I have an obsession with wrapping paper. And bows. And ribbon. Actually, this addiction even spills over to name tags, tissue paper and gift bags…of course!. Some people are obsessed with shoes and purses. Others with tools or sports paraphernalia. Me? It’s all about the wrap.
There’s nothing more exciting and satisfying than wrapping a gift with the prettiest (or ‘handsome-est’) paper, perfectly matched frills and trims and accessorizing with a coordinating tag. I LOVE presentation, and when I have time to do it right, it’s better than any therapy I’ve ever known! I’m no professional wrapper, and it’s not necessarily about over-the-top fancy, but more about creating the perfect look, uniquely suited for the person you have in mind. When the stores set up their Christmas wrap aisles, I can hardly contain myself. Sometimes I force myself NOT to even look because I’m afraid if I get started, there’ll be no stopping me.
I’ve dreamt of designing my own line of wrap and trims. My motivation? Sometimes I’ll find the perfect wrap and bow, but no tag to match! Tragic. Other times the selection of gift bags is so lame, so run of the mill, that it’s disgraceful. And try to find a specific color in something that isn’t red, green, silver, gold or blue and you might as well forget it. I’ve even had to go to the ‘regular’ gift wrap aisle (pathetic!) to expand my selection. I envisioned a collection with a never ending color assortment and a variety of accessories to coordinate your wrapping from start to finish. Choices which would never bore you. Options, options, options! Maybe not practical… Maybe not cost effective… Maybe one of these days…
I was pondering my fascination and wondering WHY? Why do I care and why does it mean so much?
As I spent time contemplating my longtime passion, it occurred to me that ‘the wrap’ is about much more than just a pretty gift. Here are a few thoughts which came to mind:
- Excitement – We all know how important first impressions are. When someone sees a beautiful work of art, a present with eye catching colors, shiny ribbons and festive adornments, there’s no doubt the level of anticipation and excitement grows. “Wow, if it looks that good on the outside, must be something VERY special on inside!” Who doesn’t love a little excitement?
- Care – The time and effort you infuse is often a direct reflection of your care, or lack thereof. If you present something sloppy and haphazardly put together, what message do you send? When it’s clear you paid attention to the details and went above and beyond, you’re not just handing someone a present, but a huge hug and an “I love you” all in one. It’s the perfect warm, fuzzy ‘two-fer’!
- Importance – It doesn’t matter if the gift is expensive and extravagant, or just a simple, thoughtful reflection of your adoration, the appearance speaks volumes as to the significance of the person you are gifting. They were important enough to go the extra step for; they matter…a lot. They count.
Think of someone going for a job interview. You can have the most educated, experienced, capable candidate show up, but if they are a rumpled, wrinkled mess, their qualifications may get completely overlooked. Appearance and impression can make or break any circumstance. Packaging counts. Just ask any marketing professional.
Granted, for some, all that matters is what’s on the inside – the gift. For others, like me, it’s the WHOLE package that counts. Yes, you want to give something unique, useful or otherwise perfectly suited for each person, but don’t let the effort that went into finding the perfect gift get undermined by a terrible presentation. Make sure ‘the wrap’ matches your heart and watch the smiles grow!
Agree? Disagree? I would LOVE to hear from you!
Spread some Christmas cheer! Be sure to share this with your friends and family! 🙂 Wishing you a Wrap-tastic Christmas!
I agree wholeheartedly, Sherry! Seeing a beautifully wrapped present says a lot for the care and thought you put into the gift. Unfortunately, my cat LOVES to EAT bows, ribbon,….every kind of accessory for gift-wrapping you can imagine. Ha ha. I’m glad you enjoy and find relaxation in wrapping……you can enjoy it for the both of us. 🙂