'Tis the season for good cheer, but being inundated with messages to buy more, give more, and do more can quickly turn cheer to stress. This holiday, ditch the expectations and embrace your inner elf.
Get the kids involved and discuss what traditions and activities are most valued. Decide how to best manage expectations, stress, and resist the urge to compare what you do (or get) with others. Consider how traditions, like gift giving, can be used to make a positive impact.
Here are three ways one Christmas present can be a gift to more than just the recipient.
1. SHOP LOCAL AND SUPPORT SMALL BUSINESS.
Chances are you’ve heard about Shop Small Business Saturday. Supporting local businesses all season (and year) will make a lasting impact. Local businesses have unique, one-of-a-kind items that are fun to gift. Plus you have access to experts who can offer specialized service and answer questions during the gift decision process.
$68 of every $100 spent at a locally-owned business stays in the community according to forbes.com. Job security is strengthened for our neighbors working at these businesses, and home values increase in communities with thriving small business.
Environmental health is another side effect of shopping small. You use less fuel by traveling less and not being stuck in mall parking lot traffic.
2. BUY FROM LOCAL ARTISTS, CRAFTERS, AND CREATORS.
Local craft shows and events are abundant this time of the year and are a great way to get unique, hand-crafted gifts. There are many options for kids and adults. Toys, soap, clothing, home décor, candy, jewelry and more. These items are ethically made with creative passion. If your schedule conflicts with a local craft show, visit stores that carry local, handcrafted items. Commission a co-worker, neighbor or friend who crochets, knits, or makes candy to create a customized gift. Just remember to consider the amount of time and cost of their supplies to ensure you are paying them a fair wage.
Don’t forget about your local painters, photographers, and other artists. Did you see artwork at Amack’s Well(Opens in a new Window) throughout the year that you know someone would love? Did your friend post an amazing photograph on Facebook that would look great on your boss’ office wall? Contact the artist to see if the piece is for sale or if they offer smaller prints or greeting cards. Help empower them to keep creating.
3. THRIFT AND CREATE YOUR OWN GIFTS.
Who says gifts must be new? Buying second-hand cuts down on the amount of beautiful and functional items that end up in the landfill. You may be surprised at what you may find if you are new to thrifting – new clothes with tags, crystal glassware, games, books, and endless other options.
If you purchase kids clothing for Christmas, thrift stores are a great place to start. Thrift stores are also a springboard for creativity. Turn a basket and a pottery mug into a Chocolate Lovers Dream Basket with chocolate chip cookies, hot cocoa mix, and a bag of chocolate candy for your department gift exchange. You may find a large picture frame that just needs a little paint and a family photo for your parents. The possibilities of gift ideas that could start at the thrift store are endless.