Holiday crunch time is here, and before we allow ourselves to get overwhelmed, run out, and purchase unnecessary and pointless gifts in a panic, take a moment to have a cozy beverage and read through a few of Deb’s gifting tips. Look to these techniques as your north star for when you’re exhausted, uninspired, or in a bind. Some of the best last minute gifts are super simple or, our favorite, a gift within a gift!
First, you’re going to want to start with a SCOUT bag. We know, we know, but this is what the blog is for! This bag, cooler, or accessory, is going to be the magical gift that keeps on giving. Layered gifting is Deb’s secret weapon for any season or occasion. The SCOUT product is as important as its contents. With SCOUT you’re saving on wrapping paper and ribbon (unless you want to add some bows to the grommets of our gift bags, which is adorable, by the way). Waste not want not! This is one of the least eco-friendly times of year and with smart and reusable bags, you’re lessening your carbon footprint.
The meat of the bag, or contents, rather, does not need to break your budget or have multiple components. Books are some of Deb’s favorite gifts as they too are the gift that keeps on giving (knowledge and multiple uses!). One can never have too many cookbooks. Come on, look at Martha Stewart. From cookbooks, cocktail recipes, dog books, travel books, and coffee table books of any ilk, everyone appreciates a fabulous, glossy hardback. Feel free to thrift and regift fabulous books as well. When it comes from the heart, the recipient will love it. Our X-Large and Large Packages fit all books. We can assure you, books are awesome gifts.
Dog People by Sandra Muller | A Loving Table: Creating Memorable Gatherings by Kimerly Schlegel Whitman and Shelley Johnstone Paschke | David Hockney: The Arrival of Spring in Normandy, 2020 | Spritz: Italy's Most Iconic Aperitivo Cocktail, with Recipes | Après Ski: 100 Cozy Cocktail Drinks | Big Vegan Flavor by Nisha Vora | Room Service by Michael McGregor
If you’re not feeling bookish, look to food. Food always excites people and sparks joy. Bake your favorite recipe and nestle it into a Hot Date. Deb loves Ina Garten’s pumpkin bread recipe, linked below, and adds her own personal touch of chocolate chips in various sizes. Foodie gifts are fabulous for anyone who loves to snack or drink. Tinned fish, chili crunch oil, fresh baked sourdough, flaky sea salt, chocolates, salsas and pickled things are all delightful little treasures to toss in a Midi, Mini, or Spirit Liftah and hand to a hostess or out of town guest. Food never fails to make recipients feel special. Another fabulous addition in a similar vein are hand soaps and dish towels! No one ever wants to treat themselves to these delightful AND useful necessities!
Campagnie de Provence hand soap | Graza olive oil | Ina Garten Pumpkin Bread recipe
Most importantly, give what you love, and your enthusiasm will shine through. Wealth and value is more than designer pieces and extravagant splurges. Richness and luxury lies in thoughtful treasures from friends and family we adore. Those little gestures are the ones we always find ourselves coming back to for comfort, safety, and memories. Remember to give with your heart and your gut, and hug your peeps all season long. Happy gifting! 
