The perfect gift

Gifting is an art. And you might agree, but still find yourself scrambling to find the perfect gift, whether it's because you're totally short on ideas...or just really short on time. Gifting is something that almost no one is sunning at every time they find themselves wrapping up a present.

What kind of giver are you?

From thoughtful to funny, last minute to well-planned, everyone has their own kind of gifting style.

Even if you love giving gifts or consider yourself great at it, sometimes you can find yourself drawing a blank as to what to give. Today I'm breaking down the art of gifting so that you will never be lost or rushing to find a last minute present.

You've probably heard the saying, "The manner of giving is worth more than the gift." While it's probably a balance - the gift itself should have some purpose or intention behind it - in a sense, this saying is cliche but absolutely true.

❝ the art of gifting isn't just picking out an amazing gift, it's creating an experience that conveys a feeling. ❞

How do you want your recipient to feel? This is the one and only starting point. Everything else - from the gift itself to the manner in which you give it, all comes back to this one question.

Whether you're a pro or constantly scrambling, here is everything you need to know about giving the best possible gift.

2 minute brainstorm

Take two minutes and write down everything that comes to mind. This might seem silly, but I promise it's going to help get the ideas flowing. Sit down, set a timer and let's do this.

1 Minute: What does the recipient love?

Write down everything that comes to mind - their hobbies, favorite snacks, favorite songs, favorite color or pattern, animals, favorite smell, season, dessert and drink.

1 Minute: What are some characteristics about them?

Write down personality traits, kind deeds, funny jokes, favorite memories or stories, tendencies or quirks.

With your list in hand, start thinking of gifts that express who the recipient is and are a fit for what the recipient loves.

One way to get inspired and find some great ideas is by searching on Pinterest. Type in some of the words or phrases from your brainstorm list and see where they take you.

Don't ask "what do they need?"

Ask, "What can I give that will make them feel ______" ...loved, appreciated, happy, etc.

When gifting, you're not trying to fill a material need. gifting is an expression of love and appreciation. Objects can help you express this, but the objects themselves don't make the gift. It's the intention, creativity, and uniqueness that make up the whole package.

Think about how each gift idea will make them feel, instead of just whether they'll like it / be able to use it or not.

Is it the "perfect gift?"

How do you know when you've found the perfect gift? Here are some tips to clue you in and guide you as you perfect the art of gifting and give the best possible gift.

Don't get hung up on things

Gifts don't have to be things — which may seem obvious— but this might slip your mind when you sit down to come up with some ideas.

Non-object gift ideas include experiences — like a trip, skydiving, or a wine tasting, the gift of learning — like an ecourse, book, or culinary class, the gift of surprise — like a fully planned date night or "treat-yo-self" day, or the gift of charity — like donating to a non-profit on behalf of someo...