I have to admit that I have a love/hate relationship with the holidays. First of all I love them, they really are one of my favorite times of the year. It’s a time of reflection and thanksgiving and a season that helps remind you of the things that are most important to you. For me it’s family and friends and spending time with them, no matter how busy everyone is. Then I think about the prospect of buying gifts and I can quickly and easily get stressed. Finding the right gift to give is a challenge and that is the part of the holiday season that causes me the most anxiety.
I’m hoping that these ideas might help you get started thinking and help with the ideas this holiday season.
First of all it’s the easy things. Does anyone need any thing? A word of caution here, if you’re going to go with a general or household item, make sure that it is going to be okay. For many household items are just that household items and they don’t meet the personalization that some might prefer. For others a needed household item may be a welcome gift, still others may appreciate the thought but might want to have input in the selection, you just have to know your audience but giving gifts that someone needs and can use can be an instant winner.
Next, move onto interests. Does someone love wine, cooking, collecting Pandora charms, massages? You get the idea. Any special interest gives you a great starting off point. Look for items that tie into their interests and you can’t go wrong. It adds to the thoughtfulness of the gift.
Moving on hint hint.... This one can also be an easy one. Often people will inadvertently or purposefully drop hints telling you the perfect gift, all you have to do is be observant in may cases. The end result another win for thoughtfulness.
This next one can be a big hit or not so much, this is the gift that is something that your loved ones wouldn’t have though of. It can open the doors to something new and give them a very pleasant surprise. So often the best gifts are the ones unexpected.
Creative gifts. I must admit I love this category. Be warned that creative gifts often take a fair amount of time and preplanning. These should usually not be left to the last minute as they often take a lot to put together. Homemade gifts fall into this category and knowing that your work and efforts went into making the gifts can make them even more special.
I know that a lot of early birds are done with their shopping, but if you’re like me you’ve still got a lot left on your list. Don’t let your shopping stress you out and I know that you’ll be able to find the perfect gifts.
Happy Shopping!
-Trina