So, to keep you from panic-buying the most expensive, yet thoughtless, gifts in desperation, here is my annual reminder – along with some cool gift ideas: Get to planning and executing on your holiday shopping list NOW!
Personal, unexpected gift ideas that don’t break the bank:
- Paid content for 6-12 months to your recipient’s favorite podcast.
- A magazine subscription (yes, they still mail magazines!) focusing on a hobby, interest, or geographic area that your recipient likes.
- One-year of a lesser-known, niche TV streaming service: BritBox, Acorn, Shudder, Dropout TV, or Broadway HD to name a few.
- A service to help them enjoy a hobby more: Ski/snowboard tune-up, a closet clean-out session with a personal shopper, a tennis/golf/squash/rock-climbing/Mah Jongg lesson.
- Time with YOU: Plan and pay for an outing in January/February to perk up the winter doldrums. Be specific on the activity and timeframe and be sure to execute on your promise.
With some planning and a little time on the internet, you can avoid the holiday madness of stores in December, give thoughtful gifts, and be easier on your wallet.
