Clutter Free Gifts

Uncluttered Giving 2014

 

It’s the time of year to search for ideas for gifts to give and to (subtly) request. My clients and those attending my seminars and workshops know that I am passionate about reducing the unnecessary “stuff” in our spaces and lives. I call it “giving consumables” – items that are used and enjoyed quickly without taking up permanent residence in our residence! 

 Most of us have too many things and not enough time and peace, so I’ve been thinking about some ways to show we care without adding to the clutter.  This is my answer to the “oh no - another gadget/ knick knack/ pair of socks/ dust collector” dilemma. The concepts are likely valuable for a lot of people on your list, so use your imagination and customize for your own joyous holiday gift giving and receiving!

Give Pampering

Give a gift certificate to a spa for a day of relaxation, some yoga classes, a massage, or a manicure and pedicure to someone who could really use a little bliss more than another kitchen appliance. They will think about you and smile.

Give Treats

Make or purchase very special treats that people often deny themselves. Be sensitive to dietary restrictions, but gourmet foods, rich chocolates, or elegant wines or champagne are great choices that won’t permanently fill a cabinet. Luxury personal care items make lovely (consumable) gifts if you know what they enjoy and use. Save space, your budget, and the planet by minimizing wrapping.  

Even easier?   Check out the vast array of ...Of the Month Clubs.   Google it to see expected items sent at chosen intervals like fruit, coffee, and wine, but there are some unusual options like plants, artisan crafts, cigars, olive oil, and bacon!

Give Fun

Tickets or season passes to the symphony, local playhouses, sporting events, amusement parks, or a favorite movie theatre show you know what they love, and they won’t end up stacked in the garage! Or, how about tuition for a class? Maybe they always wanted to learn to salsa, speak Italian, or make jewelry - and you will long be remembered for making it happen.  This is a terrific choice for any age. 

Give Technology

How about cards with time for iTunes or GooglePlay, Netflix or Amazon Prime for music and movie buffs?   Get a subscription to Mozy for safe back-ups, or get a service to offer trouble-shooting and repairs for their home computer.   Boy - I want that one!!

Give Time

Hire a service to help out the stressed out. Engage a cleaning or lawn service for a one time or ongoing project, or purchase child or senior care services to give a respite to those with too many responsibilities. Get a mobile car care service to detail a vehicle at their home or office, or – my personal favorite – hire a professional organizer to help them re-claim their space and inner peace! Go to http://convenientlyorganized.com/home or call 501-620-0546 to request gift certificates.

Give Life

Supporting charities is a simple, significant way to share holiday spirit. For example, give meaningfully in the name of someone who already has much by purchasing an animal from Little Rock based Heifer International. These sustainable gifts provide sustenance and self-reliance to those in need around the world. Go to Heifer.org to choose your special live gift. Or have a tree planted in your loved one’s honor at Arborday.org which even supplies the gift card.  Consider what causes resonate with them and with you, and the love will shine!