Journeying to a new place lets you try on what living in another culture feels and looks like, whether you’re exploring the adobe house-filled streets of Santa Fe or the lantern-lit alleys of an ancient Moroccan city. Many travelers, dazzled by the rug sellers of Istanbul or the pottery workshops of Oaxaca, return with worldly housewares or art to decorate their homes.
“A textile, a clay bowl or an object you pick up at a flea market connects you to a time that you’ve enjoyed, a memory of a place,” says Hilary Robertson, a Brooklyn prop stylist and author of “Nomad At Home: Designing the Home More Traveled.” “If you can’t move to Marrakech or Kyoto, you can at least recreate something of the feeling.”
But snapping up the best items for your particular home requires a bit of strategy and advance planning. Here’s how to shop smartly, how to get your treasures back in one piece, and what to do with them upon your return.
Do your homework
You usually won’t turn up Indigenous handicrafts or interesting local art at an airport store or the hotel gift shop. “So do research before you go, looking up artisan networks, finding out which days flea markets operate, and figuring out what you might even be able to buy in a given place,” says Rachna Sachasinh, owner of Tikkiwallah, an online shop selling fair-trade Thai and Laotian pillow covers, blankets and other textiles.
Seek tips on what to buy and where to shop from your hotel concierge (or short-term rental owner), and via the websites and social media accounts of official tourism boards. You can also flip through old-school guidebooks (Lonely Planet, Rick Steves), which tend to concentrate on local retailers, rather than the location of every West Elm in Mexico City. TikTok and Instagram also offer potential shopping info, but be wary of paid brand placements.
While cool art and vintage home decor are available at most destinations, “you’ll find more handmade items like textiles, rugs and baskets if you travel to places like Morocco, India and Mexico, which still have living crafts cultures,” says Sachasinh.
Consider hiring a shopping pro
To get straight to the treasure hunting, you could hire a tour guide who specializes in shopping for a few hours. Look for market- or retail-specific experiences in your destination on travel booking sites such as TripAdvisor and Tours by Locals; using the name of a specific place (“Istanbul Grand Bazaar” or “Oaxaca pottery workshops”) can further winnow your search.
You can also try a simple online search to turn up market-savvy private guides such as Buenos Aires Shop Hop (guided jaunts to leather workshops and vintage markets in Argentina) or Maryam Montague, the proprietor of Peacock Pavilions hotel in Marrakech, who takes travelers on daylong expeditions through the city’s souks looking for fuzzy tribal rugs, bright pottery and leather poufs.
Or go on a crafts- or shopping-focused trip. Tour companies such as Ace Camps and Thread Caravan host weeklong trips to meet artisans and make things alongside them in destinations such as Perú (try weaving in the Sacred Valley near Machu Picchu) or Japan (learn how to use shibori indigo dyes or make pottery).
Luxury trip-planning company Indagare offers frequent style-centric small group tours to Mallorca, Rajasthan and Paris with dinners in designers’ homes, market excursions and meetups with artists. Grant K. Gibson, an interior designer, leads small groups to destinations such as Jaipur, India, and Oaxaca, Mexico, where they visit showrooms, learn about block printing and woodworking techniques, and usually come back with suitcases full of merchandise.
“Design touches on so many passion points — art, history and culture, food and wine — that trips like these are a great linchpin for learning, exploration and meeting fellow design enthusiasts,” says Indagare founder and chief executive Melissa Bradley.
Know what to look for
To support local artisans, look for fair-trade crafts stores, which pay creators fairly for their products and tend to stock goods representative of a destination. Other top bets: flea markets focused on handmade or antique goods, museum shops, and government-sponsored artisan boutiques or networks. For instance, Artesanías de Colombia shops in Bogotá and Cartagena hawk rope hammocks and palm fiber baskets produced by Indigenous weavers.
“And visiting an artisan workshop might give the deepest connection to something handmade, since you get talk to the crafter or even make something beside them,” says Sachasinh, who recommends the weaving workshops and the blanket- and table runner-stuffed store at Ock Pop Tok in Luang Prabang, Laos. At the Seattle Glass Blowing Studio, artists create the delicate bowls and glasses the Pacific Northwest city is known for — and teach beginners how to make their own.
Think about how you’ll get it home
Serendipity and impulse inspire many souvenir purchases. But if you want a Turkish rug for your living room or a vintage Parisian painting to match your bathroom tile, be sure to travel with photos and measurements of the space you have in mind. “I always bring a measuring tape and swatches of any fabric I want to match, too,” says Montague.
Planning on carrying a lot of items home on the plane? Stash a collapsible duffel (Paravel makes a clever zip-down one) in your luggage, or, for larger purchases, pack an extra, empty hard-sided suitcase. “It’s usually cheaper to pay for an extra checked bag than to ship a lot of things home,” says Montague. Know that oil paintings can be taken off their stretchers and rolled up, and that you can purchase a throw pillow cover that takes up little luggage space and buy the bulky insert when you arrive home.
“I’m wary of checking a bag with breakables, though,” says Bradley, who has ferried glass and pottery back from Cambodia and South Africa in a hard-sided carry-on.
And whether you are two hours away by car or five time zones away by plane, retailers that sell bulky items can generally guide you toward a shipper, even though it’s often not cheap. “I had this great farmhouse dining table shipped from the Paris flea market, and I’ve had people on my trips to India send home inlaid dressers,” says Gibson.
Get creative
Many housewares bought on your travels can be repurposed, and even ordinary goods found in other countries can seem special or elevated compared to what you’d get at home. “I go to Mexican hardware stores, because even basic items like door hooks or storage bins can be so colorful and fun,” says Robertson.
A Navajo rug can serve as a tablecloth; a beaded Maasai collar morphs into a sculpture when displayed on a wire stand. Even the simplest souvenirs — a vintage postcard of Yellowstone National Park, a scrap of fabric — look terrific when nicely framed.
Grouping disparate travel finds on a gallery wall can make them seem cohesive. “I have the most random … stuff hung on the wall of the staircase at my house — a painting from India, a brass bowl I got in Turkey,” says San Francisco interior designer Chelsea Sachs. “It’s like a chronicle of my life, and these things remind me of special moments when I get back home.” Indagare’s Bradley arranges Iranian tiles, Burmese boxes and Peruvian ceramics amid the novels and art books on her shelves.
Fabrics, buttons and other easy-to-transport materials you snap up on the road can turn into home accents, even if you aren’t especially crafty. Bring home a couple pieces of washi — a Japanese mulberry paper so storied it’s recognized by UNESCO — to hot-glue onto a lampshade or inside a wooden tray. A basket or other object can be turned into a light fixture. “I carried a huge antique rattan bird cage home on a ferry from Provincetown once, and now it’s a chandelier,” says Robertson.
And almost any textile — a striped Peruvian blanket, a vintage quilt from a flea market — can be fashioned into a throw pillow or shower curtain by your drycleaner or used to reupholster a chair seat. “Sometimes stuff has to hang around for a while before you know what you’ll do with it,” says Sachs.
You might not want to amass a cabinet full of souvenir teacups, spoons or snow globes like your great grandparents did. But the concept of picking up one small object everywhere you travel still has some validity; it might save you from overbuying, and even kitschy trinkets can summon memories. Think about scoring a holiday tree ornament or small flower vase every time you go on a trip, or save a few coins from each foreign country you visit to pile into a bowl on your coffee table. “Pieces from different places become integral to your home and allow you to reconnect with a destination and its aesthetic,” says Bradley.
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How To: Arrange Flowers
The Simplest (and Cheapest) Way to Decorate With Flowers
It starts in your own backyard (or the tiny container garden on your balcony): “You can put a single bloom in a flower vase, and that is often enough.”
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CreditCredit…Tony Cenicola/The New York Times
July 5, 2024
What’s the easiest way to make any room look better? A vase of fresh flowers.
It’s also one of the least expensive ways — if you have access to a garden, a yard or a container garden on a balcony.
Assembling flower arrangements like the ones you see in magazines or on social media doesn’t have to mean spending a small fortune at an upscale flower shop, where they do the arranging for you. A simple grouping of flowers, branches, leaves and even vegetables can look equally appealing.
lamps and ceramics. “You can put a single bloom in a flower vase, and that is often enough.”
Orangerie, a garden shop. But they agree that simpler can sometimes be better.
“We’ll often put kale, chard or leafy greens that you would eat into arrangements,” said Mr. Bellomo, 45.
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As graduation season approaches, finding the perfect gift for the graduate in your life can be both exciting and challenging. Whether they’re transitioning into the workforce or furthering their education, it’s essential to commemorate this milestone with a thoughtful and practical gift that reflects their achievements and aspirations. In this guide, we’ll explore a variety of gift ideas tailored to suit every graduate’s unique interests and future endeavors.
How Much to Give a High School Graduate
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Wondering how much to give a high school graduate? Close friends or relatives typically give $30-100, while parents may give up to $100-300. For less familiar graduates, $25-40 is suitable.
To learn more: How Much to Give for High School Graduation as Money Gift
How Much to Give a College Graduate
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Doubling the high school graduation gift amount is common for college graduates, ranging from $60-600. Consider the graduate’s relationship and your budget when determining the appropriate gift.
Graduation Money Gift Ideas
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Discover creative ways to give money as a graduation gift. From themed money gift boxes to fun DIY money cakes, explore unique ideas to celebrate the graduate’s achievement.
To learn more: 25+ Clever and Creative Graduation Money Gift Ideas With Money
Teach Them to Go to College Without Loans
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Learn how to pay for college without loans through scholarships, grants, and savings strategies. This guide offers tips on securing financial aid and minimizing student loan debt. This might be the best long term gift you can give.
To learn more: How to Pay for College Without Loans and Student Debt
Use a Money Gift Box
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Make giving money fun and memorable with DIY money gift boxes. These customizable gifts are perfect for birthdays, weddings, or graduations. Get creative with themed decorations and personal touches.
To learn more: Money Gift Box: Ideas on How to Give and Dispense Money as a Gift
Gift one of the Top Rated Personal Finance Books
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Explore top-rated personal finance books to empower graduates with essential money management skills. From budgeting to investing, these books offer valuable insights for financial success. These are my top picks.
To learn more: Best Finance Books: The Top 10 Must-Read Books To Improve Your Finances
Give one of the Life-Changing Books
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Discover life-changing books across various genres, from personal development to finance. These transformative reads offer inspiration and practical advice for graduates embarking on new chapters.
To learn more: 35 Life-Changing Books That Will Change The Way You Think And Feel
Help Decorate with these First Apartment Ideas
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Prepare graduates for independent living with practical first apartment ideas. From furniture to kitchen essentials, this checklist ensures they have everything they need to furnish and decorate their new space.
To learn more: First Apartment Checklist: Everything You Need to Buy
Guide the Graduate to Learn High Income Skills
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Equip graduates with high-income skills to boost their earning potential. Explore lucrative opportunities in fields like AI, cybersecurity, and copywriting, offering alternative paths to success.
To learn more: Top High Income Skills Without a Degree to Learn
Small Gift Ideas to Give
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Find creative and budget-friendly gift ideas for graduates. From personalized mementos to practical gadgets, this guide offers thoughtful suggestions for every graduate in your life.
To learn more: The Best 50 Small Gift Ideas for Everyone In Your Life
Make a Statement with these Money Cake Ideas
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Impress with unique money cake ideas for graduations and special occasions. Whether using dollar bills or crafting edible designs, these DIY cakes make memorable gifts that stand out.
To learn: How to Make a Money Cake: A Fun and Easy Money-Pulling Cake Ideas
Don’t Forget those College Care Packages
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Show your support with thoughtful college care packages for special occasions. From holidays to birthdays, sending a care package is a meaningful way to stay connected with college students.
To learn more: 76 Best Care Packages for College Students: Ideas They’ll Love
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!
Did the post resonate with you?
More importantly, did I answer the questions you have about this topic? Let me know in the comments if I can help in some other way!
Your comments are not just welcomed; they’re an integral part of our community. Let’s continue the conversation and explore how these ideas align with your journey towards Money Bliss.
For the past decade or so, it seems gold and brass have been the metals of the moment in the interior design world, closely aligned to the fashion cycle that’s placed them at the forefront. But the tides could be turning. With 2000s fashion having a full-circle moment, so are the cool steely tones of the early aughts and late ‘90s, paving the way for a prominent silver home decor trend.
“Silver and gold like to fight for the spotlight every year, and this year, silver has won,” says Bethany Struble, lead designer at Totum Home. She explains that this recent victory is a direct correlation to runway shows of recent seasons — think the silver brooch trends that dominated the Fall/Winter 2024 runways of Miu Miu, Chanel, and Tory Burch and the silver statement necklaces and earrings seen at Prabal Gurung and Carolina Herrera, respectively — that now has consumers embracing the shimmering silver tones.
Although silver may have once been associated with wealth and status, Struble says, this time around, it feels a bit more casual and approachable compared to gold (especially if you lean toward shiny finishes) and this modern take on the metal has more of a laidback edge to it.
“I think it connotes something futuristic,” says Alex Bass, an interior designer, art curator, and founder of Salon 21, a fine art and interior design studio, drawing comparison to the decor of the Space Race era of 1950s and 1960s, which had a silver-clad, futuristic look.
Embracing this trend is all about incorporating subtle accents that can elevate your space through their shimmering finish. From accent lighting to shelving, here’s how Bass and Struble say to embrace the classic metal.
How To Decorate With Silver Pieces
CB2
Small Touches
When trying new trends, it always helps to start small. Bass says one of the best ways to dip into silver aesthetics is to add small touches here and there, whether it be through barware, picture frames, planters, or even accent lighting. “I love adding a silver table lamp to a space — it creates a visual interest without being too much,” Bass notes.
Add Dimension Through Shelving
“Silver is also reflective, so it’s a fun way to add dimension to a space,” Bass explains. To up the ante on dimension while still keeping things subtle, she recommends adding silver etageres to your space or using similar-looking items like side tables or even serving trays as decor items.
Mirrors
Accent mirrors automatically have a silver touch to them, so they’re an easy way to add this cool metallic tone to your space. Bass says to take this a step further and choose mirrors with silver frames. “Having a silver border makes it more decorative,” she explains, noting that mirrors also help a space appear larger. You can also incorporate more metallic tones in your wall art through framing. (And, if you do go for a silver frame, be sure to include a silver picture light to elevate the finished piece.)
Cabinet Knobs & Drawer Pulls
Your cabinets and dresser drawers are another easy way to lean into a trend. To add more silver tones to your space, Struble recommends swapping out your cabinet knobs and drawer pulls for the cool-toned metallic.
Mixing Metals
Decorating with silver doesn’t mean you need to swap out all of your gold and brass accents. Instead, finding a balance between the various tones can be chic — just like it is with your jewelry.
“Mixing metals is easier than you might think,” says Struble. Since silver has a more neutral tone, it’s easy to pair with most other metal finishes, and you don’t have to think too hard to create a balance — not just in metallics but in your overall decor look. “Silver and gold together open up a lot of opportunity to style with warm and cool tones in the same space,” Struble explains.
When decorating with mixed metals, Bass recommends finding pieces that you love and that fit the same aesthetic to ensure they pair together seamlessly, even if they have different tones. And, if you want to embrace the current style without it feeling too trendy, she says to look for vintage brass and silver pieces at antique malls and thrift stores for a more timeless look that will never go out of style.
Inside: Money gift ideas for any occasion! Learn how to wrap money as a gift. These are cute ideas for giving money. Find simple ways to hide money in a gift.
Giving money as a gift can be one of the best gifts that you can give today.
A lot of times though people don’t feel like giving money as personal or creative or thoughtful enough, which is a complete joke because honestly, cash is king.
More often than not, the receiver of the gift actually loves to get money – especially kids!
Even better, one of these money surprise ideas!!
There are many reasons to give money because, yes, gift cards are nice, but what if you find something else at a different store that you want, or their policy to redeem gift cards is really difficult? Also, some people don’t want to add more items to their houses. Others are just plain hard to buy for because they go out and buy everything they need.
That is why giving money as a gift is so absolutely awesome.
Today we are going to cover so many terrific ways on how you can give money as gifts. You can purchase some of these money gift ideas or pull out your DIY skills.
In this post, we are going to dig in and find super creative and fun ways to give money.
Best Surprise Money Gift Ideas
These money gift ideas will wow at any birthday party, Christmas exchange, graduation, or any other time of the year because there’s a little bit more thought behind how to give the gift.
Cash is a really thoughtful gift, too. Don’t forget that.
This post may contain affiliate links, which helps us to continue providing relevant content and we receive a small commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the full disclosure here.
My Money Surprise
The first time I personally received a money gift was in college. The best gift ever!!
My parents hid cold hard cash in a room divider screen that I needed. I had cash to pay for groceries, cash for gas, and other incidentals I needed. That was one of the most epic Christmas presents that I ever received because it was something that I truly needed.
Then, I could decide what do I want for Christmas and spend money on what I truly wanted!
More importantly, it was something that I could choose how to spend or save. It wasn’t something that would just sit in my closet because I would actually use the cash.
What is a unique way to give money as a gift?
You can make the gift out of money itself.
Even better, there are plenty of ways to hide money inside another practical gift. You can make find many gift money ideas using a few crafty DIY skills.
So many creative ways to give money as a gift!
How To Wrap Money For A Gift
This is exactly how to gift money.
Now, don’t think that you have to be super, super creative, and hone all your crafty skills just to give the best money gift ever.
I’ll be very honest, learning how to wrap money for a gift is super super easy!
You’re probably going to need just a few items and most of them are sitting in your house!
The fun part of these money gift ideas is you get to be creative on how you want to give the best gift ever!! Some of the creative ideas include a little tape, some glue, and maybe saran wrap. Or you can hide it inside a jar with M&Ms for a money snack.
These are just a few of the ways that you can wrap money for a gift.
It is just taking the gift, one step further and finding a unique way to give money gifts.
In fact, find graduation specific money gift ideas.
Money Puzzle Gift Boxes for Cash
One of the MOST popular gifts!
This maze puzzle cube is a unique cash holder. Perfect for kids and adults, it’s a thrilling puzzle box and money maze.
Get yours now and turn gifting into an adventure!
Buy Now on Amazon
02/19/2024 09:47 am GMT
Who To Give Money Gift Ideas
These types of gifts are so flexible and can be used by anyone!!
Everyone loves to get cash and spend it how they choose. Then they can cross something off their Christmas bucket list.
How to Give Money as a Gift & Not Be Rude?
Is giving money as a gift rude?
Absolutely not.
As we’ve said many times here at Money Bliss – cash is king.
With cash, you are able to do what you want to do with the money. You don’t have another thing collecting dust on your shelf or set in the basement.
You can give a money gift box!
Don’t look at giving money as a rude thing to do. It is actually freeing because the receiver of the gift can choose how they spend it on the reverse side as the recipient of cash.
Feel empowered in the decision to give cash as a gift instead of an actual materialistic item.
Grateful Tips: I always recommend writing a thank you card immediately. Once you use the cash, then write another note on how you used the cash and how much you appreciated it. Then, the gift giver knows how you used the cash, and the ways they helped you, and then they won’t question their decision to give money as a gift.
Cute Ideas for Giving Money
In this section, you will find cute ideas for giving money. These are the absolutely adorable ways that people would love to receive money.
These are great for Christmas and birthdays, and especially for kids, teenagers, and young adults.
You will learn how to roll money for a gift and so much more!
May 19, 2023
Inside: Find money cake ideas! Learn how to make a money cake or buy pre-made kits. This guide has you covered with…
Money Balloons
Super cute way to give money for any occasion.
It’s fun to watch the recipient get spooked by a popping balloon, covered in confetti, and of course, count the money inside!
Read More
Photo Credit: sugarandcharm.com
Sneak Peek Birthday Card
Such a cute and sneaky way to roll cash into a card.
Make candles using a dollar bill or go big and use a $20 bill.
Read more
Photo Credit: Stamp with Jill
Money Lei for Graduation Gift Idea
Everyone needs some cash and this money lei is a fun and creative way to give the gift of cash!
Learn how to make your own money lei today!
Read More
Photo Credit: yourhomebasedmom.com
Funny and Fun Ways to Give Cash
This list is about the funny and fun ways to give cash.
This type of money gift idea works best for a white elephant exchange, a coworkers exchange, a friend exchange, or someone who loves a good joke.
Let’s be honest… sometimes you just to be really funny with how you give the gift.
Honestly, I’m not sure if there are any annoying ways that you could give money. (Cash is still cash, right?) For those who enjoy crisp dollar bills beware!
Easy Peasy Money Tree Topiary
It is proven that money does grow on trees. This DIY tutorial will teach you exactly how to make your own money tree.
This beautiful money tree topiary is ready for one very lucky gift recipient!
Read More
Photo Credit: sunburstgifts.org
Money Tree on Etsy
Perfect gift for the Dad who always says money doesn’t grow on trees! This is a funny gift idea for the father who has everything and has a great sense of humor. Because now…
Money DOES grow on trees!
See Now on Etsy
Photo Credit: Etsy.com
“In An Emergency” Graduation Gift
Super fun way to give money and withhold the desire to spend the cash right away. You can place any amount of cash in these, so they fit virtually any budget.
Simple DIY tutorial!
Read More
Photo Credit: sendomatic.com
Money Chain Gift for the Graduate
Paper chain gifts are a great way to decorate for the holidays. But, it is also a fun way to give money! Very simple DIY project to complete.
Read More
Photo Credit: lessthanperfectlifeofbliss.com
Christmas Money Printable
Running low on time?
This Christmas money printable is a fun and easy way to give some dough this season. So adorable!
Read more
Photo Credit: tessiefay.com
Easy Ways to Hide Money in a Gift
Okay, let’s be honest, we don’t want everybody to know right away that they’re going to get money inside their gift.
How do you hide money as a gift? This gift list is filled with perfect ways to hide money inside a gift.
When they open it, they are excited about just the outside part of the gift and they don’t even know the monetary gift that you have waiting for them inside!!
August 28, 2023
Inside: Looking for a creative and easy way to give money as a gift? Look no further than these Money Gift Boxes!…
Handmade Money Surprise Bath Bomb
Time for a lovely bath with a hidden surprise! A fantastic way to hide money especially for teen girls!
This unique gift idea also is made with all natural and vegan skin care products. Perfect for small budgets!
Buy Now on Etsy
Photo Credit: Etsy.com
Funny Christmas Money Gift: Cash in a Can
This is such a clever idea! Giving money was so much fun this year.
You can hide a roll of cash inside any canned goods – preferably what the recipient hates the most.
Since it is wrapped like a normal household item, no one will expect it to have anything inside but what is on the label!
Read More
Photo Credit: itsalwaysautumn.com
Birthday Money Box Gift Idea
Money is something every teenager wants! This money box can easily be created with items you already have at home.
Unique and sneaky way to give money!
Read More
Photo Credit: myinspirationcorner.com
Book of Money
Such an easy DIY project to give money!
You probably have all of the supplies in your house.
Read more
Photo Credit: marthastewart.com
Money Cake Pull Out Kit
$16.99 $15.50
Perfect surprise for your kids, grandkids, spouse, or best friend with the most versatile and widely-appreciated gift of them all: cash?
We know how you can do it in style: the amazing money cake dispenser, an incredible accessory that you will use on endless occasions.
This complete cash dispenser set includes the special box, cake topper, 1 plastic roll with 50 connected pockets, and printed instructions.
Buy Now on Amazon
02/19/2024 05:27 pm GMT
Hidden Gift Jars
Want to make your money gift a little more special this year? Make these Hidden Gift Jars!
Stash your gift inside a secret hiding spot in the jars, covered by a favorite candy or treat (we used M&Ms), and watch the recipient’s eyes light up when they realize there’s more to their gift besides just candy!
This also makes a great gag gift!
Read more
Photo Credit: myhomebasedlife.com
Creative Ways to Give Money – Which is Your Favorite?
What is the best way to gift money?
Honestly, is there any bad ways to get money? Maybe if the gift giver never opens where the cash is heading, but let’s hope that doesn’t happen.
In this post, we have covered all of the best ways to gift money.
A simple way to say I appreciate you! You have so many ideas to choose from!
Which creative ways to give money did you like the best? There are DIY methods to giving cash and some that you can quickly pick up.
Follow for more inspiration on our Gift Ideas on a Budget Pinterest boards.
I can’t wait to see your pictures with what you’ve come up with, and how you plan to do this.
More Gift Ideas:
Did the post resonate with you?
More importantly, did I answer the questions you have about this topic? Let me know in the comments if I can help in some other way!
Your comments are not just welcomed; they’re an integral part of our community. Let’s continue the conversation and explore how these ideas align with your journey towards Money Bliss.
Inside: These festive money saving ideas you need to have a magical frugal Christmas! Rediscovering a Christmas with no money is still possible with a little bit of planning, fun, and creativity.
Just like throughout the year, the word frugal can have a bad connotation. When you put the two words together – Frugal Christmas, most people think of a sad holiday with no joy or excitement.
However, just like with a frugal lifestyle, being frugal means you are looking to stretch your dollar to the fullest.
A frugal Christmas means to be economical with the spending of your Christmas funds. You prudently set money aside for Christmas ahead of time, but remember your overall money goals. When it is time to buy Christmas gifts and decor, you are not wasteful with your money and make your money go further.
Everyone’s level of frugality is different.
The same holds true at Christmas. Your frugal Christmas will look different than your neighbor’s or a friend’s. There is no reason to trap yourself in a comparison mode.
Why a Frugal Christmas Traditions Matter?
If you are looking at Christmas with no money, don’t despair! There are plenty of money saving tips in this post to make sure you still enjoy a festive season.
If you want to stay on course to pay off debt or reach FI, then a frugal Christmas would be part of your innate nature to do. You just need some frugal living tips related to Christmas.
You can create a magical frugal Christmas.
More importantly, these frugal money saving ideas for Christmas will help you stick with your budgeting goals and lower your stress level.
This post may contain affiliate links, which helps us to continue providing relevant content and we receive a small commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the full disclosure here.
How to Survive Christmas with No Money
Before we just into the Christmas frugal living tips, let’s discuss the big elephant in the room… what if you can’t afford Christmas gifts?
First of all, that is an unfortunate circumstance that you are in right now. I say “right now” because you have the power to dictate your future.
And it all starts with your mindset… you are focused on surviving Christmas with no money.
Not the fact that you are surrounded by your loved ones. With the chance, to enjoy time together, laugh together, create traditions, and make memories.
That is what Christmas is about.
So, before you move forward, you need to change your mindset. Your current money mindset is focused on having no money, being poor, and being broke.
If you want to change your financial future, then it all starts with your thoughts consuming your mind.
Start with writing down three positive things that happen in each of your days. Make sure one of them is related to money.
Frugal Christmas Tips & Money Saving Ideas
Okay, now, we are going to dig into specify ways to make a frugal Christmas a reality.
These are frugal traits that will improve your money management throughout the holiday season, but you can also start to carry these over to all aspects of your life.
To keep in the spirit of Christmas, let’s dig in and learn how to create a frugal Christmas that won’t leave you broke!
1. Focus on the Important Things
When you make the conscious decision to become more frugal, your center of attention is on the bigger picture.
For a frugal person, they view Christmas as part of a bigger puzzle. Their spending at Christmas needs to align with their money goals and desires.
This is the point when you must ask yourself the hard questions… Would you rather stay on track to pay off debt faster? Keep on saving money so you can take some time off next summer.
These are where you decide what is important in your life.
Just to be clear, I am not saying Christmas isn’t important because it definitely is. I am saying the Christmas that has been defined in our culture that focuses on gifts may not be the overarching focus of Christmas.
2. Plan to Spend Half of “Normal”
Did you know most people plan to spend an AVERAGE of $800-900 on Christmas?
For most folks, that will break any budget with a lot of debt hangover coming in January.
Challenge yourself to a Frugal Christmas of $400 or less.
When you create your frugal Christmas budget, plan to spend half of what you did the previous year. Don’t know how much you spent previously, then stick to the $400 or less.
If you are tempted to overspend, then set your budget at $200.
Now, you need to use Christmas budget template to plan your gifts into your budget.
3. Make Your Frugal Christmas Plan
Now, that you know how much you can spend on Christmas, you must make your budget line up with your gifts, Christmas decors, parties, etc.
This step is often overlooked and we typically fly by the seat of our pants.
However, one of the best money management tips is to plan how you will spend your money before you start spending anything!
In our free printables areas, we have worksheets and spreadsheets to help you.
Also, this is the chance, to be honest with friends and family about your desires for a frugal or no money Christmas. You have the time to plan a no gift holiday, gift exchange of unwanted items, etc.
4. Ask Around for Gifts
Oh my goodness! This is seriously my favorite money saving idea all year round.
Ask around and see what others don’t want anymore.
Another man’s trash is the next man’s treasure.
A recent example in my life… Someone posted in our NextDoor group that they were looking for fly fishing equipment. I politely responded that once the original poster got what they needed I would be interested in anything leftover since my hubby took up this hobby. A neighbor messaged me and we got a bunch of fly fishing equipment for a fraction of the price.
You can always find Christmas decorations and maybe even gifts for no money.
Don’t be afraid to post in Facebook groups or NextDoor. Search Craigslist or thrift stores. You will be AMAZED by what people are happily willing to get rid of.
5. Shop Based on Price
This is where you go into the store and look for gifts that can suit those on your list – more importantly, at your price level.
This is a great chance to pick up items on clearance or deeply discounted sale.
For instance, my son loved LEGOS (okay, what boy doesn’t go through that phase) and they can get quite expensive. Throughout the year, I would always look for LEGOS when they were on sale or being discontinued. This is one example of enjoying a frugal Christmas
6. Creative with Gift Exchanges
With gift exchanges, you don’t need to go out and buy a brand new present. This is a chance to find something in your house that will make a great gift for someone else.
Here are various types of gift exchanges that cost little or no money:
White elephant gift exchange
$5 gift exchanges
Unused item gift exchange
Cookie Exchange
Used toy, puzzle, or book exchange
Coffee mug exchange
Charity donation exchange
Craft supply gift exchange
Dollar Store Finds Gift Exchange
Fabulously fashionable clothing exchange
Dropped that hobby gift exchange
There are just a few ideas on how you can get creative with holding gift exchanges. Not everything must be expensive to be an awesome winner!
7. Buy in Bulk and Divide Up for Gifts
A frugal trait is buying things in bulk to save money. When the holidays roll around, this is where you use your DIY skills to come up with frugal Christmas gifts.
If you find a lot of people on your list to buy small gifts for, you can create nice packages of presents to give. Typically, these holiday gifts are ideal for teachers, neighbors, co-workers or other special people that you want to wish a Merry Christmas.
For example, you can buy scented candles in bulk and wrap a beautiful bow on the glass jar. That is an easy way to divide them up for multiple gifts.
Another idea is to buy Christmas treat bags and divide up assorted miniature candies to quickly put together many small presents.
These are ideal gifts because they are thoughtful, but also budget-friendly.
8. Plan At-Home Parties
One of the most expensive areas for any budget is entertainment and eating out. The same holds true at Christmas.
To combat extra costs, plan at-home parties where you can control the prices of food, drinks, and decor. And as a bonus, your friends and family may be relieved to spend less as well!
You can hold a potluck or cookie exchange for a fraction of the price of a night out or booked Christmas party.
There are plenty of ways to make it fun. You can still have cocktail hour with the festive dresses that are already in your closet. Don’t have something to wear – pretend you’re a teenager and shop your friend’s closets!
9. Stop Christmas Shopping
When you are done, you are done Christmas shopping. Block your eyes and ears from all of the last minute shopping and stocking stuffers.
One of the frugality traits is to make a plan for your money and stick to it.
Remember, marketers are good at their job of getting you to open up your wallet and spend money. Be stronger and stop shopping for the holidays.
Don’t go over your Christmas budget and your plan.
10. Track How Much You Save
Every frugal person likes to know how much they save.
Not everyone likes numbers, but it is pretty motivating to see how much you save.
With a financial freedom mindset, you know that every penny saved is a penny earned.
This is where you realize your out-of-the-box thinking to create a frugal Christmas is worth the time and effort. You can see your savings on the gifts, decor, and thinking adds up.
Bonus Tip: Eliminate the Stress
One of the traits of becoming frugal comes with learning to live with less. It doesn’t have to be full minimalism. A better term is living simply.
The more you do around Christmas (buying gifts, putting up decor, hosting parties, attending parties, participating in cookie exchanges, cleaning for guests, traveling for events, the list can go on and on) will cause stress.
Look for ways to take a step back and focus on what is most important to you.
That was the first tip mentioned in this post because it is the one that is overlooked the most often. You don’t decide what you want Christmas to look like. You let others and life decide how your month of December rolls out.
Eliminate the undue stress surrounding the Christmas season.
Frugal Christmas Ideas for Kids When You Have No Money for Gifts
Okay, we are going to spend a little more time around one area that causes us the most stress around the holidays – giving gifts.
There is extreme pressure to provide the Pinterest-perfect, movie-ready, Insta story each and every year.
Regardless of what you spend on Christmas, you will never be able to live up to the self-created expectations you put on yourself.
Just remember that statement when you have no money for gifts.
This is where you get super creative and honest with your loved ones.
Be Honest with Your Finances
The first step is to be completely honest with your financial situation at the moment. You aren’t looking for handouts. You just want a dose of empathy and maybe a hug.
Just like everyone else, you want to give your family the world and shower them with gifts.
However, the center of Christmas is coming together as a family and spending time together. You don’t need money for that.
Time for Creativity and Maybe a Little DIY Christmas
This is where you get creative and start digging to find gifts.
Unfortunately for society, we are flooded with materialistic items. (Just look at any donation center or walk around on trash day.) There are plenty of gifts floating around that would cost you no money.
Post in a No Buy Facebook group or Nextdoor and see if anyone is getting rid of what you want.
More than likely, you will find Christmas gifts for no money. Sometimes, you may have to a fraction of the retail price.
Another option is to use your DIY skills – learn to sew, knit, bake, etc. Give away some of your treasured handmade gifts.
No-Spend Christmas Activities
For frugal individuals, like me, the key enjoyment of the festive season does not rely on these costly aspects, but rather on the spirit of unity, shared experiences, and thoughtful gestures. This is where the concept of ‘No Gift Christmas‘ comes in, emphasizing value-driven festivities that foster warmth and happiness without the need to break the bank.
The good news is you can enjoy the holidays with plenty of things that don’t cost money.
Fun and Frugal Christmas Activities at Home
Enjoying a festive holiday season doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, there are several fun and frugal Christmas activities you can do at home!
Roast marshmallows: Whether you have a fireplace or a stove, roasting marshmallows at home can be a delightful way to savor the season.
Christmas movie night: Why not curl up on the couch with some popcorn and a Christmas movie? Consider a crowd-pleaser like The Christmas Chronicles on Netflix.
Bake cookies: Get the whole family involved in baking and decorating Christmas cookies.
Make a popcorn garland: This is a festive and fun craft you can enjoy together and later use to decorate your Christmas tree.
Play Christmas Charades: Searching Google for free printable charade cards can give you a night of fun that is sure to create hilarious memories.
Hot Chocolate Night: Warm up and gather around with the sweet treat of homemade hot cocoa.
DIY Christmas Cards: Create and send handmade Christmas cards to local nursing homes or soldiers abroad. A personal touch to your season’s greetings will mean a lot to the recipients.
Christmas Light Scavenger Hunt: Turn your Christmas light viewing into an adventure! Print out a free scavenger hunt, bundle up, and enjoy a hands-on game during your neighborhood stroll. Remember, the true spirit of the holidays can be found in the joy of being together—not the amount of money spent.
Taking Advantage of Free Christmas Events in Your Town
There are usually plenty of free Christmas events in your town or city if you know where to look. Here are some festive events you can attend without spending a penny:
Visit the Christmas tree in your town square: Most towns have a community tree lighting ceremony that often includes free musical performances too.
Check out community holiday parades: Many towns host Christmas parades that are open and free to the public.
Look for free events at local libraries and community centers: Many libraries and community centers host free Christmas-themed activities for children, from story readings to crafts or even visits from Santa!
Go Caroling in your neighborhood: Gather your friends and family for a simple and heartwarming tradition of spreading Christmas cheer through carols.
Visit Church ceremonies: Attend church services or watch local choirs perform their favorite Christmas hymns.
Volunteering: Use the season of giving to volunteer at a local food bank, soup kitchen, or charity. It’s free and can be a rewarding experience.
Christmas Lights Tour: Drive around or take a leisurely evening stroll to enjoy the holiday light displays in your local neighborhoods. Remember to check your city or town’s events website for a complete schedule and details. The holiday spirit is abundant and can be found without breaking the bank.
For more ideas, check out the Christmas bucket list that has plenty of fun holiday-filled events.
Shopping Strategies for a Frugal Christmas
While we have plenty of tips for shopping smart on our website, we are going to focus on two areas when preparing Christmas for the frugal.
Tip #1 – Start Buying Christmas Stuff in January
Starting your Christmas shopping in January means you get to spread the cost over the whole year, taking advantage of these deep discounts.
It’s very budget-friendly and helps control the infamous last-minute Christmas shopping spree.
Now, it’s important to note that you should only buy items you are reasonably sure you will use the following Christmas, to avoid clutter or unneeded spending.
Expert Tip: make a list during the holidays of the items you need, so you know precisely what to look for in the January sales.
tip #2 – Using Money-Saving Apps for a Frugal Christmas
To save money while shopping for Christmas presents, consider using money-saving apps. These apps give you cash back, coupon codes, and discounts while you shop, reducing the overall cost of your purchases, and essentially making you “earn” while you spend.
Here are some trusty tools to help you achieve a frugal Christmas:
Rakuten (formerly Ebates): This cash back app provides discounts on purchases from thousands of retailers when you shop through its site or the app.
BeFrugal: This app offers coupons, promo codes, and cash back offers to save on everything you buy. Sign up here for your $10 bonus.
Ibotta: Ibotta allows you to earn cash back on everyday purchases online and in-store with a snap of your receipt.
Honey: Honey automatically searches and applies the best coupons when you shop online.
Hip2Save: This deal website and app posts about a wide range of heavily-discounted products, from toys to housewares. One of my favorites!
Bonus: Paribus: Although not exactly a cash back app, Paribus is worth mentioning as it scans your digital purchases, seeking price drops and getting you a refund if an item you’ve bought goes on sale or if it finds the same product cheaper elsewhere.
By keeping these apps at your fingertips and using them proactively, you can stretch your Christmas budget further and end the year on a high note, financially.
Ready to a Magical Frugal Christmas?
The best part of being frugal is focusing on what is most important and saving money along the way.
That is why frugal living tips are so very helpful!
As a frugal person, there are some years that we can have Christmas on very little money, and in other years, we choose to spend a little bit more. Never ever have we spent close to the average Christmas spending.
That right there my friend defines a frugal Christmas.
If you are still on the fence about a frugal Christmas and spending $400 or less, then let’s think about it like this…
For 20 years, you spend half of the average spending at Christmas time, you will save over $8000. That amount doesn’t include inflation.
So, you need to ask yourself, how much are you willing to spend on the Pinterest perfect Christmas? That spending must be able to be paid in cash in full – not charged to a credit card.
We have shared many frugal living tricks to make your Christmas magical. What else would you add to the list?
Happy frugal Christmas!
More Christmas Gift Ideas:
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!
Did the post resonate with you?
More importantly, did I answer the questions you have about this topic? Let me know in the comments if I can help in some other way!
Your comments are not just welcomed; they’re an integral part of our community. Let’s continue the conversation and explore how these ideas align with your journey towards Money Bliss.
We all know Whoopi Goldberg as an iconic actress with an impressive roster of nostalgic films. The 68-year-old EGOT winner has crossed over from the big to the small screen effortlessly, bringing her magnetic personality to daytime television.
Being a host on The View made her a household name, but few people know of her achievements beyond her actress/talk show persona. On top of her long-spanning career, her real estate portfolio is also pretty impressive — and Whoopi has an eye for old Victorian homes.
She loves antique houses so much that she has acquired a remarkable collection of historic homes, now living in a nearly century-old residence in, fittingly, America’s oldest planned community.
Whoopi Goldberg currently lives in West Orange, New Jersey
Photo credit: Google Maps
Nowadays, Goldberg resides in the gated neighborhood of Llewellyn Park in West Orange, New Jersey, about an hour away from her workplace in New York. Known as “America’s oldest planned community,” this area is known for its grand estates and architectural pedigree, with famous residents and ex-residents including William Colgate, George Merck, and inventor Thomas Edison.
Born and raised in Manhattan, Goldberg has always considered herself a true-blue New Yorker. But even city dwellers need a little peace and quiet sometimes.
“I lived in the city and had no way of sitting outside,” Goldberg said in an interview. “Because every time I go sit outside, 50 people would come and hang out.”
Whoopi purchased her current West Orange home in 2009 for $2.8 million. The 97-year-old colonial-style abode was built in 1927 and has 9,486 square feet of space. It has eight bedrooms, seven bathrooms, a large pool, and a gym.
Design-wise, the vintage home is a mish-mash of everything the actress loves. She loves collecting diverse photos and artwork to display on her walls.
Photo credit: Instagram / Whoopi Goldberg
“I am sort of eclectic,” she explained in April 2012. “The periods kind of clash all over the house, which is great for me — it feels like you can hang out. It’s formal … and yet it doesn’t give a s—t.”
She bought her first Victorian in Berkeley, California back in the ’80s
Her love for old homes started in the 1980s, shortly after her big break in The Spook Show.
Goldberg bought her first-ever Victorian-style house for $335,000. It featured New Orleans-style architecture with 1,455 square feet of living space, a large front porch, and vintage columns.
It also had a two-story barn, which was converted into a cottage. She sold this property in 2015 for an impressive $2 million — that’s over $1 million in profit!
Whoopi’s Pacific Palisades vintage home
In 1993, she purchased her second historic home in Pacific Palisades for $2.5 million.
Built in the 1930s, the house was owned by famed writer Vicki Baum. The gorgeous vintage estate boasts over 7,000 square feet of living space and sits on a half-acre lot in a private area.
Photo credit: Redfin / MLS
Lush greenery, tall gates, and thick trees line up its perimeter, keeping the property hidden from prying eyes. Creeping vines decorate the facade, adding an enchanting look to the home.
Indoors, modern elements juxtapose its vintage vibe. Checkered floors, marble fireplaces, and expansive windows add a contemporary touch. Other amenities include a large swimming pool and a separate guest house.
Whoopi kept this home for over two decades and sold it in 2018 for $8.8 million.
Her most remarkable property was a 17th-century house on 745 acres of land
All of Whoopi’s homes have their own unique charm, but the most impressive property she owned was her Vermont farm, which sits on 745 acres of land. While 640 acres are conserved land, which means they can never be developed, the estate is vast and teeming with pasture animals, trees, and crops.
Photo credit: Redfin / MLS
The original colonial house, which dates back to the 1700s, had a two-bedroom bunkhouse. It has been reconstructed several times throughout the years.
In 2004, Whoopi decided to strip down the property to its bare bones and do an extensive renovation. A lot of the original structures were scrapped, but the rustic feel from the original cabin was kept. Whoopi sold the estate — known as the Robinson-Winchester Farm — in 2012 for $1.5 million.
Currently, Whoopi is busy promoting her just-released memoir titled Bits & Pieces: My Mother, My Brother, and Me. The semi-autobiographical book discusses her rise to fame and her relationship with her late mom and brother.
In her exclusive statement to PEOPLE, she said: “This book is dedicated to my mother and my brother and our time together as a small, funny little unit. It’s dedicated to anyone who’s found themselves on a scary path not of their choosing or dealing with loss.”
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Denzel Washington’s house, a mega-mansion he’s called home for 20+ years
Brad Pitt’s home in Carmel, the historic D.L. James house
See Gwyneth Paltrow’s house in Montecito, her “Forever, Forever Home”
The most simple use for the KRUBBET is to put it on your living room island or side table to designate a place for your phone while it’s not being used so it never gets misplaced. You could also use it to decorate your nightstand, where it would become the ideal holder for your phone while you drift off to sleep. However, this item can also come in handy anytime you’re using your phone but can’t just hold it. For instance, you could keep it in the kitchen for when you’re cooking and need to reference an online recipe. Or, if you use multiple devices while working from home, place the stand on your desk in your office, where it can always be propped up and in view.
In your craft room, while your hands are busy molding sculptures, sewing throw pillows, or painting artwork, your phone could have a place to sit beside you. Perhaps you like to follow makeup tutorials while getting ready in the morning, in which case the KRUBBET could be a perfect addition to your bathroom vanity. Since it’s made out of powder-coated steel, it can be exposed to moisture without getting damaged. While enjoying a meal in the dining room or at the kitchen island, if you want some entertainment, use the KRUBBET to hold up your device so you can watch a YouTube video or TV show while eating.
A home decorating store has opened at the historic Spokane Club, at 1002 W. Riverside in downtown Spokane.
Mad Max Furniture & Decor, located on the club’s third floor and open to the public, offers decorating services, small-furniture painting, home décor goods, and private shopping experiences.
“I wanted to offer something that’s unique for my customers,” says Sara Walter, the store’s owner, who notes that she isn’t employed by the Spokane Club, but rather leases the space.
The space previously held a small coffee bar and at one time had been used as a hotel suite, she says.
Customers can schedule private shopping experiences outside of the store’s regular hours. Walter can order them drinks from the club’s restaurant and bar, she adds.
“I want to offer more personalization,” she says.
Mad Max’s regular hours are 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday, and 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday.
Walter hasn’t hired any employees, although she says she hopes to hire some eventually and expand the store’s hours once it becomes busier.
The products sold at Mad Max include a variety of home décor goods, such as wall art, books, and kids’ toys. Many of the items sold make for good gifts, Walter says.
“Pretty much everything that I sell is very affordable,” she says.
In addition to helping clients pick out products to decorate their homes, Walter, who calls herself a budget-friendly decorator, also will travel to their homes and handle decorating tasks, from painting to hanging art.
Customers can bring small pieces of furniture for Walter to paint as well. She doesn’t do larger pieces anymore because they take a long time to do properly, she says.
Mad Max also offers find-and-finish services if customers are looking for a particular piece of furniture or an antique, Walter adds.
“I can actually go out and find it, paint it, and deliver it,” she says.
Walter’s hobby-turned-business venture began about 10 years ago, not long after the birth of her first child, Max.
Walter jokingly says she was “going mad” as a stay-at-home mom at the time, so she began painting furniture in her spare time and eventually wound up renting space as a vendor at a local vintage shop, when she created the Mad Max moniker.
Her design and decorating experience at that time involved staging some houses that she and her husband flipped. Walter’s introduction to the industry started when the owner of the local vintage store took notice of a piece of furniture she had painted and asked her if she wanted to sell items at the store.
“I’m super passionate about it, which I think helps,” she says. “I think you can tell when someone is passionate about what they do.”
Her space at the vintage store helped to build a customer base, but when business began slowing down there, she expanded Mad Max.
“I started branching out a little bit, started doing pop-ups,” she says.
Walter held numerous pop-up events at her house, at which she would decorate a space and sell a variety of home décor products. The temporary shops were accompanied by catering and wine, she says.
Walter ended up doing a Christmas-themed pop-up event at the Spokane Club, where she’s a member. The general manager liked what he saw, she says, and asked her if she could help decorate some rooms at the club.
After designing a coworking space, also on the third floor of the club, Walter was offered a space to set up her permanent store.
She had already decided to transition away from of the vintage store she was selling goods out of but had planned to just move Mad Max online.
“And then an opportunity came up here,” she says.
Walter is in the process of creating a website for Mad Max, through which customers will be able to shop the store online.
“It’s been almost 10 years,” Walter says. “It’s come a long way from where I started, just painting furniture.”
Small Bites
*Happy Laundry & Dry Cleaning, of Spokane, has relocated to 3724 E. Front from its previous location at 3027 E. Mission. The move, which comes after months of remodeling work, will make the nearly 20-year-old laundry service company more efficient and enhance its growth capabilities, co-owner Kent Wales says in a press release from the company. Wales also served as the general contractor on the remodel project. Happy Laundry has about 20 employee
‘Taking care of people’: Nurse opens downtown Wheaton home decor shop
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The wood floors are original. There’s an antique hutch against the brick wall. The tables were built by her husband. And the Midwestern-made candles smell fresh, like lilac and jasmine.
Jonna Kelleher’s customers may feel like they’ve strolled into her living room when they visit her new shop, The Cottage, in downtown Wheaton.
For someone so accustomed to scrubs and blood-pressure cuffs, Kelleher seems a long way from a hospital emergency room. But it’s not all that different from her job as a nurse.
“I’m taking care of people in the hospital, and I’m taking care of people here,” the Geneva resident said. “I want you to be discharged home from the ER and be healthy and happy and feel calm, that you are OK. And same thing here.
“I want you to come in and be like, ‘I feel like I’m in my own home. I feel comfortable. I feel warm. I feel like I could just lose myself in here for hours.’”
The Cottage has a new and larger home at Hale and Wesley streets in downtown Wheaton. Rick West
Her store has a feel-good mix of vintage and new furnishings, tons of throw pillows, botanical prints, ceramics and tableware. Kelleher recently moved The Cottage to Wheaton after her business outgrew its “tiny but mighty” space in Geneva.
“The addition of a home goods type of store has been extremely well received,” said Allison Orr, executive director of the Downtown Wheaton Association.
When the corner storefront became available, close to the hustle and bustle of an outdoor dining scene, Orr reached out to Kelleher, who had been on an ongoing waiting list of retailers looking for “that perfect spot” downtown.
Jonna Kelleher, an ER nurse from Geneva, has coffee blends in her homey shop, The Cottage. The Downtown Wheaton Association helped her find a space for her expanding business. Rick West
“She was ready to make the leap from a small space,” Orr said. “Her space in Geneva was absolutely so cute. But it was about 450 square feet.”
The Cottage is now about three times that size. Kelleher has the room to display a 12-foot antique sideboard she found in Michigan. “It is quite a statement piece,” Kelleher said.
She’s too humble to call herself an interior designer. But it’s clear Kelleher gets her creative side, her love of antiquing, from her mom, Jill.
“She just is such an inspiration. I miss her so much,” Kelleher said. “When I opened…I just wish she was here.”
Kelleher’s mother died of breast cancer when she was 12, and her father died of sepsis when she was 16.
“I just know how people feel,” she said of choosing ER nursing as her career. “They’re scared. They don’t know what’s going on. And I just wanted to help. If I could make a difference in one person and help with trauma they’re going through, that means a lot.”
“We used to go antiquing together all the time,” The Cottage owner Jonna Kelleher said of her late mom, Jill, a “creative soul.” Rick West
After losing both her parents, she went from home to home. When people ask how she got here, Kelleher acknowledges “it’s not really a happy story.”
“But it’s definitely a story that I hope can inspire others, that things can get hard, but you’ll get through them as long as you work hard at it,” she said.
She’s worked in an ER since she was 19, first as a secretary, a tech and then as a nurse. You could say Elmhurst Hospital is her other home.
Jonna Kelleher
“I’m still an ER nurse. I still work one day a week. I’m very proud of that,” Kelleher said.
She went after her dream of opening her own shop in 2022. Kelleher had developed her “cottage farmhouse” style renovating her home with her husband, Sean, and helping neighbors decorate theirs.
“I know what it’s like not to have one,” she said. “So that’s why every single person who comes in here, I want you to feel like you can just talk to us, feel like we’re your friends or family, that you feel comfortable.”
It’s so warm and homey her Yorkshire terrier, Maisy, curled up on the floor on a recent morning. This Friday night, she’ll host a health care appreciation event during National Nurses Week. All health care workers are invited, regardless of their specialty. They’ll enjoy snacks and a store discount.
“It’s probably just as big as our Christmas event,” Kelleher said.
She also spotlights nurse- and veteran-owned brands — Craft+ Foster candles, for instance — in The Cottage. Her husband, a teacher, built the dining table. They’ve already welcomed in repeat customers who have made the store a “go-to place” for gifts, Kelleher said.
“It’s been really just more than we could have dreamed of.”