The Art of Gifting

Ahhh… It’s the season…

It’s cold outside, the storm’s raging against your windows and it’s time to think about the most important thing of the year: Holiday gifts!

But how do you find that memorable, heartfelt and perfect giftthat make your dad’s, your friend’s or your granny’s heart do a happy dance?

When it comes to finding that special something it’s all about getting creative and tapping into your intuition. Here are some tips to help you find that gift that your boyfriend, bff or mom will
ab-so-lu-tely love.

How to find the perfect gift

So, how do you find of the perfect gift?

First of all, pay attention to their interests and likes. What are they most passionate about? Are they into art, fashion, or maybe plants? If they love cooking, consider a kitchen gadget. Are they a music enthousiast? Concert tickets or a vintage vinyl might be a hit. Try to get clues from conversations and take some mental notes whenever they talk about things they like or wish they had. They might even drop some hints about a book they want to read or a hobby they would like to pick up. Knowing what lights up their hearts is a great start for finding a gift that truely matters to them.

Next, consider their style. Are they quirky, elegant, outdoorsy or minimalistic? A teatowel with a monochromatic line artwork might not be the best fit for your outdoorsy boyfriend, but might be perfect for your friend with that black&white livingroom. She, on the other hand, might not be as delighted when you gift her a firesteel (check it out though, your outdoorsy friends will love this!) The gift you choose should reflect their individuality and style.

You can also take a journey down memory lane. Some of the best gifts carry that special sentimental meaning. Think about cherished moments or inside jokes you share. Even a traffic cone can make a perfect gift when it’s gifted to the right person. (Don’t ask, I’ll deny everything)

On the same note, you can also opt for personalized gifts. Whether it’s a custom piece of jewelry, an engraved pocket knife or a monogrammed bag, anything personalized can add that extra touch of thoughtfulness to your gift. You could also go for necklaces with their initials, birthstones or custom made wall art.

Even though it’s nice to give something to unwrap, it’s also an idea to gift something to experience. This could be anything from concert tickets, cooking classes and spa days, to subscriptions and online courses. Self care is a priority for many and it’s like giving a well deserved chill pill for the holiday season, and beyond. Think of gifts like aromatherapy sets, yoga accessories and wellness journals.

Subscription boxes are also a great option and available for various interests. They make it easy for the receiver to get a present full of products delivered to their doorstep, on a regular basis. It’s like a gift that keeps on giving. Just make sure it aligns with his or her passions whether it’s a book club box, a gourmet snack box or a gardening kit.

Are you looking for a gift for someone you don’t really know? You can also opt for something a little bit more in season, that they can enjoy right away. Since most of us celebrate the holidays with family and friends, why not give something to share together? Board and trivia games can bring heaps of joy during the season. But food and beverage items can also be great gifts! Think artisanal chocolates, craft beers and specialty coffee. These can be shared only if you want to, and enjoyed after the season as well. If you turn them into gift baskets or personalized recipe kits, these are even more special.

Also, don’t forget to ask for help. When in doubt, reach out to mutual friends or fam. They might have some helpful intel or even better, they might have some specific ideas. Don’t be weird about asking, this is a sign you care!

Where to get it

Now that you’ve got a sense of direction, how do you find inspiration for the perfect gift? And where do you go to get them?

Check out the small boutiques in your local area. They are a treasure trove of unique, quirky one-of-a-kind items. Exploring these shops can lead to unexpected but exciting discoveries. For your arty friends, search for boutiques that support local artists. A hand-painted canvas or quirky illustration can bring some extra umpf to your friends home. And every time they look at it, they’ll remember you! Are they into mindfullness? Go on a hunt for mindful accessories. Small boutiques often curate an array of mindfull decorations like crystals, tarot sets and affirmation cards. These gifts can help your friends find their zen in the midst of life’s chaos.

If you’re on the lookout for vintage treasures, find some small vintage stores as they’re often goldmines for unique second-hand finds. With the regained interest in retro and vintage items, consider gifts that evoke a sense of nostalgia, such as vinyl records, vintage video games or vintage clothing. This is also a cool place to search for unique home decor items like candlebras and kitch planters.

You can also check out online marketplaces. For instance, Etsy offers a large selection of handmade and personalized gifts. You can find all types of items there. I’ve seen handmade soaps, neon signs and wooden whiskeydispensers.

Did you inspector gadget your way to their favorite store, but you’re not sure about their specific tastes? No worries, just go for a gift card. It gives them the freedom to choose something they truly want.

Looking for something different?

In today’s eco-consious word, sustainable and eco-friendly gifts are expected to be a major trend. Look for items made from recycled materials, eco-conscious packaging or bio cotton.
You can als look for products that promote a more sustainable lifestyle such as a cute tote bag that you can reuse over and over agian. Or you could turn this into a zero-waste gift basket and add things like cotton pads, wooden tootbrushes and handmade soap.

Do you want to gift something truly personal, or do you have a small budget? Go handmade! Handcrafted items are loved for their charm and make for very special gifts. Consider making candles, knitted scarves or hand-painted mugs. Let your love and creativity show them how much you care.

And last but not least, you can also go for a charitable gift. This could be a donation to a charity, or gifting an item that supports a cause close to his or her heart. Many brands offer products where a portion of the proceeds go to charity.

Wrap it up

Remember, the key to finding that special gift is thoughtfulness. The best gifts are those that reflect the recipients interests and passions. While trends can provide inspiration, it’s essential to choose a gift that means something to the person you’re giving it to. When you put in the effort it shows you care. Personal gifts, not matter how big or small, speak volumes about your affection and appreciation. So the next time you’re on the hunt for the perfect gift, embrace the art of gifting. Your friends will thank you, and you’ll discover that the joy of giving is even greater than the joy of receiving.

Now don’t forget the presentation! The way you wrap the gift can make a huuuge difference. A carefully selected wrapping paper and a heartfelt note, funky sticker or pretty bow can elevate a simple gift to something extra special.

Enjoy the search and happy gifting!