For most of us, this holiday season may be like no other in recent memory due to the economy. I want my gifts this year to mean more than just about the money I spend! In my line of business I see many people who have been given gifts over the years that didn’t “fit” or couldn’t be used which became a clutter problem rather than a valued treasure.
Professional organizers have always promoted the “less is more” philosophy especially around the holidays. So, I want to share with you a few ideas on how you can join the “clutter-free gifting” movement! Believe me, your recipients will appreciate it more than you think!
First, start just like Santa, by making a personal gift list. Then, list each person’s interests, hobbies, likes and needs. Next, and this is the key, you become creative and match each person with their own unique gift. The following are just a few of many “Clutter-free” ideas, not in any specific order, to start you off!
• Gift certificates for activities: sporting events, concerts, restaurants, movies, flower or
horse shows, hot air balloon rides, massages, spa days, golf, etc.
• Buy a gift in the recipients’ name for a needy child from the Salvation Army’s Angel
Tree or make a donation to the recipients’ favorite charity
• Give consumable gifts: homemade cookies, candy, breads; gourmet foods, coffee, hot
chocolate
• For the culinary set, a gift box of oils, vinegars and spices (you can find many items
in all price ranges)
• Arrange to have flowers delivered monthly
• Give a membership to a beverage or food of the month club
• Make a certificate booklet with vouchers good for services such as car washing,
breakfast in bed, a homemade meal (including the clean up), household chores, etc.
• Buy a series of lessons such as: cooking, dance, yoga, sessions with a personal trainer,
computer classes, etc.
• Give membership or passes to a museum or amusement park
• Provide a weekend get away to a B&B or airline tickets to come visit you
Let this be the year you decide to simplify and de-clutter your gifting. Have fun, be creative and enjoy the process!
Barbara Ricketts is a Certified Professional Organizer (CPO) & member of The National Association of Professional Organizers. If you need professional assistance to get organized, contact her at MessDoctor@Mac.com or call 661-263-0124.