There’s nothing wrong with spending a lot of money on gifts for your loved ones, and if that’s what you like to do, you may not need to keep reading! My idea for today’s blog post originated from the notion that what makes a gift truly special isn’t how much it cost but rather how thoughtful it is – how loved and seen it makes the recipient feel. So in that spirit of that, and in the spirit of saving a dollar or two, here are five ideas for thoughtful gifts that won’t break your piggy bank.
A Tin Filled With Homemade Treats
What kind of treats are their favorite? This gift will let them know you know what they love. It could be an array of classic Christmas cookies (here are 85 Christmas cookie recipes to choose from), chocolate dipped macaroons (which also happen to be gluten-free), or if sugar isn’t their thing, my favorite spiced nuts recipe or even cheddar chive scones! It’s a fact that humans feel love in their stomachs, so have at it. For a charming tin to hold your treats, get a modern and stylish tin at Target, Meijer, etc., or a classic (even vintage!) tin at a thrift store like Salvation Army.
A Framed Photo
In our ever-increasing digital era, who prints photos anymore? You do! The fact that not many people get photos printed anymore makes it all the more special when you give someone a special photo of the two of you (or your families, etc.) in a nice frame. I like Target’s collection of nice-looking and inexpensive photo frames. And for getting your photos printed, Shutterfly offers prints for literally pennies each.
A Homemade Tree Ornament
If you’re the crafty sort (or even if you’re not – they’ll be extra impressed!), a homemade ornament is always a win. This collection of 74 DIY ornament ideas lets you choose something that’s right up their alley. Because let’s face it: nothing says “I love you” like homemade.
Certificate for a Home-Cooked Meal
In the spirit of connection, community, and getting together in the real world, a certificate for a home-cooked meal at your place is about as thoughtful as it gets. For added personalization, make it their favorite meal i.e. lasagna, tacos, steak, etc. If you’re artsy, you can make the certificate with a piece of paper and markers or crayons, or you can print it from your computer using a free certificate template on Canva.
A (Gently) Used Item
If your recipient is open to something that’s not brand new, you can find some fabulous items in great condition at thrift stores, consignment shops, and the like. I often find items at thrift shops that are unworn i.e. the store price tag is still attached. In the SE Michigan area, it doesn’t get much better than Kiwanis. However, a tip: if you’re planning to look for gifts, arrive right when they open so you can have your pick of the very best stuff. Beyond just clothing, you can find wonderful dishes, flower vases, books, CDs and vinyl, and many other items for sale at a fraction of what they’d cost new.
Happy Holidays!
Giving gifts that make your recipients feel seen and loved is the kindest thing of all, and just remember, you don’t need a sack full of money to do so <3 Any other ideas to add to our list? Please let us know in the comments below 👇
