Several gift giving holidays fall within the winter months. Additionally, statistics tell us that in 2017 the most popular month for engagement is December. That being said, I’m more for a timeless or classic gift than a situation specific one — with VERY few exceptions. While I can appreciate holiday lines & bundles, I much prefer a gift that can be enjoyed year-round. Furthermore, unless you’re around someone all the time, the “perfect” gift may allude you. This is my guide to avoiding unnecessary gift giving stress
Subscriptions: This trend isn’t new, but certainly growing exponentially in popularity & it’s absolutely my favorite. Everything about which subscription to go for is dependent on the person who will be receiving it.
- Magazine (or another print publication)
- Ipsy
- Dollar Shave Club’
- Earfleek
- FabFitFun
- Birchbox
- StitchFix
- Kiwi Crate
- Bark Box
Mystery Boxes: *USE WITH CAUTION* As seen on YouTube, some sellers are legit & some are total scam artists. Always be sure to research independent sellers & refer to reviews before committing to any mystery box purchase.
- Man Crates
- Laced Up
- Etsy
- eBay
- Amazon
- Craigslist
- Hello Subscription
Product Bundles: Always look for value gift sets. Whether you gift them as a set, or split up the pieces, you’re guaranteed to save money.
Gift Countdown Calendars: Many brands and stores have designed calendars that award a gift for each day of the countdown. From make up to tea to ornaments to bourbon and nail polish, there’s one out there for everyone.
- Ulta
- Target
- Yankee Candle
- Hallmark
- ASOS
- Master of Malt
They’re also super easy to DIY.
(Speaking of) DIY: Homemade crafts can be the most sentimental, all while saving you some money.
- Paper Mache Ornaments
- Picture Frame(s)
- Body Scrub / Soap / Lotion
- Knit Pot Holders
- Scrapbook / Collage
- Hand Painted Lawn / Garden Decor
- Custom Print Art
The List: If someone gives you a list, just follow it. There’s nothing worse than being asked what you want & detailing your answer specifically, just to be ignored. That being said, if the list is entirely unreasonable, I find nothing wrong with buying a gift to intentionally make fun of said list.
Secret Santa: It’s best to assign a spending amount & have every participant fill out a little card to lead gift givers in the right direction.
- Favorite color, flavor & scent
- Hobbies
- 3 things you love
- 3 things you hate
Gift Cards: Unless you’re dealing with someone who specifically asks for gift cards, they shouldn’t be the main gift. Gift cards show very little thought. I’ve found the best way to give a gift card is to do up the wrapping / presentation.
- a coffee shop gift card in that shop’s reusable travel mug
- a bookstore gift card in a coffee table book
- a department store gift card in the ID sleeve of a wristlet
- any gift card in an otherwise empty picture frame
Whatever gift you give, remember it really is the thought that counts the most. But, thought doesn’t mean a last minute thrown together pile of stuff constitutes a pat on the back. The best gift you can give yourself is to start shopping early & have a game plan. List making & having a budget can prevent unfortunate, but all too common, shopping mishaps (forgetting someone, or spending more than you should). My last tip is: if holiday shopping online there’s always a way for free shipping. Stay tuned for my post just on this!
For even more ideas, check out these videos:
Tati Westbrook’s 2018 Holiday Gift Guide
Lace & Lashes’ 2018 Holiday Gift Series
Karl Conrad’s Tech Gift Ideas 2018
Pretty Neat Living’s Holiday Gift Guide 2018 for Stocking Stuffers & Little Luxuries
Antonio Centeno’s (Real Men Real Style) 2018 Holiday Gift Guide for Men
Myka Stauffer’s Dollar Tree Gift Ideas (DIY)
🎅🤶 SURPRISE! 🐶🎁
Neat & Messy 