How to Pick Great Holiday Gifts without Breaking the Bank
As the focus of the upcoming holiday season is towards those we are closest to, finding the right gifts for each can be a challenge. An upgrade on a tech gift will be appreciated by some, while the gift of your time may just be perfect for another person. Here are a few more ideas that help you find gifts for everyone on your list without breaking the bank.
Gifts of love
The most important gifts for the holidays are to those who we love the most. When considering a Xmas gift for those closest to us, a unique, thoughtful and quality gift is required that they can enjoy for years as a reminder of you. This could be a piece of jewellery in her favourite colour, a piece of home décor that shows your appreciation or something unique that lasts for a lifetime.
The gift of time
Arrange to spend some time together with someone on your holiday gifts list. Even if you have to wait some time to meet up, put a date in the diary that you will meet for a coffee date, dinner date, or a day out together. You could visit an art exhibition, try out a new restaurant or go for a picnic in the park when the weather improves or when travel is possible.
A sign of your love
The holidays are a time to enjoy your family and friends and remind them how much you care. If you are unable to meet face-to-face, send them a letter to let them know how much you appreciate and love them. This is particularly special for parents, your spouse or your children, but can also include friends. Give an example of a time when they helped you out. It is surprising how unaware many people that an act of kindness has meant so much.
Be of service
Sometimes, the best gifts are those that are not actually a thing, but an act of service to another. If you see that the lock on the back door of your parents how is broken, replace it yourself with something that makes them feel secure. Gift tokens that they can exchange for you to tidy their garden, clean the house, cook them a meal or care for their kids or pets for a time so they can have some free time. Being spontaneous and being of service without asking, simply means putting some thought into where your skills would be most helpful.
Gifts that keep on giving
Consider gifts that can be enjoyed over time. Flowers are a special gift, but bouquets last a week at most in the holiday season, so consider a rose bush or fruit tree that can be planted in good weather to give years of enjoyment. Books are also great gifts for all ages, being inspirational, fun and educational. Introduce children to the favourite books you read when younger or gift the latest book by a favourite author for the avid reader on your list.
Experience gifts
Experience gifts are becoming increasingly popular. This can be a season ticket for their favourite team or the opportunity to see their favourite band live. You might prefer to try hang-gliding or take a romantic sunrise balloon ride. Create a memory to hold forever or something that could kickstart a new hobby, with a cookery class, dance class or something else. Also, consider a subscription that ties in with an existing hobby or interest, this could be a magazine or a monthly delivery of craft beers.
