The alternative to material gifts: giving unforgettable experiences

If you're tired of hoarding and are looking for a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to the many material gifts you receive at Christmas, why not give your loved ones experiences instead? This will not only reduce your clutter level, but will also ensure that you create lasting memories that you can cherish for a lifetime!

Why choose experiences over objects?

- Creating lasting memories: Experiences create memories that last a lifetime, unlike objects that can be quickly forgotten or broken.

- Strengthening ties: Sharing an experience brings family members or friends closer together.

- Reduced clutter: Fewer items means less clutter in the home.

- Reduced environmental impact: Experiences generally generate less waste than material gifts.

- Personal development: Experiences can contribute to learning and personal growth.

Ideas for experiences to offer

For children

- Classes or workshops: Dance, art, cooking, science, etc.

- Subscription to a museum or zoo: For unlimited visits all year round

- Adventure day: Amusement park, tree climbing, water park, etc.

- Nature experience: Camping, stargazing, guided hiking, etc.

- Live performance: Concert, circus, children's theater, etc.

For teenagers

- Driving lessons: For older people, of course!

- Sports experience: Skydiving, surfing, climbing, etc.

- Music festival or concert: Tickets to their favorite festival or artist

- Hotel stay: For a memorable weekend!

- Creative workshop: Photography, video, computer coding, etc.

For adults

- Wellness stay: Spa, yoga retreat, meditation stay, etc.

- Cooking classes: With a renowned chef or in a culinary school

- Wine experience: Wine tasting and/or vineyard visit

- Outdoor Adventure: Hiking, kayaking, wildlife viewing, and more!

For the whole family

- Themed stay: Night in a zoo or in a tree house

- Escape game: An immersive adventure where you can solve puzzles together!

- Group lessons: Pottery, painting or cooking with the family

- Discovery day: Visit to an educational farm or a local historical site

- Family show: Musical comedy, circus or concert suitable for all ages

How to present an experience gift?

- Create a personalized card describing the experience offered.

- Offer a small symbolic object representing the experience (for example, binoculars for bird watching or an apron for a cooking class).

- Prepare a mystery box containing different clues related to the upcoming experience.

- Create a mini photo album announcing the experience offered with images.

- Organize a treasure hunt leading to the discovery of the gift.

Tips for choosing the right experience to offer

- Consider the interests of the person receiving the gift: Choose an experience that matches their passions or something they've always wanted to try.

- Consider the person's age and abilities: Make sure the experience is appropriate and safe.

- Think about time: Check that the experience can be carried out within a reasonable time frame and at a time that suits the people involved.

- Evaluate the available budget: The experiences offered can of course vary considerably in terms of cost. So make sure you choose one that fits your budget.

- Consider the practical side: Think about logistical details like transportation, accommodation if necessary, etc.

Managing expectations, especially with young children

- Explain the concept: Help children understand the value of experiences over objects.

- Involve them in the choice made: Give them options of experiences so that they feel involved.

- Create anticipation: Talk about the upcoming experience, plan it together.

- Combine the experience offered with a small tangible gift: For younger children, associate the experience with a small related object (for example, a camera for a photography course or craft materials for a more creative course).

Gifting experiences instead of material objects is a growing trend, and for good reason! Not only does this approach reduce the accumulation of objects and their environmental impact, but it also helps create precious memories and strengthen family bonds.

By carefully selecting experiences that fit each person’s interests and personality, you’re giving more than just a gift: you’re giving moments of joy, learning, and personal growth. These memories will last long after a toy is forgotten or a gadget stops working.

So, next time you’re looking for the perfect gift, think beyond the box and give an experience that will enrich your loved one’s life. After all, the best gifts aren’t the ones you unwrap, but the ones you experience!

For more tips and tricks related to non-tangible gifts, check out this blog post !