One of the ways we celebrate this season is through exchanging gifts. It’s a thrill to see a friend or family member open that perfect gift. Gifts can show our love or care for another person. And the person receiving the gift often feels understood and seen. 

But let’s be honest. Giving gifts can be expensive, stressful, and overwhelming too. Shopping for hard-to-buy-for people can cause a great deal of anxiety during a season that’s truly meant to be celebrated with joy and excitement. 

Here are some of my go-to favorites for gifts that also support our local community. 

1. Retail gift cards

For those people on your list who can be difficult to buy for, this is a great option. The gift card gives them the chance to buy what they truly want. But it also gives you a way to support local retail stores in the holiday season. 

2. Event tickets

The holiday season can be so busy, but give the gift of tickets to an event, play, or concert, and your Christmas gift will thrill on Christmas morning and on the day of the event.

3. Food

If a retail gift card won’t do, consider a gift certificate to a local restaurant. This allows your loved one to use the gift when they are ready and the rush of the holiday season is over. But giving the gift of food doesn’t just have to be at a restaurant. We have so many incredible local items like salts, rubs, seasonings, etc. that are perfect for the friends who are always cooking and grilling.

4. Services

There are so many reasons a loved one may need legal services. An attorney can help with estate planning and creating a will or help launch a business and create a contract template. While this gift may be unusual, it’s certainly helpful and practical.  For the more princess-like people on your list, there are great options for pampering your loved one with a massage or a pedicure. Maybe they could use a consultation from an interior designer or a pressure wash for their home. One year I received a car detail voucher, it was one of my favorite gifts that year. 

5. Outings and Experiences

Did you know we have a petting zoo in Summerville? We also have chef’s that come and cook in your home. These are two examples of fun outings and experiences you can give this holiday season. Consider buying something small related to the experience and wrapping it up with the gift card so everyone has something under the tree and to open on Christmas morning. You’re loved one who is a minimalist will love this option instead of getting a traditional gift that takes up space and is never used. 

6. Memberships

If you want to give a gift all year long, consider buying a membership for your loved one. That could be a year membership to the gym or recreation center. That may be a membership to the Chamber for a friend who owns a small business. Memberships to museums, kid play-places, and even monthly subscriptions are all fun ways to love on your family members all year long. 

Whatever you end up giving this year, I know your family and friends will feel most loved by spending quality time together. Happy Holidays!