Come on folks...we're going on a field trip! Where are we going? Memory lane. This is the story of how Garnish came to be. So sit back, relax and enjoy the ride.

The love (dare I say, obsession) with packaging has been there for many years, but it all came to a head during the holidays of '06. My youngest of three boys was barely 2 months old and while I birthed him, he birthed in me a huge creative streak.

I decided to throw a gingerbread house party for my kindergartner and some of his friends. But I wanted to take it a step further and have little boxes for everyone to take their houses home...with their names on it because what child doesn't love having a personalized box?! Oh, and they must each have their own frosting bottle (little hands and pastry bags equal huge mess that I would have to clean), and little containers for their candies. This is what made me smile during late night feedings. All this made the little ones smile at the party and thus made me smile once again. The biggest task in this all...driving around from place to place to place trying to find everything to complete my vision.

And then I had another idea for my sons' teachers' gifts. It was brilliant (if I do say so myself). I was going to make them all dinner and I was going to call it Comfort & Joy. All the comfort food classics and the joy of not cooking. I made macaroni and cheese and chicken pot pie (then froze). And since it was for teachers, I attached the history of each on the top of the container. I then included all the fixings for salad - the dressing, croutons and some pine nuts and cranraisins (didn't actually make those) and put them in a box entitled "just add greens". And to finish it off, dessert. Since I'm a Canadian living in the United States, I chose two traditional recipes from my homeland. Once again, on top of the box was the history of the treats. On the day of delivery, I put everything in a white foam cooler tied with a pretty red satin ribbon. Want to talk about the wow factor...this was it! I had the utmost of fun doing it all and I am not joking when I tell you it really was so easy. The teachers beyond loved them. The biggest challenge of this task....driving from store to store to store trying find everything I needed to complete my vision.

After so much positive feedback, and after so many years of trying to figure out how my love of packaging could be shared with others...everything fell into place and I birthed my fourth child, Garnish.

When you have the right tools, anything is possible. When you have Garnish by your side, everything is easy. When you have people in your life who you want to shower with gratitude and love...simply add a little Garnish!

This concludes our field trip. Please ensure you have all of your personal belongings with you and remember that some items may shift during flight.

Garnish + Enjoy

Labels: Garnish

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Holiday spirit has taken over Garnish. It's an unusually warm November day so it's kind of hard to believe that the holiday season is here. The weather really isn't important. What is, is our desire to help you all add a little Garnish to your holidays. So, for a limited time, add all the Garnish you like for a flat shipping fee of $7. Cruise the blog to get the creative wheels churning. Scope out the ideas page to see if anything strikes your fancy. Most importantly, have fun!

This is a limited time offer. We haven't decided yet when to go on back to "same 'ol, same 'ol" shipping rates but we'll give you a little warning before it happens.

Garnish + Enjoy

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I was that child. The one who loved back-to-school shopping. The allure of new pens and pencils, erasers and pencil cases. I didn't much like sharing my new supplies (although I did, because it was the right thing) in fear that someone might (oh, I can barely say it) put a bite mark on my beautiful writing utensil. Oh, the thought of it would send shivers down my spine! And heaven forbid the cap on my glue stick wasn't replaced just-so. Yes, I was a freak (or maybe it was pride in my new belongings, is that a stretch?!), but as the saying goes...live and learn and then get a grip!

Now, I am older and wiser, or so I like to think. But I still love shopping for school supplies, well the grown-up version, aka office supplies. Something about the innuendos of a fresh start, ambitious goals and great intentions.

If I were a teacher I would love the start of school for this reason. But then reality would set in and I would be left deflated when budgets were presented. As a result, teachers often develop wish lists for their parents because often we like to contribute where we can. Simple things, those often taken for granted, are needed to keep the classroom running and our children learning.

So my little man chose the goods for his teacher and then we added a little Garnish. I mean, why not?! I knew that his teacher would be grateful for the necessities but wouldn't it be so much more fun receiving and opening said necessities if they had a little 'Wow!' in the presentation!

Well I thought so (and so did little man) so we put all the goods in a large cardboard clamshell box with some bright tissue, ribbon and tag. This also made for easy (and safe) transport to school in his backpack (nice benefit).

While his teacher loved the donation to the classroom, she loved even more that it truly felt like a gift in every sense of the word. She felt special, little man beamed, Garnish did it's job!

Labels: Garnish, large cardboard clamshell box

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Life is hectic. Our worlds move fast, too fast. I wish at times that I could have that magical remote control portrayed on the silver screen in order to hit pause for a moment to take a deep breath and recharge.

Well, that ain't gonna happen my friends! So it's time to put on our big girl panties and take matters into our own hands! The spa is a glorious sanctuary but it's not always a feasible solution. Share a bit of heaven with your girls (or guys) by treating them to a little in-home soak.

These clear tubes were filled with a mixture of bath salts, massage oil, and cleansing gel (I'm feeling my muscles relax already!) with instructions on a circle label to add hot water, give it a swish and then add to a bath or foot soak (the tension is leaving my shoulders). With a trip to your favorite handy dandy dollar store a loofah was added to this bit of fabulosity and it's all put together with brown and white twine. A thoughtful, easy and sure-to-be-enjoyed gift for under $3 (ladies and gentleman...my stress has left the building!).

This would make for a great hostess gift (after all, she has been on her feet all day for you), shower favor, bridesmaid treat, girl's movie night and don't forget those teachers who are sure to have some tired dogs at the end of the day!

Garnish makes it easy to (capture) package life's moments. This moment of bliss is all yours.

Labels: brown and white twine, clear plastic tubes, Garnish, labels

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If you've ever doubted that you can't be a minimalist and still create a statement then these photos from a Donna Hay magazine are sure to sway you.

Referring back to my love of magazines and my love of pulling bits of inspiration from all around, I give you the beauty of a chic yet simple table setting. While our plates, bowls and cups are slightly different, the concept is still the same. The plate is multi-tasking as both a serving vessel and a name card...how fun!

Be known for your unique get-togethers. Be known for your ability to whip together impromptu parties that always have that special touch, yet you enjoy the company too because it's that easy. Be known for your Garnish. I mean really...who wouldn't want to be!

Labels: Garnish, paper bowls, paper cups, paper plates

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Recently I shared with you how two wedding celebrations were Garnished. I now have some photos to accompany those stories and sometimes pictures speak better than words.

Tara's tale of Garnish was mentioned here. Thanks to her friend's blog, I have this picture to share of her bridesmaids' goodie boxes to help them get through the morning preparations. I thought this was a great way to show your girls how much you care. I think the comment posted on the blog says it best. "I thought the goodie bag idea for the girls in the wedding party was awesome. It's usually thought of the bride's day, but she actually thought of the girls' comfort too."

Susan's daughter's wedding guests (mentioned here) were treated to a late night snack of french fries served in our paper cone cups adorned with some polka dot paper. Love the idea, love the fries, love the photo! Thanks to Amy Raab Photography for sharing the amazing shot.

Keep the feedback and ideas coming!

Labels: bridesmaids, Garnish, paper cone cups

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Labels: Garnish, linen embossed favor box

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Labels: Garnish, white nut and party cups

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Labels: Garnish, red and white twine

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Labels: Garnish, metal cd case

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Nothing like some summer sunshine to gather the troops and celebrate friendship. Thanks to Alicia for sharing with us her Garnished "Summerfest". She and her husband are alums of Syracuse University and each summer their gang of fellow alums take turns hosting their summer get together. Sounds like a fabulous time, and idea to me!

Alicia said she doesn't consider herself a "Martha type" but managed to pull off a "Martha style" event with the help of Garnish. That makes me smile. She used the large plastic deli containers to hold the cutlery and the white paper lunch bags for simple and chic vases. Her kitchen was busy baking goodies for her guests to take home at the end of the day. Homemade devil dogs (hello...yummy!) in the large glassine bags, breads in the paper loaf pans and then wrapped in the large cellophane bags, and brownies and bars in the large cardboard clamshells.

I love it all, truly brilliant and the best part is that she didn't think she had it in her! Everyone felt that they were treated to a special Summerfest and can't wait to see what next year brings. Who knew...all it took here...was a little Garnish!

Labels: cardboard clamshell box, cellophane bags, deli containers, Garnish, glassine bags, loaf pans, white paper lunch bag

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I sometimes think we fall into the trap of feeling we must add all kinds of bells and whistles to make something "pop". When the reality is, simple is so often better.

Case in point, simple flowers, simple vase...anything but simple presentation!

I folded down the top of our white paper lunch size bag, placed a cup inside to hold the water, added a selection of white flowers and just like that, a stunning floral table decor for a backyard party. How cute would this idea be if you used the small white (or brown) paper bags and filled them with baby's breath and lined them down the table?! Indoors or out, these simple vases will add quite the finishing touch.

The possibilities, the garnishes, the fun!

Labels: Garnish, white paper lunch bag

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Baby it's hot outside! And when it's hot like this there is only one thing on my mind...ice cream.

But now I'm left with the dilemma of which kind to have. So many choices and I want them all. So I say, have your ice cream and eat it too!

An ice cream sampler makes an excellent treat or dessert for any occasion. Scoop (I used a small scoop that you might use for cookie dough) your Chunky Monkey, Blueberry Swirl, or good ol' Vanilla or Chocolate into our white nut & party cups for the perfect 2 bites of cool heavenly delight. No need for a spoon, just squeeze the cup for easy access. If you have a 10 bite limit...that's five cups! You have to love that.

I always loved the jingle of the ice cream truck when I was small, and still do. My favorite was the snow cone cup with the gum ball at the bottom. No need to wait for the truck to come to your neighborhood. You can make your own using our white paper cone cup. Just pop the surprise in the bottom and fill with ice cream. Kids young and old will be knocking on your door!

This is a great idea for a special end to the family dinner or any party, shower or festivity. I laid mine out on ice but I have a feeling these little goodies won't be around long enough to melt.

Can I tell you how excited my children were to delve into this Garnish prop?!

Labels: Garnish, ice cream treats, white nut and party cups, white paper cone cups

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Labels: Garnish, oval labels, small soup container

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We're excited to announce the arrival of two new items that have been added to our list of Garnishes!

The 4x4x4 white box has been such a hit that we decided to add it in the kraft brown as well. This addition was also made in response from all of your requests. For when you have something small you want to Garnish, we now have a 2x2x2 white linen embossed box with lid. These boxes would be adorable for wedding favor packaging.

If you're looking for a Garnish that you've seen out there in magazines or shows but can't seem to find anywhere (and aren't willing to purchase 1,000 when you only need 29!), let us know. We're always on the look out for something new.

Labels: 2x2x2 white box, 4x4x4 kraft box, 4x4x4 white box, Garnish

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When those late night munchies hit, what do you do? For me, I decide if it is something salty or sweet I am craving. Or, I try and be a good girl and close the door on that munchie beast. Sometimes those hunger pangs can occur at the most inconvenient time, for example, when there is no food in sight! If you're having a wedding reception, or any party for that matter that could go into the night, don't forget to keep that food coming for your guests. All the dancing and merriment will have them working up an appetite (even after that lavish meal) in no time at all.

Thank you to Garnish gal, Susan, for sharing with us her brilliant idea to satisfy the late night munchies at her daughter's wedding. I can't think of a better snack...french fries (oh, I can smell the know!) and cokes! She used the paper cone cups to serve the fries along with the cocktail forks to help keep her guests' fingers clean. Susan kicked things up a notch by wrapping the cups in pretty pink polka dot paper. For the presentation of all this brilliance, each cone was placed in a votive that was half filled with dried green peas. The votives were then placed in a basket. I can just imagine how cute the pink and green looked together. This wedding took place on the Eastern Shore of Maryland so for further personalization, the fries were seasoned with Old Bay.

Susan promised pictures once the photographer has the proofs ready but this idea was just too fantastic to wait!

How do you like your fries? Me, a dollop of European mayonnaise on twice fried fries is pure decadence!

Labels: cocktail fork, Garnish, paper cone cups

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You never know when you might want to add a little Garnish so stock up and be prepared for all those moments.

I was heading out the door the other day to a pool party. I wanted my blueberry bars to look cute (hey, it's what I do!) and thus began my dish debate. Which dish should I use that a) I didn't mind forgetting or b) looked better than an ordinary disposable plate. And then it hit me...'duh!'...I'll add a little Garnish! I chose to use the small cardboard clamshell and used some colored tissue from my wrapping bin but rested the treats on our white FDA tissue paper (can you use regular tissue for food...don't know but I thought I'd be a better friend if I didn't poison them!). I went back to the wrapping bin and pulled out some cheery ribbon for a bow. The result was delightful and my hostess was tickled by it all (personally, I was thrilled at how easy it was). And really, isn't it about making someone smile?!

If cupcakes or muffins are your thing cart them along in the square hinged container. There are so many possibilities. Have a look through the bits n' pieces and ideas section of the website and pick out your favorites to have on hand. You never know when your next invite will come along. 'Tis the season of impromptu get-togethers.

Stock those shelves...it's time to think Garnish!

Labels: cardboard clamshell box, fda waxed tissue, Garnish, square hinge box

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Clambake season is here and whether you are a New Englander, a Canadian East Coaster, or just pull your lobster from the tank at your local grocery store, think Garnish for your next clambake.

Here are a few suggestions. I picture clambakes as a casual affair. Folks gathered on a beach or in the backyard...copping a squat where they can. It's a meal that's meant to be eaten with the hands. Use the large cardboard clamshell (hey, what an appropriate name!) to serve all the fixings of the clambake. When it's opened, it works as the perfect lap tray, picnic table tray or lounging on the beach blanket tray. The squat bio-pak box would also be a fine idea and it won't leak. The small soup containers or clear deli containers are a great size for the butter with an opening wide enough to dunk freely and easily.

Serve a batch of lemonade, punch or cocktails in the beverage box and use the white cups for serving. Use the labels to mark everyone's cups so there's no confusion. Have some cocktail forks available for pulling out the lobster meat and keep plenty of napkins around as this is one messy meal!

I'm guessing that the majority of us don't have a beach in our backyard (and if you do, I'm a teensie bit green with envy right now) so I have done some research and found a recipe for a backyard New England Clambake. This is taken from the Food Network. Here goes:

Backyard Clambake

You can create a reasonable clambake on the grill, though you have to parboil some of the ingredients. But with the slalty smoke rising, you can take a long pull of your beer and imagine the sea breeze is blowing.

1 pound cherrystone clams
1 pound mussels
4 1-pound lobsters
4 baking potatoes
4 small onions
4 ears of corn
Butter

Make sure the clams and mussels are all alive. The shells should be tightly closed, and if they are open, they should close when you tap them. If any remain open, discard.
Build a fire in your covered grill and soak a couple handfuls of wood chips in water. Put the potatoes and onions in cold, salted water, bring to a boil, and cook for 15 minutes, till potatoes have softened. Drain. Pull the husks back from the corn but leave them attached. Pull off all the silks, then pull the husks back into place and tie around the corn with a strip of husk.
Drop the lobsters in boiling water for about 3 minutes till they are bright red.
Remove from water.
When the coals have burned down to re-hot, spread the wet wood chips across them. Lay the lobsters close together on the grill rack, spread shellfish around them and spread the vegetables ove the top. Put the lid on the grill and open the vents. Cook for about a hal hour, until the mussels and clams have opened.
Serve with bowls of melted butter.

Nothing fancy, nothing formal...just some down home backyard fun! A New England Clambake, now that's my kind of party!

Labels: beverage box, bio-pak container, cardboard clamshell box, cocktail fork, deli containers, Garnish, labels, napkins, paper bowl containers, white cups

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Looking for an idea for a little girl's birthday party? How about hosting an afternoon tea filled with beads for jewelry, painting, and sweet treats...what could be more girly than that?! That's what one Garnish gal did and the results speak for themselves. I understand that fun was had by all and the birthday girl had a moment she'll never forget.

Activity boxes (using the square hinged container) were created for each guest to keep everything neat and organized and also doubled as their goody box to take everything home in. They also turned out to be very handy when an outdoor party suddenly had to be moved indoors when the rain began to fall. Each container had their beads (in the small cellophane bag), a bingo dabber and some cards (who doesn't love a good game of bingo?!), and some stickers and other crafty stuff which was placed inside the small paper soup bowl (fits rather nicely inside the square container).

The small white paper lunch bags held some candies, the large paper soup bowl made for a simple vase but a gorgeous arrangement when filled with mini carnations. The table runner was made from the kraft paper sheets (which turned out to be handy as the girls were prepping their bingo dabbers).

This party would make any girl, big or small, beam with delight! Think beyond the birthday party too. If you're planning a wedding and want to keep the little ones entertained so their parents can enjoy their meals (and trust me, your thoughtfulness will be sooo appreciated), make an activity box with small coloring books, paper, crayons (no markers folks, the mess would have the opposite effect on the parents!), stickers etc.

I have a feeling you'll all be practicing the correct pinkie pose for sipping tea!

Labels: children's party, Garnish, kraft paper sheets, paper soup bowl, small paper lunch bag, square hinge box, Weddings

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I'm not normally one to toot my own horn. This may seem a bit odd because as a business owner, I should be shouting from the roof tops the greatness of Garnish. But two days in a row of positive feedback from our customers leads me to believe it's time to do a little sharing and let you all shout for me!

First up is Joy. I mentioned her great ideas here before. Imagine my glee when I saw this post on her blog. Here's a snippet:

"Their customer service couldn't be better. I emailed a question about a party favor idea I had, and Suzanne not only wrote back the nicest letter full of ideas, but attached a picture of my idea. She went to the trouble to make one to show me! How many companies do that for their customers?"

The second shout out goes to Jyl. Here's what she had to say about her experience with Garnish:

"Great Job. I just wanted to thank you for my order and tell you how much I appreciate your great and quick service. I received my order in such a timely manner. Thank you. And your products are wonderful. Can't wait to order more in the near future. One happy customer."

We're thrilled that you all are having as much fun with Garnish as we do! A happy customer just makes me smile.

Okay, I'm done. This train is now leaving the station!

Labels: feedback, Garnish

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I was perusing the birthday card section in Barnes & Noble and this card caught my eye. Why you ask?! Because life is all about moments...moments in time, moments that make memories, moments you'll never forget.

Life is crazy these days. Gas is over $4/gallon (or $1.47/litre for our friends north of the border), our grocery bills leave us scratching our heads and let's not even talk about heating/cooling our homes. But life goes on, and we all still want to make it special.

It doesn't take much to add some panache to a gift or party or favor to make it unique and all your own. There is a certain beauty in a homemade gift (besides the gift itself of course). It's about the care and the thought. I guess that goes for anything really, homemade or not. My point is that when you add a little Garnish all of the sudden your original thought is amplified into something that makes folks go "wow!". Who wouldn't like that?!

As we head to our backyard BBQ's, as our school years wind down, or as we go to the chapel to get hitched, consider creating your moment with Garnish. An inexpensive way to turn the simple into the "hot dang!". I'm thinking that all my pies (who am I kidding...not all but the pies I make) shall be presented in our large cardboard clamshell box, with some brown and white or red and white (hey that would be cool for a 4th of July party). You can write on these boxes too so maybe a personal note of thanks or some handprints...whatever suits the mood and the timing. So many choices, so many ideas, so many possibilities!

Moments...snippets in time. It's so true, we all need those moments in our lives. It's what makes us who we are. It's what makes Garnish what it is. So go ahead, in the midst of this crazy world...package life's moments. Because your moment matters!

Labels: Garnish, large cardboard clamshell box

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Received an email from Joy who is planning her son's 6th birthday. She had a great theme, a camp out, the pretend kind... where you're not required to serve breakfast the next day. The little ones would be roasting hot dogs and marshmallows, catching fireflies and playing games. True little kid stuff, I love that.

For the favor she was thinking of filling the clear candy tubes with Golden Graham cereal, mini marshmallows and chocolate chips and was wondering if it would fit. So I whipped it up for her to test it out and low and behold it is just the cutest thing! I added some brown and white twine (36 inches) for a little added fun. We also thought the chipboard tray would be great for holding the hot dogs and other dinner items or to use the dinner box from the children's party table idea. Children tend to love anything with their name on it! And for those of you who might be interested in a little something sweet, the indoor s'more recipe on the back of the Golden Graham cereal box is delish! They are quite sticky (sort of like a Rice Krispie square) so think about placing each square in a petite loaf liner to help keep those fingers clean.

You know me, I believe in sharing brilliance so here is another fantastic idea for you all to think about when thinking of how to add a little Garnish.

Labels: birthday party favor, brown and white twine, children's party, clear plastic tubes, Garnish, paper chipboard tray

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Imagine receiving a package like this one for a birthday favor?! The large white gable box was filled with all sorts of fun finds from the dollar store or sale racks. This party was garden themed so the children were treated to a terracotta pot, paints and brushes, seeds, and little gardening gloves.

But seriously, the box is a favor in itself!

What will you all think of next?! Be sure to keep letting us know!

Labels: birthday party favor, Garnish, large white gable box

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There I was, standing in the checkout line at the grocery store trying to pacify my littlest one who was none too happy with me for peeling away from him the yogurt container that he was happily trying to get his little teeth into. While trying to ignore his wails I grabbed the latest issue of Martha Stewart Everyday Food. As I flipped through the little magazine this picture caught my eye and miraculously all screaming ceased.

We are inspired by so many things in our lives...a song, a quote, a picture. Be inspired by Martha and re-create the look using a Garnish Bio-Pak container. Not only are they attractive but they're environmentally friendly too. I'm thinking a perfect presentation (and gift) for the end of the year teacher thank-you's.

I can't imagine anything better...except for a non-hissy-fit-throwing child at the check out!

Labels: bio-pak container, Garnish

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Step aside my little candies, there's a new sweetness in town! It's not that I don't love you, because oh how I do. It's just that summer is here and months of shorts and bathing suits is requiring me to satisfy my sweet tooth with a new group of friends. You have been so good to me and I'll be back...let's consider this 'until later' and not 'goodbye'.

How can one resist the abundance of sweet, juicy summer fruit?! And, it is even more resistible when presented in such a fun way. Using our knotted picks, skewer your favorite fruit (3 balls of fruit fit perfectly on each pick). Just be sure to make a tray full...they won't last long!

P.S....to my little candies, I might just leave the side door open...just in case!

Labels: Garnish, knotted pick

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Every now and then a little sweet indulgence is divine (and needed!). Everything in moderation I always say.

So why not get the gals together for a girls night? Your gal pals, chocolate, laughter...really what could be better?! Well, actually, more sweets to be enjoyed later! Send everyone home with a special treat to be enjoyed the next day (or let's face it, on the car ride home, midnight raid to the fridge...) as they reminisce about their fabulous evening. That's what one of our customers did and I think I just might do the same!

If you can move your eyes beyond those delectable looking brownies on a stick, check out the display of cute boxes in the background. You'll see our 4x4x4 white boxes that were decorated with some fun ribbon and our square kraft labels. The adorable graphic says it all, a delightful cupcake was placed inside.

You folks are so creative...it's so sweet of you to share with us!

Labels: 4x4x4 white box, Garnish, square kraft labels

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There is something magical about a child's first birthday. The emergence from babyhood to the discovery of being a toddler. Alison threw her daughter a party to remember, and I can only imagine what the future birthdays will be like.

Check out her blog for all the glorious details. Thanks Alison for sharing your daughter's special day with us. Everything looked beautiful and the country fair theme really came through. I was happy to brainstorm the ideas with you and we're honored that Garnish was part of your daughter's big milestone!

Congratulations Norah!

Labels: birthday party favor, black oval dip cups, Garnish, red and white twine, small cellophane bags

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Long has been the tradition at weddings that when you want the bride and groom to share in a kiss, the guest clink their glasses. When I got married I decided to buck tradition and incorporated something I love, quotes. We placed a card at each place setting with a quote. If folks wanted us to smooch, they had to share their quote with everyone. It was really lovely and no noisy clinking. It's funny, as I pulled all the cards out of their memory box...I thought to myself 'eww'...how I would of done things differently (like the font). Brides today are so fortunate to have a plethora of resources at your fingertips! Not so much almost 10 years ago!

So, I am done rambling and shall get to the point. Quotes about love and marriage. The perfect garnish for your Garnish. I have around 100 and don't want you to be scrolling forever through this post. If you are interested in more let me know and I'll send you the file.

Love is like playing the piano. First you must learn to play by the rules, then you must forget the rules and play from the heart. - Unknown

Never tell a woman you are unworthy of her love - she know it. - Anonymous

To love means to embrace and at the same time to withstand many many endings, and many many beginnings - all in the same relationship. - Clarissa Pinkola Estes

Experience teaches us that love does not consist of two people looking at each other, but of looking together in the same direction. - Antoine de Saint-Exupery

Truly loving another means letting go of all expectations. It means full acceptance, even celebration of another's personhood. - Karen Casey

Only choose in marriage a woman whom you would choose as a friend if she were a man. - Joseph Joubert

All the world loves a lover, except those who are waiting to use the phone. - Anonymous

If you want to read about love and marriage you've go to buy two separate books. - Alan King

When one has once fully entered the realm of love, the world, no matter how imperfect, becomes rich and beautiful, for it consists solely of opportunities of love. - Soren Kierkegaard

It is not a lack of love, but a lack of friendship that makes unhappy marriages. - Friedrich Nietzsche

Married couples who love each other tell each other a thousand things without talking. - Chinese Proverb

The ultimate test of a relationship is to disagree but to hold hands. - Alexandra Penney

A loving heart is the truest wisdom. - Charles Dickens

Without humor, marriage fails. - Lewis H. Lapham

Love is a beautiful dream. - William Sharpe

I'll end here. Remember, love and Garnish go hand in hand!

Labels: Garnish, love quotes, Weddings

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I speak from experience...this latest idea will be the easiest party you have ever thrown! A few years ago I had a bunch of people over and served up dinner in a box. The work was done ahead of time so when our friends arrived I had nothing to do but to kick back, relax and enjoy. And isn't that what entertaining should be?!

Decorate the large gable box, in white or kraft, to suit your style or theme. Remember that simplicity is the ultimate sophistication so these boxes look great in the buff too! Fill with your meal, that's already been made. Think of your sandwiches as a great pair of heels (not your flip flops) and sides that are worthy of a funky wrist cuff bracelet. In other words...go beyond the pb&j (at least for the grown ups).

For the little ones, this is where you can bring in the pb&J, veggies and dip and a little dessert. Just accept the fact that the dessert will be eaten first. Trust me, roll with it. Your life will be so much easier! Don't forget to include a little toy (think dollar store!) in their box. After all...do you really think that kids crave those fast food meals because of the food. It's all about the toy (and the fun box!). Marketing 101 folks!

The daylight now lingers longer and the outdoors is beckoning us all. Memorial Day is right around the corner! Go on, get the gang together and cop a squat!

Labels: dinner parties, Garnish

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Continuing in my series of quotes/sayings (the perfect garnish for your Garnish), today we're laughing. Who can't use a an excuse to laugh, or more importantly, a reminder to take the time to do so! My world is crazy (who's isn't?!) so I'm reminding us all (including me!) it's time to smell the roses...and laugh!

Laugh, because it's a law of attraction.

Laugh because babies think it's a toy.

Laugh because it contains no calories.

Laugh because it hides wrinkles.

Laugh because it might heal the world.

Laugh because it lengthens your life.

Laugh because dogs wish they could.

Laugh because it flattens your stomach.

Laugh because drama queens are boring.

Laugh because it probably makes plants grow.

Laugh because it puts politics in perspective.

Laugh because no batteries are required.

Laugh out loud so you can share it.

Go ahead, laugh!

Labels: Garnish, laughter quotes

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I love quotes. Other people seem to capture, with such eloquence I might add, moments so much better than me. I also love how simple words are the perfect garnish to any Garnish!

This is where your printer and all those fun fonts come in handy. Whether you choose to use the quotes as a tag, print out labels and attach to the packaging, or print on some fun (or just plain white...which against the white packaging makes it look like you printed directly on the product) paper affixed to the packaging, it will be the perfect finishing touch. You'll be sure to make someone smile, reflect, or laugh.

As much as sayings and quotes are fun to use, the amount of time spent Googling and searching for them isn't. Thus, I thought I would give you all the gift of time and gather some of my favorites for you.

Today's quotes/sayings are all about babies. Ideal to create a unique baby shower favor. So if you're planning one, this is for you. If not, stay tuned, more are on the way!

Happy reading!

BABIES IN GENERAL

Babies are such a nice way to start people. - Don Herrold

A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities. - Eda J. Le Shan

A baby is God's opinion that the world should go on. - Carl Sandburg

A baby is an angel whose wings decrease as his legs increase. - Author Unknown

Every child begins the world again. - Henry David Thoreau

A baby has a special way of adding joy in every single day. - Author Unknown

A baby is cuddles and tickles on toes, the sweet scent of powder, a kiss on the nose!

Tiny yawns, and sleepy sighs, nursery rhymes and lullabies.

A bit of talcum is always walcum. - Ogden Nash

FOR GIRLS

Courage, determination, pride...that's what little girls are made of. - Author Unknown

Little girls are the nicest things that happen to people. - Allen Beck

Like star dust glistening on fairies' wings, little girls dreams are of magical things - Sherry Larson

Little girls are precious gifts, wrapped in love serene. Their dresses tied with sashes and futures tied with dreams. - Author Unknown

A girl is innocence playing in the mud, beauty standing on its head, and motherhood dragging a doll by the foot. - Allen Beck

FOR BOYS

A boy is truth with dirt on its face, beauty with a cut on its finger, wisdom with bubble gum in its hair and the hope of the future with a frog in its pocket. - Allen Beck

A perfect summer day to a little boy means, a scrape on the knee, mud on his face and collecting bugs in the garden. - Author Unknown

You don't raise heroes; you raise sons. And if you treat them like sons, they'll turn out to be heroes, even if it's just in your own eyes. - Walter Schirra Sr.

Boys are God's way of telling you your house is too neat. - Author Unknown

Boy: a noise with dirt on it. - Author Unknown

Labels: baby quotes, baby shower favors, Garnish

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While I'm sure there are many, I know two versions of the Happy Birthday song. The first is the standard "Happy Birthday to you..." (luckily you can't hear my singing) and the second is a twist on the first, "Happy Birthday to you, cha-cha-cha...".

A birthday gift (or any gift for that matter) packaged so beautifully is definitely worthy of the "cha-cha-cha" version! Thank you to Avocado Kiss Stationery+Design for sharing their unique and creative Garnish creation with us. By using the large white gable box and a few adornments, they have created a little something that will make the birthday gal or guy go "Wow!"... and that's before they actually open the gift!

Isn't sharing fun? What will you folks think of next?! I can't wait to see. In the meantime, I need to go see who has a birthday coming up.

Labels: birthday packaging, Garnish, large white gable box

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It is time to celebrate our teachers. This is Teacher Appreciation Week and our schools hold a luncheon in honor of our finest. The teachers love it... a chance to sit down, relax, chat and sample all the dishes the parents contributed. The children love it as they await the feedback on the yummies that their family sent to the event.

Every party needs a favor and these were the ones I created for the day. Playing off the school lunch bag idea and a great quote I found, we used the small brown lunch bags and filled them with mints. After all, our teachers are worth a mint! Tying a piece of brown and white twine (6" if you're interested) through the bag and paper with the quote finished off the look. They looked so cute all lined up on the table and everyone was thrilled to leave with a little something. We were able to do all this within a tight budget too, I love that!

It doesn't take much to really make someone's day!

Thank you to all our teachers for their patience, guidance, creativity and spirit. You are admired and appreciated.

Labels: brown and white twine, Garnish, small paper lunch bag

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Who says an invitation need only be placed in an envelope? I think it looks mighty fine in a large glassine bag! It seemed appropriate to use a foodie type product to house a luncheon invitation. Some brads from the craft store were used to hold the bag shut and add a little something-something.

Simple, easy, unique...WOW! You gotta love it!

p.s. in case you're interested...I used a 4"x5.5" note card for the invite

Labels: Garnish, glassine bags, invitations, teacher appreciation lunch invitations

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I love toast and jam!

I can't remember how the rest of the song goes but I do know this, if you are looking for a unique party favor idea, your search has come to an end!

I think this is absolutely adorable and it is creating a strong desire in me to host a shower! But in the meantime, I shall live vicariously through you all.

Imagine if you will a favor table filled with little jams cutely wrapped in our clear acetate box (the 3x3x3 fits a 4oz jam like a glove). Perfect for your guests to enjoy on their breakfast toasts for PB&J's. Now imagine a guest book filled with our small glassine bags (just glue them to the pages) to hold everyones toasts, well wishes and hopes and dreams, for the person(s) of honor. Set out business card size note cards for folks to write on and when they're done they simply slip them into one of the glassine bags in the book.

This favor idea that has it all...it's unique, creative and useful. Just what every host is looking for. Who doesn't love a good jam?! And as for the person of honor, they have a keepsake of the day to be forever cherished.

I'm thinking this would be a perfect Garnish for wedding showers, baby showers, weddings, birthday parties, graduations.

I'm off...I must find an occasion/person in my life for which to throw a party. I am feeling the need to add a little toast and jam!

Labels: clear acetate box, Garnish, small glassine bag, unique party favors

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While we celebrate our mothers every day, the time is drawing near for that one special day for moms everywhere. We thank them for enduring an excruciating process to bring us into this world (yes, it's pain with a purpose, but why such pain I ask?!). We thank them for their sleepless nights making the boogey men disappear, their hugs that can make the world stop, their endless supply of tissues, the countless miles driven to and fro, their laughter, silliness, words of wisdom, encouragement, ice packs and band aids and miraculous way of making you feel that you are the best thing since sliced bread.

As mompreneurs, we were thrilled and honored when Garnish was asked to be part of a charity event for the Covenant House in Toronto, Canada. The theme of the evening, Celebrate Mom, and the celebration takes place right before Mother's Day. It seemed like a perfect fit.

I thought I'd share with you all the box we developed for this occasion. I know I'm a bit (okay, totally) biased, but I think they're so cute! There will be one at each place setting and will definitely make the table shine. Using the small white gable box, I used colored blank business cards as a mat and them trimmed a piece of white card stock with the Covenant House's logo for the event and a quote about moms. On the back I used a small glassine bag with our business information tucked inside and a blank white business card glued on top of it all with our info (hey, they told us we could plaster our name wherever!). A little piece of ribbon topped it all off.

I'm not sure my photography does them justice, but trust me when I say...I think we did mom proud!

Think of how charming these would look at a wedding, a shower, a celebratory dinner or luncheon, or any excuse you have for getting folks together. Or maybe you want to celebrate a coach or teacher and tuck a gift card inside.

Whether our moms are with us, a phone call away, or are in a very special corner of our heart, celebrate all that she is!

Labels: Covenant House, Garnish, Mother's Day

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Don't procrastinate any longer...Spring Break Savings ends April 30th! Save 20% on all orders over $30 (excluding shipping and taxes)

Hey, when it comes to waiting until the last minute to get things done, I'm just as guilty as anyone. For me, there is something about that sense of urgency that speeds up my brain synapses and things just seem to go faster (that's my defense anyway).

Mother's Day, graduations, Memorial Day and Victoria Day, and all other spring festivities are right around the corner. Check something off your "to do" list and order your Garnish today.

Who doesn't love a good sale?!

Labels: Garnish, Spring break promotion

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Okay, so I'm a little slow. I will admit, I am that person who Hallmark has in mind when creating the "belated" birthday section of their line. I do really try to avoid this selection of cards, but sometimes, stuff happens! The best is when I actually buy the card well in advance but then it never seems to make it in the mail, thus requiring me to revisit the store and aforementioned card selection, thereby starting the whole process again!

Anyway, the whole point of my ramblings is simply to say "Happy Earth Day"!

Packaging is, well, everything! Everyone from a little do-it-yourself'er like me to the giant companies knows that. It's what has us wanting more, it's what makes us smile, it's what creates a moment...a memory.

So while you're taking a moment to decide how you're going to add a little Garnish to your next event (or maybe just tomorrow's night super...just because), please remember to Garnish responsibly. Our products final resting place should be the recycling bin, whenever and wherever possible.

Go ahead, celebrate Earth, celebrate Life, celebrate with Garnish!

Labels: Earth Day, Garnish, recycling

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Labels: Garnish, kraft rectangle box, red and white twine, white bakery boxes

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Are you in a creative rut, or just a plain ol' rut?!

Are you hosting a shower, birthday party or friendly get together and want to add something special but not sure what? Planning a wedding that you want to personalize and make memorable? Or a DIYer just looking for a place to begin?

Let us help! We love to capture life's moments in memorable packages. Drop us a note letting us know what has you stumped. We'll brainstorm some ideas with you and come up with something brilliant, that totally reflects you and your style.

After all, that's the beauty of Garnish. You can modify our products to suit your needs and tastes. I just 'chatted' with a gal and we came up with a wedding shower favor that has me all a twitter (I'll share later)! Even better...there is no minimum quantity, you only order what you need.

How great is that?!

Labels: brainstorming, Garnish

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You have to love it when a wave of creativity hits you! The results are brilliant and because it was created by you, so much more appreciated by everyone. I can't take the credit for this one...kudos goes out to our Garnish friend Karen for this very clever idea.

Karen is part of a mother/daughter book club and for their last meeting she wanted to add a little Garnish to the day. The book was The BFG by Ronald Dahl. In this story the BFG (big friendly giant) takes Sophie, an orphan, to dream country where he catches all his dreams. He keeps these dreams in jars with labels describing each dream. He tells Sophie how he mixes up the dreams to blow through a trumpet into the rooms of sleeping children. The story beautifully shares all of their adventures, trials, tribulations and triumphs.

Building on the dream jar idea, Karen and her girls sorted bags of Skittles (which represent the dreams) collecting each color in an individual jar. Each jar was then labeled with a dream such as friendship, happiness, smiles, sunshine, creativity, etc. The day of the book club, each girl mixed their own dream by scooping from the dream jar and placing their dreams in a small plastic deli container labeled with their name. They each also received a decorative piece of paper inside a small glassine bag. The girls wrote down their dream on the piece of paper to tuck under the pillow at night.

There is only one word to describe this creation, fierce (Project Runway anyone?!)!! I believe every child should be blessed with the opportunity to dream, it is what makes them who they are, and will be. If you don't have a book club (start one), this would also make an inspiring and unique birthday party favor.

"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." - Eleanor Roosevelt

Labels: birthday party favor, book club, deli containers, Garnish, glassine bags

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Garnish is celebrating spring by offering our customers a 'Spring Break Savings'!

Use discount code GSB0810 to receive 10% off all orders up to $29.99 (excluding taxes and shipping).

Use discount code GSB0820 to receive 20% off all orders over $30.00 (excluding taxes and shipping).

Don't delay, Garnish today! Spring break ends on April 30th.

Think Mother's Day, first communions, graduations, showers, weddings, birthdays...Think Garnish!

P.S. The doggie bags were a HUGE hit (even with the men!!).

Labels: Garnish, Spring break promotion

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I'm having some friends over for dinner tomorrow night and I'm thoroughly excited! We are all emerging from our winter dens and it's been far too long since we've gotten together (especially since we live within 2 miles of each other!).

I love having people over. It doesn't matter if it's casual or fancy, it's about those around you. I decided to add a little Garnish to my night and am going to send them home with their own doggie bags. Now, I'm not really quite sure where the term "doggie bags" stems from but trust me, I don't think they'll be sharing this one with their pooch!

I whipped up a batch of oatmeal raisin cookie dough and used my trusty cookie scoop (like a small ice cream scoop) to quickly make balls of cookie dough which I laid out on a cookie sheet and froze. I'll put those balls of dough inside our large soup container garnished with some brown and white twine and a clear square label with options on how to prepare (bake or just plain ol' eat the dough!). So very cute! I always have bananas that made it past their prime in my freezer. So banana bread is in the small loaf baking mold. Wrapped in a sheet of waxed tissue (it's FDA approved so no worries there) and again some twine. I put them both in a white paper lunch bag with the cutest 'guest check' that I found here.

I think my friends will be thrilled and they'll have a little something for breakfast the next morning. If it was me, I would probably be eating the dough for breakfast but that's another story!

For any of you skeptics, or those who are thinking that I'm crazy (which I kind of am!), I timed this entire project. 45 minutes folks! That's all it took to make the dough, make the banana bread (excluding cooking time) and Garnish everything. You don't have to do it all at once, spread it out over a couple of days.

Show your love...it's easier than you think!!

Banana bread, check! Cookie dough, check! Great friends, check! Fun times, check!

Labels: brown and white twine, fda waxed tissue, Garnish, paper baking molds, paper bowl containers, white paper lunch bag

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Everyone seems to love the clear acetate box with tuck top as much as we do. You can never have too much of a good thing, so we've added a 'mama bear' size to our selection. We now have a 3"x3"x3" size to compliment our 'papa bear' 4"x4"x4" box. Perfect for all your smaller garnishes!

Isn't having options a great thing?! You talk, we listen!

Labels: clear acetate box, Garnish

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I hope you have enjoyed our series of wedding Garnishes. Of course these are only a taste of what can be done! My goal was to jump start your creative juices and help you all realize "hey, I can do that!". Everyone wants their wedding to be special. Personalizing your big day is a symbol of your love for each other and for those around you. By creating unique wedding favors and decor your wedding will definitely stand out.

I conclude this series with one of our little white boxes. A little larger than your engagement sparkle came in (well, unless you got some serious bling!), this rectangle white box would make a lovely home for a favor on the larger size. I couldn't resist decorating a few clear acetate boxes as well. 'Enjoy' seems to say it all!

Don't forget the beauty of Garnish. Our products are blank canvases awaiting your customization. All of these ideas can be adjusted to suit any occasion. Draw your inspiration from the things you love, magazines and the world of cyber-space. Trust me when I say how amazed you'll be when you realize how easy adding a little Garnish is, and how delighted you'll feel at the glory of your work.

How do you plan to Garnish? We'd love to know!

Wishing you happy (wedding) days and happy Garnishes!

Labels: favors, Garnish, Weddings, white bakery boxes

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Okay, seriously, I would have no problems being a bridesmaid 27 times if I was given one of these each time!

Who can't use a little pampering?! We all know how crazy it can be planning your ultimate one-of-a kind wedding. Don't lose sight of all the work your gals have done to help make this happen. Thank them with a package full of pampering. Fill our squat white gable box with all things indulgent...bath products, face mask, lotions and creams and a mani/pedi gift certificate. These are a few of my favorite things! This is where your trusty computer/printer and creative fire come into play by creating a cute label for the front of the box. Just print, trim and glue (love those glue dots or Xyrons). Garnish with a piece of ribbon and you've created a little box of love.

I only wish that I had Garnish when I got married! Maybe I'll get this for Mother's Day instead...now, that would be exciting!!

Labels: favors, Garnish, squat gable box, Weddings

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What is not to love about this wedding favor?! It is beautiful, unique and can be customized to suit your decor.

I have become quite smitten with the combination of the small gable box with the small glassine bag attached to the front. I find the layering effect to be quite stylish (kind of like all your layering t-shirts!). It also allows you to slip a personalized note inside to thank everyone for sharing in your special day. A little tidbit, the glassine bag holds a business card size piece of paper/cardstock perfectly.

Go ahead, fall in love. I know your guests will!

Labels: favors, Garnish, small gable box, small glassine bag, Weddings

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...bring May bridal showers!

As the hostess of the bridal shower, you have taken on the task of creating a stand-out, memorable event. You want nothing less for the lovely gal you are celebrating. Are you shaking in your stilettos (or mary jane's, sandals etc.) at the thought of the task? Save that shaking for the dance floor girlfriend! I'm here to tell you that it's all much, much easier than you think.

I talked white lunch bags on Thursday and today I'm here to share the beauty of the little brown lunch bag. Yes folks, I'm talking the smaller version of what you used to tote your PB&J in to school. If brown bags are good enough for Bloomingdales by golly, they're good enough for us!

Here we created a unique shower favor by stashing all things loved by the bride (the groom doesn't fit, but you get the idea!) into the little brown paper lunch bag. This bride couldn't live without her lip balm, hand sanitizer and hand lotion. A circle sticker gave the explanation and a coordinating ribbon and fabric flower provided the extra garnish.

You go girl...you go have a fun, fantastic, stand out shower!

Labels: favors, Garnish, labels, small paper lunch bag, Weddings

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Ah, the dreaded seating chart. The fine art of placing your guests in groups that will result in stimulating conversation, laughter and well let's face it, play nicely together! The stress of this task has often left me scratching my head. I mean really, you're only asking these folks to sit together for a couple of hours. The rest of the night they'll be up boogieing their tushies off!

Take the guess work of 'what will they talk about' out of this task by providing a little something to get the conversation started. Customize your own conversation starter kit and fill with questions pertaining to the bride and groom. How they met, how the guest met them, funniest moment with them, do they have a pet name for each other, etc. While we used our round white take out container for this idea, really any of our products would work great here. This idea would be fun for a shower or engagement party too.

Don't leave your guests hanging...let's get their conversation started!

Labels: favors, Garnish, small rounded take out, Weddings

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The color white is anything but simple. On your wedding day you will find it everywhere. Draped on the blushing bride, exquisite in flowers, and crisp cotton on the dashing groom.

The great thing about white is that it goes with everything. The great thing about Garnish products is they are blank canvases just waiting your expression!

Who knew a simple white lunch bag could be so chic?! This is an easy way to add a personal touch to your day and create a unique wedding favor. Punch two holes in our white lunch-sized paper bag and slide your favorite ribbon through, leaving the loop at the top. The loop not only looks cute but also provides a little handle. How cute would these be hung on the back of each chair or on a little clothesline?!

Whether your wedding is before or after Labor Day...think white!

Labels: favors, Garnish, Weddings, white paper lunch bag

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Children at your wedding can add an element of wonderment and adorableness to your day. I will never forget the look on my (at the time) 3 year old niece's face as she turned and saw me for the first time all gussied up. She had a look of awe and then proceeded to make her trip down the isle, placing each flower with great care.

As a parent, I can tell you that dealing with children comes down to basic math...container of fun + busy hands=happy kids. And happy kids equals happy adults and thus happy wedding guests!

So, whether you are setting up a special kids' area or having them sit with their parents, plan ahead and don't forget about them. What child doesn't love a present? Think of their joy when they find something special waiting for them. We have created a kit of fun using our large paper soup container. We personalized it (which they will love!) and filled with crayons, stickers and all things to keep their little hands busy. Supply each child with a sheet or two of our kraft paper so they have a place to unleash the creative talent, other than the table linens!

Your thoughtfulness will be appreciated by the young and the old!

Labels: favors, Garnish, paper bowl containers, Weddings

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I am not an expert in colors and nor will I pretend to be. All that lingo...colorwheels, primaries, secondaries, complimenting, contrasting...phew! I wish I had the talent, but sadly I do not. But, I do leaf through magazines and have learned to pull color schemes from beautiful papers. And, I have also learned a key word in the color world, neutrals.

Think of our kraft products as your brown neutral in your color scheme. Personally I love the look of all things kraft (brown). They have a natural and organic feel while at the same time being chic and sophisticated. Sort of like wrapping your laptop in a paper grocery bag.

Here we used our kraft rectangle box and garnished it with a strip of snappy scrapbook paper, ribbon and name of the happy couple for a unique wedding favor. The box would look dapper on its own, but I loved this paper! A hint, wrapping papers are ultra fun now and days and you can often get more bang-for- your-buck (as opposed to individual sheets of scrapbook paper) if using for an idea like this.

Brown? Yes.
Just for weddings? Let your imagination run wild.
Basic? Anything but!

Labels: favors, Garnish, kraft rectangle box, Weddings

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What do brides (and grooms) want most for their special day? They want "wow!". We are well aware of the importance of the "wow factor" and your wish is our command. Thus bringing us to our second idea for adding a little Garnish to your wedding.

Here is a unique favor idea that will please the eyes and achieve your "wow" goal. We placed a cookie resembling a wedding cake inside the clear acetate box. The cookie is resting on a piece of paper on top of some candy hearts for a layered effect (get it...mimics the layered look of the cookie...hey I try!). In lieu of the candy hearts you could put in some personalized M&M's or any of your favorite candies. Adorned with ribbon coordinating your wedding color palate, your unique favor is complete!

If you are a DIY type bride, the cookie was easily created using a series of square cookie cutters and a simple sugar glazed drizzled over the top. For those of you who prefer to not deal with your oven before your wedding, submit your request to your local bakery. Or, if you have a relative or friend who loves to bake, they might want to make this contribution to your big day.

Let the beauty shine through. Remember, Garnish is perfect for any occasion. So, while this idea has been Garnished with a wedding in mind it would also be superb for a shower, rehearsal dinner, or any party!

Clearly, this is a great idea.

Labels: clear acetate box, favors, Garnish, Weddings

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Have you been wondering how to Garnish your wedding? Well, we have and the next series of blog posts will be dedicated to your wedding day bliss!

As I sit here with my iTunes cranking and thankful that no one can see my 'desk chair dancing' or can hear my meager attempt at singing, I felt this to be an appropriate choice for a starting point.

I love when friends share with me their favorite music mixes. I love music but am definitely not one who has the knack for putting together a collection of songs. I'm always the one asking "who sings that?" and "how did you find that song?!". And doesn't music always have a way of making us smile and bringing back fond memories.

Share your favorite music with your guests by creating a music CD favor. Packaged in our tin CD case it will be sure to please the eyes, ears, hearts and souls of your guests. We simply used our trusty computer with a fun font selection, some pretty paper from the scrapbook section and a little piece of ribbon to make our Garnish sparkle. Consider asking each of your wedding party to share one of their favorite selections, or a song that reminds them of you, to add to the track.

Just think, those fond memories everyone will have when listening to their new CD...will be of your fantastic day and all the love and friendship in the air!

Now, that's music to my ears! Oh, and the music 'in' my ears right now...Gardenia by Mandy Moore...simply lovely!

Labels: favors, Garnish, tin cd case, Weddings

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I'm not sure where the notion of spring cleaning first originated but this season of renewal definitely brings on the urge to refresh and organize our nests. Just last night, despite my aching body from a cold my children so lovingly gifted me, I got an energy boost to organize their school and craft supplies. How that happened is a medical mystery!

Cleaning doesn't necessarily have to mean getting out your trusty dust cloth and mop. Adding a little organization to your life may be just the 'cleaning' you need...and let's face it, much more fun than doing windows!

Don't lose sight of what you are storing away. Use our clear hinged containers to hold your belongings. This is great for younger kids who may not read yet, or even older ones who will no longer have the excuse to ask you where something is! Their craft supplies will be on the ready for when their creative inspiration hits.

The squat take out boxes stack nicely and with a label you won't forget what's inside. Ideal for those of you who have chaotic offices and out of control scrapbooking supplies (myself included...or should I have mentioned that!) Our paper soup bowls and plastic deli containers make for excellent storage devices as well. Before you know it your cabinets will look like they are straight from a magazine!

I'm sensing another energy surge...watch out chaos, here I come!

Labels: deli containers, Garnish, hinged plastic deli containers, paper bowl containers, squat take out container

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As your calendar fills with wedding invitations you will be left with the question of what to get the happy couple. Yes, they register at their favorite stores for items to fill their new home but here's the thing...in a few years their tastes are bound to change and that gift you chose just might end up in a garage sale. Reality is sometimes unpleasant folks!

Want a gift that will be enjoyed over the years and most certainly won't be re-gifted? I came across this idea a few years ago in a magazine and have used it myself a couple of times. Please note that this great gift is for the couple who enjoys wine! Present the couple with 'a perfect bottle' several bottles of wine to be opened on significant anniversaries. Attaching a label using our kraft paper sheets (and your handy dandy computer), inscribed with the year it should be opened will avoid confusion and shows a cheerful confidence on your part that the marriage will last. Package the bottles in our kraft wine box garnished with your creativity (I love the scrapbooking section of the craft stores!)

A suggestion for the first anniversary is a bottle of Moet and Chandon Brut Rose and for their 5th year anniversary is Giacomo Ascheri's Barolo from Italy's Piedmont region. A bottle of Chapoutier's 'La Bernadine' Chateauneuf du Pape is to be enjoyed 10 years from now and if you want to add something special for their 25th anniversary, Castello Banfi Brunello di Montalcino is a superb choice.

Our wine box isn't just for wine! Consider a beautiful and delicious bottle of European fruit soda as a hostess gift. Pure refreshment as the weather starts to warm.

Presents with presence...not to be found on Ebay!

Labels: Garnish, kraft wine box, unique hostess gifts, Weddings

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Thank you to Garnish friend Tara for sharing with us her plans to Garnish her wedding day. This is a fantastic idea that epitomizes the concept of packaging life's moments.

Tara is a bride who is planning ahead and definitely knows how to take care of her ladies. Knowing that while primping their beautiful selves to walk down the aisle and celebrate the day, everyone's tummies will be getting a little hungry. Her original inspiration came from a Martha photo but wanted to make it her own so decided to add a little Garnish.

Tara will be making lunch boxes for all her bridesmaids and even her hairdresser (how thoughtful is that!). She is including:

• bottled water
• white grapes in our small deli containers
• veggies and dip in the small white bakery box and black oval dip cup
• crackers and cheese in kraft rectangle box
• sugar cookies in the glassine bags
• pistachios in cellophane bags
• snack mix in small white paper bags
• chocolates and mints

All this will be placed inside the large white gable box which will be the lunch box.

I think this is brilliant!

Show your love, show your thoughtfulness, show your creativity, show your Garnish!

p.s. We wish Tara all the best for her upcoming wedding. Judging from her ideas to Garnish, we know it will be a memorable event filled with love!

Labels: Garnish, Weddings

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Ahhh....the Peep. A sweet marshmallow confection served up in bright colors and adorable chick shapes. You say Easter, people say Peeps!

Inspiration struck while walking through the aisles of Target amongst all the spring and Easter decor...Peeps for my "peeps". How hip, how now, how the heck did I pull that one out of the hat?! I must have seen it at some point in time and in a moment got all excited thinking I had an awe inspiring creative moment. But in reality, it's probably just a recycled line I had stored in my memory bank that decided to make a with drawl!

The point is, as I ramble, that the peeps look awesome in our clear acetate box with some festive ribbon. Send your "peeps" home with a box of Peeps, it's sure to make them chuckle. Think of having one at each place setting or a stack by the door. The clear box allows the colors to pop and become a decoration all their own.

Peeps for my "peeps". I'm sorry... I just love it!

Labels: clear acetate box, Easter, Garnish

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The weather outside doesn't necessarily say "Easter" (well at least not in my neck of the woods!), but believe it or not, it'll be upon us in a couple of weeks. Get ready to dye those eggs and plan that brunch (I could seriously live on this meal alone)!

Think Easter. Think Garnish!

Labels: Easter, Garnish

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Easter is right around the corner folks. How did that happen?! We'll all be "springing forward" with our clocks this weekend. Change clocks...another thing to add to the to-do list!

Speaking of that list, this idea is now at the top. I just think for Easter this is beyond cute! I'll admit, that's not real grass in this pic, it's the fake stuff that is doing its duty holding the paper cones with its mighty strength. I placed said fakeness inside a rounded take out container which I have used often for vases. Just don't forget to pour the water in a cup or container, and then put it inside the take out box. Otherwise, you might spring a leak.

I think I'll set up a row of them on either my kitchen table or island and fill with jelly beans or little chocolate eggs. You know me, the one with the huge sweet tooth! However I'm thinking those pretty sunflower seeds that are covered in colored chocolate would be cute and delish too.

hmmm...just realized that I used this same container yesterday for the "Dead Air" idea. Oh well, I guess I must like it!

Labels: Easter, Garnish, large rounded take out, paper cone cups

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Dead air...the radio show producers cringe, television producers turn gray, and guests and hosts all shove food in their mouths so as not to think that no one is using them for talking!

Even when we're with the best of friends, it can be fun to change the conversation up a bit. You know what I mean, does your possy re-hash the same stories over and over. You laugh (because after all, they are funny!) and you reminisce but there is the tiny voice in the back of your head that is saying "can we please talk about something else!". Or maybe you're introducing two different groups of friends and want to ensure that there is no "dead air" at the dinner table.

Create your own conversation starter kit to get the 411 on your guests. I have chosen to create mine in our rounded take out container. A formidable choice, but you could also use our small lunch bags or small glassine bags or for that matter our small gable boxes (the creative juices are flowing, bear with me!) and place a different question inside each one and it could act as a place card and ice breaker. I'm all about the multi-tasking folks! Oh, and by the way...this would be a cute hostess gift.

So, are you wondering what kinds of things to ask? It depends on your group and obviously no one knows better than yourself. I know that we are all heavy into politics right now but I would recommend to stay away from said topic as well as religion as these conversations could get heated. Keep it light and fun. Here are a few I thought of:

What reading material is currently on your night side table?

At the grocery store, what magazines do you leaf through that you're too embarrassed/ashamed to buy?

If stranded on a desert island what 3 things would you want to have?

Do you like sweet or salty when going for a snack?

Who was your first crush?

If you could drive any car what would it be?

That's my starter list. If you have others to add please do share! Have you ever seen all those question polls that end up in your inbox? Pull stuff from there, go crazy and have fun.

I'll never forget my sister M's response to "what is your favorite drink"...her response "Diet Coke...after all, it's the elixir of Gods!" For those of you who love the DC as much as us, I'm sure you'll agree.

Labels: conversation starter, Garnish, small rounded take out

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Sharing food has long been a way for people to create and sustain a bond with others. A time to sit around the kitchen table, catch up, laugh, console, and enjoy.

So brew a fresh pot, put your kettle on and pay tribute to dear St. Patty by whipping up some Irish Soda Bread (mine was the "quick" kind and let me tell you , it held true to it's name!). Bake right in our kraft loaf molds, so easy. Call those Lads and Lassies and get them over...I'm sure it's been far too long! Think about baking some extras to send home with your friends for them to "break" with their families.

Hmmm....maybe I'll tint mine green next time for my St. Patrick's Day celebration. What do you think? Or is green just not meant to be associated with bread?! Something to ponder...

Labels: Garnish, paper baking molds, St.Patrick's Day

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It's time to green my friends! Our latest idea is all about St. Patrick's Day. Go ahead and check it out. Garnish your St. Patrick's Day celebration and your friends will be green...with envy that is!

More to come, but this will get you started on your way to make St. Patty proud.

Labels: Garnish, St.Patrick's Day

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"Simplicity is the ultimate sophisticiation" - Leonardo DaVinci

This quote embodies these pictures perfectly. Once again our customers are Wowing us with their creativity. See, we all do have it inside of us...you just need to let it out!

Pamela chose to house her Valentine Garnishes for her son's teacher and principal inside our rectangle white bakery box and tied it with some red and white twine. I wonder which one they enjoyed more, the packaging or the cupcakes! Robyn treated her party guests to fresh cinnamon rolls tucked inside our square white bakery box. Imagine their delight when they nibbled on the decadence while reading the Sunday paper!

We love to hear how you Garnish so keep on letting us know!

Labels: Garnish, red and white twine, white bakery boxes

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From a young age it has been instilled upon us to share. So thank you to everyone who has taken the time to share their photos depicting how they used Garnish. This photo is just too cute and leaves me thinking... hey, I can do that too!

I recently posted one of Melody Brandon's Garnish creations and this latest one she sent us is creative genius. So simple, so chic, such impact. It just goes to show how a simple brown box (squat take out container) coupled with our red and white twine can really make someone go "Wow!".

So how are you going to Garnish?! We'd love to know. Remember...share and share alike!

Labels: Garnish, red and white twine, squat take out container

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Labels: brunch, deli containers, Garnish, take out bags, tissue, twine

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Labels: favors, Garnish, kid's parties, valentine's day

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I love it when folks send us pictures of how they Garnished their occassion. Thanks to Michele forsharing these pictures from her superbowl party. She even "garnished" the photography and made a lovely collage for us!

It looks like a great time was had by all. How perfect are the small cardboard clamshell containers as lap trays?! I'm suddenly feeling very hungry. Think beyond the pigskin, and carry this idea over to a kid's party, a casual evening with friends, or how about a game night.

I'm thinking of an adult game night with my friends (can you say Guitar Hero!) and I just might borrow this idea. Hmmm... how else can I Garnish this moment... I'll be sure to let you know!

Labels: cardboard clamshell box, game night, Garnish, kid's parties, superbowl party

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Labels: beverage box, dinner parties, Garnish, kid's parties

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Labels: clear acetate box, Garnish, valentine's day

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Labels: Garnish, paper bowl containers, paper chipboard tray, superbowl party

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Labels: Garnish, shower favors, small gable box, small glassine bag

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I was listening to the news yesterday and heard a story that caught my attention and made me say "Please, I knew that!".

Researchers have discovered that if items look appealing they will be enjoyed more. The examples given were wine and brownies. If the bottle looked fancy and expensive then the testers perceived it to be so, even though they were testing the cheaper wine. The brownies presented in a fancy way were enjoyed more than the brownies set out on a simple plate...again, the same brownie.

This is Garnish folks!!! We enjoy our lives through our eyes first. It's all about that little something extra that brings a sparkle to the eye. You can dress up, or down, your Garnish as much as you like but the end result will always be the same...Wow! Save yourself some time and shop your favorite stores to find the treats to put inside. My own "research" has shown that those not-so-fun to eat foods (a.k.a healthy) for children are quickly gobbled up when presented in a fun package.

We've supplied plenty of ideas to get your creativity flowing, you just need to add the Garnish. Don't wait for a special occasion (really, should our lives be dictated by a calendar), Garnish every day!

Class dismissed.

Labels: Garnish, Marketing 101

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Labels: Garnish, small gable box, twine, valentine's day

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Labels: Garnish, white nut and party cups

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As we begin a new year we wanted to take pause to thank all of you in the Blog world who are sharing your joy over Garnish. It is so rewarding and encouraging to know that Garnish is just what folks have been looking for!

Moments in time + Garnish = cherished memories

...isn't that what's life all about?!

In no particular order, the following are the folks who have chatted about Garnish. If for some reason we missed you please let us know.

Happy reading, happy blogging, happy Garnishing!

Style Me Pretty
Kohli and JP
Design Crush
Snippet and Ink
Daisy Chain
Kim Vallee
According to Jackie
Fun Finds for Mom
Beach Bungalow 8
Where the Wildings Are
Goody Blog
Never Without
Josh n Linz
Enjoy
Marta Writes
Jamie Rose Arizona Republic
The Wedding Decorator and here The Wedding Decorator
pure + simple
Cordial Girl
Melanie Mauer
Sweetspot.ca
Dan & Diana Hulme
Bostonmamas.com
My Sweet and Saucy
Avocado Kiss Stationery and Design
The Next Best Thing
{Ritzy Bee}
Feathers in my Nest
Cupcakes & Cutlery
Goodness Gracious
The Invitation Lady
The Collard Green Queen
Adoption Photo Blog
Emilie Duncan Event Planning
Southern Joy
H+W Events
Thoughtful Day
Celebrate Beautifully
Victoria with Roses

Labels: Garnish, Thanks to bloggers

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Isn't it amazing how quickly the holidays change over at this time of year! I am still putting away decorations and trying to find a home for all those new toys yet I must fast forward my brain on to Valentine's Day. Hey, all the stores have...so we might as well too!

Labels: clear plastic tubes, Garnish, valentine's day

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Labels: Garnish, labels, paper bowl containers

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Labels: Garnish, paper baking molds, paper cups

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Labels: Garnish, tin cd case

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Labels: beverage box, Garnish

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Labels: Garnish, small gable box

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Labels: Garnish, little muffin cups

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Labels: Garnish, paper cone cups

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Labels: Garnish, hinged plastic deli containers

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Labels: Garnish, paper lunch bags, twine

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Labels: Garnish, white gable box

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I think I'll be wrapping all my holiday goodies like this and delivering them to my children's teachers, school staff, bus drivers, and then there are the folks in the office, oh and hostess gifts, our friends...

Labels: cardboard clamshell box, Garnish, twine

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Labels: Garnish, paper bags, takeout containers

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Labels: clear plastic tubes, Garnish, paper bowl containers, take out containers

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#12 - Hot Chocolate Anyone?!

Mother Nature has unleashed her winter chill! Embrace the cold weather, bundle up and head outside for an afternoon of skating and tobogganing. Garnish the afternoon with everything you'll need to add to the delight (and warmth!) of the day. Tote along some hot chocolate in a beverage box along with some cups and lids for serving. Snacks will definitely be appreciated after all those trips back up the hill. Whether it's brownies, cookies or trail mix, package them up in our glassine bags or to-go containers. What a great way to spend some quality time with family and friends. And hey, if the weather is a little too frightful for your liking...bring the party indoors in front of a crackling fire!

Labels: beverage box, Garnish, glassine bags, paper cups

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The holidays are here! It is the time of year for traditions and celebrations with friends and family. As our calendars fill up with holiday open houses and cocktail parties, we are left with the age old question...what would make the perfect hostess gift?

Think of a hostess gift as an opportunity to let your personality shine through. It doesn't need to be fancy...just Garnished! When thinking of what your host might enjoy, think of what you would love. Chances are, you'll hit a home run every time.

An excellent go-to hostess gift has always been a nice bottle of wine. The great thing about wine today is you don't need an expensive wine to have a great wine, hence fits any budget. Present your wine in a simple unique way with our kraft wine box. Add your own embellishments to have a little fun. Hit your stash of wrapping paper or scrapbook papers, cut out some rectangles long enough to fit around the box to make a simple but chic band. You could even create layers with complementing papers. While you've got all your supplies out, add a little garnish to several boxes so you won't have to fret on party day. If paper bands aren't your thing, why not just write a holiday wish on the box itself. An artist perhaps? Or do you have a little artist in your house? Draw right on the box for a presentation that is truly all your own! A quote relevant to the occasion tucked inside one of our glassine bags, our twines, or stickers are all perfect adornments too. The creative juices flowing yet?!

If your host has a Christmas tree in their house, an ornament would make an excellent hostess gift. You can purchase gorgeous inexpensive ornament balls (or your style of choice) from stores such as Target and Pier 1 Imports. Garnish has a multitude of ways you can package up your ornaments...here are some quick thoughts. Let the beauty of the ornament shine through and place it inside our clear acetate box, resting on a pillow of tissue. Add a little twine or your own decorative ribbon and your host may not want to remove the ornament from the box! Your host will remember you, and your fantastic hostess gift, year after year when they trim their tree.

This next idea is a personal favorite. Love throwing parties, hate finding the energy to make breakfast the next morning?! So why not present your host with a box full of breakfast items for them to enjoy in the morning. This will be a hostess gift that is truly appreciated (and just might make you the most sought after guest!). Don't feel that you need to spend all day baking cinnamon buns or croissants. It is the thought (and packaging) that counts. So, if baking isn't your speciality, visit your favorite bakery and gather a selection of goodies for your host to enjoy. Add some coffee beans and a nice jam or honey and you're all set. Tuck this all inside our squat gable box or the squat take-out container for a unique presentation. Add a sticker with a note of thanks or a little message such as "le petit dejeuner" or "Breakfast, the most important meal of the day". If your host has children, they will love having something on the ready to feed the little ones the next morning!

A couple other quick thoughts. Create a CD of holiday music or some tracks from your music library. Store it inside our tin cd case with a clear sticker displaying a holiday wish. Holiday treats such as candies and cookies are sure to please. And delivered in cellophane bags, white lunch bags, take-out containers or any of our products will create a hostess gift sure to stand out.

Who knew it could be so easy to add a little Garnish to your hostess gifts?! Have fun out there. Let your creative fire (even if it's an ember!) run wild and enjoy yourself. After all, sharing good times is what the holidays are all about!

Labels: Garnish, unique hostess gifts

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