Gifts are fun to get! A beautifully wrapped present can be more memorable, creating a special feeling in the heart of the recipient. A carefully wrapped gift tells us about the person giving the present. It shows us that they really care. Gift-wrapping allows you to make an ordinary item look extravagantly.

The tradition of gift giving is as old as mankind. Decorative packaging is an old tradition in itself. There is proof of decorating presents in many civilized parts of the world from China to Germany. Ribbons, colored papers, bows are only a few examples of gift-wrapping utilized throughout history.

Gift tags are also part of the gift-wrapping tradition. The first gift tags are known to be created in America around the beginning of the twentieth century. Hallmark was one of the pioneers of importing gift-wrapping supplies from abroad around the 1920s. During the 1930s curling ribbon was invented.

Gift-wrapping is a proved to a recession proof activity since it remained popular during the Great Depression. Gift-wrapping has most likely helped to ease the pain during grimm days of the depression.

Gift-wrapping continues to be popular in almost every culture around the world. Ask a friend anywhere around the world and she'll tell you what is popular in her country at the time. You may learn some new tricks. For instance, in Africa, gifts are wrapped in colors that represent the gift giver's feeling toward the recipient. The color red symbolizes wishes for health while grass or foliage speaks of hopes of wealth.

Regardless of the history, the custom, or the gift-wrapping style, beautifully packaged presents are a joy. Even if you don't enjoy wrapping a present, there are many simple things you can do to dress your present. Simply placing the present into a beautiful shopping bag can add to the presentation. A simple ribbon tied around the packaging can elevate the perceived value of the gift and the appreciation of the recipient. A big bow placed on the top of the box can have a positive effect. You can decorate a package using various trinkets if you look around the house. A bit of inspiration and some effort will go a long way when it comes to gift-wrapping.