Perfect Setting {Christmas Dinner}

Christmas is almost upon us, and if you can't tell from my excess of Holiday themed posts, I'm getting pretty excited. One of my favorite Christmas traditions is having the whole family, all 20 of us, over for dinner and enjoying amazing food and even better company. So, with Christmas dinner quickly approaching, it's time to begin thinking about your festive table setting. My favorite idea this year is to take a box, wrap it up, tie on a coordinating ribbon and set it at each person's spot. While you do have the option of leaving the boxes empty and simply using them for show, try filling them with after dinner treats. This way after dinner, guests can unwrap a decadent little treat. I would do either a cupcake, chocolate peppermint of course, or maybe even a mini apple pie! Just don't put the ice cream in the box! 

How are you setting your table this holiday? 

All Wrapped Up

Hi, my name is Sarah and I love Divine Twine. I kind of think it's amazing. It's such a fun way to tie things up, packages, bags, envelops, gift tags, etc. I think you can use it for anything! If I actually had time to bake like I want to, I would totally tie up loaves of bread in parchment paper and divine twine.

 Plus it comes in so many colors that you could always match it to your wrapping. I just bought 50 yards or so in red to use for a carnival party and I'm kind of hoping I don't need it all so I can keep it to myself.

Plus they have in multi colors for holidays. Like this orange and black twine for Halloween! I'm totally wrapping this around the candy I'm handing out just for added flair because I can!

Social Graces {No Gifts Please}

So here is an interesting situation for you. I'm planning a birthday for the funniest, liveliest 90 year old woman you have ever met! Well, instead of asking for gift for her birthday, she is asking that donations be made to her favorite charity. While personally I think it is a brilliant plan, especially for the woman who has everything, I understand it could be a bit confusing for guests. I mean there is the whole dilemma of how much should I give. The simple answer is however much you feel. But, that varies. A simple rule to remember is to give as much to the honorees charity as you would spend on a gift. I like to give a little more than that though just because it is going to charity. And, the way I think about it is that it is probably going to someone who needs it a little more than I do.

Social Graces {Graduation Party}

Tis the season for graduating.  Whether it be from high school, college, or specialty school, attending a graduation party is the perfect way to celebrate all the graduate's hard work.  If you are attending a grad party this season, it is appropriate to bring the honoree a little something.  While money is the typical gift (and usually most appreciated), there are some other great options to shower the graduate with if money isn't your style.

From Top Left:

1. Pineider City Chic - Women's Double Gusset Calfskin Briefcase in White and Blue

• For the college graduate entering the workforce, a briefcase is great.  It's something incredibly useful that the grad most likely won't buy for herself. 

2. Williams Sonoma Gift Card

• Whether entering or leaving college, a gift card to some place like Williams Sonoma is perfect. Carrying everything from kitchen utensils to food, they can get everything they need in one location!

3. Spa Package

• After all of that hard work, nothing sounds better than a relaxing day at the spa.  While it can get expensive, most spas have affordable manicure, pedicures, or even basic massages. If in doubt, just give a gift card to the spa so the graduate can pick his or her treatment.  This is a unique option that will be greatly appreciated! 

4. Michael Kors Shiny Rose Golden Watch I'm a firm believer that everyone should wear a watch.  If not all the time, at least while at work or school. This Michael Kors watch is stylish, functional, and the best gift a recent grad could get!