The holiday season is all about showing the people in your life that you care. Gift giving is more about the thought and less about the price. Here are a few simple ways to give your loved ones something personal and meaningful without spending a lot of money.
1. Create a playlist
A great playlist can be magical. Creating a playlist for someone is a thoughtful and creative way to show your appreciation. This could be something as simple as “songs that make me think of you” or as specific as “songs for rainy mornings in July.” If you are feeling extra creative, burn a physical CD for them!
Add some local artists to your playlist like Eternal Frequency (@eternalfrequencyofficial), Corina Rose (@corinarmusic), Joseph (@_godaddeth), or Whiskey on the Rocks (@whiskeyontherockscountry).
2. Send them an annotated copy of your favorite book
Underline your favorite lines, write little notes in the margins, draw out some pictures. Even if your loved one is not a big reader, they will appreciate being able to flip through the pages. Sharing a book with someone is like sharing an experience and this is a wonderful way to create memories.
Mail them a copy from home or purchase a copy at a local bookstore. Throw in a bookmark and some pictures in between the pages to make it even more personal. Here are a few local bookstores that we love:
Midtown Scholar Bookstore / 1302 N 3rd St, Harrisburg, PA 17102 / midtownscholar.com
Cupboard Maker Books / 157 Enola Rd, Enola, PA 17025 / cupboardmaker.com
Read Rose Books / 23 N Prince St, Lancaster, PA 17603 / readrosebooks.com
Whistlestop Bookshop / 129 W High St, Carlisle, PA 17013 / whistlestoppers.com
York Emporium / 343 W Market St, York PA 17401 / facebook.com/YorkEmporium
3. Surprise them with a family & friends Zoom call
One of the best parts of the holiday season is gathering with friends and family. Despite the guidelines in place this season, you can still create this atmosphere online. Better yet, surprise them!
Tell them that you want to chat over Zoom. They will be excited to chat and maybe share a drink. What they don’t know is that you invited the most important people in their life to the Zoom call. The sight of everyone on one screen will be sure to brighten their holiday.
Check out these tips on how to host a holiday Zoom party.
4. Recommend a TV show or movie
There is nothing more comforting than a great TV show or movie. Pick out a few shows or movies that you have been loving. Let them know your favorite scenes and characters. If you want to make it extra special, recommend something that you think they specifically will love. Maybe there is a certain character that they will really enjoy or maybe the setting is on their travel bucket list.
Taking the time to consider what specific elements they will enjoy is a great way to show them that you care. Not sure where to start? Here is a list of binge worthy TV shows from all of us here at Susquehanna Style.
5. Write a letter
Letter writing is becoming increasingly rare which means receiving a letter is more meaningful now than ever. Take the time to select your favorite pen and paper. If you have any cute stickers or stamps, add them! Make it as personal as you can.
The letter can include anything you would like. Let them know why you love and appreciate them. To add an extra level of personality, include your favorite tea bag or a small drawing. You don’t have to be artistic, even including some stick figures will be enough to make your friend or family member smile.
Maybe even recommend some restaurants to order take-out! Check out our list of 95 Local Restaurants Offering Curbside Pick-up, Takeout, and Delivery.
