Gift of Experiences

For that hard-to-shop-for person in your life, or for a more budget-friendly approach to the holidays, consider giving the gift of experiences this holiday season. While certain experience gifts can be a bit pricey, there is a wide variety of low or no-cost gift ideas.

Gifting experiences is a great alternative to traditional gift-giving, saving you the stress of shopping and the expense of purchasing that perfect gift and most definitely offers something that no other gift does – memories.

Give a movie night – Gift your loved ones some quality time in the form of a movie night! You can make a coupon that can be redeemed for a movie evening at home, allowing the recipient to choose the film, of course. You can present the movie coupon in a box with popcorn, a favorite selection of candy and perhaps a blanket or two.

Take a hike (literally) – With more than one thousand miles of trails and breathtaking views, a visit to one of Tennessee’s 56 state parks is a great gift for the nature-lover in your life. Print a coupon (or two) for a trip to a local state park. You can let the recipient choose the trip’s activities and location. Present the coupon(s) in a box adorned with nature-inspired wrapping. Include a sprig of fresh greens for the finishing touch.

Get ready to cook – Many families have recipes passed down from generation to generation. Planning a family “cooking school” is a great way to share those precious family recipes with your loved ones. Offer the gift of your time and wisdom as you teach recipients the perfect way to prepare your family’s treasured dishes. As part of the experience, be sure to give all “students” a copy of the recipe. Or better yet, assemble a book of family recipes – a great way to carry on special family traditions.

Get crafty – This year, put your craft skills to work and create a special and useful gift like a set of personalized coasters. Simply head to your local home improvement store or second-hand shop for small squares of tile. Add a hand-written note explaining why you selected each picture and maybe a story or two about those special moments. Better yet, present all the needed supplies in a package along with a coupon redeemable for time together creating the coaster set.

Give the gift of help – Everyone could use a little help from time to time. Help with cleaning the house, finishing that home improvement project or organizing the closet can be a welcome present for busy family members. Think about what you are good at and create a coupon (or book of coupons) offering your time and skills.

I hope for this Christmas season you will think about some of these things to do and focus on the joy of giving from the heart.

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