EmpowHERto’s Ultimate Gift Guide to an On-Budget, Eco-Friendly Holiday
‘Maybe Christmas doesn't come from a store. Maybe Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more.’
These heart-felt words from the feelgood holiday classic How the Grinch Stole Christmas are not just the Grinch’s inner monologue, but also my gift-giving inspiration for this season.
With the ease of online shopping and the nonstop reel of ads, it’s easy to give in and forget about the budget — forget about your future bills.
It’s easy to forget that you don’t have to drop a ton of money to show your loved ones how much you care.
So, instead of panic-purchasing without a second thought as to what my credit card bill will look like in January — a.k.a Blue Monday — I’m trying to find creative presents that won’t hurt my wallet or the environment and will still convey warm wishes to the special people in my life.
Talk about win-win-win.
Whether you’re celebrating Christmas, Kwanzaa or Hanukkah, follow along with this ultimate green gift guide!
Homemade Goodies:
Any Friends fans would remember when Monica made homemade candy, practically sending neighbours into a friend-zy.
That speaks to how much homemade sweet treats are appreciated.
Try baking a batch of seasonal cookies. Or if you’re feeling really ambitious, try making a homemade pie or cake pops. My favourite recipe blog, Sally’s Baking Addiction, has tons of amazing and easy-to-follow recipes. Even if you’re not a baker, I promise you’ll find something bakeable!
For some added flair, find a cute vintage box or tin at a thrift or dollar store, which can be reused by the recipient of your tasty treats next year.
Mason Jar Madness:
If you scour Pinterest like me, chances are you’ve seen the mason jar trend at some point.
You can be creative since pretty much anything can be put in a jar — with the right ribbon.
Common ideas include sizzling soups, scones or cookies. Your jars can either be a textured layer of ingredients or mixes to make at home or already-made, ready-to-eat goodness.
This is the perfect present for the foodie on your list who likes to try new and different things.
Get Crafty:
Beyond edible goods, there are plenty of other gifts you can whip up at home.
Again, Pinterest will be your best friend here with their countless creative ideas.
If you already have the knowledge but your crocheting or knitting skills to use. Download a free pattern and make warm and cozy scarves or mittens. You could print off your favourite Instagram pics and make your bestie a scrapbook or photo album filled with all your laughable moments.
If you’re really feeling energetic, host a holiday paint or ornament-making night. Throw on some festive tunes or a holiday classic and craft away
!Thrifting:
Before you hit up the mall, remember that there’s a good chance your local thrift store has exactly what you are looking for — and often for less
.Beyond cool, vintage clothing and accessories, a thrift store is a great place to find books, home decor, tools and kitchenware all in great condition.
Not only are you paying a fraction of the cost, you’re prolonging the lifespan of still-useful items, keeping them out of the landfill.
Shop Locally:
Handmade. Local. Sustainable.
Not only are those buzzwords, but also make for truly one-of-a-kind gifts.
Shop local craft shows, shops and collectives. The gifts you find will not only be unique and special but your purchase also supports small businesses in your community. Plus, you’ll save on the cost of shipping and skip on all the extra packaging that comes with any online order.
Wrap it up right:
We often underestimate how much wrapping paper… ribbon… gift bags… gift tags… tissue paper… add to the cost of the holiday season.
And, oh, the glitter!
Whatever happened to simple brown paper packages tied up with string
.Often these glittery extras are meant to be one-and-done — use once then toss it in the trash
.Pinterest has tons of cool, alternative gift wrapping ideas. Think: a thrifted scarf, fabric square, a new bandana or cloth napkin — wrapped with string. Not only are they super cheap but the wrapping is another little bonus present. Unique and eco-friendly with a personal touch. Nothing better.
If you’ve been inspired to have a green holiday season, share a picture and tag us on Instagram @empowherto. And be sure to share these ideas with your friends, too!