Great wrapping goes a long ways...

Great wrapping goes a long ways...

I'm not suggesting you sing a song that rhymes and has beat next time you deliver a gift to a friend or family member, but I am suggesting you take just a few minutes to wrap your gift with extra care. It doesn't always require fancy wrapping paper or tons of ribbon (but fancy paper and ribbon are both welcome), it's about a touch of embellishment or something unique, be inspired by the photos below...
One (easy) secret I've learned over the years is that if you plan on coordinating your wrapping it's much easier. Buy maybe 3 rolls of paper that all work together, then purchase coordinating ribbon or other embellishments. That way you'll have endless combinations that all work with each other. And when they're piled high under the tree, all coordinated and happy, your family will think you and Martha Stewart had a wrapping party. See the bottom of this post for my take on easy and luxurious wrapping...(note: While I'm usually not a fan of matchy-matchy or over coordinated rooms or decor, gifts are excluded from the bunch, they really are fabulous all lumped together with a theme or concept.)

These are four are by Erin Ruth, so cute and simple, appropriate for year round wrapping.
Textured paper is sure to deliver the wow factor. The Crocodile embossed paper used here is incredible. Find more crocodile paper here.
Swanky and mod. Just right for a white Christmas. image via hgtv.
Traditional newspaper wrap is prettied-up with shiny satin ribbon. via real simple.
Who knew you could find wrapping accessories in your own back yard! I love the kraft paper base, I always keep a roll of kraft paper around for wrapping, it's neutral without being boring, and I can add any kind of embellishment appropriate for the event. image by hgtv.
This is so adorable. Look for vintage sheet music at second hand stores or find reprinted in rolls of paper. How perfect are the bells on top?.. too cute. image by country living.
Wrapping paper doesn't always have to be green and red! This is a great example of ultimate Christmas cheer. image courtesy hgtv.

I thought I might throw together a collage of inspiring papers and ribbon, it makes me want to run and wrap presents right now! Papers from The Container Store, ribbon from Erin Ruth.