We’re all familiar with the impending mental-block that comes with the responsibility of choosing gifts over the holidays; suddenly we forget everything our giftee has ever expressed an interest in. Also, we want to show that we’ve put a lot of thought into our loved one’s gift whilst being impressively stealthy about it, and I for one have not mastered the art of sublety when it comes to this matter. Whether you’re buying for your flat/house secret Santa (where sometimes the element of surprise is not quite as successful when everyone starts playing detective) or shopping for family at Christmas, this selection of online sources for sentimental gifts will help towards a true sense of surprise and also satisfaction on your end too!
3: Not on the High Street
To begin with a bit of a paradox, one of the most well known websites for unique gifts is ‘Not on the High Street’. Everything about this brand aims to put across the idea of personal, heartfelt and thoughtful presents and, most importantly, that you cannot find these gifts just anywhere. A particularly useful section is the ‘shop by personality’ option, with categories ranging from craft lovers to frequent travellers to gifts for the aspiring chef. Not only is this gesture a nod towards your knowledge of your recipients hobbies, this also ensures that they receive something they can use again and again.
2: Literary Emporium
Is your giftee an avid reader? If so the ‘to read’ pile that they’re constantly updating is probably sky high, so buying yet another book, especially as a surprise, seems futile. However, this doesn’t mean to say that we have to abandon the idea of a literature inspired present entirely. Literary Emporium is a wonderful website that specialises in hand-made jewelry, stationary and other assorted gifts (including mugs and compact mirrors) inspired by the classics. All gifts arrive delicately wrapped and provide aesthetically pleasing quote cards that will make a perfect addition to their pin board.
1: Experiences and Gift Memberships
You might even want to consider a gift that keeps on giving. This could be literally be with buying them a beauty subscription for example, or in an enriching sense, through cultural and explorative experiences that inspires more and more things to discover. Some possibilities include memberships to local museums, galleries, theatres etc. and even classes that you and friends, family or partner can try together. These may prove to be a bit pricier to get hold of singlehandedly, but this would work really well if a group wished to all contribute to a memorable Christmas present.
Hopefully, this little selection will help on your way to saying goodbye to panic purchasing and open up other discoveries for more meaningful gifts this Christmas.