It’s crunch time now y’all. 5 days until the big day! Hopefully this post will help you out a little this year and in years to come! What do you do when you are invited to a holiday party? Have a last minute guest stop by? Have great neighbors or people you carpool with? Teachers, Employers, or anyone else you would like to get a like sercie for at the holidays? I feel like I am always scrambling for gift ideas. Here are 5 easy and last minute ideas for hostesses, neighbors and unexpected guests. And by the way- a good portion of these things are on sale right now!
Hostess & Neighbor Gifts:
(1) 1 jar of William-Sonoma Mulling Spices + 1-2 oranges + 3 cinnamon sticks… Place all ingredients in a clear cellophane bag (with the below recipe) tied up with a pretty ribbon.
(2) Cinnamon Chip Bread from Great Harvest Bread Company … or your favorite bread from a local bakery. This is hands down my kids favorite bread in the world! I got this gift idea from two people. First of all, my mom used to give everyone her fresh homemade sourdough bread. You know the one with the starter that has to use for days? As much as I loved it, ain’t nobody got time for that, am I right? Second, one of my best friends here in Charlotte gives this to lucky teachers and neighbors. She definitely buys it in bulk this time of year. Add a cute Christmas tag + a bow. Your host or neighbor will have delicious bread to toast over the holidays.
(3) Bottle of wine or champagne + wine stopper + fun holiday cocktail napkins
(4) Holiday Dish Towel + Your favorite sweet treat (store bought- to make it easy!)
(5) Christmas Mug with your favorite Hot Chocolate Mix (or recipe) + Candy Cane + Marshmallows
This is by far my favorite scent in the world. My mom would have it simmering on the stove throughout the Christmas season. Every time I smell it, I think of my mom and I smile. It’s warm, comforting and just smells like the holidays.
Holiday Simmering Potpourri
William- Sonoma Mulling Spices
Cinnamon Sticks
All Spice
Fresh Orange Peel
Water
Cranberries (optional)
Rosemary (optional)
Place all ingredients in a small saucepan or pot on your stove and simmer. Add water as needed as it evaporates.
Happy Winter Break!
I want those spices! I can smell it now!