Your Gift-Giving Guide for a Pandemic-Altered Holiday 
Giving gifts that are attuned uniquely to the recipient... just like a fingerprint.

Back in early October 2020, 8 in 10 people had planned to do their holiday shopping online — and that was before the November and December coronavirus surge.

Meanwhile, e-commerce strategists are predicting a "shipageddon" as companies attempt to tackle the flood of holiday shipping. Curbside pickup for gifts to local family members may be a better option, or sending an email voucher that can be redeemed online for the out-of-town people on your list will let you side-step the need for shipping.

As the pandemic restricts plans, long distance trips to visit relatives or meals with family and friends may be replaced with a video call. Still, you would like loved ones to know that they are remembered over the holidays. Make their gifts personal and meaningful without exceeding your budget.

Here are some ideas:

1. Gifting with limited funds. 

If you're on a tight budget, consider homemade gifts or treats. Give your creations a personal touch by designing them to reflect the individuality of those on your list. Peruse YouTube videos or DIY sites to discover how to make gift-worthy presents.


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2. Gifting to those with limited funds.

If a loved one is going through a hard financial stretch, consider a grocery gift card, the gift of a food delivery service, or even a pre-loaded debit card. Place it in a decorative card in which you include an uplifting memory, a commiserating story, or an inspiring quote to lift the person's spirits.

3. Giving to help those in need.

Millions of people are struggling, and the challenges the pandemic has created have compounded their struggles. For those on your list who have everything they could want or need, consider giving a donation to a worthy cause, such as United Way or the local shelter or food bank, in the person's name.

4. Choosing gifts that give back.

For your socially conscious recipients, research gift options that are made by or that support those in need. You will enjoy finding unique items and learning about the worthy causes that they benefit. Print out a description of the beneficiary to include with the gift.

5. Giving with a do-no-harm ethic.

If environmental sustainability is a guiding principle for anyone on your list, choose from a number of eco-friendly companies or online sites. Patagonia, for example, has a "worn wear" line of re-purposed clothing, and you can "wrap" the gift in one of their reusable cloth bags. What's more, the company donates 1% of sales to environmental causes.

6. Gifting to support small businesses. 

So many small business owners are barely hanging on as the pandemic has curtailed shopping and dining for months on end. Giving gifts that support your friend or family member's much-loved local retailer, or purchasing a gift card to a favorite restaurant is a win-win.

7. Make a playlist.

Create a personalized playlist of favorite songs or music you know the other person would enjoy. You can use Spotify, for example, to share the playlist with a recipient via Facebook, Twitter, an email link, or other options. Name your playlist something that evokes the bond between the two of you.

8. Give your love.

Make a memento of the time you last spent with the person. You can create a photo album or even a memory board, including photos of the two of you together along with the photos of the places you've enjoyed with each other. Several online photo album sites exist to walk you through the process.

This will be a trying holiday without the usual festive gatherings. Still, be sure to reach out remotely to connect with loved ones. Plan a video call where you open each other's gifts. You can still bask in the spirit of holiday giving even if it's not in person.

Copyright 2020 by Vicky Oliver.
All Rights Reserved.

Book by this Author

Live Like a Millionaire (Without Having to Be One)
by Vicky Oliver

Live Like a Millionaire (Without Having to Be One) by Vicky OliverThe wealthier few get invited to glitzier parties, live in swankier homes, drive faster cars, and date hotter people. But why should life’s perks accrue to only the fantastically rich? In a world where social standing is determined by perception, Live Like a Millionaire (Without Having to Be One) will show you what it takes to mingle with millionaires, party with plutocrats, and attain the lavish lifestyle on a stipend. Vicky Oliver will teach you how.

For more info and/or to order this book, click here.

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About the Author

Vicky OliverVicky Oliver is a leading career development expert and the multi-best-selling author of five books, including Live Like a Millionaire (Without Having to Be One) (Skyhorse, 2015). She is a sought-after speaker and seminar presenter and a popular media source, having made over 901 appearances in broadcast, print, and online outlets. For more information, visit http://vickyoliver.com/.  

Video/Interview with Vicky Oliver: Recapture Your Interviewing Mojo
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