Give Experiences Not Things This Holiday Season

Instead of asking friends and family ‘what do you want?’ this Holiday Season, why not try a different tactic and ask them: ‘what would you like to do?’

Too much stuff!

Let’s face it most of us already have too much stuff crammed into our living spaces (unless, of course, you’re a fan of Marie Kondo!) And children especially, are being overwhelmed with an abundance of things, whether it’s toys, gadgets, or games. When too much is given at one time gifts are not fully appreciated or savored. And even the most coveted toys and treasured items can quickly lose their shine. And how many times have we given useless and/or impractical gifts to friends and family? Some people are hard to buy for, others already own everything, so find out what they like to do instead, and give them an experience that they’ll enjoy, creating lifetime memories in the process.

What do you want to do?

When the kids rattle off their Santa List, sit down and have a talk with them about some of the things they’d like to do during the holiday season. And also, when relatives, especially grandparents, ask you what your kids want this year, you could suggest tickets to an event, a special class, a particular activity, or a day trip to the desired spot. If you can substitute just one toy for an experience, that’s a great start! And as for grown-ups, well there are plenty of experiences you can give them too! Here area few ideas.

1. A Massage, manicure, or spa treatment

If you have a ‘hard to buy for’ friend or relative this is the ideal gift. Who doesn’t like to relax!

2. Tickets to The Nutcracker(or any upcoming performance)

If you have girls who like ballet then seeing a performance of The Nutcracker is an especially sweet treat!

3. Classes, sporting event, or lessons

This could be anything from a cooking class to learning an instrument, skiing, riding a horse, or going on a zip line. This can apply to kids and adults alike.

4. Movie Tickets

Get them movie passes –everybody likes going to the movies, and for an added extra, include a coupon to buy popcorn.

5. Museum Membership

This one’s a favorite with grandparents –buying an annual family pass to a local museum This is a gift that keeps on giving, and the great thing is you can usually bring along a guest when you visit.

6. Magazine subscription

National Geographic Kids, Discover, Girls’ World, Boys’ Life, HGTV Magazine, Cosmopolitan, Southern Living–find out what the person’s into and you can’t go wrong with this gift!