Back in the lead-up to Christmas 2020, I stumbled across an idea—probably inspired by Pinterest—to get creative with wrapping gifts for my family. I started small, with Santa Claus and the Grinch themes, but my favorite creation that year was a train of gifts for my niece, affectionately called the “Lillian Express.” The joy on her face made every bit of effort worth it.
In 2021, I expanded my cast of characters, adding toy soldiers and gingerbread girls to the mix.
By 2022, it was the “Year of the Animals,” led by their fearless leader, Mrs. Claus herself.
Last year, I tried something different: a “scene.” And what better Christmas scene than the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ? The nativity set I created is still my favorite so far.
Creativity runs deep in my family. My mom makes handmade ornaments for loved ones every year. My cousins craft stunning jewelry and art. My sister has even jumped into the creative fray with her kids, and they’re doing an amazing job. It’s just part of who we are.
Of course, the process isn’t always easy. This year, I even filmed a behind-the-scenes video to show how I plan and prep each person’s gifts. Spoiler alert: I don’t spend much. I repurpose supplies I already have (yes, my husband’s shirt was a wrapping star this year, lol), borrow “props” from family, and hit up Hobby Lobby for deals—like $5 rolls of sturdy wrapping paper and 50%-off tape packs.
The fun is in finding unexpected solutions. For instance, this year, I needed peppermints and initially thought of using the edible kind. Then, while wandering Hobby Lobby, I found decorative peppermint strands for $1.99—and with 50% off, they were just $1! Perfect. For crazy character hair, I improvised with brown pipe cleaners and floral foam. My favorite find? A $7.50 blanket that became a beautiful winter cloak—60% off in the Christmas section! Thinking outside the box is half the fun.
This year started with a simple plan. I even told a friend what I was going to do. But, as life happens, that plan went out the window. While delivering cookies to a client and friend, I admired her porch decorations, and bam—an idea struck. I snapped a quick photo, and from that moment, this year’s theme was born:
Welcome to Whoville!
This year’s theme brought Whoville to life, filled with cheer, whimsy, and all the beloved characters who make it so magical! Of course, we have the Who family: Lou Lou, Betty Lou, Cindy Lout, Stu Lou, and Drew Lou. Joining them are Whoville’s finest: The Mayor and Martha May Whovier. No Whoville celebration will be complete without The Grinch and his trusted sidekick Max.
All gathered around the glowing Whoville Christmas tree, they create a scene brimming with holiday spirit and a touch of whimsy!
This year was hands-down the hardest yet. Between an unusually busy real estate season (promising signs for 2025!), a shorter gap between Thanksgiving and Christmas, and a winter cold that knocked me down, everyone almost got gifts that looked like Amazon boxes. Plus, these characters were challenging—people with intricate details, especially their hair! But I was determined, and I’m so glad I stuck with it.
Each year, this tradition brings me so much joy—and my family loves it too. I already have a running list of ideas for future Christmases, but for now, I hope you enjoy seeing these creations as much as I enjoyed making them.
