Overheard in a store, “Do you think Dad would like this?” Response: “I don’t know but just get it and we’ll be done with him.” We’re all guilty of buying something, just anything, to be ‘done with’ someone.
Maybe it’s someone you don’t know well but for whom you feel obligated to buy. Maybe it’s one of your spouse’s relatives and you feel that your spouse should be the one shopping instead of you. Maybe you’re just tired of shopping or don’t really want to be there.
Think for a minute about why you buy gifts for various people: a family member, close friend, co-worker, business associate, boss, child’s teacher or day care provider, or someone else you know will buy for you. Each of the categories is different but each should still warrant a thoughtful process.
Before you go out to shop, list each person for whom you plan to buy a gift. If you know the person’s likes and dislikes or hobbies and interests, list those beside the name. If you plan to buy clothing, list sizes and prefered colors.
If there’s time, sort your list by store or store type where you may find the gift you have in mind. This will save you time and keep you from running store to store. Some people on your list will cause you no problems if you know them well and know their interests.
It’s the people you don’t know well and those who have everything who usually present the most difficulty. For those people, you may want to visit local boutique shops, craft shows, or craft markets to find just the right gift.
There are many local businesses in Lynchburg and the surrounding area who sell speciality foods and other items. It’s craft show season and you can shop at one show today at Holy Cross Regional School, 2125 Langhorne Road, from 8:30am to 12:30pm. The Lynchburg Community Market, corner of 12th and Main Streets, will celebrate Mistletoe Market today from 10am-2pm with plenty of hand-crafted items.
So give some thought to the gifts you will be giving this holiday season. It will mean more to those you love and even to those you like.