Giving gifts any time of the year, whether it’s for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, a birthday, or any other occasion, can turn you into a nervous Nelly.
What are you even going to get them?
Or there are the people (my husband) who say they don’t need anything, and then just buy whatever they need or want for themselves.
Oh, that’s cool. Thanks…
Typically, we aim to give each other gifts that are functional or thoughtful in the form of travel, or some other way to build memories or experiences.
Next time you need to buy a gift for someone or some event, instead of just giving something for the sake of giving, ask yourself these questions before buying:
- Would this really be useful for them?
- Does this fit with their lifestyle?
- Am I buying this just to buy something?
10 Thoughtful Gifts to Give Any Time of Year
1. homemade hot chocolate mix
This doesn’t have to only be for Christmas, it can also be a ‘just because’ gift in the colder months.
You can make it allergy-friendly using this simple recipe:
- 1 cup cocoa powder
- 3/4 cup organic cane sugar or coconut sugar
- pinch of sea salt
Whisk ingredients until they’re well incorporated. Add these directions to the jar or top of the lid:
- Add 2 tablespoons of hot cocoa mix to one cup milk of choice.
- Whisk together over medium heat until warmed through.
To make it festive, you can add a ribbon to the jar and include a hand-written note.
2. a ceramic piece
Is there a piece of pottery that you’ve had your eye on for a while from one of your favorite ceramicists or a local artist? It could be a mug, a bowl, a serving platter, etc.
Not only are you likely buying a one of a kind piece (anything that’s made by a human is unique), you’re also supporting someone’s small business. Win/win!
3. a book
Is there a book you’ve read recently that had some positive effect on your life? Maybe it shifted your mindset, or offered you advice that really jolted you forward.
Or maybe it was a fictional book that was so good, you couldn’t. put it. down.
Whatever it was, you could regift them your copy or a new (or used one). If they enjoy listening to books instead of reading them, gift them an audiobook instead.
4. a craft class
The world is our oyster, and there’s always something new to learn. There’s a plethora of classes to take. Look at your local craft stores or search online for classes in your area.
This could be a sewing class, a knitting class, a winemaking class, an art class, a jewelry making class, etc. The options are endless.
If they aren’t comfortable going by themselves, you could always go with them.
5. a homemade coupon good for…
For friends or family, you could give them a coupon that they could redeem for a night of babysitting, or bringing them a homemade meal that they could ‘cash’ in at any time.
For your significant other, it could be a 30 minute back massage, your turn to cook meals for the week, breakfast in bed, etc.
6. a self-care day
Self-care always gets put on the back burner. It slowly gets moved further down the to-do list with the intent that it’ll get taken care of later, and then later turns into never or rarely.
Give the gift of a massage, a manicure or pedicure, a facial, an acupuncture session, a chiropractor appointment, etc. Anything that’s going to make them feel pampered and taken care of.
Need more ideas? 5 Affordable Ways to Take Your Self-Care Practice to the Next Level
7. a house plant
Plants bring life to any space and are an instant mood booster. Depending on what someone’s space is like, you could research low-light vs bright light plants and make your decision from there.
These are a great gift to give any time of the year but are especially great for a housewarming gift.
8. DIY salt scrub
This is a great functional gift to give any girl or guy in your life. It’s made with a few simple ingredients you likely already have around your house.
By making it yourself, you can really tailor it to whatever scent you’d like.
Need a recipe? Make my 3 Ingredient Himalayan Salt Scrub for Glowing Skin pictured below.
9. a game (card, dice or board)
Games are a great gift because they’re functional, they bring people together, and they’re easy to bring on the go.
Some of my favorites are Cribbage, Backgammon, Mexican trains, Farkle, Speed… there are so many good ones it’s hard to choose just one.
10. essential oil diffuser
Essential oil diffusers are a great natural (and safe) alternative to candles and scented wall plugins.
Diffusers come in a variety of sizes and all that’s needed is water and a few drops of whatever essential oils you’d like.
Because essential oils are incredibly concentrated, they last a very long time. You can get creative by diffusing different oils together, and just sticking with one.
Wonderful suggestions!
Thank youuu! 🙂