One thing I have noticed as a busy Sandwich Generation mama is that life goes on regardless of the load I carry. Having two busy kids with a ton of friends, there is always a birthday party or some special function in the works.
I simply do not have time to dash out every time I need to get something so I established a Gift Station in my home. I cleared out a hallway cupboard and put all of my gift-wrapping supplies in clear plastic boxes of various sizes.
It has saved me a million times, so I would like to share it with you. Here are some of the tricks I used:
Find a location where all of the components can be housed in the same area.
- In a cabinet
- Under the bed
- A storage shelf in the garage
Gather your supplies.
- Wrapping paper
- Gift bags
- Tissue paper
- Ribbon and bows
- Shredded paper for gift bags
Put all of your gift wrapping equipment together.
- Scissors
- Tape
- Pens and pencils
- Hole punch
Don’t forget the cards.
- Order blank birthday cards in bulk
- Invest in multiple occasion cards too
- Pick up some generic gift tags when they are on clearance
Prepare for long distance gifts.
- Sturdy boxes
- Mailing tape
- Labels
- Markers
- Address book
After I had all of my materials in one location, I labeled each box so that my family could find what they need as well. I also purchased small gifts and I keep them on hand for last minute functions. Some of the items include:
- Frames
- Candles
- Gift cards in small increments
- Stationary
- Electronic games
Now I am well prepared and ready for whatever comes our way. Hope these suggestions help to jumpstart a gift station for you!
