December Game Plan

Well friends, December is officially here. And if you’re feeling that all-too-familiar pressure of gift buying, you’re not alone. Between cultural expectations, family traditions, and trying to forever find “the perfect gift” for everyone on your list, the season of giving can very quickly (and often does) become the season of stress.

 

But what if, this year, we decided to approach things differently? What if we gave ourselves permission to be more intentional about gift buying and less overwhelmed?

 

Before we dive into gift ideas, let’s get something straight. You don’t owe everyone a wrapped present. Seriously. You really don’t. Read that a couple times if you still need convincing. I can guarantee you that there are people in your life who genuinely prefer to receive experiences, a homemade treat, a thoughtful card, or really just your time and attention. Giving yourself permission to gift intentionally rather than out of a sense of obligation, choosing gifts really can feel easier.

 

 

1. Time & Presence. The most sustainable and precious gift you can give is your time and attention (that is, IF you want to). Consider who on your list would honestly prefer a Saturday afternoon together over another “thing.” Maybe your adult siblings, or old friends, or your parents. Make it special: hand write a note explaining what your offering is, perhaps even schedule it, and the effort will really drive home how much you mean it.

 

2. Experience Gifts Experiences are truly the sustainable gift that never goes out of style. Think of the people on your list and their hobbies, or the things they might want to do but never make time or budget for. Concert tickets, spa services, museum memberships all make amazing gifts.

for me? will gladly take a facial from Alluna or a ‘coupon’ for a walk with my kiddos that doesn't require convincing

 

3.Consumable Gifts I may be partial to this category, but I’ll say it anyway: Four Corners Supply Co is a fantastic spot to grab high quality gifts that are used, enjoyed, and don’t take up permanent space. Think: refillable cleaning products they’ll use weekly, luxurious soaps that will elevate their daily routines, or specialty candles they wouldn’t buy themselves.

 

4. Thoughtful Physical Gifts Ok, we get it. Sometimes there are people on your list who do truly treasure tangible, special gifts. But consider a gift that is going to truly mean something to them and not just another “thing” or impulse buy. Ask yourself: Will they actually use this regularly? Is it high enough quality to last a long time? Does it align with their values (and your own!)? Have they specifically mentioned wanting/needing it? If you can’t answer yes to at least 3 of those questions, maybe give it another thought. 

from me? picked up some special lego sets for my lego obsessed sons at Rock Paper Scissors. Bonus? I make them carefully save the directions and things so one day they can exchange/sell at Boston Brick 

for me? hmmm, looking around I love all things Where Watermelons Grow, art from my girl K. Hunter/getting my new Melissa Diane framed at the Frame Center, sucker for a puzzle. I feel like I'm easily pleased as long as it fits my extensive criteria. ha.

 

 

Right now, grab a piece of paper (or your notes app) and try this:

1. List everyone you're considering giving gifts to

2. Assign each person to one of the four categories above

3. Add specific ideas for each person

4. Set a realistic budget

5. Cross off anyone who genuinely doesn't need/expect anything

Sometimes...Even I'm flexible with the rules. I'm not going to beat myself up for buying a 'wasteful' gift. I'm just not getting a whole bunch of them.

 

And if you need help deciding what to get those special people who you do want to give physical gifts to, check out our Holiday Gift Guide or come into the store and let us help you brainstorm (this is our favorite thing!). Let’s make this the holiday season intention and boundaries, and not another year of impulse shopping and stressing out.