Nothing beats a homemade gift! From something freshly baked to something built or crafted the best presents don’t come from the store but from the heart.
Every year it seems like I want less and less stuff and just want time to see my family. We see each other at the holidays, blink, and then it’s the holidays again. We get so busy with the stuff in our lives that we forget to acknowledge what really matters. I hope this post is helpful and that it shows you don’t have to spend a fortune to make Christmas special for someone.
1. Cookies
Cookies are one of the easiest gifts to make and package for multiple people. You can buy nice Christmas boxes or containers but you really just need some sandwich bags. I like to put them in sandwich bags then put them in a small gift bag. It’s simple but shows you care. One year I made almost 400 gingerbread cookies and gave them out.
2. Cake / Brownies /Gingerbread
Baking a cake doesn’t have to be hard or fancy. A box of cake mix, a container of icing, and some sprinkles go a long way.
Brownies are very easy! You can either leave them in the pan and give the pan or cut them up and wrap each one with plastic wrap.
Gingerbread loaves have become a popular gift option through the years. It’s easy to make and there is nothing like sitting down with a fresh slice of gingerbread and a cup of hot coffee. After I bake them I take them out of the pan, let them completely cool, and wrap the loaf with plastic wrap. You can add some ribbon and a bow to give it a Christmas touch.
3. One dish homemade dinner
I have several one dish meals I enjoy making and I have given them as gifts before. Sometimes the warmth of a homemade meal is all someone might need.
My two favorite one dish meals are Pork Tenderloin with Baked Potatoes and Baked Chicken with Potatoes, Onions, Carrots, and Green beans.
4. Gift baskets
I always thought putting gift baskets together was fun! Find a nice basket (dollar tree has some good ones) and fill it with cooking items, bathroom items, cleaning items, or makeup. I’ve also made some with tools, fishing, and car wash supplies.
Every Christmas I try to pick at least 2 people to make a gift basket for and fill it with goodies. It doesn’t have to be expensive to be thoughtful.
5. Write a Letter
I’m a writer and have always loved to write. I write better than I talk and I have always thought people listen better if they read your words in their own voice. It costs nothing but time to write someone a letter and let them know what they mean to you. Even if it’s just a few extra words in a Christmas card the extra effort can mean more than a $100 gift card.
6. Make Something / Build Something
If you have a talent like sewing, knitting, painting, woodworking, or do another craft, make something special for those you love. Nothing says I love you like a handmade gift from the heart.
When someone takes the time to make you something they are thinking of you the entire time. What a great gift to be in someone else’s mind and thoughts.
7. Make Time to Spend with Someone Special
Plan a time to take someone out to lunch, dinner, or just for some coffee. You know you’re special if someone plans to spend their time with you and just wants your company. Even a phone call or text to say, “Hey! I’m thinking of you” goes a long way.