Gift giving is a really fun aspect of the holidays that has become a big tradition! But if you're trying to live more intentionally and/or ecofriendly, it can be tricky to know how to navigate this time of year.
Here are some tips to becoming more intentional when giving gifts this season!
1. Ask Yourself What Your Intentions Are
Before I get into specific ideas, its important to ask yourself some questions about your intentions with giving these gifts. Imagine the person you're getting a gift for and use these to evaluate any gift ideas you come up with:
"Do they have a use for this gift"
"Would they want this gift?"
"Am I giving this gift because it will mean something to us or am I just giving because of the impression it will make or because its the norm? Am I giving just to give?"
I can't give you a 'one-size-fits-all' answer about what gifts are best, but these questions should help you figure it out in any situation you're in.
2. Don't Be Afraid to Regift or Get a Gift Secondhand!
Do you have wedding gifts that you've never opened but that are in perfect condition? Was it just your birthday and you got more Bath & Body Work's lotions then you'll ever be able to use up? As long as the product is good quality and nice - don't be afraid to regift!!
Maybe you're wanting to thrift some gifts... but what can you find second hand that is nice enough to give to those you love? (Or maybe you have a white elephant and don't care as much about the 'niceness' - regifting & buying secondhand is a great idea for things like this too!)
Here are some ideas:
- Nice dishes (dinnerware, glassware, mugs...)
- Vases & decor, picture frames
- Crafting supplies
- Books
If the person you're giving the gift to loves thrifting, you could even get them a gift card or take them to the store and let them pick out some things they love!
3. DIY What You Can
I LOVE LOVE LOVE crafts. I have DIYed many gifts. I think when it comes to DIY and handmade gifts to have a balance:) If I have only given someone handmade gifts, I try to get them something else. But even if you don't DIY the whole gift, it can be really meaningful to add some personal touches.
Here's some examples of things I've done OR received before:
- Homemade blanket
- Homemade Christmas cards
- DIYed Ornaments
Some ideas to incorporate personal touches:
- Getting blank wrapping paper and lettering their name/festive phrases
- This year, we're using wax stamps on our Christmas Cards
- Somehow include photos of the two of you together
4. Shop Small/Local Businesses
Buying from small shops and local businesses is becoming more and more trendy - and for a good reason! Smaller businesses are able to customize gifts and are able to be a lot more eco-friendly. It's also supporting your friends and neighbors - what better way to spread some Christmas cheer! Here are some small/local business that I personally love:
Farmer's Markets and Craft Fairs are a great way to find small businesses in your area, especially around the Holiday Season! Check them out and you'll find lots of gems:)
5. Gift Products That Are Sustainable
Another idea is to give gifts that are eco friendly! The important thing to me about sustainable gifts is to remember the questions from before and make sure that they're things your loved ones will *actually* love and use too - besides just being environmental :) I've actually compiled a list of ideas for stocking stuffers, gifts under $25, gifts under $50, and customizable gifts. Check it out here!
6. Give The Gift of an Experience
Does the people in your life already seem to have everything they need & want? One way to still show your love with them is to give them a gift that is actually an experience. Need a few ideas? Here ya go!
Experience gifts that still have a physical gift attached:
- Movie night basket
- Picnic basket
- Book Lovers gift basket
(Pinterest has lots of great gift basket ideas if you need more inspo!)
Experience gifts for you to do together:
- Tickets to a concert together
- Treat them to a nice dinner
- Plan a weekend getaway together
Experience gifts for them to enjoy:
- Spa gift card
- Airbnb gift card
- Membership to a museum, zoo, etc.
7. Donate to a Cause in Their Name OR Give to Someone in Need
My final idea if none of these seem like a good fit is to donate to a cause they care about in their name! Do your research before you donate to charities, but this is an awesome way to spread some cheer and make a difference. Maybe instead of a big charity, you & the person you want to gift to find someone locally and help them in whatever way they need. There are so many opportunities and this is a great way to strengthen your relationship and community.
What ever you decide to do - I know it will be amazing and appreciated! Happy Holidays!
xoxo, Kirsten
Comments