10 Unique Gift Ideas

Unique Gift Ideas

Some people are incredibly easy to shop for. You can go into any store and find something they would like. For others, you can spend months looking and still not discover the right gift.

So what do you give the person who has everything? How can you get a unique gift at an affordable price? Here are 10 unique gift ideas for under $100 that are sure to be special, memorable and brighten your loved one’s day.

Vintage toys

Remember Hasbro’s G.I. Joe action figures? What about Xavier Robert’s Cabbage Patch Kids? Long before the age of LEGO®, there were Lincoln Logs, “America’s National Toy.” A lot of people put vintage toys on a shelf to look at, but I love the idea that you can give toys another life with another child to love them. What was your favorite childhood toy? Chances are your kids will love playing with it, too.

You don’t have to be a child to get joy out of collecting vintage toys. When you give an antique or vintage holiday gift, you’re not just giving an item — you’re giving a feeling. Vintage toys can back good memories of the past.

Unique twist on the traditional

An aquarium can be a great gift idea for many people. However, the success of this gift depends on how well you know the recipient. As wonderful as the hobby is, it’s not something that should be dumped upon those who aren’t interested. A fish tank was the perfect gift for my son last year. He wanted a pet, but not a dog. And I was willing to help him care for them.

The easiest way to give someone an aquarium is to simply go to the store, buy a package kit, wrap it up and let them do the rest. Include a card with a gift certificate for the pet store so they can pick the fish they want.

Custom experiences

Rather than giving something, have you thought of gifting an experience instead? Whether it’s reservations and a gift certificate to the city’s hottest restaurant, tickets for the theater or an annual pass to a local amusement park, an experience will stand out. Print out the information, wrap it in a box, and watch their faces light up when they open it.

Classes

Have you heard for years how your loved one would like to learn to carve wood, ballroom dance or spin pottery? Allow them to cross an item off their bucket list by gifting classes. From golf lessons to knitting classes, this is a gift that is sure to be appreciated.

Monthly clubs

Give the gift of a good mail day. Subscription gifts come in every shape and size. From bacon to wine, flowers to makeup, select a club that you think your loved one will enjoy. A girlfriend once gave me a 6-month subscription to the Organic Loose Tea Club from TheTeaSpot.com. It’s truly the gift that keeps on giving.

Donation

Want a gift that has meaning and makes a positive impact? Make a charitable donation to a special cause in your loved one’s name. Does she adore animals? Donate to a certain exhibit at the zoo or a nearby animal shelter. Does he have a soft spot for childhood education? Donate to the local library or organizations that help low-income children succeed at school.

Memberships

A membership can be a useful gift that’s much appreciated. For example, an automotive membership provides assistance for auto accidents and other traveling concerns. Maybe he or she would enjoy a membership to the local museum or garden that would offer year-round visits.

Cultural gifts

Does your loved one have an interest in a particular country or culture? Create a gift basket and use that culture as the theme. Gather special spices and ingredients to make an authentic recipe or find a book about the history of the culture. Traditional clothing, cultural-specific art and imported candy can all help you create a wonderfully unique gift.

Friends of mine gave their adopted daughter a traditional Indian sari. The gift was a lovely way to celebrate their daughter’s cultural heritage.

Restored pictures

Before digital photos and endless smartphone images, printed photographs were cherished keepsakes. For a meaningful gift, find an old photo and have it restored. Finish by putting it in a beautiful frame and you’re sure to tug at the heartstrings when it’s time to open presents.

Gift of time and talents

When the recipient seems to have everything, gift a service instead. Offer your time to babysit or assist with gardening. Use your talents to bake, paint or knit a custom blanket. Whatever your ability, it’s sure to be appreciated by your loved one. Create a certificate showcasing your offer and wrap it in boxes or gift bags for a stunning presentation. Click here to download ours.

We hope this list of unusual and unique gift ideas has inspired you to find the perfect out-of-the-box gifts for your family this year. Finding that truly special something will bring smiles, create adventures and make memories for your loved ones.