We consistently find that our clients and friends struggle with finding ways to organize gift bags and wrapping paper. This year, let’s tackle it before we go buy more wrapping paper and gift bags!
Reflecting On Traditions: Holiday Treats
As we celebrate this wonderful time of year, let’s pay tribute to our memories, treasures, and traditions - old and new. From our family to yours we offer our warmest wishes for the best holiday season ever. It’s time to celebrate!
At Help You Dwell, we feel truly blessed to have been welcomed into your homes this year. This season is a celebration of togetherness, which has prompted me to reflect more on my own family’s Christmas traditions.
Upon reflection, of all the holiday traditions my family enjoys my favorite ones seem to revolve around food. I don’t really know what that says about me, but I do know that holiday meals satisfy more than our appetite. They feed our need for tradition. The delicious smell of fresh baked cookies, the savory taste of special sauces and meats - these are the foods we remember.
Despite the years, distance and hectic schedules my family tries to maintain some of the traditions started long ago. If you asked any one of my little sisters they would say our most beloved family tradition is making Christmas sugar cookies together. Although a simple tradition, the whole process is beloved by young and old in our home. Every year, my sisters and I gather in the kitchen one night and roll out the dough and cut batches of sugar cookie dough into festive and often over decorated treats. They never turn out perfectly and that’s what makes the whole process memorable. Each cookie is made with love and any imperfections are quickly covered with sprinkles and frosting. Using the same festive cookie cutters from when I was little, everyone joins in on cutting, baking, frosting, and drowning our confections in sprinkles. The only rule that we follow is that there is always more room for more frosting and more sprinkles!
If you're feeling ambitious, pull out your favorite cookie recipe and let the baking extravaganza begin. From classic sugar cookies to indulgent chocolate chip delights, there's a recipe for every taste bud. Gather your loved ones and make it a family affair, creating cherished memories that will linger long after the last cookie crumb is devoured.
Below I’ve included the classic sugar cookie recipe that I use with my little sisters — if you try it out tag us on instagram so I can see your masterpieces!
Sugar Cookies:
2 1/2 c. all-purpose flour
1 c. granulated sugar
2 tsp. vanilla extract
1 tsp. kosher salt
1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. baking soda
1 c. unsalted butter (softened)
1 large egg (room temperature)
1. Combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, baking powder, and baking soda in a medium bowl.
2. Cream together the butter and sugar in a medium bowl, add the egg and vanilla, and beat until fully combined. Slowly add in the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined.
3. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate until chilled - at least 1 hour.
4. Preheat oven to 375° and roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface and cut out your christmas shapes.
6. Bake for 9 to 10 minutes
Icing:
1/2 c. unsalted butter, softened
3 c. powdered sugar
2-3 tbsp. milk or cream
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1/2 tsp. kosher salt
red and green food coloring
sprinkles
1. Beat the butter until creamy, slowly add in the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla and salt, beating until fully combined. Increase the mixer speed to medium and beat until lightened and creamy.
Written by Isabelle
Home for the Holidays: The Ultimate Local Gift Guide
This holiday season, join us in the spirit of intentional giving with our curated gift guide - a tribute to the remarkable local businesses that enrich our community. Each of these businesses offer unique and thoughtful gifts that are sure to bring joy to your loved ones, and make a positive impact on the place we call home. While our guide highlights some of the best, remember that there are countless other local gems waiting to be discovered in our town, each offering the perfect gift to make this holiday season truly memorable.
The Happy Envelope: Luxury in Every Detail
The Happy Envelope stands out for its exquisite offerings, from luxury letterpress wedding invitations to custom stationery and art prints. Delve into their collection of gifts that will not only capture your attention but also make your heart smile with every thoughtful detail.
The Plaid Apron: A Farm to Table Staple
Delight someone's taste buds with a meal or gift card from The Plaid Apron. This eatery bridges the gap between farmer and restaurant offering a delicious culinary experience that supports local producers.
The Painted Perch & Co: A Market of Treasures
This market boasts over 30 vendors offering a diverse range of goods, from antiques and painted furniture to local artwork and handmade pieces. Find unique holiday items that support a good cause.
Union Avenue Books: A Literary Haven
Dive into the world of literature with Union Avenue Books, Downtown Knoxville's locally-owned independent bookstore. Explore their vast selection and support local authors by choosing a book that speaks to the heart of your loved ones.
Stanley’s Greenhouse: Nature's Gifts
Located south of downtown Knoxville, Stanley’s Greenhouse is a locally-owned retreat for plant lovers. Explore their Holiday Marketplace every Sunday in December for gifts and decor crafted by local artisans.
The District Gallery and Framery: Where Art Comes to Life
The District Gallery is a haven for art enthusiasts, offering custom framing and a stunning array of one-of-a-kind jewelry and artwork from local and regional artists. Uncover the perfect piece to adorn your loved one's space.
Doing Dishes: Unearth Vintage Charm
Step into the charming world of Doing Dishes, a quirky little shop that specializes in buying and selling vintage, antique, and collectible china by the piece. Discover unique treasures and add a touch of nostalgia to your holiday gifting with their one-of-a-kind selection.
71 South: Dining in the Heart of Baker Creek Preserve
Nestled within Knoxville's Urban Wilderness, 71 South offers a unique dining experience in a century-old converted church. A casual atmosphere with local brews and handcrafted cocktails - a perfect destination for any occasion.
Minimal Optimist: Sustainable and Stylish
Explore the sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle boutique, Minimal Optimist, for naturally inspired goods and unique gifts. Each item reflects a commitment to sustainability, making it the perfect choice for those who appreciate style with a conscience.
Roost: Thoughtfully Curated Home Goods
Nestled in downtown Maryville, Roost is a boutique furniture and home goods store. Beyond offering stylish items, they provide professional interior design services to help you style your space, ensuring your home is as unique as you are.
Bradley’s Gift & Home: Handcrafted Delights
Bradley’s offers a delightful array of handmade sweets, unique home goods, and special gifts for any occasion. Discover ornaments, candles, and decor that add a personal touch to your holiday gifting.
Fig & Co.: Unique Finds for the Home
Fig & Co. is your destination for one-of-a-kind goods, including accent decor, art, furniture, and gifts. Browse their selection of holiday decor and gifts that will make a statement in any home.
Gather: Modern Farmhouse Charm
Experience the charm of modern farmhouse aesthetics at Gather, where you'll find specialty finds for baby, home, and gorgeous accessories for your loved ones. Their seasonal merchandise is a beautiful blend of style and southern hospitality.
Help You Dwell: The Gift of Tranquility
Give the gift of Help You Dwell's organizing services to a friend, loved one, or neighbor. Perfect for new moms, transitioning homeowners, or anyone who could use a little extra love in the form of an organized space.
Photography Session: Capturing Moments
For the gift of memories, give the gift of a timeless photo session that will be cherished for years to come.
Heather Anne Thomas: the visionary behind Beall + Thomas Photography, who transforms moments into timeless works of art. Heather's elegant style and commitment to perfection results in photographs that are not just snapshots but pieces of art that you'll proudly display in your home.
Suzy Collins Photography: A keen eye for capturing genuine emotions make her family photo sessions a truly enjoyable experience. Suzy captures images that celebrate the essence of family bonds, she has a remarkable talent for immortalizing the genuine moments in any session.
As the season of giving unfolds, let's unite in celebrating the joy of intentional giving by supporting our local businesses. By choosing to shop locally, you not only find unique gifts but also play a crucial role in maintaining the vibrancy and resilience of our community. Happy Holidays!
Glad Tidings
We want to wish you all holiday season full of comfort & joy. For those of you celebrating Christmas, we hope it’s one full of peace & celebration. Enjoy this beautiful Christmas poem from Madeleine L’Engle…
He did not wait till the world was ready,
till men and nations were at peace
He came when the Heavens were unsteady
and prisoners cried out for release.
He did not wait for the perfect time.
He came when the need was deep and great.
He dined with sinners in all their grime,
turned water into wine. He did not wait
till hearts were pure. In joy he came
to a tarnished world of sin and doubt.
To a world like ours, of anguished shame
He came, and his Light would not go out.
He came to a world which did not mesh,
to heal its tangles, shield its scorn.
In the mystery of the Word made Flesh
the Maker of the stars was born.
We cannot wait till the world is sane
to raise our songs with joyful voice,
for to share our grief, to touch our pain,
He came with Love: Rejoice! Rejoice!
Holiday Gift Guide 2018
Experiences
Tickets to The Unusual Tale of Mary & Joseph’s Baby
Rock climbing @ River Sports
Photo Session with Carrie Jo Savage, of Texture Photo
Yoga passes @ Glowing Body
Blue Apron Meal Subscription
Ice Skating on market square
Pottery Class @ Mighty Mud
Progressive dinner- visit 4 different downtown restaurants and walk between courses
Cooking classes and a 4 course meal with Chef Cedric. See this article for more info.
Image from The Hive
Image from Knoxville Holidays on Ice
Image from River & Rail Theater Co.
Goods
Coffee from 41 & Change Coffee Co.
New Minimalism: Decluttering and design for Sustainable, Intentional Living
Homebody: A Guide to Creating Spaces You Never Want to Leave
Brass Easel Photo Desk Calendar
A set of hand made glasses from Pretentious Glass Co.
A best seller from Union Ave Books
A plant from Stanleys Greenhous
Image by Artifact Uprising
Image by Pretentious Glass
Holiday gift guide: Give the gift of experience rather than goods
Christmas is less than two weeks away and we have a great list of gift ideas that won't clutter up the homes of the ones you love. We have compiled ideas for all age groups, budgets, and interests. We've even managed to think of ways to support local businesses without having to purchase tangible items. Whether you're shopping for "the person that already has everything", someone who is working toward a minimal lifestyle, or for someone that you wish would get rid of some clutter, we've got you covered.
Experiences:
- A Weekend away. Knoxville is conveniently located in driving distance from Nashville, Atlanta, Louisville, Chattanooga, and the Smokey Mountains. Try out an air bnb property rather than a hotel for a more personalized experience.
- Dinner out. A few of our local favorites are A dopo, Knox Mason, Emelia, and J.C. Holdway
- Manicure, pedicure, massage, spa treatment etc. Support a local salon like Wild Lavender or Pure Lux
Give the gift of classes or offer to teach someone a skill that you have:
- Teach a loved one to knit, crochet, embroider, or sew. Loopville offers lots of classes for all levels of learning
- Teach someone how to bake your "signature" treat or cook your favorite meal or give the gift of cooking classes at The Cutting Edge Classroom
- Music/instrument lessons. Bill Jones Music offers many options.
- Art or pottery classes. Check out Mighty Mud or ask a local artist if they offer private lessons.
- Yoga membership or class package. The Glowing Body is one of our favorite locally owned studios.
- Photography classes. Light Finds offers classes and private lessons as well!
Events:
The Mill & Mine: Image Source
- Tickets to a concert. Check out the websites of these local or neighboring city venues to see whose coming to town soon. The Bijou Theater, The Tennessee Theater, The Mill & Mine, The Ryman Auditorium in Nashville and The Orange Peel in Asheville.
- Tickets to a play or musical. These local theaters and theater company's won't disappoint. River and Rail, Clarence Brown Theater, The Carpet Bag Theater
- Tickets to a sporting event like a UT basketball game or an ice bears game
- Tickets to a workshop at The Hive (upcoming workshops include embodied season, understanding the enneagram , and make your own perfume) or Central Collective (upcoming workshops include good sport night, sushi making, and an introduction course to indigo and shibori dyeing)
Gift ideas for Kids:
The Basement community art studio. Image Source
- Climbing passes to Onsight Rock Gym or The Climbing Center at River Sports
- Classes at or passes to The Basement Community Arts Studio
- Navitat at Ijams is a tree based adventure course that kiddos would LOVE getting passes for
- A trip to Paint your own pottery at Liza moz
- Ice Chalet passes or lessons
Miscellaneous:
CSA share. Image source
- A Community-Supported Agriculture (CSA) Membership. Check out this website for local options.
- A fishing license (and a gift certificate to a bait shop) or hunting license (with ammunition)
- Ancestry/DNA testing is all the rage. Give a friend or family member a kit so that they can learn more about their heritage. These two services come highly recommended--Ancestry DNA and 23&Me.
- A trial run of a meal service. Our favorites are Hello Fresh and Peach Dish
- Know someone that could use some organizing help, packing help for an upcoming move, or interior design assistance? Help You Dwell gift cards are the way to go :)
- Give a donation to a charity in honor of a loved one. Some of our favorite non profits in town are Beardsley Farm, The Knoxville Museum of Art, The Knox County Library, Compassion Coalition, Interfaith Health Clinic, The Change Center and The Volunteer Ministry Center
Think outside of the box this year and give those you love something that they will remember forever!
Shopping with conscience this Holiday Season
Are you having trouble this holiday season finding the right gift for a loved one? It can be hard to find well made and meaningful gifts while on a budget but we have compiled a few ideas and along with a list of some of our new favorite shops to help you with those last minute gifts on your list.
Over at HYD we are trying to adopt a few new shopping practices...
1. We are learning to buy less but to buy better.
2. We are working on curbing our impulsive purchases and implementing the discipline of saving up for items that will last longer, are better quality, are made ethically, and are ultimately more meaningful.
With those things in mind, here are a few shops we have stumbled across recently that fit our broader vision. Keep reading to see our top picks from each shop.
1. Spartan Shop
Japanese Cloth Napkins
Wooden Walking Elephant Toy
Black amber and turquoise pocket knife
hand crafted Mexican glassware
Apron
Ceramic Pitcher
Brass and leather key chain
Bud vase collection
Mama cat and Kitten finger puppets
4. More & Co.
Jams and Marmalade made in Maine
city scape puzzle
throw blanket made in the USA
5. Rala
Downtown Knoxville tote bag
Farmers Market baseball tee
National Park explorers guide
If you would prefer not to purchase a physical item as a gift we have ideas for that as well!
-Consider making a donation in someones honor to a Gatlinburg relief fund to help victims of the tragic fire in our very own Smokey Mountains
-Purchase tickets for a play, musical or concert to give as an experiential gift
-Plan a dinner date to the restaurant of a loved ones choice and make a home made certificate saying "dinner's on me".
-Give the gift of organization and purchase a Help You Dwell Gift card for a friend or family member.
Merry Christmas Eve!
Image by Terrain
If you are in the throws of wrapping presents and trying to get everything ready for tomorrow, just remember that we are only a phone call away to help you with the chaos that comes after Christmas is over. When you have returns to take back, exchanges to make, a whole house of decorations to pack back up-- we are your girls!
We are still offering 20% off Holiday tear down and organization if you call or email to book a consultation before January 1st.
We hope your day tomorrow is full of family, fun, and the sweet fulfillment of the advent season.
HYD wishes you and yours a Happy Christmas Eve, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Old North Knoxville Home Tour
Image from Victorian Holiday Home Tour 505 East Scott Ave.
Each month we try to feature a home tour on our blog. We love being able to hear about what "home" means to different people and we treasure the relational aspect of being invited into someones house. This month we offer you something a little different. If you have never attended the Old North Knoxville Home Tour, we highly recommend it. We attended this past weekend and have pictures and ideas to share with you. Although each of these homes was built around the same time period, in the same Victorian style, it was neat to see how each homeowner's personal taste and style came out in the decor.
303 Oklahoma Ave
302 E. Scott Ave
We asked each home owner two questions, "What do you love about your home?" and "What makes your home unique?". We got a wide variety of answers and loved hearing about the many renovation experiences and processes of restoring historic homes. Below are a few of our favorite responses. Enjoy!
"What we love most about our home is that we were able to take something neglected and dirty that most people would turn away from and rehab it into the gorgeous home it was intended to be. " (Leslie M.)
Photo by Alan Sims : Inside Knoxville 204 E. Oklahoma St.
"Our home is unique because it has a distinct juxtaposition of modern and traditional features. We kept the rooms in our house segmented (vs. an hgtv-esque open concept) because each room in our house serves a specific purpose. All of our doorways are very tall and wide, so our rooms still feel open without sacrificing purpose. We believe that old homes should be maintained to serve their original purpose, and at the time of construction, our home would have been very modern and featured the best of the best. We tried to echo this in our renovations and do a modern interpretation of a Victorian home- we put new light fixtures where original light fixtures were placed, moved walls and doorways to original locations, and designed the home so that the purpose of each room was consistent with the original design. Maintaining historical features was very important to us, and we kept this in mind as we gave modern interpretations and new life to our home." (Leslie M.)
"We rarely ever turn a light on during the day. The huge windows let natural light abound and breathe such life into these old walls and hardwoods. That's what I love most." (Jenna V.)
302 E. Scott Ave
302 E. Scott Ave
302 E. Scott Ave.
"The thing we love most about our home is the neighborhood! Old North, with its gracious front porches and proximity to Happy Holler businesses means that you are always meeting a friend or neighbor as you walk down the street. Everyone here is so friendly and we love having impromptu dinner and drinks on our front porch with friends. (Cat S.)
221 E. Oklahoma
221 E Oklahoma
221 E. Oklahoma
"Our house is filled with art and antiques, made by and gifted by family and friends. We also have many souvenirs of our travels together as a family. We think that these personal touches bring warmth to the space, and remind us of our favorite people and places every day. Our house is unique in that it hasn't been "remuddled" like some Victorians--we enjoy the original fireplaces and woodwork of the home and all of its original bones. We are also lucky to have an unusually wide front porch, which means that it can function as an extra room in our home--we have a "living room" with a sectional and a dining area out there that we use all the time when the weather is nice!" (Cat S.)
225 E. Oklahoma St
225 E. Oklahoma St
225 E. Oklahoma St.
We loved seeing how creative people were able to get with their space. Some of our favorite ideas were using old mantels to create faux fireplaces, making great use out of porches and outdoor areas to extend living spaces, using a ladder as vertical (and pretty) storage to hang blankets, and utilizing architectural salvage as art and decor.
If you would like a home by home review of the tour, check out Inside of Knoxville's blog. Pt. 1 & Pt.2
The Greatest Christmas Gift
"Fear not, for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you: Ye shall find the babe wrapped swaddling clothes and lying in a manger." Luke 2: 10-12
Help You Dwell wishes you and yours the most Merry of Christmases! May your hearts be full of the great Joy that has come for all the people.
Knoxville Holiday Gift Guide
Image by Rala on Market Square. All items for sale in store.
We were thrilled to partner with WDWRK as guest bloggers last week. We wanted to give you the link to our Holiday gift guide:Shopping Locally in Knoxville in case you missed it. So without further ado...
Additionally, here are links to some of our favorite gift guides in case you are still looking for last minute ideas.
1. A Cup of Jo (gift ideas for everyone in the family)
2. Happy Pretty Home (gifts for every price range)
3. WDWRKCO (handmade gifts)
4. Little Green Notebook (DIY gifts)
5 Ways to Simplify Your Life During the Holiday Season
A 1950's Christmas
1. Take some time to reflect on your desires for the season. What things are most important to you? What can you let go of? What parts of this season really stress you out and what parts really bring life to you?
2. Clear your calendar. If you are like us, you are probably committing to way too much over the month of December. Along with all of the parties, events, and celebrations, we often feel the pressure to have our house decorated by a certain time, food cooked, guests rooms ready for out of town guests, Christmas shopping done, and presents wrapped. It can be exhausting just thinking about it.
3. Delegate. If you have a willing husband and kiddos, put them to work. Let the kids help with things like hanging stockings on their hooks, wrapping presents (who cares if the wrapping isn't pristine?), and using cookie cutters to cut out Christmas cookies. If you have family coming in town, ask them to help with the cooking--It's always more fun to have a friend in the kitchen with you and usually people want to be of help. If you don't have family in town, host a "Decorating Party" and invite friends over for Egg Nog and to help you decorate your house and string lights.
4. Do good. Make a point to turn your focus on others during the Holidays. Volunteer as a family, purchase angel tree gifts (and let your kids help you pick out the gifts), make a meal for an elderly neighbor who doesn't have family in town, or donate lightly used coats to a homeless shelter. Taking the time to remember those around us who are lonely or struggling helps us remember the point of Christmas.
5. Cut back on social media. Be purposeful in spending time with loved ones rather than browsing Pinterest, Facebook, and Instagram for hours. Skype a friend or family member that lives far away, write a letter to a grandparent (include pictures!), grab coffee with a friend, schedule a play date, or split a babysitter and double date with another couple. Spend your time wisely and push through that to-do list so that you can get to the fun stuff!
Creative Christmas Present Idea
Holiday Shopping Ideas
Yep. It's time. Get it done now & November & December become much more enjoyable, allowing you to enjoy the Peace, Joy & Love of this special time of year.
Now's the time you can think, be intentional about each gift & budget.
As a mom of three, my list always starts with my kids. Several years ago, Matt & I were given the great advice to just do three gifts per kid (just as Jesus received three from the Wise Men). This has been monumental for us in our giving to them & helpful for their receiving as well. Our goal is that each of their gifts fit into the three categories: Active/Sport-related, Educational/Creativity, & Something they love. It has helped us be much more intentional & creative ourselves. As you can imagine, it's also curved that last minute spending frenzy so many parents fall subject to in those last days before the big day.
Moving down the list to Matt, parents, in-laws, & friends the same mentality works. Taking just a few extra moments to think of that one person & thinking outside the scarf, slippers, candle box can add much joy to your giving. If handmade is your desire, you still have time for that if you start now. Etsy is a great place to find handmade items if you're not able to handcraft gifts yourself. If creating photo memories with books or calendars is your plan, start now & you'll have plenty of time. Two great sites for that are Shutterfly and Mixbook.
Organizing my list has become much easier over the years after I found this super simple little notebook to keep my current list, receipts, & lists from previous years in. It was designed by Pepperpot & has served me well for about 5 years now. Your smartphone is also another option, but I love having the previous lists & receipts all in one place.
And if you're a local here in Knoxville, Help You Dwell is making it even easier to Holiday shop by offering a Pop-Up Market on Nov. 8 with all kinds of delightful items for lots of folks on your list.
We'd love to hear some of your unique & fun ideas for taking the stress out of holiday shopping. Give us a quick comment below & help us enjoy the upcoming season just a bit more with your clever ideas. Thanks friends!
