Gift giving doesn’t always need to be extravagant. All it needs to be is thoughtful. As a gift curator, I try to be as meaningful as possible in putting together items for gift box requests.
Here are some ideas for meaningful yet close to no spend gifts.
JAR OF MEMORIES
This one requires a bit of a trip down memory lane. Get an empty jar and a stack of sticky notes. On the sticky notes, write down awesome memories you have of the person you’re gifting to. Fill the jar with memories, anecdotes or even qualities that you really like about them. Once filled, tie a bow and you’re done! A VERY PERSONALISED gift for the one you love.
FREE ART
Did you know that the Met Museum (https://www.metmuseum.org) has an Open Access Gallery what allows you to download Art from their Public Domain pieces. I learned about it from DIY Youtubers The Sorry Girls who featured it in one of their videos.
When you go to the Met website, you can go to “Art” in the header then select Art Collection in the dropdown. When you do the search, filter it to “Open Access” and voila, all public domain pieces will show. You can also do a further filter to “paintings” if you don’t want to see sculptures and other types of art.
Once you download, all that’s left for you to do is to print and put in a frame. You can also send the file to shops that print in canvas totes, t-shirts etc. The possibilities are endless.
GROW A PLANT
If you’re part of the plant parent craze, you would probably have some plants that can be propagated and gifted. If not, fret not, your kitchen scraps are a good source. Lemon seeds, chilli or even okra from your kitchen scraps can be planted, germinated and then gifted! This would require a week of planning but hey, it’s free! I was able to grow lemon plants from kitchen scraps last year. All they need is some TLC and lots of sunlight.
A BUNDLE OF JUST IN CASE LETTERS
Imagine a variety of events happening in their lives -from the mundane to specific milestones and then write them a letter for each. Label the letters accordingly -- “Read this when you’re feeling sad” or "Read this when you get your first promotion" or “Read this when you turn 40”. It's like having a gift and being present when your friend needs you most.
VOLUNTEER TOGETHER
Find a group that accepts volunteers. Invite your friend or loved one to volunteer with you. Beach clean ups are always fun to join. You get to spend time together at the beach and help a good cause. Here's a list from The Smart Local of beach clean up groups you can join in Singapore.
With a little creativity, you can definitely come up with the best and most memorable gifts without having to break the bank, after all as they say, it's the thought that counts.