the great time they had at your Minute to Win It party.

How to Give a Gift to Someone You Don’t Know Well

Sep 132010
 

Not Sure Which Gift to Choose? (Photo Courtesy of epSos.de)

Maybe you can relate– I got invited to a birthday party of someone I had hung out with a few times, but didn’t know well. When there’s not a gift registry to fall back on, and you don’t know the person enough to pick out a great gift you know they’ll love– what do you do? Here are some tips for how to give a gift to someone you don’t know well.

Try to Chip in With Others

Do you know anyone else that you can go in on a group gift with? Perhaps you have a friend that’s closer to the person or knows them better. You may be passing the buck, but at least there’s a better chance they’ll end up with a gift they really like or can use.

Do a Registry Search

Even if the event is not for a baby shower or wedding event, there’s a chance this person has registered for something in the past few years. Most stores keep records of registries at least two years after the event. Search for a registry that might provide clues into the person’s taste. For instance WeddingChannel.com lets you search the registries of more than a dozen stores at once.

Find More Clues

Are you friends with the person on Facebook? Do you follow them on Twitter? Do a little digging into their social networks to find out what they like and don’t like. Plenty of people offer up lots of details about their lives online these days.

Go with a Standard

There’s a chance that shirt won’t fit or that vase won’t go with their decor. So why not go with a standard gift? Pick out a gift card to a local restaurant, book store or to the movie theater. Pretty much everybody likes going out to eat, reading a good book or taking in a movie now and then. And even if they don’t, they could always give it to someone else.

Related Posts with Thumbnails
 Older Entries  Newer Entries