Ever since I was a kid I’ve always learned to be personable and resourceful when pursuing goals and completing tasks. If I wanted to have a sleepover with my closest friends, I’d come up with all kinds of activities to host, games to play, movies to watch, and even theme the gatherings to make the overall experience memorable for everyone attending. Speed up to adulthood and I’m still finding all kinds of ways to bring joy into experiences. As we move into the holiday season, I’m thinking more and more about how to make the experience of giving and receiving gifts just as memorable.
Oklahoma has so much to offer in small business retail shops and the fine artistry that boldly paints our city. Considering the holiday season is now here, I am thinking about ways to incorporate local inspiration and products into the gifts I’d like to give friends, family members, neighbors, and even my wonderful colleagues.
I have a checklist of questions I ask myself when finding the perfect gifts that you might want to consider when picking out your own this holiday season:
Is it locally crafted or curated? Friends, support your local small businesses!
I love nothing more than to support my local community by investing in beautiful products they handcraft or source to supply in their shops. The thoughtfulness of sourcing locally made products can deeply resonate with the people you may be gifting to! Some of my favorite things I own are things I cannot find anywhere but that one place where it originated! I have family members from out of the state that love getting products I source for gifts, like food and beverage packages, or olive oils and seasonings and fun kitchen tools and gadgets to pair with them.
Is there an emotional connection between the item in mind, and the person you’re seeking to give it to?
A meaningful gift can really solidify a bond you have with someone if there’s some personal story connected to the item you want to give them.
Will they instantly think of you when they open that gift?
It makes a more emotional connection with the gift receiver if you can make a gift of something that you’ve bonded over in the past. It will leave a warm, fuzzy feeling when you find the perfect present. Have fun with it! Pay attention to the subtle comments people share in daily conversations; you’d be surprised to pick up on some of the most meaningful ideas for gifts just by recognizing their desires, passions, loves, etc.
Will they regift it?
I say this light-heartedly because sometimes we have good intentions but some gifts truly serve no connection to the above questions which leave people shoving items in their closet after receiving them, only to be rummaged for later in a panic when they know they have a Dirty Santa game to join in on at a future Christmas party.
Some of the greatest gifts you can give are not tangible items to hold. One of my very favorite memories around the holidays is when I was taken on a helicopter ride to see Christmas lights in Oklahoma City. It was a quick 15-minute ride but one of the most breathtaking views I’ve ever seen.
Consider gifts like:
- Charitable donations – Select a non-profit that’s meaningful to you or someone you’re donating on behalf of.
- Local experiences – Paint & sips, mixology classes, cooking classes, craft projects, axe throwing or paint-balling, and similar outings.
- Unique excursions and activities – Hunting packages, horseback riding lessons, wine or distillery tastings, or local brewery tours.
What resonates most with people during the holidays is how they feel when they open up or receive a gift, so consider these questions when picking the perfect gifts for those you love and care for.