Six Clutter Free Gift Ideas
I LOVE giving gifts, and I am full of clutter-free gift ideas. It’s like a puzzle to figure out what to give someone based on their interests and hobbies.
Not everyone feels equally excited about this endeavor. While I love giving, I will openly admit I could use more practice being a gracious recipient (i.e. my actions from first Christmas with hubby, then boyfriend, but that’s a story for another time).
It truly is the thought that counts. Assume the gifter put a lot of thought into your present and show gratitude. Even if you know you will never read a modern fiction set during the French Revolution, genuinely smile and say, “Thank You”. (Maybe even throw in a hug.)
I’m so particular about giving gifts that my closest friends receive one gift from me about every 3-5 years for a birthday. It’s a mutual understanding and the reality is, I only buy something when I think, “Amber would really love this” or “This makes me think of Whitney!”
I hope these tips help you choose gifts more purposefully.
The process to decide on the best gift ideas
Make a recipient list.
First, write down all of your recipients. Next to each recipient, write down three of their hobbies/interests.
For example – my mom loves… coffee, her cats and classic movies. My mother-in-law loves… coffee, her cats and classic movies. Haha, okay she also loves good wine, entertaining and statement earrings. Having these influences in mind when shopping will help you decide what suites each recipient best.
Do your research!
Asking someone to send a full wish list can be daunting. If you have a teenage niece and nephew who are hard to keep with, check out their social media profiles and see what they’re tweeting/tagging/blogging. Maybe one is really excited about the new Star Wars movie – Target has awesome licensed tees or look for one of the original three episodes on Blu-Ray.
Ask questions about their life instead of just “what do you want”.
For example, “I saw those new jeans you tagged on Instagram, where did you get them?” The answer will be where to find their next outfit! Take the photo they posted to that store and ask a sales clerk to help you put together a similar styled outfit (feel free to take all the credit).
Here are six clutter-free gift ideas:
Experiences.
This is my favorite gift idea because offering an experience (especially if you can join in) is one of the most memorable gifts. Think theater tickets, museum exhibit passes, guitar lessons or even a city zoo membership.
Travel Gear.
This is one of the categories from my work in professional organization, that people seem to skimp on rather than treat themselves to. Not always the case, but often.
It’s likely that even if the recipient has one of these items, it could be nearing retirement.
Consider an overnight bag, gym bag, toiletry bag or even luggage. Pottery Barn and Thirty-One Gifts both have great options and fit a spectrum of budgets.
Pajamas and Slippers.
Do you hate cozy pj’s or warm slippers? I didn’t think so.
Kids are always growing and spouses often don’t update themselves. We usually reserve the clothing budget for shoes and work clothes but never get around to replacing those holed sweatpants or twelve-year-old slippers that look like dog toys.
Etsy.
Need I say more?
Use those clues we wrote down earlier and I dare you to not find a funny, unique gift on Etsy.
Some of the best items I have found include an iPad/cookbook holder with initial inscription, personalized dominoes and unique skyline artwork of almost any major metropolis.
Jewelry.
Husbands/Boyfriends/Spouses – the lady in your life will love new bling.
The caveat to this recommendation is that you choose wisely based on her style. Look through her jewelry box. Ask her stylish girlfriend for recommendations. If she’s a simple gal, go for stud earrings, a simple cross necklace or gym appropriate wedding band.
Etsy and Chloe + Isabel carry many options to choose from.
Services.
Something like a monthly massage membership or golf lessons.
Is your sister a new mama? House cleaning certificate. (Or a Professional Home Organizing certificate *wink wink*)
Your best friend just got married? Couples cooking class.
Your brother is a busy lawyer? Grocery delivery voucher.
***Clutter Free Gift Ideas Clause***
It’s unlikely these suggestions will check off everyone on your list. Bear one thing in mind – if it’s clutter to you, it will be clutter to someone else.
As for me? How about free babysitting and a night alone with my hubby?! 😉
Do you have any clutter free gift ideas you would like to add to this list? If so, please help out your fellow man (and woman) by leaving your tip in the comments below.
Ready to search for some fun and unique clutter-free gift ideas?
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