:: Found at The Container Store – stocking stuffers for the kids
{to be used only with adult supervision!} ::
:: pick battles big enough to matter, small enough to win ::
So, we went to the "Real Simple" event held at The Container Store last night. Overall, it was OK. My expectations were a lot higher for the event. But I don't think my expectations were unwarranted. I mean, Real Simple has a great brand that is reflected well in their magazine, all their correspondance + collateral materials, so I think it was fair + not naive to think the event would be a lot more... informative.
Sure, they had "one" demonstration – where we learned to create a bow. Yep, you heard me. A bow.
Now, I was under the impression that I was going to learn " tips and tricks for creating a gorgeous holiday gift presentation". {that's an exciting prospect for someone who cares about wrapping} Now, I am not dissing the bow. I think the bow is extremely important. And I did learn to create a very good bow. :)
The women who gave the demonstration couldn't have been nicer. But honestly, I was expecting a bit more than learning how to create a bow + to wrap a nice package without showing the seams. {honestly, their audience are people who already know how to make a tidy package. They care about these little details, that's why they buy these kinds of magazines etc.}
They had some good food, served on everyday products found within the store which was creative. {mac + cheese served in these aluminum canisters, cute!} The music was terrific. The wine was nice. Overall, a pleasant atmosphere. No hard sell to purchase anything at the store. Which was refreshing.
BUT, I just expected more than one simple demonstation. I expected to learn something new + creative. I mean, I drove 40 minutes to this thing... I had to pick up the phone and actually RSVP to the event. So in this respect, I was disappointed.
The goody bag.
"Attendees will receive a gift bag full of goodies that will help you get ready for the holidays"
This is what was in the bag:
:: handy measuring tape from The Container Store
:: nail polish {super french pink colour called "real simple"}
:: pad of paper with list of grocery items {had a magnet back so you can put on the side of your fridge}
:: small notepad with folders {to hold receipts etc.}
OK, all good things, but not really reflective of the theme. In a grand scale, perhaps. But I guess I was thinking I was going to get some ribbon, bows, tape, you know things to help me create " a gorgeous holiday gift presentation" .
I know, the event was free, I got some appetizers + a nice glass of wine, and a few cute things, but when time is a commodity, you want to make sure it's worth your effort. I really think with a bit more effort, planning, and being focused on the theme, the event could have easily been better.