Thoughtful Gifts Your Friends Will Love
I received the cutest little gift on my doorstep this week. It was unexpected and completely made my day! This delightful surprise inspired me to write this post. Today I am going to share some thoughtful yet affordable gift ideas for friends and family that live both near and far. Although they make great Christmas, holiday, or seasonal gifts, no special occasion is needed! They are also perfect for those “I was just thinking of you” moments.
Thoughtful Gift Idea #:1
Leave a Gift on Their Doorstep
Almost any gift is a good gift to leave at someone’s doorstep. Here are some ideas to get you started. Be sure to attach a little card or label with a note and who it’s from. For more ideas, check out these Hostess Gift Ideas. They are great for any gift-giving occasion!
Simple doorstep gift ideas:
- Wrapped baked goods
- Bottle of wine
- Festive seasonal gift
- Scented candle
- Homemade craft or treats
- Fresh flowers or potted plant
- Something cozy
Thoughtful Gift Idea #2:
Magazine Subscription
Did you know that magazines are super cheap these days? Getting a subscription for a year can often cost you as much as buying a single magazine off the shelf at the grocery store! It may sound crazy, but it’s true. Another perk to this gift is that there’s pretty much a magazine for any interest or hobby someone has.
Many magazines offer deals throughout the year and you can get discounts such as $5 off or even 50% off. Be sure to check the discount magazine websites such as Magazines.com and DiscountMags.com, as well as the website for the magazine itself to see who has the best deal. Get the printed versions so every time an issues comes in the mail, they’ll think of you!
Thoughtful Gift Idea #3:
Support Their Hobby
Is there something your friend has talked about learning, a new skill perhaps, that they haven’t done? Help them get started by gifting them some motivation (or inspiration!). Crafty gifts are perfect for this. Things like a letter writing book and brush pen set for the friend who wants to improve their handwriting, or some yarn and needles for someone wanting to learn how to knit.
If they already have a hobby, get them a gift that goes along with it. Whether is some merchandise (such as a shirt or hat), or an accessory (like a scarf camera strap for the photographer, or a new apron for the chef), these gifts are a great way to show that you pay attention to their interests.
Thoughtful Gift Idea #4:
Send Something Sweet
Make your own dessert or have something delivered. Many local bakeries will deliver, and there’s also DoorDash or similar delivery services that might be available. Even Krispy Kreme has started making deliveries to your door. This is perfect for those long-distance friends. Just look up a nearby bakery and make sure that someone will be coming home soon to see it.
Thoughtful Gift Idea #5:
Buy Them a Book
Those of us who enjoy reading would love getting a good book as a gift. All you need to do is know what type of books your friend enjoys, or ask them what’s on their reading list. Don’t be afraid to think beyond the traditional novels. Motivational books, cookbooks, how to books, the sky is the limit here.
Consider checking out a local used book store before you head over to Barnes and Noble. These places often have a decent selection of new and old books at a great price. If the condition is a concern, many of these stores have plenty of books that look brand new.
Thoughtful Gift Idea #6:
Give Something They Love
Think about (or ask) what places they love to go to. Their favorite restaurants, a nail salon, a theater, coffee shop, retail store, anywhere they frequent. Get them a gift card that they’re guaranteed to use. Put it in a card and stick it in the mail (or their mailbox if they live close) for an extra thoughtful touch.
Thoughtful Gift Idea #7:
Share a Puzzle or Game
Everyone enjoys something to do that is relaxing or engaging. If you want to get really creative with a puzzle, you can design one with your own images! If you aren’t sure what game to get, buy them one of your personal favorites.
Thoughtful Gift Idea #8:
Activity Gifts
If you ask me, activities are some of the most thoughtful gifts of all, because they create experiences that make memories. The bet part is it can be an activity to do together if you live nearby! Just make sure that they are free on the day you plan to schedule it and let them know you have something special planned on that day. No cancelling or rescheduling allowed!
- Plays (check the local theatres)
- Seasonal events & festivals
- Classes (cooking, crafts, hobbies, fitness)
- Concerts
- Various activities (escape rooms, axe throwing, wine tasting, etc.)
A few tips for activity gifts:
Many of these activities can be free or inexpensive gifts. Parks and libraries often offer free workout classes, workshops, and movie showings.
Many local festivals and seasonal events are quite affordable, and there is often a lot of things going on during the fall and around Christmas. Check your local events calendar for what’s coming up.
Rather than registering for a series of classes or courses, look for single event. Like a one-night cooking class or introduction to something fun.
I have some helpful guidance for how to find local activities in your area in this post here.
