‘Thank you’. It’s a humble, simple utterance that can mean so much when delivered with sincerity. But sometimes, the grateful may want to go further when showing their appreciation…and the best way to do this? A small, heartfelt gift.
This thing needn’t be showy or overblown. In fact, such gestures can sometimes lead to awkwardness and misunderstanding. Instead, a personal and unique gift is perfect, whether it’s handcrafted, written from the heart or simply carefully sourced and impeccably wrapped. If there’s someone in your life particularly deserving of gratitude right now, then you’ve come to the right place; here are 8 thoughtful, affordable gifts to show your appreciation.
SEND THEM FLOWERS
The act of giving flowers to express love, appreciation, condolences or congratulations has existed for thousands of years, with evidence of flower giving appearing in the literature and art of Ancient Egypt, Rome and Greece.
To this day, a beautiful floral arrangement is a tried and tested way to express gratitude, and can be done from afar and on a last-minute basis should the need arrive. Some florists now even offer a same day flower delivery service for those customers who may have, shall we say, left things a little late. Hey, we’ve all been there!
PEN A HANDWRITTEN THANK YOU NOTE
Handwritten letters are perhaps the most simple yet heartfelt way to show your appreciation for someone. Receiving a letter in the post has a romantic and nostalgic vibe to it which is impossible to resist, with the words seemingly resonating so much more strongly than if they were written on a Whatsapp message. As a last minute gesture or as something planned in advance, a handwritten note can’t be topped.
Read: Travel-themed items you can give to your friend who loves traveling
PAINT THEM A PICTURE
If you’re skilled with a paintbrush rather than a pen, then why not draw your loved one a picture to show them how much you care? This gift ticks all the boxes – it costs next to nothing, is incredibly thoughtful, you don’t necessarily have to order online and wait for anything to arrive, and it can be framed and packaged beautifully if you’re really keen to show your appreciation.
While you’re at it, why not direct the receiver to these handy tips on adding artwork to your home, so they can learn more about maximising the impact of your hand drawn piece.
TEACH A SKILL
Should current social distancing rules permit it, then sharing a skill with a loved one is a wonderful, completely free gift which carries so much meaning. If you’re a fantastic cook, why not spend the afternoon teaching your friend or family member some of your favourite recipes? Perhaps you’re an expert piano player? Showing a loved one a few notes or tunes on the keys represents a kind, gentle gift with loads of heart.
Read: 7 thoughtful gifts for the gal pals in your life
RECYCLED HOMEWARE PRODUCTS
These days, designers are doing wonderful things with recycled plastics and other materials otherwise headed for landfill, turning them into coasters, rugs, cushion covers and all sorts of homeware items that make the ideal, affordable gift.
If you have an eco-conscious loved one in your life, this represents an incredibly thoughtful gift. After all, what better way to show your appreciation than endeavouring to preserve the planet for someone?
A PERSONALISED SCENTED CANDLE
Customised candles can also help you let an important person in your life know that you appreciate them. Homemade candles which you curate yourself, using aromas you know that special person loves, is a wonderful way to add a personalised, hands on touch to your gift giving.
According to The Healthy, the eight smells that are scientifically proven to raise your mood are pine, citrus, sunscreen, freshly cut grass, floral notes from lavender and jasmine, rosemary, peppermint, and baby powder. Why not incorporate some of these scents into your personalised candle?
FRAME A PHOTO OF YOU TOGETHER
If you have a particularly cherished photo of the two of you together, sharing a fond memory or a joyous moment, then why not get the picture framed as an affordable, thoughtful way of expressing your gratitude and love?
A reminder of your shared affection each time they see the framed photo…what could be better!
A CHARITABLE DONATION
Try thinking outside the box in terms of your present by giving the gift of good karma instead of an item only guaranteed to gather dust in the attic. Kind souls will love to receive a gift of a donation to their favourite charity. The world of philanthropy is vast and gifting such positivity is as thoughtful as you can get, don’t you think?
THE BOTTOM LINE
The smallest gestures often have the biggest impact. Without bling or bravado, the true essence of gift giving is realised; and that’s showing appreciation and gratitude to a loved one.