by Genni Schroepfer
The holidays are upon us, and Genni (one of our 2024 Interns) is here to help with her creative and meaningful last-minute gift ideas! Scrambling to pull together those last couple of holiday presents? Don’t worry, we can help! Here are five thoughtful gifts that can be pulled together in a pinch!
1. Tie Blanket & Movie Basket
Who doesn’t love curling up with a blanket and a movie on a cold winter’s night? Head over to your local supermarket to pick up two 50×60 inch pieces of cloth. Personally, I choose one patterned piece and one solid colored piece, but the sky’s the limit! Pick whichever your creative heart desires. You’ll also need scissors, snacks – I recommend M&Ms with popcorn! – and a basket or bucket for the finished gift.
To make the blanket, first simply lay one cloth on top of the other. Second, make 2-inch-deep cuts into both fabrics, spacing them out evenly (around one inch apart). Lastly, tie the fringes to create the tassels. That’s it! So simple and fun! You’ve just created a movie night package, perfect for anyone who enjoys a cozy night in!
2. Escape Room Tickets
For those whose love language is quality time spent together, planning an escape room outing is the perfect gift! The only time required of you upfront is to simply browse a bit online and select a fun escape room theme! Then, book your tickets and your gift is done!
Alternatively, you can make a voucher – hand drawn or digitally designed, whatever suits your fancy – so that you and the gift-recipient can plan out a day that works for the both of you!
An escape room outing is the perfect gift for the adventurous side in all of us!
3. Note Jar from the Heart
Creating a jar brimming with hand-written notes is perfect for a sentimental loved one. Supplies needed include a clear jar and bright paper, along with a few colorful pens or markers. Plus your thoughts!
Step 1: Cut out 3×4 in pieces of paper
Step 2: Compose little notes on each strip of paper
Step 3: Fold the notes, and fill the jar! That’s it!
For an “extra” twist, I suggest assigning a color to each topic. For example, the green notes might share words of affirmation while the purple notes might share fond memories between you and the gift recipient. Cute, meaningful, and thoughtful; it’s another perfect gift!
4. Annotated Book
Admittedly, this gift will take the longest out of the five, but it is SO WORTH IT! Perfect for any and all book lovers out there! Simply pay a visit to your local bookstore (or order online) and select a book you think the gift recipient will enjoy. Make sure the book is one that you know well enough to flip through and recall fun scenes, humorous moments, or memorable quotes.
Once you’ve selected the book, get to work by jotting down your reactions, thoughts, and doodles in the margins as the story unfolds. Not only will this be a fun gift for you to give, it will add an extra layer of fun to your loved one’s reading experience!
5. Self-Care Kit
Life can be hectic and not everyone remembers to take a little time for themselves every so often. Help remind a special person in your life that it’s important to take care of themselves, too!
Grab a cute basket and stuff it to the brim with hair care, skincare, essential oils, candles, or any other nurturing items. Live in Stillwater? Make a quick trip to Modern Roots; it’s a local favorite and you won’t be disappointed! Nor will the gift recipient! For a final touch, add a stuffed animal, fairy lights, or a mini bouquet of fresh flowers!
Happy Holidays from the Carriage Realty Crew! May this beautiful season fill your heart with love and your home with joy!
