8 gift ideas for a less cluttered, more meaningful holiday

By Val Maass | Citizens Staff

When it comes to choosing holiday gifts, especially for family, it’s easy to return to the “usual suspects” again and again. You know the ones: a new yard or kitchen gadget for Dad, another cashmere sweater for Mom, the latest “It” toy for your nephew (if you can even find it!). These are great gifts, we think to ourselves. Maybe — or are they just the easy choice?

The truth is, many of us are fighting the clutter caused by things — even those so-called “great gifts” — we don’t need, want, wear, or use. Amiright? In fact, a recent survey and report by RedStag Fulfillment and Optro found that 28% of gifts, worth an estimated $90M, were returned during the 2017 holiday season. Not only that, but many of them were probably exchanged for (you guessed it) more clutter-inducing stuff.

This gift-giving season, why not join the anti-clutter crusade and invest in more meaningful gifts for those you love? If you’re game, we’ve come up with eight categories for you to consider.

Even if they’re affordable, there are some things people might think are too self-indulgent or luxurious to buy for themselves, such as a “glamour shot” photo session, car detailing, or even a massage. The holidays are an ideal chance to give people in your life that something special you know they’ll appreciate, but would never dream of splurging on.

Treat your mom to high tea at a local hotel or sign up for that wine-tasting class you and your dad always talk about. Invite your niece to join you at the nail salon or your younger brother to a ball game. Beyond enjoying the experience, spending quality time together will be a gift in itself!

According to a recent survey by the Harris Group, a whopping 72% of people ages 18-34 said they would prefer to spend money on experiences than on material things. Chances are, this preference also applies to gifts. So even if you can’t participate, an “experiential” gift will probably mean more than another new item.

If someone on your list has a favorite cause, consider making a donation in their name to that charity — or find another worthy cause to stir their spirit. Some organizations, such as Save the Children, also offer “sponsorship” opportunities to lend support on someone else’s behalf. Either way, even modest contributions will mean a lot to all involved.

Whether they’re focused on wine, candy, books, or beauty products, monthly subscription boxes are a thoughtful way to indulge almost anyone on your list, including kids (Little Passports) and pets (BarkBox™). In addition to a new gift each month, the recipient will get a regular reminder of your affection.

Concerned about cost? Keep in mind that many subscriptions can be purchased on either a monthly or yearly basis.

Wish loved ones would visit more often? Boost the welcome quotient! For instance, if you have more frequent flyer miles than you could ever use, redeem them for a flexible airline ticket to your city — and gift it to someone you care about.

Have a culture lover on your list? Give them a membership to your local art museum or independent movie theatre, and their future visits will be even more fun.

If you’re looking for a less expensive gesture, something as simple a new set of monogrammed towels will make your parents feel more “at home” in yours.

Especially when shopping for older people, like parents or grandparents, making their lives easier is often more valuable than costly. Your grandmother isn’t an Amazon Prime member? Just imagine how much she’ll appreciate the many benefits a $119 gift membership offers.

If your dad’s slowing down, a dog-walking or grocery delivery service — even a few times a month — can make a big impact on his life. Meanwhile, even an e-reader pre-filled with carefully chosen books can make a favorite pastime even more convenient.

It’s been said that having something to look forward to is important, maybe even happiness-inducing. From anticipating a special occasion to savoring the long-lasting memories (and photographs) it creates, the value extends way beyond the experience itself.

This season, pick up tickets to a concert, play, comedy show, sporting event, or other event that someone can get excited about once the holidays are over.

Nothing makes a person feel special like a gift customized just for them. And it may not be as pricey as you think!

Shutterfly.com and similar online vendors can help you transform your best family or vacation photos into a book or wall calendar full of priceless memories. In fact, you can adorn just about anything from novelty socks to coffee cups with an original image.

When it comes to the sports fanatic in your life, a customized jersey from their favorite sports team is a surefire way to up your gift-giving game!

Sometimes, a new pair of gloves or set of glasses is truly the perfect gift. But more often than we’d like to admit, some of those things we braved the crowds to buy won’t be seen again until the next yard sale. When tackling this year’s holiday list, keep this in mind: “Tried and true” options don’t always deliver the most bang for your gift-buying buck — but they often gather the most dust.

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