It’s finally Christmas season; life is now all about lots of food, drinks and gifts.
Christmas is an entire season of kindness, gifting, laughter, crafts, baking, singing, dancing and movie watching.
The holiday is supposed to be the season dedicated to everything merry and bright.
But, let’s face it. Sometimes, it can also be one of the most stressful times of the year. Between shopping for ugly sweater parties, cooking for family potlucks, and planning all the cocktail parties in between, there’s always so much to do in so little time—especially when it comes to shopping for holiday gifts that are unique and thoughtful.
It’s likely that you have a long list to shop for, whether it’s because you have a massive family or are just a social butterfly. But outside of that, most of us also have roommates, bosses, significant others, in-laws, neighbors, and more to cross off our holiday shopping list too.
Of course, it’s not just about gifting for the sake of saying you did so. You want to do your best to find a unique, thoughtful present they’ll truly love and be able to use for whatever passion or interest they have.
In the spirit of the season and all its incarnations, experts pulled together a Christmas gifting rule that one can use as guidance for finding the perfect gift.
The trick is to start shopping early.
One; make a list of everyone you intend on gifting.
Two; don’t go shopping all at once as you’ll either end up getting confused or overspending.
Order things or buy accordingly as early as now when stores are still stocked and holiday offers are ongoing.
Note, as Christmas approaches, prices will tend to skyrocket as sellers know things are in demand.
Here’s a criteria you can use to source out gifts for your family and friends;
1. Something they want
Something they want is the easiest place to start. It is when you get someone the thing they want the most.
As your kids get older, they will definitely tell you what they want. So note their big wish list, and that is where you will find your first gift for the seven Gift Rule!
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2. Something they need
Something they need can be just about anything. It could be a new toothbrush or a new set of paints for their favourite hobby or a microwave for their new home.
Because it’s Christmas, try to stick to things that your child will enjoy, while it is still something they need.
Sport Equipment, Craft & Art Supplies, Educational Games, Photography supplies, a nice cover for their technology – whether it be an iPad or Nintendo Switch!
3. Something to wear
I think all of us have gotten dresses and shirts for Christmas at some point.
The ‘Sunday best’ clothes we got while young that made us look forward to Christmas day.
So that is where “Something to wear” comes in.
Get your child something to wear. It doesn’t have to be socks and shirts, it can be something special and/or to accessorize!
All you have to do is to be creative, and the options open up.
Some creative gifts in this category include; shoes that they have been wanting for ages, brand name clothes they don’t usually get, new belts, scarves or jewellery, a watch or fitness tracker.
A backpack or bag, clothes and make-up are also great gifting ideas.
4. Something to read
If you know someone who enjoys reading or one who is trying to get into it, gifting them ‘something to read’ is a great idea.
It doesn’t necessarily have to be a literal book. It could be a book subscription box, a magazine subscription, Audible Subscription, Comic books or Scribd subscription.
5. Something to do
Get that movie and concert ticket for friends and family or colleagues.
This category encourages outdoor activities and fresh adventures.
A road trip and a paid staycation for them and some friends is a great idea.
Think of something they love to do and go from there plan something.
6. Something for “me”
The idea behind “Something for me” is to get them something special, that is just for them. Such as a handmade gift or keepsake.
‘Something for me’ gift ideas may include; a scrapbook you made for your young daughter, handwritten letters for your wife to open throughout the year, special ornament or accessory with their name on it, a photo album or photo frame or personalised jewellery.
Image: COURTESY
7. Something for family
Here you can think of gifting individual family members or one gift for the entire family to enjoy.
It could be a trip upcountry, movie tickets, board games the family love or a day out. BY THE STAR