Gift-giving year after year for loved ones can be challenging! There are always plenty of choices for children under 6 but as kids get older, they become much more discriminating. And older relatives and friends require some really creative thinking to come up with ideas that are fresh and will be enjoyed.
In recent years, many of us have started to purchase "experience" gifts, rather than more stuff. These may be experiences that your loved one may never have thought of trying themselves, or your loved one may have considered these experiences too much of a splurge or just not in the budget. Some may not be actual "experiences" -- instead, they may be services that the recipient will enjoy, whether because they save time or are a true help.
Below are our suggestions for gifts from local businesses that will be unique and appreciated. Be sure to mention Macaroni Kid when you visit; some have special offers for readers!
GIFTS OF RELAXATION & STRESS RELIEF
For the relative who is overloaded with stress or work, what about a massage gift card or a service such as a manicure?
My kids have enjoyed gifting me with handmade coupon books, with coupons that I can redeem for help around the house. Little ones can make coupons as simple as "The TV remote is yours all evening long" to "We'll sweep the kitchen floor" to "Redeem for a big hug and a snuggle". Now that my kids are older, they've added coupons for making dinner and even yardwork. All these helpful moments add up, and the thought and effort behind the coupon book is the most precious part of the gift.
Do you have a relative or friend who uses creativity as an outlet for stress? A gift card for a local craft class, pottery evening, or craft store is thoughtful.
Exercise is a wonderful stress-reliever, and learning martial arts can provide excellent physical and even mental health benefits. The Self-Defense Institute in Tewksbury provides expert instruction in Kempo Karate, Jujitsu and Kung Fu for children ages 3-18 and adults. With very reasonable monthly costs and no contracts, a gift of lessons at the Self-Defense Institute is a wonderful gift. Plus, watch our Holiday Giveaways for a special giveaway from the Self-Defense Institute!
GIFTS OF BEAUTY
You can never go wrong with a gift from Stella and Dot, featuring beautiful jewelry, bags, scarves and clothes too! Debbie Brosnan of Stella and Dot can help you select from a wide variety of gifts, including statement jewelry pieces with holiday sparkle, engravable gifts to personalize, wristlets and cross-body bags, and special tops that go from day to night with ease. There's something for everyone! Debbie is offering a special reward for orders placed by December 12. Watch our Holiday Giveaways soon for a giveaway from Debbie at Stella and Dot!
GIFTS OF PLAY & LEARNING
A gift membership to The Discovery Museum in Acton is a wonderful gift for a family with young children. Members can visit as often as they like, plus they receive free admission to many other museums nationwide. The Discovery Museum is full of hands-on interactive and creative exhibits that provide hours of fun. Check out our Holiday Giveaways soon for a special giveaway from the Discovery Museum!
A gift card to Altitude Trampoline Park in Billerica is sure to please! Kids (and parents) love jumping, playing dodgeball, and getting their energy out. Be sure to watch our Holiday Giveaways for a special giveaway from Altitude!
Other ideas include gift cards to local indoor play centers, toy stores, mini golf and schools that provide lessons such as swimming, robotics, dance, gymnastics and more. For an adult, a gift of tickets to a local play or musical will provide a unique entertainment option.
