As the holidays approach, the stress to give the perfect gift tends to escalate. It is very difficult to guess what someone else may like or even need. So, let’s focus on gifts that can be used or enjoyed for the experience. Gifts like this are a win for the giver, the recipient and the environment!
Here is a list of practical gifts for you to consider giving this holiday:
Events-Instead of showering your children or grandchildren with gifts, take them to a fun event. Every year, my husband and I take our grandchildren to “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” This has become a wonderful tradition for us all! ` Another idea would be a pass or even a membership to a local children’s museum or zoo. These can be much appreciated!
This idea can be used for any age. Tickets to a concert or play is a splurge most would enjoy. Classes or lessons supporting interests would create an excitement for the New Year!
Food and beverages– We all love to eat and drink. A grocery store gift card is a sure win. If that is too boring, assemble a gift basket. Fruit baskets, soup mixes or bases with specialty crackers, coffee or tea, wine and cheese, hot cocoa with marshmallows all can be a hit. A loaf of homemade bread with some preserves would be a real treat, also!
Dining out- Give a gift card from a favorite restaurant. If the recipient has young children, you may want to include babysitting. Whether they choose to dine in or take out, this is a win for the recipient and the restaurant.
Toiletries-Shampoo, lotions, soaps, essential oils, etc. Create a spa basket they will love.
Spa or salon gift card–The recipient can select a service (hair, nails, facial, massage) for a gift that they will truly look forward to using.
Store gift card– Get a gift card to their favorite store. With the after Christmas sales, your dollar will go further and they will be sure to love their selection.
Practical gifts-I know someone who requested toilet paper as a gift last year. Other practical suggestions can be: diapers, cleaning supplies, printer cartridges, fresh school supplies for the remainder of the school year.
A clean, organized house-Who doesn’t need this? A gift card for a cleaning service, professional organizer, or stager/re-designer is a treat that will be treasured. This is especially true with all the time that we spend in our homes, in the cooler months.
Donation to an Organization-For the person who has everything, or would prefer to help others, this is perfect. There are so many organizations that need contributions. Donate in honor of your recipient.
I hope that this will get you thinking about gift giving in a new light. Have fun thinking outside the box!
By Julie Starke
