If you’re like me, you’re staring down the deadline of Christmas and/or Hannukah wondering
what to give to your beloved friends and family to show them how much you care and just how
much they mean to you. Somehow a gift card feels like you just phoned it in, avoiding the effort
or the thought. But yet, with a gift card, at least they can choose something they actually want
After feeling stuck myself, realizing that there are only a few shopping weeks left, I created this
list of potential gifts which invest in health, happiness or furthering the goals of my friends and
family.
- Experience-Based Gifts to let them try something new, make memories, or indulge in an
activity they enjoy.
– Healthy Cooking Classes: For the foodie in your life, a cooking class could be the
perfect gift. Classes can range from gluten free baking workshops to international cuisine
sessions, and they’re available both in-person and online.
– Concert or Theater Tickets: A night out at a concert, theater, or comedy show can
create a memorable evening. Some theaters and event organizers also offer vouchers,
allowing recipients to pick their own show and date.
– Outdoor Adventures: For nature lovers, think about gifting activities like zip-lining, a
season ski pass or a guided nature hike for the spring.
– Escape Room or Puzzle Challenge: If you’re shopping for someone who loves puzzles
and games, consider an escape room experience. Many escape rooms have themes
ranging from detective mysteries to historical events, so there’s something for everyone. - Subscription Services to keep the giving going long after the holidays have ended.
– Book Subscription Box: For avid readers, book subscription services deliver a new book
each month, often with personalized recommendations based on their favorite genres.
Some boxes even include extra goodies like bookmarks, coffee, or snacks.
– Art or DIY Craft Kit Subscription: For a creative spirit, an art subscription could be an
ideal gift. Monthly craft kits, painting supplies, or art prints provide everything needed
for a regular dose of creativity and inspiration.
– Meal Kit Subscription: If you know someone who loves cooking but struggles to find
time for meal prep, consider a meal kit subscription. These services provide fresh
ingredients and easy-to-follow recipes that make mealtime both fun and convenient. - Skill-Based Gifts to focus on helping the recipient learn or improve a specific skill – perfect
for people who love growth and self-improvement.
– Fitness Classes: Gifting a class or an online subscription can be particularly meaningful
for someone looking to expand their fitness level or pursue a new recreation like rock
climbing or tennis.
– Language Learning Subscription: For anyone who dreams of traveling or exploring
new cultures, a subscription to a language learning app like Babbel, Rosetta Stone, or
Duolingo could be a fantastic gift. It’s practical, enriching, and offers the gift of
connection to different parts of the world.
– Music Lessons: Music lessons can be an incredible gift for someone who has always
wanted to learn to play an instrument. Virtual or in-person lessons for instruments like
guitar, piano, or even singing allow the recipient to develop a skill they’ll enjoy for years
to come.
- Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Gifts to reflect the values of environmentally-conscious loved
ones.
– Reusable Essentials: Items like stainless steel water bottles, beeswax wraps, or reusable
tote bags make practical gifts that reduce waste and inspire sustainable habits. Look for
items made from eco-friendly materials like bamboo, organic cotton, or recycled plastics.
– Tree Planting or Environmental Donation: Many organizations offer options for
gifting a tree planting in the recipient’s name. For someone passionate about
conservation, consider donating to a charity that focuses on reforestation, ocean clean-up,
or wildlife preservation on their behalf.
– Zero-Waste Kits: For someone interested in reducing waste, a zero-waste starter kit can
be both practical and inspiring. Kits might include reusable straws, cloth bags,
biodegradable toothbrushes, and compostable dish sponges. - Personalized and Handmade Gifts to show that you went the extra mile to create something
unique just for them.
– Custom-Made Jewelry or Accessories: Make your own of purchase from an artisan
who offers custom jewelry that can feature initials, birthstones, or meaningful symbols.
– Memory Scrapbook or Photo Album: Compile special photos, letters, and mementos
into a scrapbook or photo album. This can be a touching gift for a family member or
close friend, as it celebrates the relationship and shared memories.
– Customized Map: Customized maps featuring meaningful locations—such as a place
where the couple first met, a memorable vacation, or a hometown—can be a sentimental
gift for loved ones, especially those who are sentimental about places and travel.
– Charity Donation in Their Name: If the recipient has a favorite cause, making a
donation in their name can be incredibly thoughtful. Whether it’s for animal welfare,
children’s education, or global health, a charitable gift reflects the spirit of giving back.
Whatever you choose, write a thoughtful card or note to include with the present. Say something
special about that person, tell them what they mean to you and wish them blessings for the
future. Your kind words may be the best part of the holidays, because in the end, it is still the
thought, sentiment and love that comes with the gift that means the most.