The Ultimate Guide to Gift Wrapping: Tips, Tricks, and Ideas

Gift Wrapping Tips and Tricks

Gift wrapping can be a fun and creative way to add the finishing touch to your holiday presents. However, it can also be stressful and time-consuming if you're not sure what you're doing. That's why we've put together the ultimate guide to gift wrapping, with tips, tricks, and ideas to make your gifts look their best.

Choose the right wrapping paper

Select wrapping paper that complements the gift and the recipient. If you're giving a gift to a child, choose a colorful and playful paper. For a more sophisticated gift, opt for a classic pattern or a neutral color. Avoid using newspaper or other types of paper that are difficult to work with or don't look as polished.

Measure and cut correctly

Before you start wrapping, measure your gift and cut the wrapping paper to the appropriate size. Leave enough excess paper at the top and sides to fully cover the gift and secure the edges. When cutting the paper, use a ruler and a sharp pair of scissors to ensure clean, straight lines.

Use double-sided tape

Double-sided tape is a gift wrapper's best friend. It allows you to secure the paper in place without the need for staples or visible tape. Simply apply a strip of tape to the back of the wrapping paper and smooth it down onto the gift.

Create clean corners

To create sharp, clean corners on your wrapped gift, fold the excess paper in on itself and press down firmly. This will create a crisp, square corner that looks professional and polished.

Add a personal touch

Make your gifts stand out by adding a personal touch. You can use ribbon, twine, or other decorative elements to add some flair to your wrapping. You can also use a gift tag or a handwritten note to add a personal message to the recipient.

Practice makes perfect

Gift wrapping can be a bit of a learning curve, especially if you're new to it. Don't be afraid to practice on smaller gifts or scraps of paper until you feel confident in your skills. With a little bit of practice, you'll be a gift wrapping pro in no time!

We hope these tips and tricks help you create beautifully wrapped gifts for your loved ones this holiday season. Happy gift wrapping!

Get Your Holiday Party Started with These Delicious Cocktail Recipes

Holiday Cocktail Recipes

The holiday season is a great time to get together with friends and family and enjoy some delicious and festive cocktails. Here are six easy recipes for holiday cocktails that are sure to be a hit:

Gingerbread latte martini

This festive twist on the classic latte is sure to be a hit with gingerbread lovers. Simply mix together some Kahlua, Bailey's Irish Cream, and vodka in a cocktail shaker with some ice. Rim a martini glass with some crushed gingerbread cookies and strain the mixture into the glass. Top with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.

Eggnog latte

This creamy and indulgent holiday classic is a must-have at any holiday party. Simply mix together some hot milk, eggnog, and a bit of your favorite coffee liqueur in a blender or cocktail shaker. Serve over ice and top with a sprinkle of ground nutmeg.

Cranberry Moscow mule

This refreshing and festive twist on the classic Moscow mule is perfect for holiday gatherings. Simply mix together some cranberry juice, vodka, and lime juice in a cocktail shaker with some ice. Rim a copper mug or highball glass with some sugar and strain the mixture into the glass. Top with a splash of ginger beer and a sprig of fresh cranberries.

Apple cider mimosa

This refreshing and festive twist on the classic mimosa is perfect for holiday brunches. Simply mix together some apple cider and Champagne or sparkling wine in a cocktail shaker with some ice. Rim a champagne flute with some sugar and strain the mixture into the glass. Garnish with a slice of fresh apple or a sprig of rosemary.

Peppermint patty martini

This creamy and indulgent holiday cocktail is sure to be a hit with chocolate lovers. Simply mix together some creme de menthe, chocolate liqueur, and heavy cream in a cocktail shaker with some ice. Rim a martini glass with some crushed peppermint candies and strain the mixture into the glass. Top with a sprinkle of cocoa powder and a sprig of fresh mint.

Spiked hot chocolate

This warm and cozy holiday classic is the perfect way to indulge your sweet tooth. Simply mix together some milk, chocolate chips, and your favorite spirit (such as Kahlua, Bailey's Irish Cream, or whiskey) in a saucepan and heat over medium heat until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is hot. Top with some whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

These holiday cocktail recipes are sure to be a hit with your friends and family. Whether you're looking for a warm and cozy drink or a refreshing and festive cocktail, there's something for everyone on this list. Happy holidays!

6 Fun and Festive Holiday Crafts for Kids

The holiday season is a great time to get creative with your kids and make some fun and festive crafts. Here are six ideas for holiday crafts that kids will love:

Handprint or footprint reindeer

All you need for this craft is some construction paper, googly eyes, and some markers or paint. Trace your child's hand or foot onto the construction paper to create the body of the reindeer, and then add googly eyes, a red pompom nose, and antlers made out of construction paper or brown pipe cleaners.

Paper plate Santa

Cut a paper plate in half and have your child paint it red to create Santa's hat. Then, add a white cotton ball beard, googly eyes, and a red pom-pom nose to a small piece of construction paper to create Santa's face. Glue the face to the top of the hat and add a black belt made out of construction paper or a strip of black ribbon.

Salt dough ornaments

Salt dough is a simple and easy-to-work-with material that can be used to create all sorts of holiday ornaments. Mix together equal parts flour, salt, and water to form the dough, and then roll it out and cut it into your desired shapes using cookie cutters. Use a straw to poke a hole in the top of each ornament, and then bake them in the oven at 250 degrees for about 2 hours. Once they're cool, you can paint and decorate them however you like.

Melted crayon ornaments

This craft is a great way to use up all of those broken crayons that your kids no longer use. Simply break the crayons into small pieces and place them in a silicone ornament mold. Then, put the mold in the oven at 250 degrees for about 10-15 minutes, or until the crayons are melted. Once they're cool, you can remove the ornaments from the mold and add a ribbon or string to hang them on the tree.

Glittery pinecone ornaments

Collect some pinecones from outside and have your kids brush them with glue and roll them in glitter. You can also add some beads, sequins, or other decorative elements to the pinecones to make them extra festive. Once they're dry, you can hang them on the tree or use them as tabletop decorations.

Handprint wreaths

Cut out a wreath shape from construction paper and have your child make handprints using green paint. You can then add other decorative elements, like red bows or holly berries, to complete the wreath.

These holiday crafts are a fun and festive way to spend time with your kids during the holiday season. With a little bit of creativity and some basic supplies, you can create all sorts of holiday decorations and keepsakes.

5 Tips for Throwing the Perfect Holiday Party

Throwing the perfect holiday party can be a daunting task, but with a little bit of planning and organization, it can be a fun and memorable experience for everyone involved. Here are five tips to help you throw the perfect holiday party:

Tip 1: Set a budget and stick to it

Before you start planning your holiday party, it's important to set a budget and stick to it. This will help you stay organized and avoid overspending. Consider all of the costs associated with the party, including food, drinks, decorations, and entertainment, and make sure you allocate your budget accordingly.

Tip 2: Choose a theme

A theme can add a fun and cohesive element to your holiday party. Some popular holiday party themes include "ugly sweater" "white elephant gift exchange" and "Winter Wonderland" Choosing a theme can also make it easier to plan decorations and activities for the party.

Tip 3: Invite the right number of guests

It's important to invite the right number of guests to your holiday party. If you invite too many people, the party may feel crowded and chaotic, but if you invite too few, it may feel empty and lacking in energy. Consider the size of your space and your budget when deciding on the number of guests to invite.

Tip 4: Plan a mix of activities

To keep your guests entertained and engaged, it's a good idea to plan a mix of activities for your holiday party. This could include games, music, and dancing, or even a DIY holiday craft station. Consider the interests of your guests when planning activities to ensure that there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Tip 5: Don't forget the little details

It's the little details that can really make a holiday party special. Consider adding some festive touches, like holiday-themed cocktails or a hot cocoa bar. You could also consider setting up a photo booth with holiday-themed props to create fun memories for your guests.

By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to throwing the perfect holiday party. With a little bit of planning and attention to detail, you can create a memorable and enjoyable experience for all of your guests.

8 Festive and Affordable Gifts for the Holidays

The holiday season is a time for giving, but it can also be a time of financial strain. If you're looking for gifts that are both festive and affordable, look no further! These 8 gift ideas are sure to please everyone on your list without breaking the bank.

1. Homemade goodies

One of the most thoughtful and affordable gifts you can give is something you've made yourself. Consider baking a batch of cookies, making a jar of homemade hot chocolate mix, or creating a batch of scented candles. These gifts are easy to make and are sure to be appreciated.

2. Personalized items

Personalized gifts are always a hit, and they don't have to be expensive. Consider customizing a mug, phone case, or tote bag with the recipient's name or a special message.

3. Handmade ornaments

If you're crafty, consider making your own ornaments as gifts. You can find a variety of ornament-making kits at your local craft store, or you can get creative and use materials you have on hand, such as pinecones and ribbon.

4. Gift cards

While gift cards may seem like a generic gift, they can be a great option for those who are difficult to shop for. Consider giving a gift card to the recipient's favorite store or restaurant, or to a popular streaming service or online retailer.

5. Subscription boxes

Subscription boxes are a great gift option because they allow the recipient to receive something new and exciting every month. From food and drink boxes to beauty and wellness boxes, there are options for every interest and budget.

6. Experiences

Instead of giving a physical gift, consider giving the gift of an experience. This could be tickets to a concert or sporting event, a gift card for a local attraction, or even a gift certificate for a spa day or restaurant.

7. Books

Books make great gifts for people of all ages. Consider giving a bestselling novel, a coffee table book, or a cookbook to the reader in your life.

8. Fun and quirky gifts

If you're looking for something a little out of the ordinary, consider giving a quirky gift that will bring a smile to the recipient's face. This could be a novelty kitchen gadget, a fun board game, or a unique piece of home decor.

No matter which gift you choose, the most important thing is to put thought and care into your selection. Your loved ones will appreciate the effort you put into finding something special and meaningful, no matter the price tag.

10 Delicious and Easy Holiday Cookie Recipes to Try

The holiday season is the perfect time to indulge in sweet treats, and there's no better way to do that than by baking up a batch (or two) of festive cookies. Whether you're looking to impress your guests at a holiday party or simply want to have some tasty treats on hand for the family, these 10 delicious and easy holiday cookie recipes are sure to be a hit.

1. Gingerbread Cookies

These classic holiday cookies are a must-have for any cookie platter. The spicy, molasses-flavored dough is perfect for cutting into festive shapes and decorating with icing and sprinkles.

2. Sugar Cookies

These versatile cookies can be cut into any shape and decorated to suit any holiday occasion. Plus, the dough is easy to work with and can be made in advance and stored in the fridge until you're ready to bake.

3. Peanut Butter Blossoms

These soft and chewy cookies are a favorite among kids and adults alike. Simply roll the dough into balls, press a chocolate kiss into the center, and bake until golden brown.

4. Thumbprint Cookies

These festive cookies are made by pressing an indentation into the center of a ball of dough and filling it with your choice of jam, chocolate, or nut butter. They're a fun and easy way to add a pop of color to your cookie platter.

5. Snickerdoodles

These soft and buttery cookies are coated in a mixture of sugar and cinnamon before being baked to perfection. They're a delicious twist on the classic sugar cookie.

6. Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

These hearty cookies are a great option for those who want a slightly healthier option. The oats add some whole grain goodness, while the raisins add a touch of sweetness.

7. Russian Tea Cakes

These bite-sized cookies are made with ground nuts and covered in powdered sugar, making them the perfect sweet treat to serve with a cup of tea or coffee.

8. Spritz Cookies

These adorable cookies are made with a cookie press and can be shaped into a variety of festive shapes. They're perfect for adding a touch of whimsy to your cookie platter.

9. Biscotti

These crunchy Italian cookies are perfect for dipping into your morning coffee or evening glass of wine. They're easy to make and can be flavored with a variety of ingredients, such as nuts, chocolate, and dried fruit.

10. Shortbread Cookies

These simple and buttery cookies are a holiday staple. They're easy to make and can be cut into a variety of shapes, making them a great option for both kids and adults.

No matter which recipe you choose, these delicious and easy holiday cookie recipes are sure to bring some cheer to your holiday season. Happy baking!

5 Fun and Festive Holiday Party Games for Kids

Are you looking for some fun and engaging activities to keep the kids entertained at your holiday party? These 5 holiday party games are sure to be a hit with children of all ages:

"Pin the Nose on Rudolph": This classic party game is a twist on the traditional "Pin the Tail on the Donkey." Simply draw or print out a picture of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and hang it on a wall. Cut out red noses from construction paper or foam, and give each child a turn trying to pin their nose as close to Rudolph's as possible, blindfolded. The child with the nose closest to the correct spot wins a prize.

"Pass the Present": This game is a great way to get kids moving and having fun. Have all of the children sit in a circle and give one child a small wrapped present. Play some holiday music and have the kids pass the present around the circle while the music is playing. When the music stops, the child holding the present gets to unwrap a layer of the gift. Play continues until the gift is completely unwrapped.

"Holiday Scavenger Hunt": Create a list of holiday-themed items that the kids can search for around the house or yard (e.g. a red ornament, a pinecone, a candy cane). Divide the kids into teams and give each team a copy of the list. The first team to find all of the items on the list wins a prize.

"Freeze Dance": This game is a hit at any party and is easy to adapt to a holiday theme. Simply play some festive music and have the kids dance until the music stops. When the music stops, the kids must freeze in place. Any child who doesn't freeze is out. Play continues until there is only one child left, who is crowned the winner.

"Santa's Workshop": Set up a "workshop" area with craft supplies, such as construction paper, scissors, glue, and stickers. Give each child a blank piece of paper and let them create their own holiday-themed crafts, such as greeting cards, ornaments, or gift tags. Encourage creativity and let the kids use their imaginations to come up with their own unique creations.

These holiday party games are sure to keep the kids entertained and having fun during your holiday gatherings. With a little bit of preparation, you can easily add some festive cheer to your party.

5 Easy and Affordable DIY Christmas Decorations for Your Home

Are you looking to add some holiday cheer to your home without breaking the bank? DIY Christmas decorations are a great way to get into the holiday spirit while also saving money. Here are 5 easy and affordable DIY Christmas decorations that you and your family can make together:

 

Paper snowflakes: All you need is some white paper, scissors, and a little bit of creativity to make these classic Christmas decorations. Simply fold a piece of paper in half, then fold it in half again to create a triangle. Cut out different shapes and patterns on the folded edge, then unfold the paper to reveal your unique snowflake design. Hang them up on your windows or on a string of lights for a festive touch.

Cinnamon stick ornaments: These sweet-smelling ornaments are a cinch to make and only require a few ingredients. Simply mix together equal parts cinnamon, applesauce, and white glue, then roll the mixture into small balls. Press a cinnamon stick into each ball, then let them dry for a few hours or overnight. Once they're dry, you can hang them on your tree or use them to decorate wreaths or garlands.

Popcorn and cranberry garland: This traditional garland is both easy and affordable to make. Simply thread some popcorn and cranberries onto a piece of string or ribbon, and hang it up on your tree or around your mantle. You can also add some spices to the popcorn before threading it onto the string for an extra festive scent.

Bottle brush tree centerpieces: These miniature trees are a cute and quirky addition to any holiday table. You can find bottle brush trees at most craft stores, or you can make your own by bending wire into a tree shape and attaching small branches or twigs to it. Place them in a small pot or jar, and decorate with miniature ornaments, tinsel, or small lights.

Handprint wreath: This adorable wreath is a fun way to incorporate the whole family into your holiday decorations. Simply trace each family member's hand onto some green construction paper, then cut out the handprints and glue them onto a cardboard circle to create a wreath shape. Add some ribbon or other decorative elements to finish off the wreath.

With a little bit of creativity and some basic materials, you can easily create these fun and affordable DIY Christmas decorations for your home. Happy crafting!

5 Fun and Festive Holiday Activities for the Whole Family

The holiday season is all about spending quality time with loved ones and creating lasting memories. Here are 5 fun and festive activities that the whole family can enjoy together:

Decorate Gingerbread Houses: This classic holiday activity is a fun and tasty way to get creative. Purchase a gingerbread house kit or make your own gingerbread pieces and use frosting and candy to decorate. You can also add your own personal touches with icing and other edible decorations.

Watch Classic Holiday Movies: Gather around the TV and snuggle up with blankets and hot cocoa as you watch classic holiday movies together. From "It's a Wonderful Life" to "Elf," there are plenty of heartwarming and entertaining films to choose from.

Have a Hot Cocoa Bar: Make your own hot cocoa bar with a variety of flavors and toppings for a cozy and festive evening in. Set out mugs, hot cocoa mix, and toppings like whipped cream, marshmallows, and chocolate chips for everyone to customize their own hot cocoa.

Go Caroling: Gather a group of friends or family members and head out into the neighborhood to sing carols. You can also visit local nursing homes or hospitals to spread holiday cheer to those who may not have the opportunity to be with loved ones.

Make Homemade Ornaments: Get crafty and make your own holiday decorations with this fun and festive activity. Use materials like beads, glitter, and ribbon to create unique ornaments that will add a personal touch to your tree. You can also make ornaments as gifts for friends and family.

We hope these fun and festive holiday activities inspire you 

to create lasting memories with your loved ones. 

Happy holidays!

10 Unique and Delicious Holiday Recipes to Try This Season

The holiday season is all about indulging in tasty treats and trying new flavors. If you're looking to mix things up in the kitchen this year, we've got some unique and delicious holiday recipes that are sure to be a hit at your holiday gatherings.

1. Spiced Mulled Wine

Add some warmth to your holiday party with this cozy and aromatic drink. Simply combine red wine, orange juice, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise in a saucepan and simmer until heated through. Garnish with orange slices and serve in mugs.

2. Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Elevate your veggie game with this sweet and savory side dish. Toss Brussels sprouts in olive oil and maple syrup, then roast in the oven until crispy. Sprinkle with pecans and cranberries for extra holiday cheer.

3. Bourbon Peach Pecan Pie

This twist on classic pecan pie is sure to be a hit with bourbon lovers. Combine bourbon, chopped peaches, and pecans in a pie crust, then top with a mixture of eggs, brown sugar, and butter. Bake until golden brown and serve with a dollop of whipped cream.

4. Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Baguette

This appetizer is sure to be a crowd-pleaser with its combination of creamy brie and tart cranberries. Slice a baguette and stuff with brie and cranberry sauce, then bake until the cheese is melted. Serve with a side of chutney or honey for dipping.

5. Eggnog French Toast

Start your holiday morning off right with this decadent breakfast treat. Dip slices of bread in a mixture of eggnog, eggs, and nutmeg, then fry until golden brown. Top with powdered sugar and serve with maple syrup.

6. Rosemary and Garlic Roasted Turkey

Give your Thanksgiving turkey a flavorful twist with this rosemary and garlic rub. Mix together olive oil, minced garlic, and chopped rosemary, then rub all over the turkey. Roast until tender and juicy, basting with the pan juices as it cooks.

7. Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Crumble

This classic Thanksgiving side dish gets a tasty upgrade with a marshmallow crumble topping. Mash sweet potatoes with butter, sugar, and milk, then top with a mixture of marshmallows and breadcrumbs. Bake until the marshmallows are gooey and golden.

8. Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Satisfy your sweet tooth with this moist and flavorful gingerbread cake. Mix together molasses, sugar, eggs, and spices, then bake in a bundt pan. Top with a creamy cream cheese frosting and serve with a sprinkle of chopped nuts.

9.Slow Cooker Mulled Cider

Make your holiday entertaining a breeze with this slow cooker mulled cider recipe. Simply combine apple cider, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise in a slow cooker and let it simmer for a few hours. Serve in mugs and garnish with orange slices.

10. Peppermint Bark

This classic holiday treat is easy to make and always a hit. Melt chocolate and spread it onto a lined baking sheet, then top with crushed peppermint candies. Let it cool and harden, then break it into pieces and enjoy!

We hope these unique and delicious holiday recipes inspire you to try something new in the kitchen this season. Happy cooking!

Welcome to Jingle and Jangle!

Hello and welcome to Jingle and Jangle! We are so excited to share our love of the holiday season with you. Whether you're a seasoned pro at celebrating the holidays or are looking for new and creative ways to get into the festive spirit, we've got you covered.

On our blog, you'll find all sorts of holiday inspiration, including gift ideas, recipes, decorating tips, and ideas for holiday events and activities. We'll also be sharing stories and traditions from different cultures and around the world, so you can learn about new ways to celebrate the season.

We hope you'll join us on this festive journey and become a part of the Jingle and Jangle community. Be sure to follow us and stay tuned for all of the holiday cheer to come!