Each year, you strive to come up with unique gift ideas for family and friends. As much as you'd like to surround the tree with mounds of packages, more and more, the trend for presents is about quality: do-it-yourself touches, gifts with charitable associations, and a true focus on a recipient's special interests and hobbies, especially if you want to give a gift certificate.
Unique and Meaningful Gift Ideas
It's not about quantity, it's about quality. There's a gift out there for everyone, and the better you understand the people you're buying for, the higher the chances are that you'll be able to get them a unique, meaningful gift they'll remember for years to come. Susan Hook, who is known as the "gift guru" at RedEnvelope, has plenty of good ideas for giving unforgettable gifts.
DIY Gifts
DIY gifts are on trend, as well as personalized gifts. Making something yourself, or purchasing an item that can be inscribed, or to which you can add photos or other personalizations are always a hit. Items like this are "one step closer to personalizing a gift than simply having it monogrammed," explains Hook.
Charitable Gifts
She also points out that "gifts that give back are also a big trend again this year. Most companies will offer a product selection where a portion of the proceeds goes to a charity. In the same vein, there are many 'green' gifts that will plant a tree for each product sold." This is a wonderful, meaningful way to go for those friends or family members who are passionate about a cause or organization.
Thoughtful Gift Certificates and Gift Cards
People often think giving a gift certificate is too impersonal, but many people appreciate the fact that someone took the time to find out where they like to shop and that they want to ensure they get exactly what they want.
Hook notes that, "the most important thing is to really consider the person's interests when selecting the gift certificate. It is also nice to give a gift certificate from a place that would be considered a splurge for the recipient - somewhere they would love but wouldn't normally go."
She also shares a tip for making a gift certificate even more special: "I always like to give gift certificates with a small, related gift. For example, if the gift certificate is for a special bottle of wine, include a beautiful set of crystal wine stoppers. This way they still have something fun to open to help enhance the experience."
Give the Gift of Time
Another idea is to give a gift that includes time spent together. Make a memory by purchasing a gift that you and the recipient will use together. This can be anything from planting a tree, crafting a family biography, indulging in a spa trip, or some other special interest.
Consider something the recipient enjoys doing or wants to learn. Maybe you could sign both of you up for a class, exhibit, or activity. This will be meaningful, and will create memories for both you and the gift's recipient.
Personal Is Best
Whether you make something yourself, give the gift of time and memories, or purchase a gift certificate, it will be clear that you put thought into choosing the perfect gift. That in itself will make your gift memorable and appreciated.
