1. The Memory Jar.
This takes a bit of preparation, but it’s really cheap and really sentimental!
Cut strips of paper large enough to write one or two sentences. Write memories that you and the recipient have together, or things you like about them. Roll the strips up tightly (to make it look really pretty you could tie different coloured ribbons around them).
Get a mason jar and put all of the memories inside, mixed up with wrapped sweets and any other nice bits you want to put inside.
Attach a label instructing the recipient to take one thing out per day. (If you find a large enough jar, you could put 365 things in to make it last the whole year!)
2. Night-in Box
Get a pretty box (Paperchase do some nice ones), and fill with little bits for a cosy night in. You could include some warm slipper socks, hot chocolate pouches, a DVD (get a classic chick flick from Amazon and it will be super cheap!) and chocolate or sweets.
3. Homemade mug.
Buy a plain ceramic mug and decorate using Sharpie pens. Leave overnight for the pen to completely dry, then bake in the oven at 250 degrees for 2 hours.
4. Cake-in-a-jar.
Very easy, cheap, and you can make as many as you like! Gather all the dry ingredients for a cake or brownies, and layer in a mason jar.
Here’s a good recipe to try:
· 1/2 cup caster sugar
· 1 tsp baking powder
· 1/2 tsp salt
· 2 1/4 cups rolled oats
· 1 cup assorted sweets, nuts and fruit
· 1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar
· 1/4 cup miniature chocolate chips
Write the recipe on a label and tie around the neck of the jar with a ribbon. Check out the full recipe for the above jar here.
5. Or use the exclusive Her Campus discount code ‘HERCAMPUS30’ for some Blossoming Gifts flowers!
Sources
http://www.grouprecipes.com/134872/monster-cookie-jar-mix.html
http://www.craftaholicsanonymous.net/21-tips-for-diy-sharpie-marker-mugs
http://www.paperchase.co.uk/med-gift-box-painted-peonies.html