In the weeks following Thanksgiving, families around the US frantically stress about the rapidly approaching holiday season as the holiday spirit slowly seeps into everyday life. The daunting notifications of “Fifty Percent Off Sales” or “Early Black Friday” fill the screens, pressuring many into a downward spiral of chaos. The question which hangs in the air is: “How do I get the perfect gift?” Whether it’s for a sibling, parent, guardian, or friend, gift giving represents an act of appreciation. The act itself, when done thoughtfully, can convey unconditional love and demonstrate a deep understanding of the recipient. Accordingly, getting the perfect gift lies at the top of every to-do list.
However, gift giving to your family or friends may feel repetitive and frustrating. “What did I get my brother last year?” “Did my mom like that necklace?” “I can’t remember who has what.” Questions and concerns like these are common during the holiday season, but gift giving can be simple. Gifts should always have not only meaning behind them, but also consideration and thought. Start with the main categories: jewelry, clothing, and sports-related gifts. Then further personalize it. Here’s a curated gift-giving guide that hopefully checks the “perfect gift” box off your to-do list.
Jewelry—a simple but meaningful gift. This broad category offers a variety of options, from personalized pieces to elegant, intricate jewelry. You can find a multitude of different jewelers near us, such as Kendra Scott, Gorjana, Madewell, Govberg Jewelers, and Kay Jewelers. Customizing one of the many pieces in their collections can turn an already beautiful piece into something irreplaceable. For example, a sterling silver necklace adorned with rhinestones or engraved with a birthstone. Unlike many trendy gifts that may come and go, a piece of personalized jewelry is timeless. However, if you are uninterested in personalizing a piece of jewelry due to the fear of distaste from the recipient, there are still many options available. For example, the Elle Diamond Cluster Necklace, crafted by Gorjana, is a costly but beautiful piece that doesn’t require any stress over customization. The level of care ensures that a friend or family member will have a one-of-a-kind piece that stands out in both design and story.
At first glance, clothing is seen as a boring, stereotypical gift. But underneath that stereotype lies a reflection of one’s identity and style. Clothing has been sorted into a pool of last-minute gifts. Why? Because today, clothing is something anyone can obtain. But when careful thought is put into selecting an article, clothing is one of the most personal things chosen. Whether it’s a cozy sweater from Brandy Melville for someone who not only loves comfort but the store itself, a sleek jacket from Urban Outfitters, or a piece of merchandise from a favorite band or sports team, the recipient will feel understood and heard by the consideration behind the chosen piece. Even basics, like 5-packs of t-shirts from Abercrombie & Fitch or six new pairs of Nike socks, can serve as a practical but sentimental gift. There are a variety of styles in Suburban Square. The student-favorite shopping spot possesses various apparel stores ranging from Free People, Lululemon, or Faherty to Gap and Lilly Pulitzer. Whether it’s a piece that aligns with someone’s style or connects them to their past, clothing has the power to communicate care and consideration in a way that few other gifts can.
The last but certainly not the least topic is sports-related gifts. At this point, it’s almost certain that we are well acquainted with sports that are favored by our close family members and friends. What is better than a gift related to the team they are in or the sport they live and breathe? For example, if a recipient prefers golf- a rangefinder, new pants, golf-related apparel, or gloves are all pertinent options. Or, if the recipient prefers soccer- a rebounder, a new soccer ball, or training cones all serve as not only a well-appreciated gift but also a reminder of one’s consideration. A simple idea of sport can generate a multitude of options. Local stores like Dick’s Sporting Goods or Rally House can provide a long-lasting sports gift in an admired genre.
The never-ending possibilities serve as a reminder that the perfect gift is easily attainable. Personalizing a gift in a well-liked category is a perfect staple of admiration. With the gift-giving season rapidly approaching, the most important determination across the globe lies in the field of perfect gifts, and this gift guide is the first step to attaining one. Good luck and happy holidays!
