Holiday Gift Guide 2020

For some of us, the holiday season is a breeze and coming up with killer gift ideas is no trouble at all. For others, however, the same cannot be said. "What do they like? Would that be a stupid gift? How much money is appropriate to spend on this person?" These are some questions that arise for many of us when it comes time to do our holiday shopping. Luckily, there are some ways to make the decision process easier. In this gift guide, we'll go over basic components of a nice gift and some shops you could check out for gift ideas.

Gift Giving Tips

The ideal gift will be thoughtful. Some of us struggle with this aspect, but there's no need to worry; it's a lot easier than you might think! The best way to make a gift thoughtful is to simply pay attention. Pay attention to what the person in question says, wears, uses, indulges, etc. For example, if someone likes tea and they also happen to suffer from anxiety, then you could research herbs and teas that might be good for them. If someone keeps talking about an album or movie they're dying to check out, take note of that. If you notice your coworker always comes in to work with a coffee or other drink from Dunkin Donuts, then keep that in mind. Obviously, the things we know about people depend on our relationships to them, but for the most part you can figure out a person's basic interests just by paying a little extra attention to their mannerisms and the things they say. It's something we should really be doing anyway! A little mindfulness goes a long way.

If you're still having trouble coming up with a good gift, you want to make sure you're thinking practical. This applies in a couple of ways. You want to use some common sense here, but also a gift that is useful in some way is very valuable, especially if you don't know what to get for someone. So about common sense; you wouldn't get someone a gift card to a fast food restaraunt that serves mostly meat products if the person is vegetarian or vegan. You wouldn't get someone a deck of tarot cards if you know they practice a religion which doesn't welcome the use of such a thing. It might seem a little silly, but you always want to make sure your briliant gift ideas are for the right person. When it comes to gifts that are useful, there are many things you can do. Most people drink coffee or tea so you almost can't go wrong with a nice mug or travel cup. Gift cards are a great addition to any gift, again as long as they're relevant and useful for the person. For example, if you want to get a gift for someone and you happen to know they get their nails done frequently, try finding out where they get them done and get them a gift certificate so they don't have to pay for their next appointment! Books are great as long as you have a good idea of what someone might like to read. Reusable goods are great for anyone who is environmentally conscious. These are only a couple of examples but a practical, useful, even functional gift is always a good way to go.

If you're really stumped on what to do, try picking a theme! You would be surprised how easily ideas start flowing once you've decided on a certain theme or vibe for a gift. Some good and easy themes you could try are reusuable or environmentally conscious, spirituality, health and wellness, music, or art. There are many options but those are just a few examples. Themed gifts are always so much fun to put together!

No matter what you decide to do, it's important to remember that when it comes to any gift, it's about quality, not quantity. You don't need to get someone a bunch of gifts or break the bank trying to make a gift "perfect." It's an old adage but as they always say, it's the thought that counts. That is always the case. A thoughtful, personally selected gift is better than a super expensive, fancy gift. Of course, it is possible for a gift to be both thoughtful and expensive, but it isn't necessary. Keep in mind that if someone isn't thankful for your gift or isn't totally pleased with it, that has everything to do with them and nothing to do with you. There is nothing wrong with the recipient admitting they won't use something or that something doesn't fit right, but if someone shows a lack of gratitude for your efforts, then maybe you shouldn't make those efforts next time!

Creative Ways to Add Value to a Gift

Another way to give awesome gifts is to get creative! There are a few fun things you can do to boost the presentation factor of your presents. Instead of using ribbons, try colorful yarn. Make your own cards instead of buying them. Include polaroids or photographs if the recipient is significant to you. Use a nice reusable bag as the gift bag instead of a paper bag so that way the packaging can double as part of the gift. Creativity has no limits so you can really go crazy here! Adding personal touches makes any gift that much more special.

10 Small Businesses to Consider

Now that we've gone over the basics of gift giving, it's time for the list of small businesses and shops you should check out when you're doing your holiday shopping.

1. Rei

Rei is the perfect shop for all of your outdoor gear and apparel needs. For anyone who enjoys hiking, camping, or snow sports, Rei has everything you need. They have a handful of locations as well as a website

https://www.rei.com

2. Earthbound Trading Company

You can find the grooviest apparel, home decor, and accessories here! It's the perfect shop for the hippie in the family. They have clothes, tapestries, spiritual tools, candles, incense, and more. They have a few stores and a website

https://www.earthboundtrading.com

3. Host Defense Mushrooms

Host Defense is a medicinal mushroom supplement brand created by mycologist Paul Stamets. Mushrooms have many benefits, such as immune support, cognitive function, and energy. Paul Stamets has also been interviewed on Joe Rogan's podcast. Anyone you know can benefit from adding medicinal mushrooms to their daily routine.

https://hostdefense.com

4. Books-A-Million

Books-A-Million is the perfect place to shop for the book lover in your life. They have an immense selection and something for everyone!

https://booksamillion.com

5. Net Zero

Net Zero is the perfect place to find gifts for ayone in your circle who is environmentally conscious. You can find and reusable goods you might need, and shopping sustainable products is crucial given the condition of our planet.

https://www.netzerocompany.com

6. Slightly Stoned

Check out this shop for beautiful handmade jewelry from hemp necklaces and bracelets and earrings. The shop is run by an artist in Florida and it can be found on etsy.

https://www.etsy.com/shop/slightlyst0nedd?ref=usf_2020

7. Main Street Jukebox

This record store located in Stroudsburg, PA is the perfect place to find music for the vinyl lover in your family. You can also buy products on the website as well as instagram. Even if you don't choose the Jukebox, you should always support your local record store.

https://mainstreetjukebox.com

8. Nature Walk Studio

You can find the most beautiful nature themed home decor, apparel, and accessories here. Their shop is in Michigan but they have a website as well.

https://naturewalkstudio.com

9. Stasher

Stasher bags are the hottest new reusabe way to store foods and other objects. They're silicone, reusable, durable, and they come in a ton of fun colors!

https://www.stasherbag.com

10. Thoughtcloud CBD

Anyone can benefit from CBD. Get the most potent CBD products here!

https://thoughtcloud.net