Every year Christmas shopping seems to start just a little earlier than the previous year. This year is no exception. Already we see signs of the season in shopping malls, newspapers and of course on television.
Are you already feeling the pressure and starting to get anxious about what you’re going to buy everyone? Trying to pick an individual gift for everyone on your list can be really tough. Of course you can just buy a bunch of gift certificates to hand out, but that’s so impersonal and lacks in creativity. This year, why not come up with a Christmas gift giving theme? In other words, you will shop for everyone with this theme in mind. This narrows where you shop (saving on time), and can be lots of fun for you and your family. Here are some theme ideas:
- Community Theme. Every community is special in one way or another. Is there a landmark or natural wonder that your town is known for? You can give sculptures, paintings or photographs done by local artists of that landmark. Possibly your community is known for a particular type of food or entertainment. For example, Memphis, TN is known for both the blues and barbecue. You might give a gift of music from local blues artists, or a collection of barbecue sauces from Memphis’ most famous barbecue spots.
- State Theme. If you live in a small community, you might have more options in giving gifts from your state. Have the kids do some research and come up with what resources/commodities your state is most known for. For example, Wisconsiners might give gifts of gourmet cheese, meats and sausages, while Texans might give gifts with a western/cowboy kind of theme.
- Holiday/Winter Theme. The possibilities under this theme are endless. You might consider giving live gifts such as wreaths, poinsettias or a Christmas cactus. Or you could consider more practical gifts like holiday dishware/china, tree ornaments or a winter themed throw. Holiday/winter theme gifts can also make wonderful keepsakes. These are the kinds of gifts that loved ones use year after year and potentially pass down through the family.
- Entertainment Theme. Who doesn’t love entertainment? Here is a place where you can be very creative. Send your loved one down memory lane with a special record album from their past. You might also consider giving tickets to see their favorite music group, or a play, opera or sporting event. Other options include music cds, video/computer games and board games.
More themes to consider include favorite foods, books, schools/universities, and rest/relaxation. Be sure to come up with a special message that explains your theme and it's sentiment. For example, if you choose the Holiday theme your message might say something like, "Hope this gift brings you joy this season and for many seasons to come."
