Are you going to make a last minute dash this Christmas?
Christmas is only a few days away and perhaps you’re sitting back relaxing knowing well that you have already done your Christmas gift shopping, have them wrapped perfectly and have them safely stored under the tree. But, if you’re reading this, it’s not too late, you can still find that perfect gift for that special someone and you won’t need to fork out of small fortune either.
Last minute gift ideas
If you’re shopping for last minute gifts, it’s safe to say that you like many of us, aren’t the most organised person so we suggest you create a gift list. Double check your list and make sure you haven’t left anyone out otherwise it could get very awkward on Christmas day. It may be a good idea if you add a few general gifts to your list just in case you receive something unexpectedly or if you have guest over that you didn’t prepare for. Simple things like a bottle of wine, chocolates, jams or even high street vouchers are the perfect general gifts.
Next thing to do is to make a budget. Every year, Londoners are expected to splash on average £456.57 on presents this Christmas so sticking to a budget will make sure you don’t break the bank.
Last year, eBay predicted that 115 million unwanted presents will be given at Christmas, a total worth of an eye-watering £2.2 billion. Instead of creating waste by giving unwanted gifts, why not ask your friends or family what they would like for Christmas, or if you’d like to leave some mystery to it, we have a few suggestions…
Experiences
If you have some idea on what interests your loved ones have, gifting them with an experience will help you both create long lasting memories as well as letting them tick a box off their bucket list. There’s a wide range of gift experiences available for you to choose from – Race track days for the car enthusiasts or bungee jumping for those who are a bit more extreme. If that sounds to exhilarating, a soothing spa day will be perfect, especially for those with stressful jobs.
Make a donation in someone’s name
Do you have a family member with a passion for gardening or the outdoors; consider adopting a tree, flower or habitat in their name with the wildlife trust. You could also plant a tree for them with the national forest. Whatever their interest, there’s bound to be a charity that would be grateful for a donation, which would also bring a smile to your loved one.
Grow something together
Seeds and growing plants are always amazing gifts to give, especially to someone who wants to start growing their own but doesn’t know where to start. It’s great to get the kids involved too; watching something grow from a seedling is always satisfying and will give kids an understanding of the cycle of life.
Make something
Do you have a special skill? Are you a knitting hero or a delicious jammer? Use your skills to create something personal from yourself to your friends and family. They will appreciate the time and thought you put into making your own gifts.
Give the gift of time
Time is always the best gift to give, we never seem to have enough so babysitting your niece or nephew will give your siblings some much needed ‘me’ time. If you’re loved one is constantly busy, take time out of your day and cook a lovely meal for them. It’s good for you and your loved one to get some quality time together to talk and catch up, especially if they’re constantly rushed off their feet.
