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Fun & Thoughtful Ways to Dress Up Any Meal JULY 16, 2024 / KELLI NAPOTNIK / 
When time allows, it's sometimes fun to spruce up the meal you are taking to a friend. There are many simple and inexpensive ways to do this and it's a win-win. You are able to be creative and the recipient gets an extra helping of care. Here are some fun and thoughtful ideas to keep in mind when you sign up to take your next meal.
 One simple way to dress up your meal is to separate the ingredients with aluminum foil. This is a great way to utilize one pan, but also organize ingredients in an eye-catching way. We love this photo shared with us on Instagram. The personalized note welcoming baby was a sweet touch. We've designed a free printable meal label that you can use too.
 Ribbon is another versatile way to dress up any meal! Our team member, Nadia, recommends using ribbon because it's something most of us keep on hand. You can tie it around disposable pans or tape a bow on the top of a soup container.
It's just an easy addition that pulls everything together. I usually get my ribbon from Walmart. I like to buy extra, so as the seasons change, I have different colors and patterns to use! ~Nadia
She used a yellow ribbon along with this printable to add a personal message to a bottle of lemonade. I love how a simple ribbon and heartfelt message like, "You're simply the best!" can make something ordinary feel special and intentional.
Other thoughtful extras to send along with your meal include:
One last inexpensive way to dress up a meal is to use baskets or tea towels to carry items. I recently made four loaves of sourdough bread and took three of them to my family and neighbors. I simply placed a paper towel under the loaf of bread and then folded a cotton towel around the bread. You could then tie with twine (or ribbon!) as well. See my step-by-step process of wrapping a loaf below. I always appreciate a beautiful, new kitchen towel in my house as ours get worn out quickly!
 While reaching out and offering a meal is a thoughtful gesture by itself, there are simple and inexpensive (and fun!) ways you can add interest and personality to your meal. I enjoy preparing meals for friends and family and especially love seeing their reactions when I've taken a little extra time to add a personal touch. Do you have any favorite ways to dress up a meal? We'd love to hear!
*photo credit to Cindy Parker
 #1: This delicious birthday loaf cake is the perfect treat to include with a meal if you are looking for a simple birthday treat! It transports easily and tastes amazing! With sprinkles inside and out, it makes for such a fun and special treat!
Don't have Instagram? Click here for the recipe!
#2: Nadia shares a Crockpot Queso Chicken recipe that is easy to make and a perfect dish to take to someone. It's one of her favorite meals to make on a busy weeknight!
Don't have Instagram? Click here for the recipe!
#3: Check out how TTAM user Marge is caring for others with meals!
#4: Do you need some inspiration for planning your monthly potluck? Perfect Potluck is here to help! Check out these three themes for July to add energy and excitement to your next gathering!
#5: You can brighten someone's day by making the containers that you use to deliver your food attractive. Here are some of our favorite ways to make your packaging pretty from Pinterest!
Read other recent articles by Kelli Napotnik:
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Welcome! We're thrilled you stopped by. Our own joys and sorrows have taught us that a well-timed meal delivered by a friend is one of the best gifts imaginable. In this space, we share our favorite recipes to take to friends, meal-taking tips, and other ways to care for those who are dear to you. Helpful Posts
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