Christmas is quiet now, but just 24 hours earlier, the sound of scissors and ribbon filled On The Roll Wrapping in Oakland Park.
The local gift wrapping boutique worked late into Christmas Eve on Wednesday to carefully fold each package and tie every bow by hand.
The goal was simple: help make Christmas morning special for others.
Owner Haddi Sundseth said the holiday rush didn’t end until the final hours before Christmas Day. But behind the bright paper and bows is a difficult beginning.
“My boyfriend was born on Christmas and he passed away,” Sundseth said. “I just wanted to give the joy of Christmas and giving gifts.”
She said starting the business gave her a way forward during a painful time.
“He was such a giver,” Sundseth said. “He would give his last to someone on the street.”
Sundseth said the loss became even more personal when she learned she was pregnant shortly after his death.
“I found out I had a daughter on the way as soon as he passed away,” she said. “I think about it a lot, especially when I see a gift with his name on it.”
Each gift carries a story and a reminder that even in the hardest seasons, something meaningful can still be created.