It's the most wonderful time of the year — as the end of the semester approaches, many students are excited to enjoy their semester break and the winter holidays. Students may be looking forward to relaxing, catching up on sleep, and spending time with loved ones this holiday season.
At the same time, the holidays can be stressful. It is easy to feel overwhelmed by the task of finding the right gifts for everyone on a holiday list. And finding gifts for those hard-to-buy-for people can be especially tough. Fortunately, The Eastern Echo is here with a guide to choosing the perfect gift for a hard-to-buy-for recipient.
First, it is helpful for givers to consider what they know about the recipient. What sort of person is the recipient? What are some of their hobbies, preferences or passions? For example, a giver might not know much other than that the recipient often listens to music, plays the guitar, and has a pet dog. That may not seem like much information, but it can give the giver some hints. For instance, a good gift option might be a small music box or a keychain with charms shaped like a dog and a guitar. For someone who loves to read, a thoughtful gift might be a set of colorful bookmarks. Even if the giver only knows the recipient's favorite color, that can provide some helpful hints. For example, if the recipient's favorite color is blue, a cozy blue winter scarf or hat could make a good gift.
If a recipient and giver have a close relationship, another excellent gift option could be the opportunity to do something together. For example, a thoughtful gift for a recipient who loves theater could be tickets to see a local play. The event does not need to be anything fancy; often, the best gift is simply getting to spend time together. Even a handmade coupon for a home-cooked dinner and a movie night at home could mean a great deal.
Exploring different gift shops and websites can also help givers discover new gift ideas. For instance, several small shops near Eastern Michigan University's campus offer unique products that could make excellent gifts. One option is This, That, & the ODDer Things on 50 E. Cross St., which offers everything from tarot cards to fashion accessories to journals and books. Another is World of Rocks on 32 N. Huron St., where shoppers can find a unique selection of rocks and minerals. World of Rocks also offers custom jewelry.
For those who prefer to shop online, an excellent option is Uncommon Goods. Based in Brooklyn, NY, Uncommon Goods offers a wide variety of unique gifts, including snowglobes, bath products, clothing, tea gift sets, jewelry, and more.
Deborah Evans, an Ann Arbor resident and Uncommon Goods customer, explained her experience.
"I never hesitate to buy from Uncommon Goods for unique gifts that are sure to please everyone on my list," Evans said. "They search worldwide for unusual and creative pieces, many of which are handmade. These exceptional items — available at all price points — always delight my friends and family."
For more information, visit https://www.uncommongoods.com/.
If all else fails, a reliable option is to choose a gift that anyone might enjoy.
Hanna Feldman, a junior studying Business Administration at EMU, offered a couple of suggestions.
"I would say either a Visa gift card or maybe a gift basket filled with different food options," said Feldman. "I know I would love to get a gift basket."
Finding the right gifts for everyone can be tough, but with these tips, givers will see that they have nothing to fear. Choosing gifts may feel challenging, but it can also be a joy. Giving a gift provides an opportunity to bring the giver and recipient closer, and that connection just may be the best gift of all.
