It’s that time of year again when we need to give gifts to our friends and family, clients, and pets, and I’m certain you’re looking at other ways to share your love and best wishes for the festive season with those people in your life so let’s have a look at some great opportunities for conscious gift giving.
1. UPCYCLED/RECYCLED GIFTS: As a regular reader of this blog, I’m sure you’re not surprised by this one. I love to create new fashion from my old fashion, and being able to give these services as a gift is something I would definitely do. Also, to create something new from things that I had before, it’s really quite magical. Many designers are doing this type of work, and it brings some sense of beauty, heritage, love and extraordinary creativity.
2. ZERO WASTE STARTER KIT: This is an interesting one. Encourage your friends and family to live consciously by giving them this gift, including bamboo cutlery, reusable straws, reusable water bottles and coffee cups. This curated collection really promotes conscious living when you are faced with only plastic alternatives.
3. ETHICALLY SOURCED TOYS and HOUSEHOLD ITEMS: These are beautiful gifts, always with a rich and inspiring story. I have always bought handmade toys for the children in my life; it gives them a sense of something made with love and not made in bulk by a machine. Other ideas include hand-made ceramics, artwork, and lovely craft items. Not only are these memorable gifts, but they also support artists and craftspeople.
4. EXPERIENTIAL GIFTS: Instead of material possessions, consider gifting experiences which promote sustainability. Such as cooking classes with locally sourced ingredients, outdoor tours focused on conservation and memberships to conservation organisations. These gifts are both educational and contribute to important activities.
5. CREATE YOUR OWN GIFTS: I have done this. As an Artist, my Artwork is something friends and family love to receive. There are many other opportunities to learn something new and create beautiful gifts. Other items I have given and received are music, astrology readings, handmade candles, cookies and cakes, curated photos from shared trips, poetry and kombucha.
Through conscious gift-giving, we’re not only sharing material goods but also advocating for a more conscious lifestyle and providing opportunities for educating ourselves in new ways. We are sharing our vision of a mindful lifestyle with others in a gentle and supportive way. We all want to enjoy the festive season and life fully without exhausting everyone’s finances and time. There are lots of opportunities to give consciously. Please enjoy doing just that.
As always, love life and enjoy Fashion.
Kate xx