Tips and Treats for That Extra Touch

When your heart is big and the budget is small, use these tips and treats to create a special touch. With a splash of creative juice and a dash of detail, you can boost your gifts from mundane to memorable in a few seconds.

First, pick an artisan tumbler, cup, or mug, as the start of your unique gift. With today’s variety of glazes, textures, and designs, this hand-crafted work of art can be filled with anyone’s favorite beverage.

Next, choose one of these options to create your cup of cheer:

• Add a few fresh wrapped caramels or colorful peppermints to fill the inside of the cup. The candies add cheerful color, and they’re great for a quick grab as an afternoon pick-me-up.

• Go beyond a salty or sweet treat to complement the gift.

  • Fold a pair of cheerful hand-woven coasters into the cup.

  • Add some jingle with festive red and silver bells placed inside.

  • Insert a champagne towel into a porcelain glass for the anniversary celebration or big event. A hint of sparkle thread is an elegant way to add a touch of glamour. (Perfect with sparkling water too.)

• Pair a taste to melt or dip with a seasonal beverage, like a mug filled with apple cider mix and fresh cinnamon sticks, or a small batch of hot chocolate paired with a gourmet box of gold champagne marshmallows.

When you’re ready to wrap things up, pick a textured burlap, cotton, or linen bag with a twine or leather tie. Or hole-punch a note written in gel pen on card stock paper, run a colorful ribbon through it, and tie it to the handle or base.

While a gift may be modest in size, when packaged with heartfelt details, it carries meaning and the message that you cared enough to go the extra mile.