Clutter-Free Gift Guide
How not to give clutter
The winter season is a time when many folks are shopping for gifts for others. Whether you celebrate Christmas, another winter holiday, or just need to buy someone a gift at any time of year, this list should help give you some ideas of what you can give without adding to the clutter that seems to be collecting in most of our homes!
Give Experiences
Memberships to the zoo, the aquarium, the Children's Museum, the gym, or theater. Tickets or gift certificates to local fun spots: Play Cle, Urban Air, Skyzone, Main Event, Pinspiration, Artist for a Day, Swings-N-Things, bowling, miniature golf, painting, movies, or a show. Classes such as swim, dance, yoga, cooking, or Annie's Signature Sweets Baking School.
Give Time
What if instead of giving clutter and unwanted gifts this year, you gave the thing no one ever has enough of, time! Quality time is a love language for many and creates a cherished memory with your friend or family member. It can be anything from a homemade meal and going for a walk together, to eating at a restaurant followed by a shared activity. You can also give the gift of free time! Many parents would appreciate babysitting. You could also offer to walk the dog, clean the car, or run an errand. Another option is purchasing professional services that save time such as cleaners, meal delivery, laundry service, or professional organizing (I offer gift certificates!)
Give Consumables
Give consumables! You could bake a specialty item at home, make homemade dry cookie mix in mason jars, or purchase local favorites. This can be especially meaningful for friends and family who may have moved away. What about wine of the month club? Perhaps they would really love a gift card to their favorite coffee shop, for gas or groceries, or streaming music, movies or games. Flowers are an easy homerun!
Give Self-Care
For the last section of my clutter-free gift guide, give Self-Care! This can mean restful and relaxing time alone, with no to-do list and no interruptions. It can also be spa type services such as massage, manicure, or mud bath. If finances allow, a vacation or getaway is the a very thoughtful gift for your loved one. Researching and planning a trip, even if they will pay for the actual trip themselves, can be a major timesaver.
Clutter-Free and Happy
Remember, the most important thing when giving a gift is NOT how much money you spend or how many items you purchase. Focus on spending time with friends, family and chosen family. Connect through quality conversation, fun games and laughter. Creating meaningful memories will last longer than anything you can buy in a store.