Interview with Wanda Wen

anda Wen, author of The Art of Gift Wrapping, answers a few questions about her book, her recent trip to Chicago, and her upcoming literary exploits.

PC:  What attracts you to gift wrapping? How did your gift-wrapping endeavors begin?

WW:  I love the act of gift wrapping as it is a gesture in honoring another and of giving a little of yourself. That one has a blank canvas to create and explore one’s creativity makes gift wrapping such a joy for many.

I started to really appreciate gift-wrapping while in college. As most college students, I was on a budget. Thus, I was driven to be creative on a dime, seeking elements of nature just outside my door along with common, everyday papers that I already had on hand, i.e. wax paper, paper bag, etc.

PC:  You were recently in Chicago for a book signing. How did you like your stay in the Windy City? Did you do anything you particularly liked?

WW: I really love Chicago. I am particularly fond of the people here, down-to-earth and just plain friendly. Loved strolling Michigan Avenue and seeing all the tulips in bloom.

PC:  Do you have any eco-friendly gift wrapping tips?

WW:  Step outside and seek elements of nature to use as gift toppers. They are free, they are beautiful, they honor nature, and they are biodegradable!
Reuse beautiful gift wrap that you receive as a gift either as cut-out decor to embellish plain paper bags or pouches, or cut in 3″ strips to wrap around a wrapped package as a cummerbund, instead of a ribbon.

PC:  Finally, whats next for you? Any plans to write another book?

WW:  Yes, am working on my next book, writing this with Stephen Freuh, PhD, Weddings from the Inside Out, geared towards the newly-engaged, to inspire them to approach their wedding with personal and heart-felt meaning interlaced with all the aesthetic choices needed to be made.

PC:  Thanks Wanda!