By Colette Robicheau
Are you struggling throughout the year, trying to figure out what gifts you will get for everyone on your list? There always seems to be that one person who appears to already have it all. Instead of cluttering up your family and friends homes with more objects, why not give them something they will really appreciate? Here are some ideas on what to give that hard-to-buy person this holiday season. They will be pleased with their gift, and you will be pleased that you followed these tips.
1) The gift certificate is often looked at as a last minute afterthought. However, letting the receiver choose their own gift will almost always ensure that they get something they will like better than what someone else would have picked for them. Figure out their favorite places to shop and give them a gift card. Choose a store they enjoy, but may not always shop at. Many people always spend their money on their family members and friends, so gift certificates are a nice way to allow them to splurge on themselves.
2) Movie money is a great idea for someone who enjoys a night out but doesn’t always make it happen. Many people only go see a must see movie because the cost of the movie and snacks are so high. This way they can enjoy a night out without worrying about their budget. Add an offer to baby-sit to complete the evening.
3) Everyone appreciates looking at pictures of their loved ones. Take an old photograph and have it professionally restored to look brand new, or take a new photograph and have it resized and professionally framed. If there is a celebrity or picture in a magazine you think your friend would like, scan it and increase its size to make a mini poster or picture.
4) Tickets to a sporting event, play or musical are always great gift ideas. Buying tickets for a show as a present also eliminates the worry of getting them something they already own. This is also a good gift for someone who you may not know very well. You can easily find out a sport or team someone likes, or if he or she is an opera or country music fan.
5) Not only are homemade gifts more personal and unique, they are guaranteed to put a smile on the person’s face knowing you put such time and effort into their gift. If you know they have a sweet tooth, whip up a holiday sweet treat. My favorite gift is my friend’s homemade macaroni and cheese. She provides me with this delectable comfort food in portions that I freeze and enjoy for months to come. What are your special recipes? This gift requires only some time, ingredients and loving care. Or perhaps you create a recipe book of childhood favorites complete with photos.
6) Look around your house for materials to use and items to re-gift. Re-gifting is fine as long as you believe the gift is appropriate for the receiver and you think they will truly like it.
7) If you are buying for individual family members, why not put the cash together and buy a family present, like a foosball game for their family room or software for the computer. This is a good way to bring families together, and allows you to buy more expensive gifts that you would not buy individually.
8) People often discreetly let you know what they want, so pay attention to hints, listen and make notes. Better yet, ask them to make notes and prepare a list of items they would like and the particular shops they enjoy.
Remember that it is the thought that counts, so it’s never too early to start thinking about what to give the person who has everything or is difficult to buy for.
