8 Ways to Make Your Gift-Giving More Meaningful

What does it mean to give a meaningful gift? Sure, generosity may factor into it. But that’s not everything. Sweet sentiments from those you love, and even actual gifts that speak to your soul are meaningful, too.

It’s always so nice when someone gives you a gift that says, “I thought of you.” Even more than that, it’s also about the effort involved. The best gifts are those where someone has taken their time to be mindful of what would make you happy because, unlike money, time is their own personal and limited resource—especially during the holidays.

Choosing meaningful gifts is such a personal process. Mountain America Credit Union has put together some tips that may help. Take a look:

1. Find a way to say the heartfelt things you never take the time to say—Whether it’s in a letter, a card or in person, this is always a good one. You could even fill part of a notebook or journal with reasons why you love them. Some people avoid this because they don’t think they are good with words. No need for the next great piece of poetry—just say what’s in your heart.




2. Share food—Food is definitely a love language for many of us, right? And it’s not too difficult to figure out what would work for the people on your list—frozen homemade lasagna for your sister’s family, brownie mix in a jar for your friend with the secret sweet tooth, a basket of ingredients and your handwritten recipe for tikka masala because your dad loves it more than the restaurant version.




3. Sometimes all it takes is time—Offer your babysitting services, take your niece to the museum, walk your neighbor’s dog or teach your coworker how to make your famous tamales. Just be sure to follow through on this gift if it’s something that is delivered at a later date.




4. Spread your skills—Are you a graphic designer? Or great at DIY home projects? Or maybe you are a gifted photographer. Lend your skills to the people you love!




5. Presentation is everything—A gift means so much more when it’s wrapped in a lovely, thoughtful way. It doesn’t need to be expensive, just keep the recipient in mind. Go ahead and use that basic gift bag for a child’s gift but decorate it with stickers featuring their favorite superhero. Or jazz up a simple paper-wrapped gift by tucking something into the ribbon—a sprig of rosemary if it’s something for the kitchen, a beautiful pen for the person on your list who loves to journal or a paint brush for the home remodeler.




6. Give an experience—An art class, a night at the movies, a sunny Saturday morning riding electric scooters around downtown—no matter what it is, your recipient will value this more than any “thing” you could give.




7. Memories say it all—There are so many ways to gather good memories and turn them into something cherished. Make a personalized crossword puzzle, curate a new photo album, fill a jar with collected memorabilia—these are just a few options. You can even get an art piece that reflects a special song (think wedding song). The sound waves are translated into color bars. Amazing!




8. Let them know you get them—Think about the people on your list. What do they like? It could be a food item, an activity or even a celebrity. Now think about how you can turn that into a gift. Do they L-O-V-E their dog? Get them the latest and greatest personalized dog tags. Are they crazy for Elton John? Put Elton’s face on a fabulous pair of socks. The possibilities are endless!

No matter how you decide to show your loved ones you care, taking the time to think about the gifts you give can make those gifts shine even more!