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Eliminate the Holiday Headache with these Gift-giving Essentials
Photos by Chrystal Savage
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Top: For a coach or teacher, an oversized seasonal mug filled to the brim with holiday sweets or supplies is certain to earn you an A+ on your gift-giving game. Bottom: For a co-worker or Secret Santa, consider a holiday candle, special tea blend or jar of cookiemaking ingredients.
Eliminate the Holiday Headache with these Gift-giving Essentials By Chrystal Savage
Gift-giving can be tricky, especially when there are teachers and coaches, Secret Santa or office parties and unexpected “plus ones” dropping in. Whether you’re puzzled on what to get that special someone or want a “moment’s notice” gift, here are a few tips to make sure you crush the gifting game no matter the situation. • Consider versatility: Select items that are well-liked among most people and across demographics – children under 10, college students, working professionals. Having items on hand that can work for a variety of circumstances will serve you well and, when in doubt, leave the gag gift out. • Maintain a designated price point: It can be easy to get carried away when buying gifts, but setting a maximum budget, per gift, is essential to ensuring that no one gift is lacking or over the top. • Be consistent: Unless there is a co-worker with whom you’re especially close or a coach who has gone above and beyond, keep things the same or as similar as possible across the board. Getting one coach a mug and some chocolates? Consider doing the same for another, but be flexible and customize each gift with a favorite candy or mug color to demonstrate added thought. • Make it personal: Whether it’s showcasing knowledge and appreciation for two separate teachers or applauding each grandkid’s unique talents and interests, it’s this added touch that encompasses the meaning behind a holiday gift more than any amount spent or items selected.
• Keep the Wrapping Simple: As with buying, it’s easy to find yourself buried in wrapping paper and ribbons, wondering how you got so far in. Instead, establish a cohesive vision for all your gifts: cellophane and bows or reversible gift wrap. • Don’t rule out homemade: Many people would like a homemade pie or cookie mix just as much, if not more, than a physical gift. Not everyone wants something that occupies a space in their home. Just be sure to consider allergies and intolerances when gifting food-related items. • When all else fails: Select an amount with which you’re comfortable and do a simple card with cash or local gift card if you’re unsure. Alternatively, maybe include a gift receipt with the item. • Last, but not least: Don’t forget to pick up some thank-you cards! Whether you’re 1 or 100, there’s likely someone who thought of you this holiday season. Show them you’re grateful with a thank-you note in the mail, online or in person.
Gift Ideas for the Adults and Young Adults:
• Scent-based Items: Candles are a practically fool-proof gift. If you know them well, select a favorite scent or change it up with something holiday-inspired. Candles are available at several price points and also offer room for expansion with add-ons and accessories. • Drinkware: Mugs, like candles, are widely available and provide a thoughtful gift at a reasonable price. Mugs exude cozy, holiday energy sure to be carried into the new year. Wine glasses, reusable water bottles and custom tumblers are a great way to personalize the message behind your gift. Drinkware also offers an opportunity to double your gift, by filling the vessel with seasonal goodies. • Something practical: Whether it’s a pair of slippers, a new set of kitchen essentials or replacing a well-worn briefcase, getting that person on your list something that’s been on theirs is a great way to show you’ve been listening all along.
Gift Ideas for Children:
• Interactive items: Games, puzzles and art supplies are a great way to help the children in your life continue hitting important milestones while they’re home for the holidays, and have fun while they’re at it. • Hobby items: The better you know the child, the easier it is to find hobby items. Children who enjoy sports might be delighted to receive a soccer ball or a new baseball bat, while arts-oriented kids might appreciate new sheet music or an easel. Also, consider a game the whole family can play. • Something plush: Soft items are a must when the temperatures drop, whether it’s a blanket, pillow or plush toy, kids are sure to think of you and feel special every time they snuggle up.
Gift Ideas for a Coach or Teacher:
• An oversized mug that captures the season or recipient’s personality filled with holiday sweets, a tea blend or instant coffee wrapped in cellophane and topped off with a ribbon is certain to earn you an A+ on your gift-giving game. Consider topping the mug off with school supplies or a gift card for sports supplies or to a sporting goods location.
Gift Ideas for a Co-worker or Secret Santa:
• This gift can be one of the hardest to shop for, so keeping it generic is often best. For the secretary at the office, a holiday candle might make a nice addition to the desk or home; for your office bestie, consider a holiday blend red wine and a set of glasses.
Gift Ideas for Everyone:
• Reading materials: With so many genres, you can find a book that fits just about anyone on your list. Is your recipient not the type to read something from start to finish? Magazine or digital media subscriptions are a great way to bridge the gap. • Gift cards and vouchers: Gift cards are always reliable, and most major businesses offer them. Many local shops and restaurants also offer vouchers. • Something sweet: It’s likely almost everyone on your holiday shopping list this season has a sweet tooth. Whether that means making something yourself, a la their favorite homemade cookies, or picking up a box of chocolates, it’s almost impossible to go wrong.
For a student or child, a family-friendly game or a new book in their favorite series alongside some fuzzy socks or a blanket make a sweet but simple gift sure to keep their minds active through the holidays.
