Are you a planner who finishes holiday shopping before the season technically begins, or are you more of a procrastinator who thrives on the stress of last-minute shopping? Maybe you’re somewhere in the middle. Either way, there’s no denying that Christmas is around the corner, so it’s time to start making your gift list. If you feel tired of giving the same routine presents that you suspect the recipients quickly forget, read on to discover thoughtful gifts to give this holiday season.
What Are Thoughtful Gifts?
Thoughtful gifts have meaning behind them. A thoughtful present shows someone you know them well and took the time to consider how your gift to them would make them feel. Rather than buying a last-minute scarf from the department store, proving you couldn’t think of anything else, consider the ideas below for thoughtful gifts.
Journal Gifts
Journals are always a popular gift and a great way to show someone you want them to have something to treasure forever. Here are a few different types of journals you can share with a loved one:
- Diaries for everyday thoughts
- A journal of goals for the planner in your life
- A college journal to record their years in college
- A recipe journal for family recipes
- A holiday journal to write down holiday memories
- A sketching journal for the artist in your life
- A blank journal with lined pages and a note that says, “Start writing your book.”
DIY Gifts
DIY gifts might be the most thoughtful gifts you can give this holiday season. Nothing says you love someone like taking the time to make them something special. Make DIY gifts according to your talents and hobbies, but the following are a few popular ideas.
Knitted Items
Knitting is a popular tradition and hobby and a wonderful skill. If you knit someone a hat or blanket, they will likely keep it forever. If you are looking for a meaningful gift that the recipient will pass on for generations, consider a knitted item.
DIY Candles
Everyone loves to burn candles, so this is a great idea if you like to check off a lot of gifts on your list in bulk. There are so many creative and colorful ideas for DIY candles, and you can make each one unique with a fun container and homemade label.
Photo Books
Photo books are a wonderful way to package up beautiful memories. You can make a traditional scrapbook by hand if you enjoy paper crafts or create a digital photo book online. Some possible photo book themes might be the following:
- Weddings
- New baby
- Past holidays
- Birthdays
- Friendships
- Vacations
You could also create a decorated scrapbook with a theme and let them add their own pictures.
Niche Gifts
Niche gifts are gifts that show someone you know what they are into. For example, if a friend is really into a sport, you could give them a jersey from their favorite team. The best way to execute a successful niche gift is to listen well all year—the gift recipient is sure to let one of their niche interests or wants slip in conversation.
As you consider shopping for presents this holiday season, remember that thoughtful gifts mean more to the recipients than expensive things with little personalization. Take the time to get gifts that show your loved ones just how much you care about them to bring holiday cheer to your whole circle of people.