It is a well-known fact around here that I am not crafty or creative (at least not in the “Pinteresty” way). However, I do appreciate crafty, creative, and cute ideas. I especially appreciate them if they are VERY easy and inexpensive to do.
I wasn’t planning to share this here – because, let’s be honest, it isn’t all that special – but, I posted a photo on Instagram yesterday, and it got a little bit of attention. I figure maybe you guys enjoy a SUPER simple and cheap project that makes you appear to have your stuff together as much as I do… So, here you go:
This is our first year giving an end-of-the-year teacher gift; and, I have to admit, I was pretty excited about it. This was my chance to actually “practice what I preach” and give a gift I would actually be excited to receive. My first thought was to give Sam’s teacher a gift card to Target or Ann Taylor Loft (she has adorable clothes) because I LOVE receiving gift cards. But, I confess that I ruled that out because I wanted her gift to be more thoughtful, intentional, and – let’s be honest – impressive. Anyone can run to the store and grab a gift card, you know.*
I, naturally, started perusing Pinterest and found a hundreds of great ideas. In the end, I tried to think about what I would want… The truth is (and maybe it’s because I teach high school and hardly ever get gifts anyway), I would much rather have something practical than something creative. This little “summer relaxation kit” seemed like the perfect compromise between the two…
To be totally clear, this idea is not uniquely mine – I was heavily inspired by Pins like this one and this one (the cute little poem came from here) – but, I did make something similar to this for our babysitter last year, and she loved it. It is fun and EASY to put together – one stop shopping at my favorite, Tarjay – and definitely does not break the bank.
My goodies all came from Target and totaled less than $25.00 when it was all said and done. (Note that there are Crystal Light packets inside the cup and a heartfelt note – CRUCIAL – on the opposite side of the card.) Before we deliver it tomorrow, I will wrap it in clear cellophane and tie it with a ribbon.
If you wanted to “step it up a notch” (like I did for Miss Jennifer last year), I love the idea of including a personalized beach towel, cute flip flops, or a fancy tote. Plus, you can’t go wrong by adding a gift card – maybe for a pedicure?
Anyway, there you go! If you still need an idea for your child’s teacher, you can throw this together in one quick shopping trip – and who doesn’t need a reason to make a shopping trip?!? 🙂
E
*Trust me, TEACHERS LOVE GIFT CARDS, so understand that my decision to not go that route was based at least partially on the fact that I wanted my gift to seem impressive. Full disclosure. If you are pressed for time, have a bunch of teachers to buy for, or don’t care about impressing people – GIVE A GIFT CARD! 🙂