With the holidays fast approaching and loved ones to exchange gifts with, many may find themselves running out of ideas. What is a good gift for a family member you barely know or a cost-effective option for a Secret Santa exchange? Well, worry no more: here is the guide for all of your gift-giving needs.
Gift Cards
Starting with a classic, gift cards are hard to go wrong with. While they receive a lot of negativity for being impersonal or lazy, if you truly do not know what to get someone, they are the safest option. Whether you are truly clueless as to what they would like or know of a specific store they frequent, the options are practically endless.
Do not have any no clue what they like? Get them an Amazon or a Target gift card. Do they like to read? Barnes and Nobles. Are they an artist? Michael’s. Do you know their favorite restaurant? Get them a gift card for that! Though it is not the most sentimental gift, in my opinion, a gift card is hardly the worst gift you could give.
Gifts for a Parent
Personally, my favorite part of the holidays is giving my mom presents. My brothers and I have all chipped in for larger gifts, which is a great option if you have siblings able to contribute, and I have gotten her solo gifts, such as a spa day. As for my Dad, I have gotten him gadgets I knew he had been eyeing or merchandise from his favorite band.
For all parents do for their children, they deserve a nice gift, so you do not always have to get them a pair of slippers or a kitchen gadget. If that is what they want, then by all means, get that (I certainly have), but try to think out of the box.
What are things that they would not use every day? What are their interests and what gifts could help them with pursuing those hobbies? It is hard to find a ‘one size fits all’ gift for a parent, and while that would eliminate a lot of stress about getting the perfect gift, ultimately, you know your parents best. Think about it: you have spent literally your entire existence with them. Even if you are having a bit of a creative block, even your worst ideas are probably not that bad (do not be scared to grab a gift receipt at the register though).
Gifts for a Grandparent
Every time I visit my grandmother, she says the best gift my dad has ever given her is a digital rotating picture frame that our entire family can remotely upload photos to. The brand she has is called Skylight but there are countless other brands with similar products, so if you are looking for a nice, sentimental gift for your grandparents, I would highly recommend it.
Another good option is taking them out to a nice dinner or an outing, like a play or museum (depending on their interests). A lot of older people do not leave their house very often, and while sometimes that is due to issues with driving or walking, some of them just do not have a reason to. Write them a nice card and add that you will take them on an outing of their choosing, your treat. It is quality time, some fresh air, and a memorable experience all in one!
Experiences
With the same sentiment as the previous idea, giving someone an experience instead of a physical gift is a great alternative. In the past, I have given many experiences to my friends and family, and have received many as well, and in my opinion, these make the best gifts. Of course, material items and money are great, but those memories are invaluable.
If you have a foodie friend, take them out to a fun new restaurant they have been wanting to try. If they like games, take them to an arcade or escape room for the day. The holidays are about spending time with loved ones, so while you are at it, make some memories with them too.
