Close your eyes (well, OK, keep reading)… when I say the holidays, does it evoke a certain sight, smell, or taste? In my house, my family is all about the fresh-cut pine tree, fragrant cedar boughs decking the halls, the wafts of gingerbread from the kitchen and the taste of citrus.
But if your senses need some jingling this season, might I suggest a few ways to get you in the holiday baking, making and crafting mode?
Make a wreath at West Seattle Nursery
How many of you toss a holiday wreath in your shopping cart at the grocery store alongside your fruits and vegetables without thought? I promise you, once you try your hand at wreath-making, you might never look at those flat, boring, ubiquitous wreaths the same way again.
At the West Seattle Nursery, it is as easy as scheduling an online appointment to make your wreath. Once you’re there, the instructions, wireframes, and all the fresh greenery and tools are provided. Unlike most things these days, the cost is surprisingly low for a one-of-a-kind creation. Grab a coffee, a friend and make an afternoon of it.
1 hour and 15 minute appointments available with wreaths starting at $20.
Kids Holiday Cookie Decorating Class at the Four Seasons
Do your children like to decorate cookies, but the thought of having your kitchen covered in flour and sprinkles stresses you out? This year, skip the mess and leave it to the experts at the Four Seasons Seattle. Join Seattle’s Pastry Chef Danielle Grogan and Chef Ethan Stowell for a cup of hot cocoa and decorating festive sugar cookies. A prize will be awarded for the most creative cookie. And lest you think the adults will be left out, there will be a cash bar with mimosas available.
Tickets include cookies and decorating supplies. $50 per child with adult supervision. Adults accompanying children do not need a ticket.
Holiday Craft Experiences at Monster
From a felting class to macrame ornaments and embroidery on sweaters or napkins, Monster Shop in Ballard offers a variety of in-person craft classes. Perhaps you will discover a new hobby, make something beautiful for a friend, or at the very least, have something you made that you are proud of adorning your home.
Gift Wrapping and Cookie Swap at The Works
Whether you are new to Seattle, looking to meet people, or simply would love to find people with similar interests, taking a class at The Works is a good place to start. The Works hosts creative classes like candle-making, wreath-making, and my two favorites are a Community Cookie Swap and a Community Gift Wrapping Night. For a mere $5, you can wrap up to five gifts and wow the recipients with both your creative and thoughtful wrapping, or you can bake a dozen cookies, swap a dozen and make a dozen new friends.
There are many ways to celebrate the holidays, and putting your hands to work after a busy and stressful day is just the thing to get you in the holiday spirit. Make your neighbors wonder where you purchased such a fantastic-looking wreath, wow your friends with your newfound skills or impress your family with your wrapping abilities.
Happy Holidays!
