The Holiday season is my absolute favourite time of year. I love the warmth, the togetherness, the music, the food and the gifting.
I was introduced to the idea of slow gifting years ago from an article I read, and felt completely seen. To listen intently through the year to little hints and mentions of things that light up my family and friends, and then curate an intentional gift list that shows them how much I care about them is a concept that brings me so much joy that I wanted to share it with you.
Slow gifting is a thoughtful approach to giving that emphasizes quality, intention and experience over quantity. It involves really listening to the recipient, understanding what brings them joy and then making mindful choices about where to find these items. Decisions like shopping from small businesses, creating gifts by hand, and making sustainable choices, are all part of slow gifting. Or gifting items that you know will stand the test of time and make an impact for years.
This approach involves planning ahead and thinking of gifts throughout the year, which helps reduce the stress of the holiday season and that last minute scramble.
There are a few core principles that set slow gifting apart from the mad-dash, obligatory gifting that we can fall into in our busy lives.
- Quality over quantity. One high quality, well crafted item will bring more joy and create more impact than 5 cheaper, disposable items. If your recipient loves chocolate, find a local, small business that is producing the most high quality, beautiful, sustainable chocolates and splurge on 6 chocolates instead of a box of 24 from a big box company.
- Thoughtful and Intentional. Pay attention to your recipient, and they will let you know what they have been coveting, what experience they are wishing for, or what hobbies bring them joy. I keep a notes file on my phone for gifting ideas through out the year and jot down ideas when something is mentioned.
- Secondhand and Sustainable. Objects that have lived many lives can be some of the most interesting, thought provoking, and cherished items, IMHO.;) They also carry the added benefit of being sustainable and one-of-a-kind unique. Before you buy, consider the gift's long-term value and whether it aligns with your recipients tastes.
- Timeless and Durable. Choosing gifts that will last forever, like handmade ceramics, timeless jewelry, quality kitchenware, will reduce waste and remind the recipient of your thoughtful gesture for years.
This year, I invite you to slow down this holiday season. Listen closely to your loved ones and watch the joy that you create by your intentional generosity.
