5 Holiday Gifts to Send That Aren’t Gift Cards

If you have friends, relatives and businesses associates that live out of town, you might want to send them gifts for the holidays. It can be hard to pick a gift for someone who lives far away. You might not see them very often to know what they already own or are into lately. These days, people often send gift cards. To some people, this is almost an insult, because it shows that you did not take the time and effort to pick something out that they would like. Plus, if they are elderly or are not Internet savvy, they are going to have a hard time using a gift card and your gift may go to waste. Here are a few sure-fire gift deliveries that will please most people.

Flowers

Flower deliveries are not just for Valentine’s day. They are appreciated any time of year. The good people at Telaflora have a nice selection of autumn and winter flowers and potted plants. These would make a nice centerpiece for a holiday dinner table.

Fruit

You can give the gift of delicious fruit, by having a delivery made by a company such as Harry and David, from Oregon, who is famous for their pears and other fruit.  You could also consider sending preserved meats, jams or jellies or even a nice big spiral-cut honey baked ham, for the holiday dinner.

Meal Kits or Groceries

Many cities now have grocery delivery available. You can go online and fill up your virtual basket and make your purchase. Instead of the box boy taking your groceries to your car for you, now they will bring it all the way to your house.  If you have friends and relatives out of town, you could fill your shopping cart with delicacies and have them delivered to someone’s house.

There are also companies, such as Blue Apron, who deliver meal kits. These meals are designed by chefs and the kits contain all the ingredients needed to prepare a gourmet meal. You can have these delivered to someone on a schedule, so it is the gift that keeps on giving.

There are also companies that do the same thing with wine.  They will send one or more bottle of wine, along with a nice card, to anyone you like. You can schedule these deliveries far in advance, so it makes for a good way to remember people’s birthdays, anniversaries and other special dates. It is good for both family and business gift giving.

Make a Charitable Gift

If you know someone who has everything, give something to someone else on their behalf. You could make a donation to a local, national or international charity in the name of your gift recipient. You could donate to groups that feed people, create jobs or beautify your community.  There is even a charity that will buy a cow or a goat, for a poor family in Africa. You could give your friend or family member a stuffed animal toy along with a note explaining your gift.

Homemade Gifts

The best gifts are often those that come from the heart. If you are into arts and crafts, make something special for someone and pack it up nicely and mail it to them for Christmas. The best gift that you can give is something that comes from your heart. They will know that you gave of your time, to make them happy. That is the most priceless gift of all.