Christmas time is here!
That means if you haven't gotten all of your holiday gifts sorted, you're probably in a bit of a seasonal pickle. But don't fret, and don't race out to the shopping mall to buy whatever you see first either. Seriously, at this point in time you'll want to avoid any trips to the shopping mall whatsoever, unless you like lines and huge crowds.
In fact, take a moment to completely rethink the whole gift thing. Perhaps the perfect gift this year is actually one that doesn't even fit in a box.
Why not instead consider the gifts of skill and time, gifts of experience, gifts of charity, or handmade and secondhand items. Here are a few last minute gift alternative ideas...
Buy experiences, not things
Think music or dance lessons. What about language or cooking classes? Or you could look for a great upcoming concert or play, or take the person out to dinner. You could even buy them a weekend away somewhere.
Think about an experience that would mean a lot to the person, something to enrich their lives, something you can do together to create memories, rather than another 'thing' to be accumulated.
Give your time
Whether it's offering babysitting hours, a week of homemade dinners, simply taking the time to say to someone you love them, or, donating your time to volunteering somewhere that will brighten up someone else's festive season - Christmas time should be about making someone other than yourself feel special, it's a selfless holiday.
If you want to volunteer in your community, but you don't know where to start, try looking at Volunteering Australia for help.
Donate or buy from charities
Donating to the persons favourite charity would be a wonderful gift.Many charities also have Christmas catalogues full of gifts to buy which would go towards helping them.
We have said to buy experiences, not things as gifts, however if you have to buy something, vote with your dollar, and know where your money is going. The Oxfam Catalogue, for example, is full of sustainable, fair trade items and the money goes back to the people who made the products. Check it out here .
Make your own gifts
Making presents yourself reflects how special the receiver is to you, because of the time, effort, and love spent on these gifts. Think baked and homemade goods, natural beauty products, or small handmade artefacts.
We have a selection of easy and inexpensive gifts in recycled jars here. There is also a great list of 15 last minute DIY gifts here .
Buy sustainable
If after all, you will still be buying a gift, then at least buy a sustainable one. We've selected some great sustainable fashion items available here , and also some ideas for sustainable alternatives to your typical Christmas presents like perfume and pyjamas.
There is a great platform called Good On You, which will help you search for a gift based on its ethical and sustainable credentials making it a whole lot easier for you to choose better. So there's no excuses!
I AGREE TO A NO WASTE FESTIVE SEASON.
In the days leading up to Christmas, 1 Million Women will offer an alternative to what has turned into a hugely consumerist holiday. We give you a path to take on which you can ignore the external pressures telling you to 'buy more' and that 'the more you buy the happier you will make your loved ones'.
The Festive season is a time to share with your loved ones.
Take up the personal challenge, join us for a 'No Waste Festive Season'! Register here and we'll support you every step of the way.
