Giving More Thoughtful Gifts

We all want to find that "perfect gift" for everyone on our nice lists. But in the online shopping age, most people swipe and click to whatever they want every day of the year. Teens and children might be disappointed by any present they can't load onto their screens. Clothes might not fit. Food and beverages might not be to everyone’s taste. Older relatives might grumble that you spent money on them at all.

The secret to less stressful gifting is to think outside of the box – literally. Shopping from these three holiday gift categories will make the season a little merrier for your loved ones and for you.

1. Experiences

A big, beautifully wrapped box often looks like the ideal holiday gift. But, right now, your basement, attic, or closets are full of stuff that you unwrapped a holiday or two (or three ...) ago.

An envelope containing concert tickets, cooking classes, and museum memberships might not look quite as impressive. And you might feel like something that kids can't play with on the floor or that adults can't display on a shelf isn't a "real present." But experiences don't get shoved into a corner of the closet – they get experienced, both in the moment and in memory. And if part of the present is your company on a weekend trip or throughout the next theater season, the gift will be even more memorable, and more meaningful.

2. Happy Memories

Never underestimate the value of nostalgia and sentiment. Framed photographs, scrapbooks, and well-preserved mementos will only grow more beloved with age. Much like gifting experiences, these types of presents are never "less than." They're reminders of a shared history. And being reminded of how important a relationship is can never break, tear, or go out of style.

For an added touch, activate the nostalgia by making an experience part of the present. Assemble a family cookbook and then make time to bake grandma’s famous cookie recipe with your cousins. Recreate the poses from a treasured family picture and hire a professional photographer to take an updated shot.

And if you're not normally the mushy type, well, your loved one probably knows that too. They'll appreciate the extra effort it took for you to express your feelings and show them that you really care.

3. Problem-Solving

"Wow!" gifts that get a big reaction aren't always the most practical.

For example, buying your brother and sister-in-law a gift card for the fanciest restaurant in town is a lovely gesture. But when are they going to find time between work, soccer practice, and homework? Who's going to babysit their kids? How much does parking cost?

Buying your granddaughter her first cell phone is very generous. But did you check with her parents to see if they want her to have one? How will a new device affect the family data plan?

Will grandpa be able to push that snowblower?

Instead of gifting to impress, think about how you can help loved ones solve a problem.

Buying your brother a gift card for the family restaurant in walking distance crosses one meal plan off his weekly to-do list.

Paying a local landscaping company to take care of your parents' driveway solves the snow problem.

And when it comes to cell phones and other tech, sometimes the easiest way to solve the problem is to not cause one.

So, how is your holiday budget holding up?

If the stress of the season is putting a little extra pressure on your financial plan, let’s meet to review your goals for the end of the year and start looking ahead to 2026.

At LI Wealth Management, we believe the best gifts aren’t wrapped, they’re felt. They come from laughter shared, memories created, and problems solved with care. This holiday season, as you search for ways to make life brighter for the people you love, we’re here to help you give with intention and celebrate with less stress and more meaning.

If you’re ready to shift your focus from finding the “perfect” present to investing in experiences, connection, and financial peace of mind, we’re here to guide you. Visit our website to learn more, and when you’re ready, schedule a free session. Together, we’ll build a spending plan that supports joyful holidays, meaningful traditions, and a financially confident year ahead.