It’s officially the last month of the year, and if you’re anything like me, you’re on the holiday shopping hunt. Besides studying for finals, I’m at the mall, thrift stores, and online shopping for my favourite people, hoping to get them that special something that suits them best.Â
So if you’re searching for a Christmas gift for your loved ones, look no further, because I’ve got a guide to help steer you in the direction of a gift that makes someone feel truly seen(maybe not perfect, but pretty close to it!).
Understand Your Target Audience
Put simply, who are you buying the gift for? Is it your mom, cousin, partner, or co-worker? Although it seems rather obvious, you’ll want to buy a gift that represents the person and the role they play in your life. Understanding why you want to purchase a gift for this person may help you figure out what you’d like to buy for them.
Observe and Recognize Behaviour
Pay attention to the actions of the person you’re buying the gift for. First, did they make a Christmas list you can look at? Have they mentioned a specific thing or item recently? More than once? One way I remember what to buy people is by writing down things in my notes app. I make lists of items my loved ones have pointed out, regarding items they like, want, or need. Whether you have started writing things down or not, I strongly recommend making lists for future purchases. Not to mention, make use of Amazon’s shopping wishlist and save anything you see for later!
Be Thoughtful
Once you understand what they may want or need, take a personal spin on it. Maybe the recipient isn’t easy to buy for—so instead, get something practical! If they need a tool for the kitchen, make it goofy! Get them a spatula in the shape of their favourite animal, an apron with a pop culture reference they love, or include a handwritten note. Regardless of how you decide to personalize the gift, it will pay off because that kind of effort and love doesn’t go unnoticed.Â
Don’t Be Afraid of Doing the Unexpected
Holiday gifts don’t need to come from the holiday recommendations you see in catalogues and online shops. Not everyone fits into marketing boxes like “Gifts for Him/Her.” Sometimes, buying someone a subscription or experience is the better choice. Whether you decide to purchase someone a monthly Netflix subscription or book them a day trip, your gift can be an experience or event, rather than an item.
Plan Ahead (As Much as Possible)
The best way to start holiday shopping is to start early. In a perfect world, I buy gifts extremely early if I see the right thing far in advance(this includes the summertime!). However, I realistically like to begin Christmas shopping in November, so I can organize what I’m going to get before Black Friday deals come out. Then, when I’m out shopping, I can narrow down what I’m purchasing much faster without making my trips longer than necessary. Planning early also ensures that the gifts you buy online don’t ship after Christmas—this is especially important if you are ordering from another country.Â
Presentation > Price
The best gifts are not always the most expensive things on the store shelves. In fact, if you think your gift is lacking something, it might just need a stronger presentation! I often try to present my gifts in different ways to foster a deeper connection between the recipient and me. Whether that’s getting creative with gift-wrapping, placing gifts in an extravagant basket, or faking someone out with a gag gift first, the experience of opening a present can sometimes be more fun than the gift itself. The way you present a gift can show how much thought you’ve put into it, rather than simply flashing a price tag. Even the smallest touches in presentation can elevate your gifts into a “perfect” status.
Whether you’ve planned your gifts months before or are in a panicked frenzy trying to buy them last-minute, remember that it really is the thought that counts. By adding a bit of love, care, and creativity to your presents, your gift is sure to be meaningful. Happy gifting!