Holiday Wrapping Solutions

You might not have fully embarked on the ‘making a list and checking it twice’ program yet, but there’s no point in being in denial about it. We all know that moms are really the ones who help Santa get everything done. (Sorry, elves, just sayin’.)

And while you may not have thought of the perfect gift for everyone on your list yet, you can get a jump on the holidays with some paper essentials first. Here are a few of our favourite sources:

The Cards
Skip the trip to the drugstore for something more stylish and much easier to order from Jonesy Fine Stationery. We smile every time we see the Peas on Earth design and the Wreath and Flakes designs are soothingly elegant and a nice change from the usual gilt and glitter (box of 8 cards, $16).

If you’re looking for something you can add a personal touch to, you might want to get into The Stationery Position, an online personalized stationery design shop whose goal is to put your personality (or your family’s) on (eco-friendly) paper. Many of their stunning designs can be customized to include a family photo or two, proving that holiday doesn’t necessarily need to equal hokey (set of 25 cards, $58).

The Ribbons & Wraps
You can’t really wrap up the holiday season without the wrap so we’re here to tell you that our longtime favourite, Toronto-based supplier of wraps and ribbons, Creative Bag, now offers online shopping to everyone across the country. You’ll find wraps, ribbons, tissue papers, gift bags and more in every possible colour and size. If you’ve ever wondered where the professional gift wrappers get their stuff, this is the place. We’ve stocked up on a few 85 feet long rolls of Christmas wrap ($24.99)—so big they typically last us more than one season.

The Tags
With all the wrapping out of the way, the only thing left to do is tag everything to ensure safe delivery to the intended gift recipient. You can make your own tags from leftover wrapping paper, cardstock and more with a To/From stamp from She She Impressions ($34.99). Get the kids to help—it’s a fun holiday craft idea. (Not up for cutting out your own? They even sell beautiful blank tags.)

So finish up that paper chase. You’ll be one step closer to the holiday finish line.