We are gearing up to one of the biggest celebrations of the year and some of you may be stuck on what to get a certain person...fear not, I am here to give you a few handy tips on great present giving!
1. Be a great listener...
This is the best tip when you need to find out what your friends and family really love to do, or are passionate about at the moment. Is there a hobby that they love to spend time on or one that they would really like to take up but don't have all the gear? A book about that topic or a starter pack to get them going (as long as it's not going to cost an arm and a leg). You can find many small bits and pieces that connect to any kind of hobby, for example...Fishing...how about a small tackle box and some sinkers and flies? Or do they enjoy sports or would like to take up a new one? A good present would be some accessories or a 'how to' book. An avid baker might like a vintage cookbook or some out of print ones that can no longer be found in your retail shops.
There are clues in your conversations with them, and spending quality time with them will make you feel happy and geared up about the season ahead, so it is a win win!
2. Look for clues
How do they live their day to day life? Is it super busy? Are they big fans of a certain sport or past-time?
Busy people may enjoy a present for a relaxing activity, something they rarely get to do or something that they used to do but never have the time for anymore. These presents have great health benefits and can boost the receiver's spirits, how can you get any better?
Do they mention things that they used to have or miss from their childhood? This one can bring back fond memories and could be a cherished present for years to come. Personally this would be my favourite type of present!
Sports fans are pretty easy to buy for as you can find so many things these days which are printed with favourite teams logos, from socks to jerseys, drink bottles to bedspreads. The choice is endless. A big sports fan won't be able to stop from telling you about their favourite team and how they did at the weekend. http://swiftmovement.co.nz/custom-printing have a great range of personalised logos which can be tailored to your receiver.
3. You don't need to go expensive.
As a big fan of op shops throughout our area I can tell you that I have often found things that have long since stopped being manufactured in the latest stores and are often in new or as new condition!
There are so many 2nd hand shops throughout the country and they often have some gems, all you need to do is go in with an eagle eye and an open mind and you can find your treasure. I follow a facebook page which is dedicated to op shopping and they have the greatest finds on there! A great place for ideas and they often share where you can find certain vintage items, so you can go straight to the source.
A great place to find vintage books and lots of new looking books for all those hobbies you have found out about. Some receivers treasure an old book much more than a brand new one.
4. Buy Handmade
This is an avenue which means you support your local makers and small businesses and get a product which has time, love and effort put into making it the best it can be. If you are buying for someone special and contact the makers, they can often tailor the handmade item to the receivers favourite colour, flavour, hobby and even personalisation can make it super special. We even welcome these kinds of requests!
You are getting a one of a kind product which not many, if any, people will be able to match with a mass produced item. As a maker I know they put a lot of love and time into making a product just right and there can be no better way to show someone you love and care about them. You can check out some of my makes on instagram @sewsweetnz and @sweetsensationsnz, or on my website here or facebook at:
If you are crafty put your skills to the test and get making! It's a great time to develop skills and enjoy the process.
5. Do your research
Look around and try different avenues for those special items, just remember to order well in advance if you are looking offshore for special items not found here.
New Zealand is a treasure trove of small businesses who have so much to offer you to help you give the best gift at Christmas and all those other special occasions. Ask around, use facebook handmade groups, search google, use those listening and detective skills you acquired earlier on in this blog.
I believe in you and know that you can become the best gift giver ever, enjoy the process and have a very happy holiday season!
Well done Kate