If there’s anything more satisfying than receiving useful gifts, it’s putting one together for someone you love. In fact, great gift-giving doesn’t have to be hard; it just has to be thoughtful. Here’s what we suggest!
A Bit of Greenery Whether it’s a pretty terrarium, mini herb garden or one of NASA’s proven air-purifying indoor plants, plants make a homely gift and brighten up any space. Alternatively, you could deliver a potted plant straight to someone’s door with the help of your local florist. Here’s a handy fact for those who don’t know: Bunnings has a Perfect Plant Promise – meaning they’ll refund any plants you’re not 100% happy with (up to 12 months from the initial purchase).
Sustainable Products Think funky patterned beeswax wraps from Bee Wrappy, reusable cups from Frank Green, mesh produce bags and the like. Anything that you know someone will eliminate the aspect of waste in someone’s everyday life is a win for you, and the environment.
Blind Date With A Book In this case, you can’t judge a book by its cover! This novel idea has seen Elizabeth’s Bookshops taking books that would have otherwise been overlooked and restoring intrigue in them. By putting books in plain wrapping with a few mystery keywords written on them, it’s up to the recipient of this gift to find out what they’re getting themselves into. Not only does it let books in perfectly fine condition find a new home, but it also broadens readers’ horizons.
Homemade Treats & Cooking Classes Food is the way into anyone’s heart, and a homemade meal is a fabulous way to show someone you care. Jars of DIY seasoning mixes and homebaked treats such as gingerbread cookies work perfectly too. Best of all, it doesn’t have to be extravagant. If you feel like taking it up a notch though, a cooking class is another suggestion. Why not learn how to make your favourite dishes with cutting-edge culinary companies like Salt & Company and Matters of Taste?
Secondhand Goods Some of the most unique and memorable presents I’ve gifted have been secondhand finds. From beautifully embroidered bags to a cosy knit sweater, there are countless brilliant things you can find on a budget in op shops such as Good Sammys and Salvos. If you’re after somewhere more curated, secondhand boutiques like Nifty In Freo have fantastic options; I did see a handwoven picnic basket set, vintage mugs and other gorgeous homewares in there the other day! It all just takes time, lots of digging and a bit of luck – making it even more rewarding when you find that special something.
Natural Bath and Skincare Products Now this is where mesmerizing bath bombs, face masks and body scrubs come into the picture! If you’re stumped, a quick trip to Lush will get you picking up lovely gifts in no time. Otherwise, our team recommends ELIA Balms & Blends which are all-natural and locally made. While these may seem a little personal, bath and skincare products scream relaxation and pampering; just make sure they’re natural and locally made.
Unique Experiences Sometimes, the best gift of all is quality time with someone – and what better way than to spend it trying something new? Just tailor the experience to a person’s tastes. If they’re competitive, consider a round of mini golf, axe throwing or archery. Otherwise, activities like stand up paddle boarding, fruit picking, dance classes and walking tours are great fun, too. Having a browse on Groupon is also ideal, as there are plentiful deals to take advantage of.
Gift Cards (With Intention!) As someone who’s still coming to terms with adult life, there is honestly nothing I’d appreciate more than a gift card for a store I know and love. While some might hail this as a relatively lazy and thoughtless gift, I’d actually beg to differ. To me, the idea of getting a gift voucher to use at my go-to tattoo parlour, the movies, a day spa or even at Coles makes my heart sing. Our team loves local activewear brands like Harris and Hunter, which do gift cards. After all, gifts put to good use are never ones that are wasted.
Charity Gifts Last but not least, this is for the change-makers out there. Gifts don’t always have to be tangible, but rather, meaningful gestures. For example, you could make a donation to a local animal shelter on behalf of your animal-loving friend. World Vision also offers a charity gift catalogue every year, where you can sponsor a child, adopt endangered animals and purchase necessities for places affected by poverty, conflict or natural disasters – and so much more. For those who are lucky to have more than enough, helping them to give back to the world is perhaps one of the greatest gifts of all.
On a side note: Reusing gift bags and wrapping is acceptable, and something I do all the time! As a controversial opinion, I also think regifting is completely fine as long as the gift itself is untouched, in good condition and of value to the receiver.