Thoughtful Gift Ideas Guide

It’s that time of year when, if we haven’t already, we need to start thinking of what gifts will be given when the silly season hits full swing. I thought I’d try something a little different this time and share some thoughtful gift ideas, because sometimes buying local and supporting independent businesses is a more achievable option than only buying handmade. I love handmade, but sometimes it’s not the right fit for the person I’m buying for and there’s nothing sadder than handmade being tossed aside from someone who really wanted something that’s more them. So here are some fun ideas for buying the right gifts for the people you care for.

Thoughtful gift ideas:

1. Something for them to write in – This Clairefontaine Notebook was purchased at Mag Nation on Elizabeth St, Melbourne. I love the idea of encouraging people to just write for writing sake, to capture their ideas on paper and see where it takes them. Great for tweens that are past the toy phase
2. Something for the Handmade lover – This Bunting embroidered necklace is made in Melbourne by Sonia of Dandelyne and is available in her Etsy shop. I love getting something handmade for the people who will just love it and will get a lot of use from it.
3. Something for them to read – This cloth bound copy of Seven Little Australians was purchased at The Little Bookroom‘s shop in Degraves St, Melbourne.  I love sharing a classic book that’s been loved for generations and introducing it to a new one. The cloth bound editions of the classics are just beautiful and make a great gift that can last a long time.
4. Something you made them – This memory box was made for my cousin by me earlier in the year. If you’re crafty and you have the time (and want to), you can make a gift that they will enjoy. If you’re looking for a quick gift to make, try this one.
5. Something to make them the story – This Blurb Book is my story (in pictures) of my travels from 2004 to 2012. You can make one here. I love the idea of taking someone’s manuscript and printing it for them, or making them a “This is your life” book, or even sneaking their best photos from their computer and making it a book. There are so many ways you could make a photo book that says “how ace are you” – no matter their age.
6. Something to feed their imagination – These Story Stones are made in Country Victoria by Michelle of Two Little Crickets. (They are available from this Thursday, and I just couldn’t resist sharing them, so pop over on Thursday for the launch!) I love something that is more of an activity than is just sitting and watching, so I love these Story Stones for the little ones. So fun!

Gifting can be a tricky business when you have many different personalities to think about as well as your budget so I think it’s also important not to stress over it. Whilst I love thoughtful gifts and thinking handmade and local first, there’s no point in putting extra stress on yourself if it’s all a bit much and it comes down to money in a card or a gift voucher for a shop you know the person will just adore. There’s something lovely in being able to give thoughtful gifts, but it’s also important to remember that it’s the thought that counts and we don’t always have the funds or time to go as crazy as we’d like.

If you’re trying to think of other ways to add a thoughtful touch to your gifts, and this is great if you’re low on cash or ideas, why not hand write them a letter about why they’re important to you. This might be tough if you have to buy for people you don’t really know or don’t really like. ;)

And once you’ve got your gorgeous gifts sorted, here are some awesome gift wrapping options for your gift wrapping kit.

What’s on your Gift Wishlist this year? How do you do gifting in your home? Come tell me in the comments! I’d love to know.