
This is part II to our previous article Gift Ideas for Christmas, in which we looked at some of the things you should consider before buying gifts at Christmas time. Now we will look at some gift ideas.
As noted in our previous post, what you buy should largely depend on your finances. Always keep your budget in mind and what you can reasonably afford.
Perfumes – some are expensive, but they are a number of reasonably priced brands out there of good quality. Perfumes are usually a welcomed gift item for both men and women; some people even collect them.
Purses – most women like a beautiful purse, especially one that is of a favourite colour, goes well with a favourite suit or can be used for everyday wear.
Handbags – like purses, handbags are a must on this list. Most women like handbags and frankly many never leave home without one.
Watches – not to be outdone, watches are excellent gift choices for both men and women, I think men even more so. There are a number of top quality brands out there such as Rolex, Patek Philippe and Omega, to name a few. You can buy modern or vintage watches.
Cosmetics – of course you might need to take into consideration a person’s skin type and whether they have sensitive skin or suffer from allergies. It is recommended that you buy cosmetics only for close friends or family members since you are more likely to have knowledge their skin types and possible associated skin problems.
Wines – come in a variety of brands and types. A good bottle of red wine is preferred by many. Because of the range in types and prices you should find a bottle to suit just about any taste.
Personal treat certificates – if you want to facilitate a personal treat, then you could give the receiver a certificate for a massage, manicure, pedicure etc.
Gift certificates – if you’re unsure about what to get a person, you could give a certificate which they would redeem for a tangible gift. The great thing about a gift certificate is that it gives the receiver a chance to choose their own gift.
If you are in doubt, it’s always the safer option, rather than giving a gift the person might possibly not like.
Clothing items – could be a choice for adults as well as children. Don’t buy clothing items if you are unsure of the person’s size. It is also advisable to buy tops, that is, shirts, blouses, and also accessories such as ties and scarves.
Electronics – both men and some women appreciate electronic items. These can include phones, ipods, car electronics, dvd players, media players, to name a few. You will definitely find an electronic item to suit individuals at just about any age.
Jewellery – if you can afford to, buy diamond jewellery, go ahead, people are usually appreciative of diamonds. If you can’t afford diamond jewellery there is a wide array of choices in yellow and white gold, platinum and silver.

1950s Tiffany & Co 14k white gold & diamonds ladies watch
How about some jewellery from the Caribbean or Africa? You will find exotic, beautiful hand-made jewellery online that are made from shells and various indigenous materials from these places.
Costume jewellery of course cannot be overlooked. However, be careful in chosing costume jewellery. Don’t buy those that are likely to strip easily – preferably, buy-gold plated pieces.
Chocolate and cookies – these are two items I’m always happy to receive. There are many people like me out there who would take chocolates and cookies any day.
Tickets to a concert / theatre performance – if there is a concert or theatre performance in town that you think the person would appreciate, why not treat them to a ticket or better yet two; most people like having the company of their significant other or best friend at these events.
Antiques – antique pieces range from vases, pottery, figures/sculptures and so much more.
A gourmet meal – a gourmet meal at a restaurant is always a good choice for someone who doesn’t take the time to treat him/herself, either because they are usually too busy or think they can’t afford to. Also, if a person always does doing the cooking, why not treat them to a few hours in which they are served for a change.
Gift Baskets / Hampers – you might choose to buy, have someone else put it together or have fun putting one together yourself. You don’t need a large basket. Get a small basket and put buy a few items that the person would like such as cosmetics, wine with fruit cake and chocolates, for a female; shaving creams, lotions, body splash together for a male.
As noted before, it all depends on what you can afford – but it works well when you create your basket around a theme such as a food or cosmetic theme.
Adventure gifts – bungee jumping, hot air balloon ride, a wild life expedition; if you have friends or family members who like adventure… make it a treat.
Luxury goods – some of us can afford to buy luxury gifts, some of us can’t. If you can afford to indulge that special person, whether it’s an expensive car, accessories, sport wears etc., then go ahead. Type in ‘luxury gifts’ in Google and you will be introduced to a number of stores that specialise in luxury goods. Some of the items listed above could fall under luxury, depending on the associated brand and prices.
Couples
The gift items listed above would go well for individuals or couples. At Christmas time people like to be close to their loved ones, consider giving gifts that the couple could enjoy together – dinner for two, a mixed gift basket etc.
Children
Smaller children usually like toys and many of them take the guess out of gift buying by telling you exactly what they want. Many children also like figures that are representative of the characters in their favourite cartoons or television series.
The latest electronic gadgets are usually on the wish list of many teens and preteens.
Meaningful Gifts
Try to give meaningful gifts this Christmas. The cost of a gift is not what determines how meaningful it is… it’s the heart behind it. Appreciate the season for what it is; a time for family, friends and our neighbours. By neighbour I don’t mean only the person who lives next door but every face you see.
Don’t forget to spread the love beyond to your circle, and please drop a little token in the Salvation Army’s bucket as you pass by.
Christmas is a beautiful season, enjoy it.
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