We’ve all experienced that sinking feeling when the thought hits: one more gift to buy—and no time to buy it.
There is no fault or blame here. No such gift existed on your original holiday to-do list. And there are tons of legitimate reasons for such an oversight: general forgetfulness, too much to do, or someone came out of the woodwork you thought didn’t like you in the first place.
Regardless of the reason. A remedy is required—and quick. Of course, there are the old, dated standbys—a floral piece or gift card. But you can do better.
During this post pandemic era, the last-minute gift requires a different, more creative cover-up. With a little forethought, an impersonal digital gift card can become a thoughtful expression of kindness.
For example, is there a geographic region that resonates with your giftee? Try Googling items unique to that area and find a vendor that can deliver regional delicacies or novelties. In this case, the gift card might read, “I remember you talking about visiting the Seattle area. Enjoy the goodies and best of the season.” You can even send items from your own area, provided the recipient does not live nearby.
Other online gift ideas can be both quick and include the personal touch you’re after. For the book lover, send a subscription for an audible book of their choice. For the nature lover, send a gift card for an outdoor activity such as kayaking or hiking. For the contemplative individual, a membership to one of the popular meditation apps is a good choice.
You can even find gift cards that allow the recipient to pick out their own items. Who wouldn’t love a gift card that lets you create your own gift box? Alternatively, give the gift of a subscription to an online florist. (In this case, if said flowers end up on your front porch, move your Monopoly piece back to “Go” without collecting $200.)
Other out of the box ideas include an old school magazine subscription (less than $10); sending a personal celebrity cameo (starting at $5 depending on the celebrity), crafting a handwritten holiday letter or gifting your personal time to babysit or care for a pet.
After all, it’s the gift of good intentions that drives the holiday season—and late is always better than never.
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Republished from Nov. 30, 2022
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