Christmas Tree #10- The Presentation is Smoke and Mirrors and Some Money-Saving Ideas
This year, our main Christmas tree was adorned with a delightful and simple theme featuring vibrant cardinals and glossy red ornaments. The bright red balls shimmered against the snowy branches, while the cardinals brought a touch of life and elegance to the tree, creating a warm and festive atmosphere in our home.
I understand that seeing only a few presents under the tree as a child can be disappointing. I learned a valuable lesson about this 24 years ago, during a challenging time when I didn’t have enough money for Christmas presents and was raising two children. It’s a reminder that the season’s true spirit isn’t always about the gifts but the love and joy we share. The captivating illusion of a thorough drop-off from Santa’s sleigh for “good” children is created when the presents are carefully arranged, stacked, angled, and supported to add to the festive atmosphere. Each gift is strategically placed, enhancing the magical anticipation that fills the air as children await Christmas morning. Christmas isn’t all about presents; it’s about what’s in our hearts, but sometimes the illusion of a Christmas tree surrounded by many presents, especially when you’re a child, is magical.
Over the years, I’ve learned a few money-saving tricks. One of my favorites is purchasing 400-foot rolls of Christmas wrapping paper, some of which are double-sided, from Nashville Wraps. I also have a wrapping station that my husband set up for me. With this setup, the wrapping paper will last me for five years or more during the holiday season.
I wrap copy paper machine boxes, keeping the lid separate from the bottom so that I can reuse them year after year. I use packing tape around the top edge to reinforce the box, especially where the lid opens and closes.
I also buy wire-edged ribbons at Hobby Lobby for half price. After I tie the bows on gifts, the kids know they can toss them into a pile when unwrapping. I then roll them up and reuse them year after year. Most of the ribbons you see in the picture are 5 to 15 years old. Because of this, I rarely have to buy ribbon. The name tags are nice and theme-related. Once the gifts are unwrapped, I remove them, stack them, and pull them out next year to place on the gifts—recycling and saving the environment.
I usually stick with the same theme for several years. I’m using a red truck theme, which has been quite popular. I have enough wrapping paper to last for at least two more Christmases. Buying gift wrap one roll at a time can become expensive, so I prefer to make a one-time investment in a larger supply that lasts multiple years.
Just a few tips can help your Christmas budget go further and make the illusion of many presents a bit more magical.
Hi sista.