Choosing Coveted Secret Santa Gifts

Since you’ve taken the time to decorate your home inside and out for the holiday season, show it off by hosting a secret Santa party. In the invitation, instruct friends to bring one wrapped, but unlabeled gift to give in the exchange. Each guest will have a turn to choose a package and either keep what they’ve unwrapped or swap it for a present that’s already been opened. Consider ideas that will ensure you’re offering the most memorable gift in the game.

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Cozy Touches

 

Choose an item that will keep someone toasty all winter long. Purchase a luxurious throw blanket perfect for a comfortable night watching movies on the couch, a whimsical onesie or a portable electric heater. You can also compile a gift basket featuring thermal socks, fuzzy mittens and a colorful jersey knit scarf, for example.

Delicious Treats

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Appealing to someone’s stomach is a great way to ensure the popularity of your present. Offer cookie gift baskets featuring a variety of flavors or a tin filled with baked goods such as muffins, scones and croissants. A bucket that includes a bottle of wine and an assortment of cheeses, crackers and preserves would also be ideal.

Relaxing Activities

 

Compile a collection of activities that the recipient can use to pass the time on a lazy day at home. Consider such items as an adult coloring book and colored pencils, a leather bound journal and a set of calligraphy pens, a gift card to a movie streaming service or a basket of goodies for a spa day like bubble bath, body scrub, candles, slippers and a plush robe.

Family and friends will have a ball stealing the best gifts from one another at your holiday party. Choose something that will appeal to their craving for comfort, relaxation or entertainment to be sure your present is the one that’s stolen and desired the most.

Ways To Improve Your Outdoor Living Space

Decorating the exterior of your home requires planning and setting up a budget. One of the best ways to improve the look of the outdoors is to plant a variety of flowers that can bloom throughout the year. The first step is to browse through photos of outdoor spaces to understand your unique decorating style.

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Ornamental Plant Tips

The definition of landscape is the translation of the vision that homeowners see in their mind. Creating tidy flowerbeds where plants of contrasting foliage give you a sense of satisfaction and comfort. Learn what type of ornamental plants thrive in your area by visiting the county agriculture extension office in your community. Learn about disease and insect infestation that can wreak havoc in your garden. Determine whether you plan to use chemicals or organic methods for dealing with disease and pests in the garden.

Creating Your Decorating Space

Boxwood hedges are a great way to create a winding path through the garden. The greenery that is mixed will add interest to your garden when plants are not blooming. A mixture of flowers will draw the eye to create a dramatic effect. Whether you have a shady, sloped or dull backyard, there are many ways to improve the look of your outdoor landscape.

Consider creating an outdoor kitchen with a fireplace where friends and family members can relax and visit. If you do not have the budget for an outdoor kitchen and fireplace, then consider setting up a conversation area with a fire pit in the middle. Fire pits are an inexpensive backyard item that will keep you and your guests warm on chilly nights.

Outdoor Design Tips

1.   A Focal Point

It can be anything from a fireplace to a garden. Start your decorating plans with your focal point in mind. Create the rest of your landscape design centered around the focal point. This is the best way for beginners to start creating their outdoor space. Lighting plays an important part in your outdoor design. Choose solar lighting that will not increase your monthly energy bills. They are inexpensive and available in a variety of styles.

2.   Alternative Materials

Browse through photos of beautiful homes with outdoor landscapes that you like. You can mimic the design and save money by using alternative materials that are cheaper. Visit home improvement discount warehouses for the best value in outdoor materials. Compare the prices of patio furniture online to save money. Furniture stores will place outdoor furniture on sale during the late summer season.

3.   Swimming Pool

Update your outdoor space with a swimming pool. This will give you countless hours of fun and exercise for the whole family. If you do not have the budget for an in-ground swimming pool, then check out the prices for aboveground pools. Choose a saltwater filtration system to save money on chemicals. A saltwater system is also easier to maintain.

4.   Retractable Awnings

Choose an outdoor retractable awning contractor that has a good reputation for service and workmanship who can help you find the best retractable awning for you. If some of your neighbors have n awning, ask for recommendations for the best company in your community. In some areas, an outdoor awning will increase the value of your home.

Patio decorating is a fun way to improve the value of your home. Outdoor furniture makes your space look more comfortable and inviting. Choose furniture cushions that are removable to prevent unnecessary weathering.