Finds’ friend and roving reporter, Aimee, was asked to participate in the Container Store’s South Loop Grand Opening celebration. She said “yes” and is here to tell you all about it!
“For all of the amazing finds that Erica posts each and every week, the one thing she will never give away or offer a coupon for is time. Time is the most elusive of all of our natural resources – especially during the holiday season. From office parties to gift buying, charity donating and vacationing there are just never enough hours in the day. So how can you buy yourself some extra minutes to get it all done? Organize! Sorry, I know you were hoping for a special pill, or magic potion, but the truth is that the only thing that buys more time, is not wasting it searching for the things you need. [She has a good point here!]
Last week, I received an invitation to the mecca of organization – a pre-opening blogger event for the opening of The Container Store in Chicago’s South Loop. In addition to hearing more about the history and culture of one of my favorite stores, they provided terrific suggestions for getting organized this holiday season. As an added bonus, each of them is under $100 and two are under $10.
- Keep things under wraps – Our hosts demoed one my new favorite items the Neat Roll Fasteners ($5.99). These brilliant little fasteners keep gift wrap secure and prevent the edges from being ruined by tape. No more late night drugstore runs to replace ripped or shredded paper – this little tool is a no brainer for those of us who like to keep things neat tidy.
- Store behind the door – Full disclosure, I am obsessed with Elfa. I would Elfa every square inch of my house if I could; and this solution might just be my next project. The White Elfa Gift Wrap Door & Wall Rack Solution ($91.93) makes use of what is otherwise dead-space on the inside of a closet door by storing all of the paper, ribbon and supplies. If you are not a fan of gift wrapping, it could easily be used for cleaning supplies or other light items. [Oh, Aimee would be very unimpressed with my gift wrapping solution – or lack there of!]
- Cut through the clutter – For those who will spend the better part of December wrapping box, after box, after box, consider investing in a Paper Cutter & Folder ($4.99). This tiny tool cuts wrapping paper much faster than traditional scissors, makes super straight lines and helps create clean folds. When the product was demoed I could not believe how much faster she was able to wrap the box….and how much better the gift looked!
Didn’t know there were so many ways to “prep” for the holidays, did you? Head out to The Container Store for these time saving tools and more.”
I love Aimee’s suggestions. The Container Store also has great gifts (organized on their website by price for convenience) and a zillion stocking stuffers! Great news, if you spend $100 in a single transaction (in-store only) between November 1st and November 30th and receive a $15 December Delight Card. The card is redeemable from December 1st through December 23rd to use in store, online or by phone. Offer is while supplies last. Terms and conditions apply. See store for details.
Also, TCS is partnering with One Warm Coat to benefit those in need this holiday season. Throughout the months of November and December, they are collecting gently used coats, sweaters, jackets, sweatshirts, hats and mittens. The items you donate will benefit those in need in your local community. Another win-win!
Are you organized like Aimee? If you are or are a wannabee like me, check out The Container Store this holiday season for help!
Aimee Schuster works in Marketing in Chicago and is the former owner of Ecoscene, a website that reviewed eco-friendly products and services. She is a marathon runner and an aspiring DIY enthusiast. She lives in Wicker Park with her husband Ben and their dog Gus. Don’t miss Aimee’s great posts on saving money on your wedding and what to do with your wedding dress after the big day!
PS. Don’t forget my great giveaways!
Disclosure: Aimee was not compensated for this post. She was given some products and lunch at the event in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are her own.