Gifting with Intention

My checklist for what makes a gift special

* Handmade: something special with a human touch

* Buy Local: supports the community 

* Thoughtfully designed (and designed by a female for extra points)

*Packaging

*Materials

*Caused based gifting: Gifts that give back

*Sentimental 

*Memory invoking

*An activity 

Crafting a Difference: Handmade Gifts with a Heart, Supporting Local Artisans and Dreams

Giving something handmade, something special with a human touch means so much. It’s not only the creation, but it supports a local community and economy. You’re typically supporting something made by real hands by a person who is giving it their all to make a living creating these items. Or maybe it’s someone who needs a little extra pocket change for a dream they’re hoping to fulfill. 

Some ideas for handmade items could be a beautiful commissioned piece from a local artist, pottery, jewelry or even baked goods made in your own kitchen. This may seem simple, but who has time to make something special for themselves? What a gift to share with others! Think granola, a simple syrup, or seasoned salts. It doesn’t have to be baked goods or sweets. 

When you choose to purchase from local businesses, you’re championing your community, backing the dedicated solo entrepreneurs driving their groundbreaking startups and the cherished local companies that contribute to local employment. When businesses engage with each other locally, money circulates within our community, fostering economic and social enhancement. Supporting local businesses is a powerful form of advocacy that contributes to the resilience and prosperity of our community.

How about Cause-based gifting? 

This may involve making a charitable donation or contributing to a cause on behalf of someone instead of giving a traditional physical gift. This approach is particularly appealing for individuals who already seem to have everything or for those who express a preference for no gifts.

Meaningful Impact: Cause-based gifts allow the giver to make a positive impact on a cause or organization that holds significance to the recipient. This can be especially meaningful, as it demonstrates thoughtfulness and consideration for the recipient’s values and interests.

Reduced Material Clutter: For individuals who have an abundance of possessions or who prefer a minimalist lifestyle, cause-based gifts offer a way to avoid adding to material clutter. It aligns with the growing trend of conscious consumerism and promotes the idea that experiences and contributions to important causes hold more value than material possessions.

Alignment with Values: Some people prefer not to receive gifts because they may feel uncomfortable with the idea of unnecessary consumerism. Cause-based gifting addresses this concern by redirecting the gift-giving spirit towards supporting meaningful causes, aligning with the values of both the giver and the recipient.

Personalization: Cause-based gifts can be highly personalized. Givers can choose a cause that resonates with the recipient’s interests, beliefs, or life experiences, making the gift a reflection of the relationship between the giver and the recipient.

Global Impact: Cause-based gifting allows the recipient to contribute to global or community-based initiatives, fostering a sense of connection and responsibility beyond individual interests. This can be particularly appealing for those who appreciate making a broader impact on the world.

Emotional Fulfillment: Knowing that a gift has made a positive difference in the world or supported a cause close to their heart can bring a deep sense of emotional fulfillment to the recipient. It goes beyond the transient pleasure of receiving a physical item.

In summary, cause-based gifting is a thoughtful and impactful alternative for individuals who are challenging to shop for or who prefer no gifts. It adds a layer of personalization, aligns with values, and contributes to a greater sense of purpose and social responsibility.