The White Elephant Game: Gift Ideas that Are Useful

The game is easy, just bring in something from home that you don't want, like, or use. Wrap it, and you're done, right? Not so fast! Just what should you bring? What if you don't have anything from home you really want to get rid of? Well, here are a few suggestions that are useful, can be found in your home, or if necessary, picked up in a store for under $5 bucks.

Cookie/Brownie Mix in a Jar
You can easily make this at home. Just take your favorite cookie recipe, layer in a mason jar, or other attractive container and close. Print out a recipe card for other ingredients, and baking instructions, and wrap with a pretty bow. Done! Easy and yummy for the receiver!!

Candles
Most of us have some stashed somewhere in the house. And if you can find a nice votive holder (or larger as needed), you are all set. Someone at your gathering is bound to like the fragrance, and you just got rid of yet another dusty candle taking up space!

Photo Frame
Whether new or used, you can easily personalize it and wow the crowd. Just by using a little craft paint, a glue gun, and some decorative details, you can turn a plain 5x7 frame into a work of art. Try gluing seashells, ribbon, buttons, or leaves and sticks for a nature theme. Or, you can personalize it with such things as: Our Family, I Love my Grandma, I Love my Dad, you get the picture. This one is definitely a winner!

A "Beautiful" Knickknack
You know the one. That crystal lotus your aunt got you for your birthday that just doesn't work with your décor. I can almost guarantee you someone at your function will not just love it, but adore it! This is the best way to pass on something that while not ugly, just doesn't work in your home. Everyone wins!

Notebook/Journal
If you have a blank hardback notebook, you have a gift. Just by decorating the outside with fabric and lettering, you have created a lovely gift that will actually be used by someone. You can also use old wallpaper, or family photos (depending on what sort of function you are going to) to spruce it up and give it a great look. If you have more than one size, make one of each, secure on top of each other with a ribbon, and wrap. Two for the price of one!!

The rules of the game are pretty simple, but vary in different parts of the country. Some parties give a theme, while some expect only gag gifts. I have only gone to those where the main rule is $0-5 bucks are spent. No matter what, with the above ideas you are sure to have a gift that will be traded more than once!