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We all find ourselves trying to think of gifts for people we don’t know that well at some point, right? I know I have quite a few times and it’s a struggle. Over the years I’ve gifted the wrong things to the wrong people and have learned, so I’m hoping I can help!
A few things to remember. Not everyone drinks. Wine and alcohol really aren’t great gifts unless you know the person enjoys a drink. I’ve gifted alcohol, expensive alcohol mind you, only to be told the receiver didn’t drink. I was crushed because I spent a decent amount and embarrassed at the same time. Humorous gifts aren’t really a good idea either unless you know the person will 100% laugh at it. I like giving thoughtful gifts, even to those I don’t know really well like a new coworker, neighbor, boss or even in a secret Santa gift exchange.
One thing I always recommend when gift giving is to include a handwritten card. Make it person and special. A simple “Happy Holidays” doesn’t cut it for me. Write something thoughtful, it doesn’t take much effort.
Bougie Candles
Okey, so bougie candles are great because they are something most people don’t buy for themselves. At least I don’t very often. They are a nice treat in my opinion. Candles make great gifts for teachers, co workers, bosses and anyone else on your list that you might have trouble shopping for.
Comfortable Throws
Okay, we all love blankets. I don’t care who you are, you probably love getting a nice comfy throw as a gift! I know I do, and I don’t care how many I have in my house, I want MORE! Blankets and throws are another gift I don’t see many people purchasing for themselves often. They are nice to gift because they are totally gender neutral and most people will absolutely love it.
Experience Gift Card
Life is all about experiences right? Check Groupon for fun experiences in the area. Who’s been axe throwing? Not many people, but it looks fun and I’ve seen places opening up everywhere. Painting class? That would be fun! Pottery or cooking class would be pretty darn awesome to receive as well.
Spa Day
This one might be a bit out of the price range for someone you don’t know but if you have the budget, why not? I love Spa Finder because it gives the recipient the freedom to choose what service and where to go but you can always do some poking around to see where they like to go or have been wanting to try. We all need some R and R this year.
Snack Basket
This might be cheesy (get what I did there?) but I think custom made baskets are super thoughtful. Toss in different snacks from around the world and mix it up. You can even add candles, a movie rental gift card, books…anything!
House Plant
Be careful with this one because some plants are poisonous to pets. House plants are the new rage though, and a pretty Ivy or Fern would make such a thoughtful gift for someone you might not know too well.
Cookbooks
So many new cookbooks have come out in the last few years and everyone seems to be cooking more because of the pandemic. If you know the recipient likes to cook, throw together a cooking basket and include a cookbook, some spices and maybe some bake wear or cooking tools. It’s easy to put together and can be budget friendly at the same time.
Coffee or Tea
First, you have to know if the recipient drinks coffee or tea. I always love receiving both as gifts because I drink all the coffee AND all the tea. I love trying new tea too and new syrups for my coffee. Putting together a themed gift basket can be pretty simple and budget friendly. A coffee or tea basket is also extremely gender neutral so it would be great for just about anyone.
Calendars
This might sound cheesy but everyone needs a calendar at the end of the year, right? I ALWAYS have to buy one for myself. I don’t think I’ve ever been gifted one but think it would make such a great gift!
Baked Treats
Even with the pandemic, I think homemade baked goods are still a great gift. Obviously know your audience and only go this route if you’re comfortable and know they will be comfortable as well. I bake Italian Christmas Cookies and Biscotti ever year for my family and to pass out to the neighbors. Everyone loves them and each year I dress it up a little bit more. This year I bought cute tins to fill and will add some ribbon and bows. Homemade gifts are from the heart, and take lots of time to make so they are often appreciated more than you know.
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