Pretty packages play an important part

Preplanning can make the task of gift-wrapping more of a fun experience.
Knight Ridder Newspapers
Forget, for a moment, what's inside. How does the gift look? There's no shame in wanting your present to outshine all the others under the tree or by the menorah.
Courtney Shaver, spokeswoman for The Container Store in Miami, gives you some tips on succeeding in your one-upping mission:
UFollow the runway: "Gift wrap trends oftentimes follow fashion trends," said Shaver, who says to look for "deep purples and glittery golds; rich textures; fun, mod dots; and sparkles, sparkles and more sparkles."
UAt the starting gate: Before you even ponder this daunting project, Shaver recommends confining the gift-wrapping chaos to one area of the house -- the family room, dining room, even the garage.
UClutter, be gone: Once you've found a spot for Gift Wrap Central, take inventory of stuff -- clothing, papers, knickknacks -- and either throw them away or donate them to a local charity. "This will help you free up valuable floor, drawer and closet space," Shaver said. Plus, keep in mind you'll be bringing in new stuff during the holiday outpouring.
Shaver also advises doing your work on a hard-edged surface like a table. "This will ensure crisp, clean corners on your packages and discourage unexpected tears in the paper."
UKeep it together: Pick up an all-purpose organizer to hold your supplies (e.g. paper, ribbons, scissors, tags, tape and marker). Keep the box in one place. Make sure it doesn't budge. You don't want essential tools wandering into the kids' play areas, where things will possibly get misplaced or trashed.
UWhat goes where? When it comes to designs on wrapping paper, size does matter. "The pattern should be in proportion to the box. A smaller pattern looks better on a smaller box and a large, bold pattern is preferable for a larger one. It just makes for better present presentation."
UCustom made: "Keep in mind the recipient when choosing paper and coordinating ribbon," Shaver said. Like if he's a Tiger Woods fanatic, check out a golf-club pattern. "Wrap that reflects their interests and personalities creates an extra-special touch of thoughtfulness."
USticky fingers: Three words can save the day -- and your mental health: double-sided tape. "It's invisible," Shaver said, "and really makes for the most clean, professional presentation.
You may want to go a step further and buy Scotch's Pop-Up tape dispenser (around $3) -- which shoots out precut lengths.
UFinishing touches: Again, as with fashion, no outfit is totally put together without accessories. "Don't forget the tags, tie-ons, bows and embellishments," Shaver says.
UHappy holidays: Remember, even when it's 4 a.m. on Christmas Eve and your fingers feel like you've played the longest piano concert in history, get your smile on, says Shaver. "Gift wrapping should be a fun experience, not a laborious one." Her suggestions: Station a CD or cassette player in the room with a selection of holiday tunes, roll out the eggnog, light the pumpkin scented candles.
If all that fails, just think about all the pretty presents you're going to get.