The Greatest Gift of the Season Was Trust.
As dismantle the holiday decor and remerchandise my home, like I do every year in celebration of 3 favorite people’s birthdays — beginning the day after Christmas leading up to Valentine’s Day— I find myself feeling deeply fulfilled and at peace. Not entirely because of the products purchased, wrapped, and delivered, but because of the trust that was given.
This year, so many clients invited me into something incredibly personal: their relationships. They shared stories about mentors who shaped them, employees who carried them through hard seasons, clients who believed in them early, family members who deserved something meaningful, and partners whose loyalty could never be measured with a price tag.
That kind of trust is vulnerable and humbling.
Before a single product was chosen, there were conversations had. Real ones. Conversations filled with memories, gratitude, inside jokes, legacy, and intention. Stories about why someone mattered — not just what they needed.
Those answered questions become the moments where my creativity is ignited.
When someone takes the time to share their story, it gives me the opportunity to create a gift that speaks — not loudly, but authentically. A gift that says I see you, I value you, you matter to me. That’s where thoughtful gifting lives.
One thing that ALWAYS matters deeply to me, and this season was no different, was making sure my clients were guided to the right solution for their needs — even when that meant pointing them to a different resource. Sometimes that meant I could help directly, and sometimes it meant recommending the best option or best price elsewhere. Either way, the priority remains consistent:
1- doing what is right for the relationship,
2- ensuring each gift lands with the intention it deserves and
3 -creating the WIN-WIN (and hopefully -WIN) scenario.
And to my surprise and excitement, the acknowledgements.
The messages, phone calls, photos, and follow-ups from recipients who felt truly seen. People who noticed the care behind the gift. People who understood that this wasn’t “just swag” or “another item,” but something chosen for them. The overwhelming positivity and gratitude confirmed what I’ve always believed: meaningful gifts create emotional connection and emotional connection builds lasting relationships.
I’m incredibly grateful for every client who trusted me with something so important. Thank you for sharing your stories, your time, and your hearts. Thank you for allowing me to do what I love most — helping you honor the people who matter most.
At the end of the day, my work will always be relational!
If the past 6 months reminded me of anything, it’s that when genuine intention leads, good things follow. With that energy carrying forward, I have a feeling 2026 is going to be the best yet — built on relationships, trust, and purposeful giving. I can’t wait to see who I will have the opportunity to work with and love on! I hope it’s you! CHEERS!
💚 jamie AKA, urBRANDgirl