This year, as we entered the season of Advent and of giving, I began to make a gift guide for everyone in the family like always. As I did, I found myself trying to think up or search for items that we either didn’t really need, or didn’t really even want, just to have something on a list. Especially for my husband. It’s like pulling teeth to get ideas for him! While searching, I came across the idea of minimalist giving. You give four gifts, from very specific categories, and that’s it.
Minimalist Giving Categories:
- WANT: something you want.
- NEED: something you need.
- WEAR: something to wear.
- READ: something to read.
I love this idea! Even in it’s Dr. Suess like rhyming. As a family, we have tried to live within our means and avoid unnecessary excess as much as we can. Especially when it comes to gift giving. We love to coupon, and search for deals, and are usually pretty frugal (with the help of my husband’s guidance mostly – y’all, this man can save us money like no other.) Usually for holidays (birthdays, Christmas, anniversaries) we skip the gift guide and opt for a single gift for one another or an experience in lieu of a plethora of items just to give gifts. For example, for our anniversary we always choose an upscale restaurant we either haven’t tried, or one we adore & haven’t been to in a while and spend the night in a mini staycaytion. Quality time is the one love language that overlaps for us!
Since having Emma, we’ve started to realize even more how much “stuff” seems to accumulate. Babies require A LOT of stuff, y’all! And while we’ve used so much So I wanted to start early on when it came to holidays about just what our giving strategy was going to be. When she’s older I want to add in the donating portion as well (especially with toys) but love the idea of the rule of four.
For holidays, I usually make a gift guide (in the form of an Amazon wish list) to share with family of what I’m hoping to get. And usually, my list is pretty limited. I always opt for fewer higher quality (often higher priced) items, rather than adding on several “filler” gifts to meet a number quota. Quality over quantity is key for me! I’m a big fan of wishlists (much like registries!) and truly wish everyone would use them. I love Amazon’s simply because it’s easy & you can link to exactly what you want making it super simple for your loved ones.
Something They Want
Handwoven Overnight Bag | I have had my eye on this bag for some time now. I love the rich colors and The Little Market is one of my favorite stores.
Apple Watch | I’m leaning more and more to a smart watch with mommyhood. You always have your hands full it seems. Plus the inner detective in me thinks it’s pretty awesome 
Kate Spade Crossbody | A good go to bag is always a must! One that is classic is key and Kate Spade never disappoints.
Lululemon Leggings | Y’all, I used to think all leggings were created equal, but these beauties truly are a cut above. Plus they have side pockets. Just saying.
Something They Need
Agenda/Planner for 2017 | I would be so lost without my agenda. I am excited to use this one from Jitney’s Journeys for the second year in a row!
Monogram Coffee Mug | Because coffee is a necessity, a cute mug is as well, right? I think so.
LOFT No Show Socks | I wear socks with all sorts of shoes including my tennis shoes so having multiples is a must. I love that these have a non slip grip on the heel too!
Funnel Neck Coat | Even in Alabama it’s necessary to bundle up from time to time so why not do so in a fabulous statement coat?
Something to Wear
FitBit Alta| I love my FitBit and being able to track your progress certainly helps with fitness goals.
TOMS slippers | I love slippers with a hard sole, and these are super cozy. Plus, TOMS always has my vote.
Stitch Fix Gift Card | This seriously makes the best gift because it’s not only a fun surprise at your door, it’s so much better than getting a shirt you don’t like only to return it!
Nike Tennis Shoes | You need to have some good shoes to wear to keep up with all those fitness goals!
Something to Read
Present Over Perfect | I cannot wait to dive into this book. All too often we have a hard time being in the moment rather than trying to make the moment perfect.
Grace Not Perfection | Again, so excited to read this one. I just adore Emily and perspective of love and grace.
Fantastic Beasts & Where to Find Them | Everyone needs a fun read and what better option than the continuation of the magical world?
The Woman in Cabin 10 | A good thriller is always on my list. I’ve heard so many good things about this one!
What would make your gift guide for the ladies? I would love to hear your thoughts!
This post contains affiliate links & I may be compensated, however all opinions are my own.
