This was originally posted on Bevy and people enjoyed it so I am reposting here so it can live on.
As a minimalist how should you handle gift giving during the holidays? Buying more stuff is pointless right? Not necessarily.
Minimalists try to only own the things they use and love and eliminate any useless junk in their lives. There are plenty of meaningful and practical gifts to give and this list provides over 10 gift ideas that any minimalist would truly appreciate!
Give Experiences
Tickets to a show, game, movie, museum, art gallery or anything that they can use to make memories with friends and family (or by themselves)!
Dinner: Who doesn't love a meal from their favorite restaurant or maybe a reason to try a new place to dine? Dinner is the perfect gift for someone that values a good meal and a thoughtful conversation rather than material items!
Give Consumables
Consumable items that can be enjoyed and shared are great for minimalists because it is something they can and throw away when they are done! Edible gifts mean no clutter!
Something Homemade
Homemade consumables are even better than store bought (especially if you’re a whizz in the kitchen). Sweet treats like cakes, pies, cookies, cupcakes, brownies, or whatever your specialty is will be ideal. Baked goods are not something that will clutter a minimalist home and giving these will not be a waste of your time or money.
Service Gift Cards
Who doesn't love a a clean car or home? Giving a service can dramatically improve your loved ones lives and free up time which they are sure to appreciate.
Charitable Donations
Donate to their favorite charity or foundation in their name. Wrap a small gift box or card symbolizing your donation so the person receiving your gift has something to unwrap!
Travel
Travel is one of the few things we spend money on that actually makes us richer. Buy your loved ones a trip somewhere or better yet, go with them.
Eco-Friendly Getaway
Minimalists love being mindful of the planet and its environment so traveling in an eco-friendly fashion will surely satisfy them. There are resources to help plan an environmentally conscious trip like Responsible Travel and camping gear can be rented if there is a concern of buying/ storing new travel equipment.
Classes
Giving the opportunity to learn something new or relieve stress can benefit someone’s life in a positive way. This is a gift that keeps on giving as they can obtain a new skill that they will have for the rest of their lives or find a new method of relaxation that makes their life just a little easier!
• Cooking
• Yoga
• Meditation
• Spin classes
• Ceramics, painting, sculpture
Books
You may have read a book that has really impacted you in some way or has been really helpful in your everyday life. Sharing this book can be very meaningful and practical to your recipient.
• Poems
• Romance
• More…
Time
Chances are your gift will not be remembered for years to come, no matter how practical or trendy. A person is going to remember the time spent, the memories made, and the effort you put into your friendship/ relationship. Spend more quality time with your loved ones. There is no greater gift.