There is nothing I love more than putting together one of my gift bags or baskets! Friends and family all know if there is a baby, bridal shower or big birthday there will be a basket full of special treats coming their way! Though it takes me some time to pull together because like designing a room there is always a theme and for me, most pieces need to have some type of meaning to the recipient. The reward is I love doing it, and the time spent is all worth it when the recipient opens it and exclaims they love everything!

I have a friend who, with the purchase of her new house, has just become interested in interior design. So this Christmas, I have put together a small bag for her. Want to take a peek?

I started with this great reusable bag from Envirosax that I found on Delight.com. All of her gifts will fit perfectly in here. I love the orange and green retro look and seeing as she lives in the city, it is perfect for toting groceries home or carrying magazines for a trip to the coffee shop. Why not wrap with something reusable, such as baskets, kitchen towels and totes?

“Modern Glamour: The Art of Unexpected Style” by Kelly Wearstler is an amazing book. One of my favorite quotes from the book is “Inside a room I want to be moved- I want to feel the drama” and literally, this book is all about drama! From the gorgeous white Casper Wingback Chair by Viceroy to the Trina Turk boutique in Palm Springs, the photos and advice will be sure to get the creative juices flowing!

Next, I added this candle from Target. She loves Vanilla and Lavender, a nice way to relax the senses after a long day!

For a personal touch, I ordered a Chocolate Velvet Pillow from Ballard Designs with her newly married initials on it. At just $15.50 for a custom 18” square pillow cover, it is a great deal. I will have to get an insert, but I can easily do that at one of the discount stores locally. The chocolate is a perfect option as it will blend with any room in her house.

Lastly, I added these great label tags from Etsy. The mid-century furniture motif continues the theme and make a nice extra. They also introduce her to the world of indie designers on Etsy!

It does take a bit of time, but with some scouting you don’t have to spend a lot of money to create a thoughtful gift. It doesn’t always have to be big… sometimes the best gift is just a hand written note in the mailbox (and maybe some favorite homemade cookies to go with it!)

I’m always on the look out for creative gift ideas, so please share yours!