The Christmas season is officially upon us! It is time to spend time with friends and family show our love and appreciation through gifts. Now, who doesn’t love to receive gifts, especially if it is something that you’ve patiently waited for all year long. On the other hand, trying to show appreciation and gratitude for a thoughtless gift..is difficult.  I know that may have come off a little harsh, but every year people run around at the last minute wasting time and money on trinkets and gifts that will go unused or recycled. Yes, it is the thought that counts so why not really consider the personality, likes and interests of the recipient.

When purchasing a gift for that special someone, consider the following:

GENIUNE. Be genuine about the gift. What I mean is pay attention to the details. For example, where do they like to shop, what are their hobbies, favorite candies, do they prefer tea or coffee or what are the causes are they passionate about. Basically do your research about the person you will be purchasing for.

INDIVIZUALIZE. I work in retail and I purchase things for my self regularly throughout the year and I have been described as a difficult person to shop for. I wouldn’t say that I am difficult; I am very particular in what I like and don’t like. However, my favourite gifts I have received in the past have been monogramed items such as towels, cosmetic bags and stationary. I loved these because they were personalized and very thoughtful  gifts that I would not have purchased myself.

FUNCTION. The gifts that I love to give and receive are the ones that serve a purpose like books, pajamas, gift cards ( I repeat, gift cards!), or helping a friend out in an unexpected way.  I was talking to a friend about this blog post and he said that he is taking his good friend grocery shopping as a gift. As unconventional  as it sounds, I love this idea! Sometimes the best gift is meeting a need of that special someone. Many will argue that gift cards are impersonal, but if it is a gift card to their favourite store and  with their favourite candy, beverage or movie can personalize it and still says “I thought of you” Also, the recipient of the gift card can purchase something that they really want or need. Gift cards are not impersonal; they’re practical. Also, purchased at their favourite store… it is the perfect gift.

TIME.  The gift of spending time with loved ones is priceless. Coordinating events with friends and family with the  opportunity to reconnect is amazing. This is an opportunity where you can be creative with gifts. For example, pay for a maid service for a week, have a girls weekend or family vacation instead of buying more stuff. Giving the gift of time means an opportunity to work on yourself. A better version of you really

SURPRISES. Now if you’re one for presents (truth is who doesn’t like ripping into wrapping paper with wonder) Surprising that special someone with the exact item they’ve been hinting at all year long-even in the colour they wanted…is a nice surprise. These types of gifts say “I listened and I was paying attention” Which really is the gift any of us really want.. to know that we’ve been heard.