Flickr
Why creative gift offerings are the best kind of presents
Whether it’s for Christmas, birthdays, or another kind of celebration, it can be hard to buy for a friend or family member who seemingly has everything. So, embrace opportunities like this with something creative.
In need of inspiration? Well, just in time for the season of giving and receiving, we have some fantastic gift ideas that are unique and interesting. Thankfully, none of these ideas cost very much money, nor do they take too much skill and effort. However, they will pack a big punch for being thoughtful and creative. From green-fingered gifts to culinary crafts, and even stuff-less adventures, the hardest part will be not trying to keep these gifts to yourself!
Hamper heaven
A hamper is a great gift idea, and the best thing is that, if you’ve got a few people to gift to, you can get the basics and tailor each hamper to each person. For example, purchase a few wicker or fabric boxes – or even tote bags – and make homemade cookies, little jars of homemade relish, and friendship bracelets for each.
Then, add in elements specific to each person. If one friend likes gardening, add a few bulbs of their favorite plant. A mini bottle of wine is a good choice for a friend that likes a tipple. And a flash drive of top tunes for a music-loving friend is a really thoughtful addition.
How does your garden grow?
Growing gifts are a special kind of present that your loved one can nurture, and they will think of you whenever they tend to it! There are a few different options for green gifts, depending on who it’s intended for.
You don’t need to have lots of money, or even a huge amount of time or talent to create gifts that are nice and unique.
If your loved one likes to cook, find a tray container and sow different herb seeds in each corner. If they work in an office, make a mini Zen garden by arranging sand and colorful stones in a shallow dish, complete with a bonsai tree and tea light candles.
Or, check out terrarium gardens, which are globe glass containers packed with quirky succulents, cacti, or air plants.
No need to wrap
With a little bit of imagination, you can create a gift experience your loved one will never forget. Rather than something they can use, or eat or drink, opt for a weekend away, or a quirky activity such as cheese-making, a wine tour or a dance lesson.
If the gift is for your significant other, why not think up a load of different experiences to offer – perhaps one for each year or month together – and write them down in notes for them to open gradually. The notes could just be sweet – or saucy – sentiments.
If you are good in the kitchen, you could try making a “restaurant” experience. Choose the cuisine you know that special person loves, and craft a menu with starter, main and dessert.
To complement the experience, create a background soundtrack to match the meal. For example, mariachi music for a Mexican dining experience, and ensure your décor and outfit match the occasion, too!
All of this proves that you don’t need to have lots of money, or even a huge amount of time or special talent, in order to create gifts that are nice and unique. That being said, if you do have a particular skillset, then use that to your advantage.
You never know – get in enough practice of hamper-making or jewelry making and come next Christmas you might even be opening up your own Etsy shop! Happy gifting!
A deeper dive – related reading on the 101
–Our guide to the best father’s day gifts | Living 101
These gift ideas aren’t only good for Father’s Day. Get the special man in your life something to treasure with our guide.
–Holiday gift guide for every special person in your life | Living 101
Find the perfect gifts for all the precious people you know and love.