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I don't know about you, but I have a lot of stuff. No matter how many things I give away on Freecycle, or on Craigslist's free stuff classifieds, or to Goodwill, the closets and cupboards and drawers keep filling back up. Plus, I think everyone is feeling the pinch of the economic situation these days. It seems crazy for people to spend money buying more things.
Below are a few ideas I've been thinking of telling my friends and family are on my wish list:
1. Something they make (i.e. a handmade crafty item, a tasty treat, a poem, a CD mix).
2. Something I can use to make something (i.e. fabric, embroidery patterns, a six-pack of plants, a favorite recipe, ShrinkyDinks--remember how fun those were!)
3. Something they already have. I know regifting is considered to be tacky, but I think it can work if you put a little thought behind it. For example, a former housemate once gave me a beautiful Moroccan plate of hers that had hung in our kitchen when we lived together. Whenever I look at it, I remember those happy times
4. A favorite quote or words of wisdom. Maybe you've got life figured out, but I sure don't. I can use all the inspiring quotes and advice I can get!
5. A date to do something together. In our fast paced world, spending time with someone can be more valuable and memorable than a physical gift. A friend of mine's mom has been giving the gift of time to her grandchildren and children for years.
6. A donation. When I tell people that I'd like a donation as a gift I try to give them a few organizations to choose from in case my favorite cause rubs them the wrong way, and a variety of ways to give (online, via mail, via Facebook Cause, etc.). Some of my favorites these days are Women for Women International, UNICEF and Maine Coon Adoptions.
What are alternative birthday gift ideas you've given or received?
Related blog posts:
Alternative Ideas to Requesting No Gifts by Lisa Kothari of Free Birthday Treats Blog
The Case for Regifting by Greg Allen on Daddy Types
Making it - handmade and second hand birthday gifts on Future Craft Collective
Children's Birthday Parties with a Purpose by me!
BlogHer Contributing Editor, Britt Bravo, also blogs at Have Fun * Do Good and is a Big Vision Consultant.
Flickr photo credit: Peace Begins With A Smile ~ Creative Commons uploaded by D Sharon Pruitt
