Giving gifts to your loved ones is a great way to show that you care while also expressing your love, gratitude, and appreciation. When you give someone a gift, it shows that you value them, and this can help to strengthen your relationship.
As the giver, you will also benefit from the gesture because, according to studies, people who spend money for others generally experience more generous social interactions and report higher levels of happiness. The act of gift-giving prompts your brain to release “oxytocin”, the hormone that induces feelings of connection, bonding, and trust, which is why it is also known as the “cuddle or feel-good hormone”.
Likewise, for the person receiving the gift, it can bring him joy and happiness, brighten his day, and bring a smile to his face. This is why giving and receiving gifts create lasting memories – when you look back on a gift you received from a loved one, it helps you recall happy memories and remind you of the special bond you share.
Understandably, it can be quite challenging to decide on what gift to send with so many options out there, which is why good gift-giving is an art in itself. The best gifts are ones that let your loved ones know that you were thinking of them, even when they weren’t expecting it. Your gift doesn’t have to be expensive or elaborate, and even a small gesture can go a long way because, as they say, “It’s the thought that counts”.
Here’s a tip for you: an excellent way to choose a gift is to match it with the personality and preference of your intended recipient, as well as the message that you want to convey. Take a look at these suggestions to get you started:
1. Custom Koozies
Koozies are practical and fun gift options because anyone who receives them will easily find a use for them. They are perfect for keeping drinks cold while preventing condensation from making a mess, so whether you’re at a backyard BBQ, a pool party, or just hanging out with friends, they will come in quite handy.
To make your gift extra special, you can give personalized koozies with a name, message, or design of your choice. Aside from being suitable for various occasions, such as birthdays, weddings, and graduations, custom koozies with funny or clever messages can also serve as great conversation starters at parties or events.
2. Canvas Tote Bags
If your intended recipient is an environmentalist or is someone who is eco-conscious, then a canvas tote bag would be a great gift option. They are environmentally friendly and can help reduce or eliminate the need for plastic bags, which are harmful to the environment. Plus, they are durable and long lasting, making them a practical gift that can be used for years.
Additionally, tote bags are versatile and can be used for multiple purposes, such as a carry-on bag when shopping or to store your personal items on a day out. Canvas totes are also easy to clean and maintain because you can just throw them in the washing machine when they get dirty, and they will look good as new.
3. Personalized Portraits
Personalized portraits are great gifts because they are thoughtful, timeless, and customizable. You can use it to capture a special moment or memory, which is a great way of commemorating a notable occasion or milestone in your relationship with your loved one.
To add another touch of intimacy, choose a medium that best suits your intended recipient’s unique taste and preference. There is quite a variety of mediums that you can choose from, such as charcoal, oil, or watercolor. You could also get your gift made by local artists and small businesses, making your gift meaningful not only to you but also to the community as a whole.
4. Cutting Boards
One uncommon but meaningful gift option is a cutting board. Best suited for people who love to cook and enjoy their time in the kitchen, a high-quality wood-cutting board is useful, practical, and easy to clean. They also come in various styles, colors, and materials to suit your intended recipient’s aesthetic style.
If you want to give a more personalized gift, you can go for a custom cutting board and have it personalized with a monogram or even a secret family recipe. You can pair it with other items as well, such as a nice set of knives, to complete your kitchen gift package.
5. Coasters
Someone who just moved into a new home would enjoy receiving coasters because these items are both practical and functional, which helps make a new space feel more like home. They protect furniture from water rings and spills while adding an aesthetic flair to the space as they come in many quirky and fun designs. You can have them customized as well to include photos, personalized messages, or other designs that represent your relationship with the recipient.
Coasters are typically made from different materials like wood, cork, metal, or marble, so you can choose one based on your intended recipient’s stylistic choices. You can also go for coasters made from recycled or biodegradable materials if you prefer a more eco-friendly version.
