California Redwood Birding Trail

Gift giving is an art. There is so much more to the art of gift giving than just deciding on what gift you would like to give someone. Much like a chef preparing a gourmet meal, the presentation of the gift can be just as important as the gift itself.

The first step is to decide on a gift box. There is a plethora of shapes, sizes and colors of gift boxes to choose from. Start by asking yourself what is the appropriate size of gift box needed to accommodate your gift. It should be roomy enough that you don’t have to cram your carefully chosen token of affection in there, like one of Cinderella’s stepsisters trying to get her foot in the glass slipper. No one wants to open a gift that is already ruined because it was stuffed in a receptacle that was just too small.

On the other hand, you don’t want it to be too big; your gift could slam and slosh around in the gift box and be destroyed. Your gift should be nestled safely inside like an egg in an egg carton.

Next, what shape and color do you fancy? There are all sorts of different shapes to choose from. Do you want something basic like a hat box, or do you want to be a bit bolder and choose a shape like a heart or a treasure chest? Then consider what color your gift box should be. You may want a gift box in a solid color or maybe a pattern like stripes or even polka dots if you’re feeling particularly saucy.

Once you have chosen your gift box, you will want to adorn it with some ribbon and a bow. Choosing the right ribbon can really make a difference in your presentation. Fabric ribbons, paper ribbons, beads, tassels, cording and twine, or garland are all possibilities to accent your gift box. Choose ribbon that really reflects your personality and lets the recipient know instinctively that this one must be from you.

Lastly, if you are shipping your gift by mail or parcel service, you need to pack your gift in a box that is designed to be handled. Notice that boxes needed for shipping will vary as well. There are standard cartons, heavy duty corrugated cartons, white cartons, mailing boxes with different kinds of closures, boxes that slide open, boxes for moving or file storage, and even mailing tubes.

Now that you have chosen the appropriate size and shape to ship your gift box in, you are ready to go. Your gift is now in the perfect gift box with a ribbon tied around it that tells the receiver a little something about you and is ready to be packed and shipped. Voila! C’est magnifique!

About the Author:

This article is written by Cin Rupp.