14 After Christmas / Holiday General Tips & Shopping Tips

This is a great time to start thinking about the holidays for the following year while this is all fresh on your mind. Last year I wrote about 21 Tips & Tricks for Getting Organized After the Holidays and Organizing Christmas decorations. Below are some additional various tips and tricks:

Tips: 

1. Label each bag, bin and box so you know what is in them.
2. Make a list of all things you want to change for the previous year or things you want to remember. Did you want to purchase stamps earlier, ship items earlier, get certain decorations up by a certain time. Hire or outsource certain services, etc? What did you run out of? 
3. Sharpen your scissors.
4. Budget now for next year. How much did you spend this year? More or less than last year? In the new year set aside a little money each month so you do not feel as overwhelmed and stressed closer to the holidays.
5. Write thank you notes for gifts you received.
6. As you are putting new items away, donate items you know you no longer need, want or like. 

If you are shopping the day after Christmas here are some things to think about.

1. Make a list ahead of time of everything you are needing to avoid impulse purchases. For me this year I am looking for timers, more bike bags, various decorations, etc. 
2. Did you receive gift cards as a gift? USE them on sales for purchases you may be making if you can.
3. Only get supplies that you know you need. Did you run out of wrapping paper, tissue, gift card holders, etc.?
4. If you are thinking of getting new Christmas lights for indoor or outdoor, now is a great time. Hardware stores usually have them deeply discounted. 
5. If you buy new decorations, make sure you have the proper storage solutions to put them.
6. Shop early if you are looking for something specific or shop a couple of weeks later when discounts consistently get higher and higher.
7. Don't forget to shop drugstores and various hardware stores. 

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Gift Wrapping Tips & Tricks

 

At Eco Modern Concierge we are gift wrapping experts and we help residential and business clients all over Houston and beyond with their gift wrap needs. From shopping, organizing gift wrap, organizing the gift wrap process, meeting deadlines and trying to get things done early, etc. It can be a tedious time consuming thing that many people do not want to do. So if this is something you don't like doing consider hiring a professional organizer or concierge to help you get this task done. 

• Always use excess ribbon.
• It is best to use a medium to heavy grade paper. 
• If you are doing special things to your presents like pleating the paper buy paper that has grids. 
• Buy gift wrap & ribbon at the end of the season when it is inexpensive and practice, practice, practice. 
• There are many ways to measure paper so you get the exact amount like going 2/3rds up the side, measuring 1/2 from the middle of the box, using a ruler (handy on large packages), etc. 
• Measure ribbon by getting a tail on the ribbon and measure 5x by the longest edge. You would rather have too much than too little ribbon. 
• Place the top of the package facing down when you are wrapping. 
• Use fabric scissors only on ribbon, not gift wrap.
• Use double stick tape to get the no edge look.
• Use clear twist ties to secure special bows and embellishments.

You can shop all gift wrapping essentials on the Eco Modern Concierge shop page. 

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Holiday Mailing Essentials & Cart Organization

The holidays is a crazy time for mailing gifts. As a concierge we do a TON of mailing on behalf of clients.  Below are some mailing cart essentials. 

Stamps: An essential for mailing cards and any correspondence. 

Shipping Labels: You need to make sure that your packages are properly addressed. 

Envelope Sealer: If you are mailing a ton of cards, this is a life saver.

Correction Tape: Just in case you make a mistake.

Sharpies: Perfect to using on addressing packages. 

Pen: An essential for addressing any card. 

Glue Stick: Just in case you need to make embellishments on anything or seal anything. 

Tape: In case you need to mail small packages.

Mailing Tape: A MUST for shipping any packages. 

Scotch Flex & Seal: If you have not used this before, it is awesome. No tape needed. 

Bubble Wrap: An essential for mailing fragile gifts.

Envelope Wax Seals: Great if you want to elevate your envelopes and correspondence.

Cards: Needed for mailing holiday cards and sending thank you notes. 

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Eco Modern Concierge Gift Wrapping Essentials & Cart Organization

At Eco Modern Concierge we specialize in all things holiday from decorating to wrapping and every single thing you can think of in between. As professional organizers and concierges in Houston, TX it is our job to make sure we have some of the essentials on hand. 

Cart: I like a simple cart that is mobile, so you can move it from room to room. 

Cart Trays: These are great for organizing the inside of your cart. 

Wrapping Paper Storage Bin: This is my favorite wrapping paper storage bing because it holds tall wrapping paper rolls.

Regular Scissors: I like to use regular scissors for cutting paper products.

Fabric Scissors: I like to use fabric to cut fabric products like ribbon. 

Elf Cutter: This is a relatively new product that I got last year and it does work great once you get the hang of it.

Regular Tape: Regular tape is great for wrapping up packages. 

Double Sided Tape: Great for heading seams on wrapping paper

Super Sticky Tape: for things that are hard to stick to like glitter paper.

Wrapping Paper: An essential.

Tissue Paper: You can wrap gifts with it, use it as box stuffing or bag stuffing.

Boxes: Needed if you are wrapping clothing or items that are better in a bag.

Bags: If you don't want to wrap presents.

Tags: Needed so you know what gift goes to whom.

Ribbon: The perfect accessory for any gift.

Bells, greenery, berries, pinecones, etc.: Needed if you want to dress up any package. 

Hot Glue Gun: Makes putting on flowers and package accessories easier as it can cover imperfections and knots made by ribbon.

Straightener: This is a tip, use a straightener to straighten wrinkled ribbon.

Slap Bracelets: Great for keeping wrapping paper rolls and some ribbon rolls together. 

Clear Twist Ties: These are extremely helpful when attaching bows or accessories to packages.

Bow Maker: If you need help making bows, I suggest getting and using a bow maker.

Glue Dot Roller: Great when when you a little something to stick to help you wrap gifts.

Wrapping Paper Cutter: Perfect for helping tear paper especially if you have a small amount.

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The Ultimate Holiday Essentials Bag for Holiday Concierges and Professional Organizers

We help clients year round with all of their concierge and professional organizing needs, but we are experts in all things holiday related and it is one of our busiest times of year. We do everything from decorating to shopping to gift wrapping to getting organized before guests come and the list goes on and on and on. We are located in Houston, TX, so we often get a lot of requests. Below is a list of products and essentials we like to keep on hand during the holiday season for every little thing that we may need when it comes to decorating and random other little things.  We hope you find this list helpful. What are things that you like to keep on hand during the holiday season? You can shop all of these items on the Eco Modern Concierge Shop page as well. 

Gardening bag: This is the bag I currently use to store everything because it has lots of pockets. 

Gloves: A necessary to not cut your hands and arms up when decorating especially with live tress, garlands and wreaths.

Double sided tape: A gift wrapping essential.

Regular tape: Another gift wrapping essential.

Glue Dot roller: Perfect for gift wrapping and helping various things stay in place. 

Super sticky tape: Great for glitter wrapping paper or things that really need to be stuck down. 

Super glue: To fix broken items.

Scissors: I have talked about these scissors for a long time and really like them.

Fabric scissors: To only be used used on fabric. 

Velcro: Perfect to wrap cords and hold various things in place.

Command hooks in varying sizes: We use command hooks ALL the time with various holiday projects. We love using the small, regular, gold / silver, cord wraps, etc. 

Nails: You never know what you will need to nail down. They are great for hanging various things like garland, wreaths, etc. 

Tacks: We use tacks for all kinds of things like securing ribbon to windows, securing wreaths to doors, etc. We use various colors like white, green, silver and gold.

Floral wire: This is a MUST in our bag because we use it to tie garland on banisters, rails, hang wreaths, etc. We usually carry green and silver wire.

Zip ties: These are necessary for your holiday bag and we use them most often to tie garland to banisters and securing lots of garland parts together.

Clear twist ties: perfect to secure various things like bows on decor, gifts, etc.

Beaded flexible ties: I like that these have notches and you can use them for various things like lights, garland, etc.

Flexible twist ties: These come in green and white and perfect to secure cords or various things that need to stay together.

Twist ties: 

Garland ties: These green pine ties are also great for tying garland in various places. 

Fishing wire: Perfect for hanging things like wreaths when you don't want string to show from afar or to use to hang other decor items.

Banister clips: Great for securing various things to the banister

Wreath picks: These are wonderful to have on hand because they help fill in areas of wreaths & garland that have fallen off through the years, great to add to presents, etc. Here are pinecone picks and berry picks.

Mallet: We always keep a mallet on hand to secure nails, put stakes in the ground, fix things, etc.

Ornament hooks: You can get standard in expensive ones or we love these decorative ones we saw at Target this year that come in gold and silver. 

DW40: A necessary to have on hand always.

Batteries: A necessary to have on hand during the holidays because you never know what remote, decor item, toy, etc will need a battery.

Wreath suction hangers: Great when putting wreaths or hanging items on glass windows, doors and mirrors. They come in various weight holds 10lbs and 20lbs.

Wreath hangers: We keep these on hand because we never know when a client may need one.

Magnetic wreath hangers: These are wonderful for hanging wreath and other items. Please the magnets are usually pretty strong.

Slap bracelets: Helps keep wrapping paper and various ribbon rolls together. 

Beeswax lubricating compound: Great for using with scores, 

Stick um: Candle adhesive, which is great for keeping candles in place inside of holders.

Straightening iron: To unwrinkle ribbon and various holiday decor. 

Hot glue gun: Great for putting embellishments on presents, wreaths, garlands, and various other holiday decor. 

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Happy #GivingTuesday

 

Hey! Today is #GivingTuesday. For those who don't know, it is a global day of giving.  It happens on the first Tuesday after Thanksgiving. For the past several years I have tried to gather toys for MD Anderson Children's Cancer Hospital. What do you do on Giving Tuesday. Also you can check out the Eco Modern Concierge website to see various ways we give back throughout the year. 

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TODAY ONLY: 10% off All Eco Modern Concierge Gift Certificates

 

TODAY ONLY: 10% off all gift certificates 

Today, November 28th, 2020, until 11:59pm we are offering 10% off all Eco Modern Concierge gift certificates for Small Business Saturday! This can be for you or for someone else. They make great, clutter-free holiday gifts! Contact us by 11:59pm today, November 28, 2020 with how many hours you want to purchase and you will be sent an invoice for that amount of hours. There is no limit on the amount of hours you can pre purchase at our current rates. Gift certificates purchased this year will expire December 31, 2021. All invoices must be paid by 11:59pm on December 2nd, 2020 in order to redeem this offer. 

Thank you for your continued support and helping this small business grow for the past 15 years. We can't tell you how much we appreciate it!

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11 Holiday Decor Tips

Since I did the question thing on Instagram stories several people said they wanted holiday decor tips. Below are various holiday decor tips we have learned through the years. This is by no means all of them, but hopefully some of them can help you. 

1. If nothing else, get a remote for several of your lit decor items like Christmas trees, garland, etc. believe me it is a game changer and you don't have to go back and forth plugging and unplugging things. 
2. Pillows are one of the easiest ways to make things look festive.
3. Make a space look festive with light and candles.
4. Use dimmers.
5. Shop after holiday sales for some great deals.
6. If you are buying fake greenery invest in good quality ones. They last a lot longer and some items have a great warranty places. 
7. If you are going for a particular holiday theme, look in uncommon places for decor like estate sales, thrift stores, the dollar store, and shop after holiday sales like At Home, Hobby Lobby, Michaels, etc. 
8. Keep floral wire, zip ties and command hooks on hand. 
9. Use timers on your outdoor lights.
10. Outsource if you are overwhelmed or stressed.
11. Label and make a plan. When putting up &/or taking down holiday decorations have a plan where everything will go and be sure to label boxes accordingly.

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Happy Thanksgiving!

 

Happy Thanksgiving!

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Photo by Karolina Grabowska

Ribbon Favorites

 

Since we are professional organizers and a concierge company / holiday concierge experts. We wrap a ton of presents and love it. These are some client favorites and ribbon we love using. 

Ivory ribbon with gold trim: This is always a popular ribbon we use because it is actually really pretty and it a great piece for 100 yards of it.

Red silk ribbon: This is a classic that we use with client gifts every year. 

Red and white striped: I love this ribbon and think it is a classic look.

Chiffon silk ribbon with frayed edges:  I love this ribbon because it is so delicate and feminine.

White grosgrain ribbon fringe edge: This is a pretty ribbon with I love the gold fringe ribbon.

Blue chiffon silk ribbon with frayed edges: Just like the ivory one above, but in various shades of blue. So pretty.

Grey and gold ribbon: So pretty and it is wired, so you can make pretty bows with it.

Velvet ribbon: These come in various sizes, but I love velvet ribbon.

Green yarn ribbon: I have used this for years and love it. 

Baker's Twine: Always a fun, simple way to wrap up packages or layer on other ribbon.

Blue jute: Perfect for Hanukkah or just a winter wonderland theme. 

Green and ivory ribbon: We used this at a client's house recently for Christmas decorations and it looks great. 

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Holiday Tips to Plan Ahead - Part 6

 

Do the holidays make you crazy and stressed? As a holiday concierge based in Houston, TX we try to ease my client's stresses the best we can by helping them plan out their holidays and prep early. Utilize a professional organizer or concierge to help you during the holidays, believe me it will save you a ton of time and headaches. 

Here are a few things that you can do now to prep ahead. 

1. Write down all your to-dos and then write down how you can alleviate stress.
2.  Buy store bought or order items from a restaurant if you don't have time to make anything. 
3. Outsource if you need help.
4. Use delivery services if there are last minute items you need.
5. Empty the dishwasher before guests arrive. 

What do you do to plan ahead?

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Holiday Tips to Plan Ahead - Part 5

Do the holidays make you crazy and stressed? As a holiday concierge based in Houston, TX we try to ease my client's stresses the best we can by helping them plan out their holidays and prep early. Utilize a professional organizer or concierge to help you during the holidays, believe me it will save you a ton of time and headaches. 

Here are a few things that you can do now to prep ahead. 

1. Make sure all the appliances you will need are in proper working order.
2.  Deep clean your oven, refrigerator, freezer, and dishwasher. These are all things that will probably be in heavy use.
3. Make a list of other appliances you know you will be using whether it is the crockpot, blender, etc. & make sure they are in working order.
4. Replace or buy any additional appliances you may need.

What do you do to plan ahead?

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Tips on How to Organize Your Pantry Before Thanksgiving and the Holidays

Thanksgiving is next week and the holidays are basically here at this point this year. Being a professional organizer and holiday concierge in Houston, we have organized and planned our fair share of pantries and all things holidays through the years. Here are some tips to get your pantry organized for Thanksgiving and the Holidays.

Purge. We often don't think that we have that many expired items and more times than not we see that clients do have more expired items than they think. Purge these items to make room for new pantry items.

Sort like items together. So things are not scattered everywhere throughout the pantry, sort like items together like all canned goods, baking, pasta, etc.

Take inventory. Take inventory of what you got rid and see what you need to restock. 

Organize. Once items are sorted together, organize in a way that works and makes sense to you. As you have seen in many of our projects, we use baskets and bins to contain items, give them a cohesive look and keep the items organized. 

Label. Label your bins, baskets or shelves so you know exactly where everything is. 

Make a list & use sticky notes or sticker dots. Make a list and use sticky notes or sticker dots to mark which items you know you will need for Thanksgiving if you do not want to take those items out of the pantry or put in a designated area. By making a list and using sticky notes /dots will insure you know exactly what you will need.

Stock up on essentials you will need. Begin to make a list or make a list on your preferred grocery store's website for items that you know you will need and schedule a time to have the items delivered, picked up or shopped for. Tip: early mornings and evenings are some of the best times to go to the store when there are less crowds. 

Here are some common pantry items that people stock up on for Thanksgiving and the Holidays.

• Spices - cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, oregano, thyme, rosemary, salt & pepper, etc.
• Baking items - sugars, flours, etc. 
• Broths - chicken, vegetable, beef, etc.
• Herbs - fresh or dried
• Meats
• Vegetables
• Fresh & dried fruits
• Canned goods 
• Milks - cow's, evaporated, condensed, nut milks, etc.
• Extracts
• Oils

How do you prepare for Thanksgiving and the holidays?

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Holiday Tips to Plan Ahead - Part 4

Do the holidays make you crazy and stressed? As a holiday concierge based in Houston, TX we try to ease my client's stresses the best we can by helping them plan out their holidays and prep early. Utilize a professional organizer or concierge to help you during the holidays, believe me it will save you a ton of time and headaches. 

Here are a few things that you can do now to prep ahead. 

1. Book all holiday appointments that you know you will definitely need this year like hair, nails, etc. 
2. Book year end appointments with your doctors you know you need to see before December 31st. If they do not have availability, get on their waitlist. 
3. Book appointments with services you know will make your life easier during the holidays like cleaning, organizing, decorating, gift wrapping, etc. Basically, call Eco Modern Concierge.
4. Don't forget to book self care appointments now, like blowouts, massages, facials, etc. that you know will make you feel better in the midst of holiday stress.

What do you do to plan ahead?

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Ways to Give Back in Houston This Year

Since I am not sponsoring a child this year through my gym like I usually do, I asked Instagram & Facebook followers to please send organizations local to Houston that I could support this year and others wanted me to share, so here is what was recommended:

• Child Advocates - there are many was to give back to this organization. I will be sponsoring a child through them this year.
• Kids Meals - there so many ways to donate, but I love the making bags idea and will be doing that this year.  
• BEAR (Be A Resource) - there are also many ways to donate, check them out.
• MD Anderson Children's Cancer Hospital - I actually host a drive and donate toys to them every year. One of my favorite things to do. If you know me personally,  you know MD Anderson is near and dear to me.

What are some of your favorite ways to give back during the holiday season? 

Photo by Jill Wellington from Pexels

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Holiday Tips to Plan Ahead - Part 3

Do the holidays make you crazy and stressed? As a holiday concierge based in Houston, TX we try to ease my client's stresses the best we can by helping them plan out their holidays and prep early. Utilize a professional organizer or concierge to help you during the holidays, believe me it will save you a ton of time and headaches. 

Here are a few things that you can do now to prep ahead. 

1. Decide on the linens you will be using. Wash & press them or take them to the dry cleaners.
2. Pick out the serving pieces you will be using. Polish silver pieces and buy additional pieces if needed.
3. Label what you will be using each serving piece for.
4. Check all kitchen tools & appliances you will be using to make sure they are in proper working order.

What do you do to plan ahead?

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2020 Gift Guide: Pet

 

At Eco Modern Concierge being a professional organizer and personal concierge in Houston, we shop a ton for clients and they often turn to us for ideas. Here are some ideas for gifts for pet items. 

Advent Calendar: My father-in-law bought this for us this year for our dog and I know he will be so excited because he definitely gets daily treats. 

PyroPet Candles: I saw these and thought they were funny.

Smart Leash: This looks awesome and you can track your walking history. 

Pet Carrier BackPack: I have seen people with these before and it's another creative way to carry pets with you. 

Crate Cover: To make those ugly crates more attractive and fit into your home decor. 

Reusable Pet Hair Remover: This looks awesome if you constantly have pet hair on you or around your house. 

Litter Box: Retro cat litter box. Such a fun addition, especially if you have a mid century modern home. 

LED Dog Collar: I am getting this for my dog since it is getting dark earlier. 

Glow in the Dark LED Dog Ball: I will also be getting this for my dog. 

Fish Tank Cleaner: If you have a fish tank this could come in handy. 

Bearded Dragon Leash: Fun leash if you have a bearded dragon.

Playpen for Small Pets: Perfect so pets don't have to be cooped up in cages all day. 

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2020 Gift Guide: Organization

 

At Eco Modern Concierge being a professional organizer and personal concierge in Houston, we shop a ton for clients and they often turn to us for ideas. Here are some ideas for gifts for organization items. 

Nail Polish Holder: For those who have a nail polish collection.

Fridge Shelf: Perfect if you need a little extra space in your fridge.

Russell & Hazel Acrylic Monthly Calendar: Love this new wall calendar. 

Pantry Basket: This is similar to the ones at The Container Store and are great if you are leaving out in the open.

Sunglass Organizer: Great for someone who likes to switch up their sunglasses regularly and see them in the open.

Seat Gap Filler: I have something similar in my and it is perfect for catching most things from falling in between the seats. 

Squeegee with Spray: For those that like perfect clean.

Utility Holder with Rail & Hooks: One of my professional organizing friends recommended this and said they liked how it slid. Plus, it has hooks.

Wad-Free Bedsheets: I haven't used this yet, but my friend Jessica sent me the link to these. Looks like a must try.

Cowboy Hat Holder for the Car: I saw and immediately thought this is extremely useful here in Texas. Plus, it is made in the USA.

Drill Organizer: My husband just got this for the garage and loves it!

Acrylic Nursery Organizers: I saw these online and they are a bit different than your normal acrylic organizers.

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2020 Gift Guide: Stocking Stuffers

 

At Eco Modern Concierge being a professional organizer and personal concierge in Houston, we shop a ton for clients and they often turn to us for ideas. Here are some ideas for gifts for stocking stuffers. 

Car diffuser: If you use essential oils then you may like these. I have these in my car and love them. 

Wilton Universal Spatula: I saw a Pinch of Help post about this spatula and think it is awesome. You can scrape, use as a spatula, use in non-stick pans, mix and fold with it. For under $10 you can't beat the price.

Hermes Soap: I think this is such a fun, unique gift idea. It is luxurious without breaking the bank. You can purchase 4 for the price of 2 as well. 

Electronic Cleaning Brush: I love using this thing to clean various electronics and hard to reach places. 

Bloody Mary Pick Tree: If you are a bloody mary lover and like lots of things in it these are perfect. 

iFly Healthy Kit:An inexpensive kit for a frequent flyer during these weird pandemic times.

Hand Orange Peeler: If you are an orange lover like me then you know it can sometimes be hard to peel certain oranges and this peeler helps you get started. 

Wine Markers: Perfect for any wine love or anyone who loves entertaining.

Cuticle Pusher: For any person who loves doing their nails. 

Cash Stash: Emergency cash stash for those "just in case" moments. 

Leather Ring Case: This is great for traveling or if you take your ring off often.

Bunny Ear Scrunchies: I actually have some similar to these and really like it. 

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2020 Gift Guide: For Him

 

At Eco Modern Concierge being a professional organizer and personal concierge in Houston, we shop a ton for clients and they often turn to us for ideas. Here are some ideas for gifts for the men in your life and I think these of course are interchangeable and can be given to the women in your life as well. 

Whiskey Tasting Set: Perfect for any whiskey lover. 

Foosball Cooler: When I first saw this I thought it looked so fun and perfect for any outdoor gatherings or parties.

Grill: My aunts got this for my mother in law last year and she LOVES it. It was definitely a hit. 

Weed Torch: If you have pesky weeds that grow between the pavers you can torch them. My husband says he has had this for years and it works. 

Electric Wine Opener: This one is functional and so pretty you can leave it out on the counter. 

Portable AC: I got this for my husband for the garage a few years ago and he loves it. If live in Texas you know how hot it can get here. 

Beer Sling: I also got this for my husband a few years ago and it is perfect for the beach or anywhere you don't want to have to pack up a whole cooler full or drinks. 

Katchy: Spoiler alert: several people are getting this from us this year. Keeps flies at bay.

Sharpening Stone: Perfect for any knife lover. 

Fishing Knife: My grandparents got this for my husband last year and had it engraved. It was such a unique gift and he loved it. 

Travel Aeropress: My husband and his brother both love their regular Aeropresses, so we got this travel one for my brother in law for his birthday. 

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2020 Gift Guide: For Her

 

At Eco Modern Concierge being a professional organizer and personal concierge in Houston, we shop a ton for clients and they often turn to us for ideas. Here are some ideas for gifts for the women in your life and I think these of course are interchangeable and can be given to the men in your life as well. 

Digital Modern Alarm Clock: A modern, sleek addition that is not your phone and like older alarm clocks. 

Water Carafe: I can't remember where I originally saw this, but it would be perfect to keep in a guest room. 

Vinyl Record Holder: If you are a vinyl lover like me this is such a fun, modern addition to hold records. 

Cold Brew Tea & Coffee Bottle: Perfect for tea and coffee lovers. I think every year there is a coffee related item on the gift guides.

Self Outline Markers: I kept seeing ads for these and was mesmerized lol. 

LLBean Jacket: I have seen this jacket for the last couple of months and it looks so cozy and warm to me. 

Balloon Dog Earrings: A fun, inexpensive gift to give. 

Ugg Fallon Set: Now that so much of us are using loungewear way more than we did before, this looks like a perfect light weight set, especially if you are from Texas where you never know how long it will be hot for. 

Champagne Coupes: These would be so pretty for entertaining during the holidays and throughout the year.

Marble Lazy Susan: Lazy susans are always useful and I think this one would be perfect on a kitchen counter top to hold utensils and oils or perfect for entertaining. 

Warhol Bookends: If you are a Warhol fan these are super fun. 

Mondri Vase: Fun, acrylic vase for any modern home or to gift. 

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Happy Halloween!

Happy Halloween!

Photo by Jillian Morkan from Pexels

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Houston Professional Organizer // Gift Wrap Organization

 

We love organizing gift wrap stations! As a professional organizer, I think I love them so much because you can see such fun transformations. A lot of people have their gift supplies just all mixed in with each other or it is just very chaotic, so the transformations are always awesome. Some people have a lot gift wrap, while others have hardly anything. Having your gift wrap organize is always good because you can find exactly what you need when you need it. I find that most of my clients are usually in a hurry when they need gift wrap supplies because it is usually when they are headed out the door and need to bring the gift with them. Also, with the holidays right around the corner you want to make sure everything is all organized. We love working with this client because they are the absolute sweetest, well most all of my clients are!

We did not use any product in this area and just used what they already had. So here is what we did: 

1. We sorted like items together 
2. Rainbowed the ribbon
3. Put various bags and boxes together
4. Put tissue all together and rainbowed it
5. Got rid of anything that was torn or clearly trash
6. The drawers were long enough and deep enough that we could keep all the rolls of wrapping paper together. 

I love rainbowing a lot of areas, you probably know that if you have worked with or have seen our projects. Rainbowing when it comes to ribbon and tissue is especially helpful because usually you are trying to perfect gifts with tissue, ribbons or bows based on color. 

How do you organize your gift wrap?

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My Container Store Gift Wrapping Favorites 2020

 

Being a professional organizer and holiday concierge in Houston, TX it is part of my job to stay on top of what the latest is of a lot of things, including gift wrapping since we do a ton of gift wrapping and buy a lot of gift wrapping products for clients. Below are some of my favorite gift wrapping supplies from The Container Store. This year it appears their stock is much lower than past years, but they definitely still have some great finds.

Blue Wrapping Paper: I saw this wrapping and immediately loved it for the clients I will be helping wrap Hanukkah presents for. 

Wrapping Paper Holder: This wrapping paper holder is a must for gift wrap. Always choose the tallest wrapping paper holder like this one for those large rolls. 

Red & White Grosgrain Ribbon: I love using grosgrain ribbon for so many things and I think this red and white one is a classic. 

Adhesive Roller: Makes taping down packages so much easier. 

Scandinavian Boxes: I had not seen these before and thought they were cute for the holidays.

Vintage Wrapping Paper: I love the classic vintage paper and The Container Store has a lot of them this year. 

Elf Gift Wrapping Cutter: I got this last year and was skeptical, but once you get the hang of it, it actually works really well. 

Holiday Tags: I thought these holiday tags were cute and simple. 

Gold Glitter Decorative Tape: I thought this would be fun to decorate packages with and it comes in other colors as well. 

Super Tape: If you have never used this tape, it is ultra sticky and works great for glitter wrapping paper. 

Splatter Wrapping Paper: Another fun option for my clients who celebrate Hanukkah.

Beer / Drink Bags: I thought these were so cute and perfect if you would be attending any type of gathering this year. 

Wine Bag: There is a decent selection of wine bags this year, but I liked this one. 

Grey Ribbon: I loved this ribbon with the gold edge.

Gift Wrapping Cart: Lots of clients have this and I think it is great to keep wrapping supplies organized and the bonus is you can move it easily from room to room.

Vintage Santa Wrapping Paper: Once again I loved this vintage wrapping paper. 

Gift Box: I really liked this simple brown box with a red ribbon and thought it would be perfect for a gift card or something small. 

Merry Money Holder: Simple and cute money holder for those that make gift giving easy.

Gift Tags: I guess I like simple, clean lined things like these gift tags.

Gold Seals: I liked these seals to seal envelopes or baked goods boxes and bags. 

ecomodernconcierge.com

Holiday Tips to Plan Ahead - Part 2

 

Do the holidays make you crazy and stressed? As a holiday concierge based in Houston, TX we try to ease my client's stresses the best we can by helping them plan out their holidays and prep early. Utilize a professional organizer or concierge to help you during the holidays, believe me it will save you a ton of time and headaches. 

Here are a few things that you can do now to prep ahead. 

1. Begin meal planning for Thanksgiving. Pre-order any dishes to help ease the stress.
2. Meal plan and start adding items to your online grocery list with your preferred grocery store where you can just add to your cart & order when you are ready.
3. Get to-go dishes that you can send family and friends home with. 

What do you do to plan ahead for the holidays?

ecomodernconcierge.com

Client Testimonial about Helping During the Holidays

This testimonial above is exactly why we love helping clients get organized during the holidays. Often times we become too stressed and make non well thought out decisions during the holidays. When you hire us for organizing or concierge services during the holidays our goal it to make it as stress free as possible for you. I know a good chunk of the holiday season is still 2 months away, but now is a great time to start thinking about things. 

What is a common task or area you need help with the most during the holidays? 

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Thanksgiving Must Haves: For Organized and Stress-Free Thanksgiving Hosting

When hosting Thanksgiving there a few things you want to make sure you have on hand for those just in case moments and for moments when you may need a little extra something. What do you like to keep on hand during Thanksgiving for those unexpected moments.

1. Red Wine Stain Remover: We have all been there where somebody accidentally spills something, so much suer you have red wine stain remover handy.
2. Carpet Cleaner: For all other stains from food to kids to pets. I have used this stuff for many, many years and it is all of the sudden super popular again. I think because some blogger posted about it, who knows lol. If you are local in Houston, you can get it at Bering's Hardware.
3. Goo Gone Pen: for markers, when you see a label on a new dish that you need to get off, etc. 
4. Silver Polish: If you use silver on a regular basis, this is great 
5. Something that smells good: whether that is a reed diffuser, candle or essential oils. You want people to step into your home feeling welcomed. 
6. To go containers: If you are hosting Thanksgiving there is sure to be leftovers, so make you sure you are prepped and ready to send people home with leftovers. You can find reusable containers at Sam's Club & Costco or online. As you probably saw in this post. One organizer suggested downsizing your personal storage container stash. 
7. An iron, steamer or wrinkle releaser: If you are the type that likes to have fresh, crisp linens on hand than this is especially helpful. If someone arrives super early and wants to help have them freshen up the linens for you.
8. Mints or mouthwash in the bathroom: After a full meal some feel like to have something on hand to freshen up their breath. Decant mouthwash and have a little station set up with mini cups for your guests to use. I have been to many of houses where where they have mouthwash stations and I always think it is a great idea.
9. Folding chair: It is always nice to make sure you have plenty of seating for any unexpected guest that may show up. 

ecomodernconcierge.com

Holiday Tips to Plan Ahead - Part 1

 

Do the holidays make you crazy and stressed? As a holiday concierge based in Houston, TX we try to ease my client's stresses the best we can by helping them plan out their holidays and prep early. Utilize a professional organizer or concierge to help you during the holidays, believe me it will save you a ton of time and headaches. 

Here are a few things that you can do now to prep ahead. 

1. Order your holiday cards
2. Order stamps
3. Avoid holiday stresses by doing these things

What do you do to plan ahead for the holidays?

ecomodernconcierge.com

#1 Tips & Tricks for an Organized Thanksgiving from NAPO Houston Professional Organizers

Are you ready for Thanksgiving? I know it is still a little over a month away, but now is  a great time to start thinking about it in order to be prepared and ready for everything that the holiday season entails. I asked my fellow NAPO Houston professional organizers what some of their #1 tips were and here is what they had to say. 

Amy Vance of Eco Modern Concierge: "Stock up on stain removers for whatever stains may happen like red wine, food, markers / crayons from kids, etc." 

Nikki Bell of Just Organized by Nikki: "Check expiration dates on spices and pantry items. Running out to the grocery store during the rush is never fun."

Helen Schutz of HBS Organizing: "Try to get a head start on your meal planning - if ordering out, allow 2-3 weeks before Thanksgiving to place your orders early."

Laura Gunn of Strategic Hourglass Solutions: "Make and freeze ahead what you can. Lots of desserts and some side dishes fit the bill for this."

Blanka Molnar of Your Sorted Space: "Use a holiday planner and break your To-do-list (I like to use “to-achieve-list“) down. What can you do a month before Thanksgiving or 3 weeks before Thanksgiving."

Neitra Blair of Organizing Lifestyles: "The holidays are good for getting rid of unused Tupperware and Togo containers. Your guest can use those to take good home"

Ellen Delap of Professional-Organizer.com: "Buy holiday serving pieces to give away with treats."

Mary Jo Contello of Organized by MJ: "Start planning the menu and assign guest task/items to make so everyone can enjoy the day."

Tammy Atchison of The Busy Corner: "If you have family traditions and recipes, take time to write them down and keep them together for the future. Many years ago my mom was unable to prepare /host Thanksgiving dinner due to an awful case of shingles. We were clueless...lol...any way, mom was able to tell us everything from recipes to what serving dishes. Success  My admin sister typed up a word document on “How to Prepare Mom’s Thanksgiving Dinner” from that year on we use that to help her, we had no idea how much work it was, she made it look so easy."

Linda Cresswell of Shelf Genie: "Get your order in now so your glide out shelving is in for the holidays. ShelfGenie. 832-666-6391"

Nancy Devlin of Efficient Living, Inc: "In my family for Thanksgiving, we set a nice formal table. Begin 2 weeks before Thanksgiving: polish silver, clean china and crystal and iron tablecloths and napkins. Use all of your nice table settings and decor that doesn't get used often!"

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Photo by Patrick Fore on Unsplash