The ART of the Wrap; Greenville's Elves at Work

“We don’t need more celebrations of technology right now. That’s almost the status quo.
What’s exciting are things that feel older, more personal, more hands-on,” said Wava Carpenter, curatorial director of the Design Miami Fair, in a recent interview.

We couldn’t agree more. And after a solid 20 months of intense tech usage, we began searching for that personal, hands-on connection during the holiday season that would remind us of the things worth celebrating. We found it in an unexpected place — the gift-wrappers.

Our holiday shopping memories from 30 years ago almost always include the stop at the department store gift-wrapping counter. The way the women folded the tissue paper to fit neatly within the box, the lined paper into perfect creases, portioning the double-sided tape just-so, and finishing with a ribbon and embossed seal.
It’s difficult, in our society of expedience, to believe such a luxury was standard.

This art form traced back to 2nd century B.C. in China, is not entirely extinct, however, and several local boutiques and shops are carrying on the tradition this season with their own distinct artistry. Through deft fingers and hands, whimsical creativity, and attention to detail, these caretakers of gifting reminded us that a beautifully and thoughtfully wrapped gift is a gift itself.

Words by: Ariel H. Turner
Images by: Jackie Shapiro Brooker

Laughing all the way . . .

Julie is a wrapping fiend at The Cook’s Station (pictured here) where shoppers have been keeping her busy with gifts of all shapes and sizes. Cook’s Station co-owner Kelly Colacioppo said that although gift-wrapping is time consuming, it’s worth it, and if they ever stop offering the concierge service, she’ll close the doors. Safe to say these Santa’s Helpers aren’t going anywhere.

OTGG Tip: Grab lunch (and a drink) to enjoy while you wait for these elves to work their magic.

Making spirits bright

At Cottage Grove Vintage, gifts are wrapped up with cheer and a smile, and it’s one less thing for shoppers to worry about. After all, it’s the hustle and stress of keeping up with all of the holiday obligations that can kill the joy we’re supposed to feel in the season.

The JOY of gift giving . . .

. . . is often as much about the outer wrapping as what’s inside. Just watch a baby go for a gift. They beeline for the shiny bow, grasping with a tiny fist. The way the paper feels and crinkles in their hands brings an instant smile and a squeal, and interior tissue paper quickly becomes confetti – shredded and thrown in the air – or waved around like pom-poms as they cheer on the festivities.

The wrapping is the allure, and as you shop and wrap and give, we hope you find that child-like wonder and joy during this gift-giving season, maybe without completely destroying these temporary works of art.

Ariel Turner