One of the best feelings is discovering the perfect gift for someone. It's that moment when you stumble upon something that practically whispers the person's name in your ear! Unfortunately, this is often lost in the frenzy of last-minute gift shopping, leaving many to miss out on the full delight of the holiday season. However, with proper planning, Christmas time can welcome a lot of creativity and joy into your life. What a beautiful gift to give to yourself!

Budgeting: The Gift of Financial Freedom

Before we dive into these gift ideas, let's talk about budgeting. It might not be an exciting topic, but it can make your gift-giving experience so much more enjoyable. Start by determining whom you want to buy gifts for and how comfortable you're spending on each person. Once you have your figures, add them up. For example, if your budget is $400 and it's November 1st, consider putting aside $70-80 a week until mid December. If your budget is $100, put aside $15-20 a week. You get the idea. Budgeting creates freedom. Thankfully, with the exception of one or two, most of these gifts can be as expensive or as affordable as you want them to be. Now let's get to it! 

Seven Heartfelt Gift Ideas

1. Cookies-in-a-Jar: Sweet Memories in a Jar

Few things in life rival the taste of a freshly baked cookie. That's why I love gifting these delightful homemade cookies in a jar, containing the dry ingredients. Your recipient can whip up a fresh batch easily and at their own convenience. Whether it's classic chocolate chip, oatmeal, festive white chocolate cranberry, or MnM's, this gift is bound to please.

Creating the jar is easy peasy. All you need is a mason jar, with the dry ingredients neatly layered inside, and some cute strings with a tag. On the tag, include simple directions along with the wet ingredients they'll need to add. And just like that, you've created a charming and delectable gift.

Here's a cookies-in-a-jar recipe and tutorial.

2. Framed Photo: Timeless Treasures

While this is not exactly unique, a framed photo remains timeless and special. Most people's phones are bursting with photos, yet we often overlook the simple and meaningful task of selecting, developing, and framing a cherished memory. Personally, I can't help but light up when I receive a framed photo because it's unlikely I would have done it myself! 

To make it even more special, consider selecting a frame that reflects their style, and then take the extra step of developing a collection of photos in the appropriate size. This way, they can choose their favourite picture to put inside the frame, and you're sure to hit the mark with a heartfelt, memorable gift. 🎁

3. A Non-Fiction Book: Spark Inspiration

If they're a reader, then a thoughtfully chosen non-fiction book reflecting their interests is a wonderful gift. Whether it's about cooking, painting, decorating, or organizing, you're sure to find a book waiting to inspire them.

On a personal note, I particularly love the Chicken Soup for the Soul books. If you're at a loss for a specific hobby or passion, consider gifting a Chicken Soup book like 'Kindness Matters' or 'A Book of Miracles' filled with beautiful and heartwarming real short stories to comfort anyone who delves in.

If you want some of my personal fiction book favourites, i'll leave that for another blog post. But I'm always happy to talk about books if you just comment or ask! I love to read! 

4. Pocket Hair Brush: Practical Elegance 

Alongside lipstick, I believe a mini hairbrush should be a must-have in every woman's bag. Plus, unlike most cosmetics, this gift stands the test of time! They technically could have it from 8 years old to 98 years old, which is amazing. When I was a bride, I gifted my bridesmaids personalized pocket hairbrushes with their names embroidered. It was a perfect personalized touch for their box, and the feedback was wonderful too!

If you're interested, here is the exact one I purchased.

5. Mystery Picnic: Adventure Awaits

For the adventurous spirit, a Mystery Picnic by AmazingCo offers a wonderful experience. Mystery Picnic operates in over 50 cities around the world. They plan a unique date filled with clues and surprises that guide you to your next stop. My husband and I had the pleasure of enjoying a Mystery Picnic and we had loads of fun! It was great to skip the hassle of deciding what to do or where to dine. We discovered new places in our city, and the experience exceeded our expectations. 

Check out Mystery Picnic here.  

6. Wine or Flower Subscription: The Gift That Keeps on Giving

Who wouldn't want a gift that keeps on giving long after the holiday season? While a wine or flower subscription is more of a splurge, it's a sweet and lovely present if your budget allows it. We personally treated my parents to a 6-month wine subscription for Christmas, and they delighted in discovering new Canadian wines. It was our way of expressing gratitude for their huge support as we moved and welcomed our first baby.

If you're interested in a wine subscription, ours was from wineclub.ca.

7. An Ingredient or Special Food: Nourish the Belly & Soul

Gifting my Irish husband those unique Irish treats that you can't find in Canada never fails to bring a smile to his face. Food has a magical way of speaking to our souls. Consider an ingredient, spice, or food item that holds a special place in this persons heart. Go the extra mile by sourcing it from somewhere they'd never think of themselves, present it with care, and it's a gift they'll never forget! 

In Conclusion: The True Essence of Gift-Giving

As you approach the holiday season, remember that the love and thought behind your gift is what truly matters. By being intentional in choosing gifts and allowing ample time to prepare, you can savor the Christmas season to its fullest. I'd love to know your plans for gifting your loved ones this year. Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below. 

 Xo

Natalie Grace