The holidays are filled with joyful traditions…time-honored meals with family, festive decorations in our home and gifts for those we love! Picking out presents can be lots of fun, and sometimes, quite challenging. It can be tempting to quickly buy things without much thought just to cross names off your list – but you may end up giving unwanted gifts.

Unique gift ideas can turn a simple gesture into a memorable experience for the giver and the recipient which can make the holidays even more special. This thoughtful approach to gift-giving can enhance the joy of the season while making a positive impact on the community, as well. 

This holiday season, consider these gift-giving ideas for the most important people on your list. 

Experience Gifts

Special experiences often make the best gifts! They can be shared with others, and they’re usually remembered for years to come. The sky’s the limit in this category of gift giving, so no matter what your recipient’s interests (or your budget), you’ll find an option that’s just right.

For example: 

• Sports team tickets or season passeS
• Gift card to a favorite restaurant
• Voucher for pampering (massage, manicure, facial)
• Tickets to a concert
• Zoo or museum membership
• Movie theater gift cards

Memories

Nostalgia is defined as a sentimental longing or a wistful affection for the past. Holiday time is the perfect opportunity to give a gift that evokes nostalgia by choosing a gift that reminds your loved one of the past.  

For Example:

• Converting pictures or old media into current digital format 
• Creating a storybook using pictures from your life together
• Writing down memories of the two of you in a special journal 

Service Gifts

Time is fleeting and so very precious which is why it makes such a special gift. Sometimes, all your loved one wants is quality time with you, so your present can simply be to be present! You can offer your time in many different ways that are sure to be appreciated by the receiver of this special gift. 

For Example:

• Babysitting, pet sitting or house sitting
• Taking them out to a special destination to spend the day together
• Cook them a gourmet meal
• Offer lessons in something at which you’re skilled
• Help with cleaning or house projects

Learning Gifts

Learning can improve our brains and allow us to be more interesting people. (Learning something new with a loved one also promotes bonding, so this gift category is an excellent choice.)

For Example:

• Lessons for an activity they’re interested in (tap dancing, yoga, ballroom dancing, tennis)
• A cooking class
• An art or craft class
• A community college course

Whatever gifts you choose, take time to think about what the loved ones on your list might genuinely love to receive, and begin your search with those thoughts in mind. Thoughtful, intentional gift giving can make your celebration more meaningful and bring you closer to those you cherish the most.