It's that time of year again, when everyone scurries to the mall in search of the perfect gift for that special someone. While most of us relate the holiday season to the stress of last-minute shopping, fighting for parking spots, and over-maxed credit cards, the true meaning of the holidays is often forgotten. Spending time with loved ones, thinking of others less fortunate than ourselves and creating long-lasting memories are the true gifts of the holiday season.
This year, we decided to compile a list of great gift ideas that truly embodies the spirit of the holidays.
1. Instead of buying an expensive gift for each person on your list, why not take the next 6 weeks to make a meaningful connection with each person? Whether it's going for a coffee with a loved one, or taking a relative for a stroll, these are the moments that you'll remember in the future.
2. Looking for green, eco-friendly gift ideas? Have your friends and family create a holiday wish list at Ethical Ocean, a marketplace devoted to all things green. Our friends at Ethical Ocean (www.ethicalocean.com) have made it easy to sort through products by filing them under their ethical claims. You can feel good about knowing that your gift hasn't harmed the planet in any way, and is helping to support communities throughout the world.
3. Give a tree, plant a tree, or dedicate a tree in someone's honour. At www.lovetrees.ca, you can purchase a $15 tree planting certificate to have a tree planted in North America, Africa, or Haiti. Always a great stocking stuffer idea as this is the gift that makes a contribution for years to come.
4. For the person that seems to have everything, consider giving them the gift of a charitable donation. Providing the basic necessities for those in need can make a meaningful impact on many families, especially at this time of the year. The following link is a list of the Top 20 charities in Canada, with a breakdown and percentage of where your donations go: https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6JQQYf2xOjfmCjRdXtYRZrr3sclzG0yrbQPdjIibqjGUW90EN2C7M0suAtZP5ApqeT804nWju_kpJmFY1YMZsTOFJM1Imsk3uKEU_l4-Nu-xbe2KyJM3pIrGdoq_yAC06CwzufAebKWM/s1600-h/top20Charities.jpg
5. Organize a Recipe Exchange for the holidays with a group of friends. This idea challenges your taste buds with creative and new ingredients, while staying under budget.
6. Give the gift of time and experience, rather than material goods. Offer to weed a friend's garden, or give lessons in a talent that you excel at. Offer baby-sitting time, or plan to make dinner for your family once a month. Volunteering your time not only makes a great gift, but it also provides you with a new experience to increase personal satisfaction.
This year, make a positive difference to the environment by choosing original and thoughtful gifts. Pause and reflect on the true meaning of the holiday season as it is so easy to be swept up into the commercial aspect of it. We hope you have a wonderful and safe holiday season!
W.L at Pretty Organic Cosmetics
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment