You might be wondering why “stressed shoppers,” “diminishing bank accounts,” and “too many shipping boxes to fit in the recycling bin” aren’t on that list. Because truthfully, the season of gift-giving comes with its drawbacks.

If you’re hoping to make holiday shopping more efficient and less expensive, here are some tips for tackling that long gift list.

1. Make lists of recipients and gift ideas 

Lists are a great organizational strategy to keep your holiday shopping more efficient and less expensive. 

While making the list of people to shop for, Don’t Forget These 10 People During Your Holiday Gift Shopping. Next, jot down what you plan to purchase for them if you know. Be sure to ask or check their online wish lists too for ideas guaranteed to be a slam dunk.

Use your lists to plan trips to stores that carry several items, and cross the names off once you’ve purchased their gifts. You should be able to minimize shopping trips, browsing time, and forgetful moments. 

2. Start planning early

If you wait until the last minute to purchase gifts, you’ll likely find empty shelves, higher prices, and lengthier shipping times. But if you start planning your gift-buying early, you can take advantage of seasonal sales.

Other benefits of early planning include spreading out your spending over several months and having more time to collect coupons.

If the holiday season is nearing, you can still do some planning to minimize your spending. Try comparison shopping to know which stores carry your gift list items for the least amount of money.

Black Friday sales start popping up well before Black Friday rolls around. Shopping online allows you to see which retailers are offering the best price.

3. Try making DIY gifts

Do-it-yourself gifts take longer than placing an online order, but they can be a smart way to save money.

If you don’t know how to make beautifully knitted scarves, don’t give up. There are still DIY gifts you can make. 

Here are some ideas:

• Cookies, salsa, jams, or other homemade goods
• Photo gifts (what grandparent can resist?)
• Bath bombs, soaps, or candles

Don’t forget that sometimes the best gift is your time. Offer free babysitting or housecleaning to a friend or relative who could use your help more than they could use an object.

4. Use holiday wish lists

Sometimes the most time-consuming part of holiday shopping is carefully choosing gifts for everyone on your list. Encourage your friends and relatives to create wishlists to make it easier to pick the perfect gift.

Giftster.com is a two-way, online gift registry anyone can use to make and share their holiday wish lists. It’s free to sign up, simple to add items from online retailers (or offline gifts too), and easy to avoid duplicate gifts. 

With a Giftster wishlist, you’ll pick the perfect gift, every time.

5. Organize gift exchanges to minimize your gift list

Are you purchasing gifts for everyone in your friend circle or all of the coworkers on your team? Consider organizing a gift exchange to save everyone time and money.

With a Secret Santa, everyone leaves with something, so your friends and coworkers will all be happy. And you’ll be even happier to know that Giftster’s Secret Santa Generator makes it easy to organize a gift exchange.

You can also consider a White Elephant gift exchange, which is less personalized but can be a lot more fun.

Happy gifting!

The post Long Gift List? 5 Tips to Shop More Efficiently and Save Money appeared first on Giftster and was written by Giftster.

If you’re like many shoppers, you want to get a head start on gift buying before the mad rush later. Retailers have released their holiday gift guides for 2023. And we have our guide to those gift guides, too.

There are dozens, if not hundreds, of holiday gift guides that appear online at this time of year. Our collection doesn’t list them all, but we do try to find helpful and unique ways to categorize the gift guides you might be looking for.

Take a look at our carefully curated holiday gift guide collection for 2023. We’ve focused on budget, trends, stocking stuffers and white elephants, and giving back.

Luxurious finds

If you’ve been saving up or love to splurge, you’ll enjoy these gift guides of high-end ideas.

Forbes: This list has an assortment of fun, luxurious, and thoughtful items for this holiday season that will please everyone from the tech-lover to the home chef. 

Town & Country: What do you give the woman who has everything? Take a look at these glamorous gifts that include jewelry, clothing, and beauty tech for the fashion-conscious woman.

Esquire: If your guy is always looking for the latest tech or finest whiskeys, Esquire’s gift guide will take all the guesswork out of shopping for him this holiday season.

New York Post: Check out these trendy toys that include everything from play kitchens to virtual reality headsets. These kids’ gifts are the best of the best.

Vogue: When you’re looking for items that are a step above the ordinary, Vogue has ideas for carefully chosen gifts.

GQ: Does your guy deserve the best? With this holiday gift guide from GQ, you’re sure to find a present that will spoil him this season.

Budget-friendly holiday gift guides

Many stores and online retailers make it easy to stay within your shopping budget. Use these convenient gift guides to manage purchases this season.

CNET: We love the range of items on CNET’s holiday gift guide, especially their ideas that are under $25.

Better Homes & Gardens: Every gift on this list is under $30, but still thoughtful, useful, and fun to open for the holidays. 

Today: You’ll love that this gift guide is organized by the recipient’s interest, so you can find the perfect budget item for tech lovers, beauty lovers, and kids.

Wirecutter: The New York Times Wirecutter magazine recommends gifts for babies and kids that fit within any budget.

Serious Eats: Kitchen tools and gadgets don’t have to break the bank. Here are budget-friendly gifts for cooks and food lovers.

Barnes & Noble: Books are inexpensive but almost universally appealing. You can search books by age, interest, and best-seller.

STEAM ideas

Science, technology, engineering, art, and math gifts are trendy and useful. Search these gift guides to find the perfect present for anyone who loves to tinker, create, or problem-solve.

LEGO: Search the iconic brick connector toys by recipient, collection, and interest. There is even a gift finder to help you narrow your search for the perfect LEGO gift.

Uncommon Goods: Uncommon Goods has a wonderful collection of experience gifts that includes “make your own” kits, puzzles, and interactive games.

Genius Lab Gear: Don’t overlook this amazing list of science gifts for teenagers. We think that many adults would love these gadgets and gizmos, too.

Taste of Home: Use this holiday gift guide to find the best present for makers and crafters on your shopping list.

Lowe’s: Ask anyone who grills, and they’ll say it’s an art form. Lowe’s has gifts for grill-masters, DIYers, and everything in between.

Care for yourself and others

Self-care will never go out of style, and neither will giving back to others. Here are the gifts that help others the most. If you’re looking for more ideas, check out Season of Giving: 10 Meaningful Ways to Give Back This Holiday.

Glamour: Find the perfect gift to help a new mom relax, pamper your BFF, or spoil your teenage daughter and her friends.

InStyle: This holiday gift guide is organized by function, including “better sleep,” “relaxation,” and “personal development.”

The Strategist: These gifts all benefit organizations fighting for the rights of others, and they’re also great presents for the people on your shopping list.

Reader’s Digest: Just scrolling through this holiday gift guide makes you feel good. There are over 40 items to choose from that benefit others.

Amazon: While this major online retailer is known for having almost everything, we appreciate their Unique Gifts category where you can shop small businesses, women-owned businesses, and black-owned businesses.

Oprah Daily: Many items in this holiday gift guide feel indulgent, and they also support important causes.

Today’s Parent: Use this gift guide to find kid-friendly presents that help fundations and organizations for children.

Stocking stuffers and white elephants

Throughout the holiday season, you might find yourself invited to a white elephant or stumped for stocking stuffer ideas. We’ve put together our own guides to these gift-giving situations. Read our guide to 15 Hilarious White Elephant Gift Ideas and Christmas Gift Prep 101 – Stocking Stuffers & Wrapping Tips. 

Find more gift guides for small and inexpensive stocking stuffers or witty and (maybe) useful white elephant gift exchanges below.

Real Simple: These white elephant-themed gifts are fun and clever, and the participants might even find them useful.

Men’s Health: If you’re heading to a white elephant gift exchange, you can’t go wrong with these creative and hilarious ideas. 

The Spruce: Don’t miss these goofy, wacky, and funny gift ideas for an entertaining white elephant gift exchange.

Good Housekeeping: Find 80 stocking stuffer ideas for your entire family in this holiday gift guide.

The Cut: Each stocking stuffer item on this list has a helpful title, such as “for the friend who works from home” and “for the person who loves spicy food.”

The Paper Source: Shop these cute and quirky stocking stuffers that include everything from candy to toys to socks. 

Visit giftster.com to create a Christmas wish list and to start a Secret Santa drawing for your holiday gift exchange. 

The post Giftster’s 2023 Holiday Gift Guide Collection appeared first on Giftster and was written by Giftster.

Let’s take a look at 3 new ways you can add items to your list.

1. Add items to your wish list from Safari

Imagine this…you’re browsing your favorite store online and find an item you’d like to add to your Giftster list. Before the new update, you’d have to copy and paste the link into the Giftster app. Now, all you need to do is tap the share icon and select the Giftster app from the share sheet. Choose your list and add it to Giftster without leaving Safari.

Watch how fast it works when adding an item from Amazon.com below.

Tip: See how to add Giftster to your share sheet

2. Add items from your favorite retailer’s app

Now, let’s say you do most of your shopping at Walmart or Target and use their app. You can add items to your Giftster wish list from many retailer’s apps too.

Find an item you’d like to add and look for the share icon. This will bring up your iPhone’s share sheet.

Tap Giftster and you’re off to the races without ever leaving your favorite store’s app. If you’re not seeing Giftster in your list of apps follow these steps to add it.

3. Find & fetch items from the in-app browser

And finally, a third new way to add items to your Giftster lists. This method is right in the Giftster app. Search the web using Giftster’s in-app browser for anything you’d like to add in Find & Fetch mode. See how it works below.

Haven’t tried Giftster yet? Get the free iOS app today. Giftster is also available on Google Play or at giftster.com.

Happy gifting!

The post New on the Giftster iOS App: 3 Easy Ways to Add Items to Your Wish List appeared first on Giftster and was written by Giftster.

Some grandparents don’t know when to stop giving gifts to their grandkids. Maybe they love to make your child smile, or they feel bad they don’t get to visit often. Maybe their motives leave a little to be desired if they’re competing or manipulating your kids to “love them more.”

No matter the reason, it’s important to set appropriate boundaries if the gifting is pushing your limits. Here’s how.

Communicate respectfully and honestly 

Grandparents can have a wonderful relationship with their grandchildren. To preserve this bond and the important role many grandparents have, any discussions about new boundaries should be communicated respectfully and honestly. 

No one wins if you hide your frustrations, but you don’t want to hurt any feelings, either. 

Try this strategy: Openly communicate what you observe, why it has become a problem, and how it can be solved.

For example: “We’ve noticed that Blake has a lot of toys. He doesn’t take very good care of them, and we’re worried he is developing a materialistic attitude. We think it would help if he received fewer things for a while.”

With this type of conversation, you avoid pointing fingers or placing blame on the grandparents. In fact, they may feel like you’re inviting them to collaborate with you about decisions related to your children. 

Set limits on grandparent gifting costs or amounts 

Some people need very clear limits. After all, “fewer gifts” could be open for interpretation. 

You might need to set a clear boundary that discusses grandparent gifting in terms of how much, how many, and when. 

Only birthdays and major holidays? Limit to 2 gifts or $50 per child? You can decide what works best for your family. If you’re mostly worried about clutter, the cost of the gift doesn’t matter as much as the number of gifts, how big they are, or how often they’re given. 

However, if you think grandparents are overspending, you’ll need to set a monetary limit. It might be easiest to propose an annual spending amount per child, and let the grandparents decide how many gifts and how often. 

Suggest alternatives 

Popular gifts include toys, games, clothes, and fun accessories. Of course, growing up quickly and changing hobbies or interests are all a part of childhood. 

Fortunately, there are many alternatives to these types of gifts that can make things easier for you and help you set appropriate boundaries for grandparent gifting.

Experiences: Experience gifts include concert or sporting game tickets, memberships to museums or zoos, or gift certificates to places like a bowling alley or mini golf course. They’re great for minimizing clutter and maximizing fun.

Quality time: Encourage bonding time between grandparents and their grandchildren. Wonderful presents might include a “fancy” dinner out or a trip to a local playground. 

Books: Books are tangible gifts, but unlike other “stuff,” they encourage one of the foundational skills for education: reading. Unless you are worried about clutter, books are a great choice for grandparent gifting.

Education fund: If grandparents want to spend a significant amount of money, ask if they can put it toward your child’s future. College isn’t cheap, and an education fund can help.

Lessons and activities: Instead of purchasing items, grandparents can help pay for a season of sports, dance lessons, learning a musical instrument, or cooking classes.

Consumables: Gifts that are used quickly, such as food or fun bath products, can help minimize clutter. While consumables probably still aren’t the most ideal gift, they might be an easy alternative to agree on. 

Encourage gifts for grandma’s and grandpa’s house

There’s no reason grandparents have to buy gifts for your house. They can just as easily purchase toys, games, and activities that your kids can play with at their house. 

This solution can solve many problems, from cluttering to materialism to an overwhelming number of toys. Plus, your kids will look forward to visiting their grandparents, and this enthusiasm and quality time is beneficial for everyone.

Provide a wishlist 

Sometimes, grandparents don’t know what to get for their grandkids. That’s when you end up with a grandparent gifting problem: they buy a lot, hoping one of the gifts is a good one.

Help your child create a wishlist (or, depending on age, make one for them or let them make their own). Giftster is a family wishlist maker for year-round giving, so it’s perfect for grandparents. They’ll know exactly what to purchase, so you can avoid too many gifts or the wrong ones. 

You can also use a wishlist to discourage overspending. If grandparents ask what your child wants for a holiday or birthday, you can share the list and add that you’re sharing the wishlist with all of the party guests, so they have to leave items for others to purchase, too.

Additional tips for grandparent gifting

Let’s face it. Grandparents love giving gifts to their grandchildren. Even if you’ve done your best to suggest alternatives, provide a wishlist, and set limits, there’s a chance the gifts will keep coming.

If this is the case, here are a few additional tips to help you through grandparent gifting.

Return or exchange gifts when necessary: You don’t have to keep every gift someone gets for your children. If your house is too cluttered or your kids are overwhelmed or you think the gifts are a manipulation tactic, you can return or exchange them. Here’s our guide for How to Handle Gift Returns Gracefully.

Teach your children to be thankful: We often assume that an overabundance of gifts will make our kids too materialistic. They’ll have so much that they’ll forget to be appreciative. However, you can use excessive grandparent gifting to reinforce gratitude. Encourage your kids to write a thank you for each gift they receive. You can also try some of our other tips from How to Teach Children the Art of Being Thankful During the Holidays.

Happy gifting!

The post Grandparent Gifting: How to Set Appropriate Boundaries appeared first on Giftster and was written by Giftster.

Activities and Entertainment

• What type of activities do you enjoy doing in your free time?
• What is a hobby you’ve always wanted to try?
• Who are your favorite musicians/bands?
• Who is your favorite author or book series?
• What’s your favorite movie or TV show?
• What’s your favorite game (outdoor, board game, video game etc.)?
• What sports do you love? Could you use some new equipment for it?
• What are your favorite sports teams, if any?
• Do you play a musical instrument?

Food and Drink

• What’s your favorite restaurant?
• What type of cuisine do you enjoy eating?
• What’s a restaurant you’ve always wanted to try?
• What’s your favorite drink?
• What dessert can you not live without?
• What’s your favorite snack or guilty pleasure?
• Do you like wine or liquor? What are your favorites? (If not consider adding this to your gift preferences as something not to get you).
• Where do you shop for groceries?
• What’s your favorite local bakery or cafe?

Fashion & Beauty

• What are your favorite shoe brands and styles?
• What type of jewelry do you like to wear?
• What’s your favorite type of accessory?
• What’s your go-to perfume or cologne?
• What types of makeup do you use regularly?
• What skincare products do you prefer?
• What hair products do you use?
• What type of bag or luggage do you find most practical or stylish?

Technology & Gadgets

• What gaming console do you have?
• What video games are coming out soon that you’d love to play?
• Do you need a new pair of headphones or gaming accessories?
• Does your smartphone or watch need a new cover or strap? Charger or cables?
• Does your home utilize smart technology (light bulbs, outlets, etc.)?
• What streaming services do you subscribe to?
• What type of tablet or e-reader do you have?

Home & Decor

• What scents do you find most appealing?
• What types of plants do you enjoy having around?
• What style of home decor do you prefer (Modern, Bohemian, Midcentury, etc.)?
• What type of furniture do you find most comfortable or stylish?
• Is your bedding in need of a refresh?
• What kitchen gadgets or small appliances would save you time?
• What bookshelf or storage system do you prefer?
• What needs organizing in your home?
• What planner or journal do you use?
• Do you have personalized stationery or an address stamper?
• What style of art do you enjoy most?
• Do you have a favorite artist?
• Is there anything missing from your kitchen or bathroom you’d enjoy using?
• Do you own any collections? Is anything missing from that collection?

Pets & Animals

• What’s missing from your aquarium?
• Does your pet bed or crate need a refresh?
• What food or treats do you feed your pet?
• Which pet toys or interactive games do you use to keep your pet entertained?
• What grooming tools or supplies do you need to keep your pet looking its best?
• Which leash or harness do you need to walk your pet?
• What type of litter box or litter do you need for your cat?
• What outdoor enclosure or playpen do you need for your pet?
• Which pet carrier or travel crate do you need for transportation?
• Does your pet need training or obedience classes?
• What type of pet health product or medication do you need to keep your pet healthy?

Education

• What’s your favorite type of book, magazine or comic series?
• Who are your favorite authors?
• Is there a class or workshop you’ve been wanting to take (online or locally)?
• Are you already studying to take a big exam? Are there any study guides or prep materials you might need?
• Which educational conference or event do you want to attend?
• Is there an online community or resource you’d like to join?
• Which educational games or apps do you subscribe to for learning?
• Have you wanted to hire an online tutor or mentor?

Health & Fitness

• What type of exercise equipment do you need to achieve your fitness goals?
• What outdoor gear have you had your eye on?
• What brand of workout clothes do you feel most comfortable in?
• How do you monitor your progress (app subscription, watch, technology)?
• Which yoga mat or pilates equipment do you need for your practice?
• What type of protein powder or supplements do you buy?
• What type of water bottle do you use to stay hydrated during workouts?
• Do you need a foam roller or massage ball to relieve muscle soreness?
• What athletic shoes could make your workouts more comfortable?
• What type of weightlifting gloves or straps do you need for strength training?
• What kinds of resistance bands or weightlifting equipment do you need for your home gym?
• What workout bench or stability ball do you need for your strength training?
• What type of fitness class or online membership do you need to stay motivated?
• What meal delivery service would you like to try out?
• What type of sleep-tracking device or smart pillow do you need to optimize your recovery and performance?

Arts & Crafts

• Where do you prefer to shop for art and craft supplies?
• What type of paint do you like working with?
• Which kind of brushes do you prefer for your art projects?
• Which paper or canvas do you like to paint on?
• What type of clay do you like to sculpt with?
• What type of fabric do you enjoy working with the most?
• Which knitting needles or crochet hooks do you prefer to work with?
• What kind of beads do you prefer to use in your jewelry making?
• Which paper or cardstock do you favor for your paper crafts?
• What kind of markers or pens do you enjoy using?
• Which cutting machine do you prefer for your vinyl or paper projects?
• What camera accessories or photography equipment would you love to have?
• What’s your favorite dance style or class?

Maintenance & Automotive

• What items do you order regularly to maintain your home, vehicles, boats, etc.?
• What accessories would you love to add or update on your car or recreational vehicle?
• Does your vehicle need new floor or cargo mats?
• Which gas station or repair shop do you prefer?
• Do you have a jump starter or other emergency kit items?
• What tires do you buy for your vehicles?
• Does your car need to be detailed?
• Where do you like to get your car washed?

Need a way to share your list wish with friends and family and avoid duplicate gifts? Check out Giftster, the family wish list maker. It’s completely free and fun for anyone in the family to use.

Happy gifting!

The post 100+ Questions to Inspire Your Wish List appeared first on Giftster and was written by Giftster.

We don’t know if this causes you anxiety, excitement, or both, but we’re here to help you with gift-giving this holiday season. If you find yourself struggling to come up with an answer to the question, “what do you want for Christmas?”,

And, whether you need gift ideas for yourself or others, here is our ultimate list of holiday gift guides. 

Home and Hosting

Magnolia: On Magnolia’s holiday gift guide you’ll find collections of thoughtful gifts for everyone on your list, with a focus on comfort and the home.

The Spruce: Help everyone on your list make their best home with gifts from The Spruce. Their gift guide includes gift baskets, hostess gifts, and other heartwarming presents.

Serious Eats: Trust this award-winning food and drink website to curate fantastic guides of gifts for cooking, hosting, and drinking.

Bon Apetit: Check out these gift lists for kid cooks, gardeners, foodies, entertainers, decorators, and more. 

Art and DIY

Rifle Paper: At Rifle Paper, the holiday gift guide includes beautiful ornaments, wrapping paper, stocking stuffers, and calendars for decorating and organizing.

Paper Source: Find decorations, stocking stuffers, personalized gifts, and other creative ways to spread cheer on the Paper Source gift guide.

The Home Depot: Use the Home Depot’s holiday gift guide to tind the best gifts for the DIYer, the Doer, and the Crafter.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art: The Met has a 2022 holiday gift guide for art lovers on your list. Shop by recipient, price point, or artist.

Fashion and Style

Vogue: Vogue’s holiday gift guide includes fashionable and indulgent gifts for the man or woman in your life. Check out their best gifts for women, best gifts for men, and 100 gifts under $100 for anyone.

Carter’s: The Carter’s gift guide is your one-stop-shop for merry and cozy clothes and accessories for babies, toddlers, and kids.

Elle: Elle’s best gifts of 2022 are all about fashion, beauty, and culture. Their lists include stocking stuffers and chic gifts that won’t break your budget.

Esquire: Check out these best holiday gifts for men from the experts at Esquire, who know all about how to make a significant impact on a man’s life and style. 

Sports and Adventure

Men’s Health: For some people on your list, sports is a lifestyle. Get them the best gifts so they know you’re their biggest fan. 

L.L. Bean: The outdoor guides at L.L. Bean know all about adventure. Their holiday gift guide has everything rugged or cozy your adventurer needs.

Travel & Leisure: Traveling is it’s own type of adventure. Find the best gifts for travelers in this holiday guide from Travel & Leisure.

Fanatics: You can search gifts by sports league, recipient, stocking stuffers, deals, apparel, budget, brands, and fan favorites at Fanatics.

Experiences and Learning

Melissa and Doug: At Melissa and Doug, you’ll find toys to engage a child’s imagination. Using their gift finder, you can search gifts by age or interest.

The Toy Insider: The Toy Insider’s holiday gift guide includes the best toys and games for kids of all ages. Don’t miss their STEM 10 list for science, technology, engineering, and math gifts.

Barnes & Noble: Anyone can learn or escape with a good book. You can search books, games, and other gifts by age, interest, or genre.

Uncommon Goods: You’ll find a variety of creative gifts from Uncommon Goods, but their list of gifts of experience is especially fun and unique.

Technology and Gadgets

Best Buy: See all the top categories from Best Buy, including top tech, Apple gifts, and gifts for gamers. You can also search their holiday gift guide by recipient and price.

GameStop: According to GameStop, the gifts on their 2022 holiday guide “sleigh.” Find gifts from the hottest brands and franchises for collectibles, gaming, anime, and virtual reality.

Good Housekeeping: This gift guide from Good Housekeeping lists the best gadgets for tech lovers, and they range from reusable notebooks to smart home devices.

Samsung: Trust this electronics maker with gifts for the savvy shopper, the home entertainer, the tech-obsessed, the diehard gamer, and the multi-tasking virtuoso.

Doing Good and Giving Back

The Strategist: Here’s an inspiring holiday gift guide. These gifts offer a percentage of their proceeds to organizations fighting for food security, childhood cancer, and the planet.

Reader’s Digest: If there’s a do-gooder on your holiday shopping list, find them the perfect present that spreads good in the world using this Reader’s Digest gift guide.

Teen Vogue: The holidays are all about giving, but Teen Vogue wants you to both feel good and do good with this list of gifts that give back.

Oprah Daily: Are you looking for gifts that support great causes? This guide from Oprah Daily has gift ideas to support a wide range of organizations. 

Gifts for Everyone

Today: The Today Show has curated a gift guide of gift guides for everyone on your list, from gifts for self care to gifts for an imaginative 2-year-old.

Amazon: If you’re looking for a convenient list of gifts for everyone, you can’t go wrong with Amazon’s holiday gift guide.  

Etsy: For a great collection of creative gifts for everyone, Etsy’s holiday gift guide is perfect. You can search by product type or check out staff picks or gifts from award-winning shops.

Target: Find gifts for everyone at Target. Browse extensive lists of gift ideas by recipient, top gifts, and interest. You can even narrow your search to “pets.”

Visit giftster.com to create a Christmas wish list and to start a Secret Santa drawing for your holiday gift exchange. 

Happy gifting!

The post Your 2022 Holiday Gift Guide Round-up appeared first on Giftster and was written by Giftster.

If you make a Christmas wish list, answering this question is easy. Of course, making your wish list might take some time. The experts at Giftster have some advice to help you get it right as the season of gift-giving approaches.

Here are 10 things to consider before making your Christmas wish list.

1. Make your Christmas wish list early

Some people are planners and start buying Christmas gifts for their friends and family early, because they don’t want to wait until the last minute. Others start buying presents in the months leading up to the holidays because it’s easier on their budgets.

Keep these early shoppers in mind and create your Christmas wish list a month or two before the holidays. This way they can also take advantage of Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday sales.

2. Provide items at a variety of price points

A few of your closest family and friends might want to splurge on higher-end gifts from your Christmas wish list. However, other friends and relatives, especially children, might be excited to purchase you a gift at a lower price.

While creating your list, consider adding items from several price points so everyone feels comfortable shopping for you.

3. Include non-tangible gift options

Sometimes the best gifts aren’t “things.” Give your Christmas wish list shoppers some non-tangible gift options that can’t just be thrown in a bag or wrapped in a box.

Around the holidays, people like to give presents they think the recipient will enjoy. Experiences like tickets to a sports game, memberships to a local museum, or gift certificates for a spa day are unique and fun options.

4. Balance your needs and wants

Now that you’re getting a little older, is it harder to come up with items for a Christmas wish list? As a kid, it seemed like the world was full of never-ending gift options. Unfortunately, as an adult, the practical part of life gets in the way of imagination.

When you create your wish list, balance your needs and wants. It’s acceptable to ask for a new pair of work boots if that’s what you really need. Your shoppers might enjoy giving practical gifts. But others love giving you something you really want, so feel free to ask for a new set of Bluetooth headphones, too.

5. Choose quality items that you know you’ll use

When you begin to think about gift ideas, do a little research so you know the item you ask for will last. There are plenty of websites that offer reviews and rankings, especially for different makes and models of appliances and electronics.

You might also realize that an item you thought you wanted isn’t as great as you thought it was. Now you know not to include it on your Christmas wish list. This strategy will save you from getting a gift you might never use.

6. Don’t forget who will be shopping for you

Who is going to see your Christmas wish list? It’s easy to make one list to share with everyone, but remember that your children, grandmother, and supervisor at work might all have access to your gift ideas. This is not the time to include an “I hate my job” mug.

Knowing who is shopping for you can also help you think of wish list items. What would your children love to buy for you? Do you have some non-high-tech options your grandma can choose from?

Also, keep in mind that not everyone enjoys or feels comfortable shopping online. Consider adding an item or two that can be found locally.

7. Look for the best deals

Not all items are priced equally. The cost of a new video game will vary based on where you buy it. Especially with so many big box stores and online retailers, you’re almost guaranteed to find one that’s offering a discount.

Help your Christmas wish list shoppers out by providing them links to the retailer that can help them get your gift at the best price.

8. Use Giftster to make Christmas wish lists easy

Make sure to consider how you’ll be sharing your Christmas wish list. Creating a list that you just email to everyone is a sure way to end up with duplicate items. Giftster is an online wish list creator that makes it easy to create, share, and shop for presents.

You can use it to create a Secret Santa gift exchange or just to share wish lists with friends, family, and neighbors. You can include gifts from websites or simply add a gift idea, like “a travel backpack.” As shoppers select items, they get marked as purchased so there are no duplicates. 

With Giftster, you’ll get gifts right. Every time.

9. Allow your Christmas wish list shoppers some freedom

Sure, you can compile a list of 15-20 gift items that range in price and are precisely what you want for Christmas. Or you can give your wish list shoppers some guidance and let them choose something they know you’ll love.

With Giftster you’ll be able to add gift preferences instead of exact items to your wish list. Include your clothing sizes, favorite colors, hobbies, interests, and things you don’t like. Your shopper can get creative and you’ll be completely surprised.

10. Follow gift exchange or Secret Santa rules

Most holiday gift exchanges and Secret Santas have rules, like purchase limits so everyone spends (about) the same amount of money. (Hint: if you’re hosting a gift exchange, make sure to share these guidelines before the gift exchange starts.)

You may have to get creative, but it’s a good idea to give your secret shopper some options. Include a few gift items at the max price point and several cheaper ones that can add up to the purchase limit. This way you’ll be surprised by your gift.

Happy gifting!

The post 10 Things to Consider Before Making Your Christmas Wish List appeared first on Giftster and was written by Giftster.

Here are some sustainable ideas to get you started:

Green gift ideas for eco-friendly self-care

1. Shampoo bars

Reduce plastic waste by switching to shampoo bars instead of plastic containers. You’ll feel extra wonderful as you soak in the tub because of your new sustainable birthday gift choice.

2. Bamboo materials

Bamboo is a renewable and versatile material. It also feels luxurious. Add bamboo towels, robes, or sheets to your birthday wish list.

3. Reusable drink containers

Sipping your morning cup of coffee is the ultimate luxury, but throwing away dozens of disposable coffee mugs isn’t earth-friendly. Choose a reusable water bottle or coffee mug for a gift option this year.

Sustainable wish list ideas for the kids

4. Eco-friendly toys 

There are several companies that use eco-friendly products such as wood for child’s toys and games. We promise your kids won’t know the difference.

5. Experiences

Add experiences to your child’s wish list. Consider a sporting event or a baking class instead of toys that produce waste. These experiences are also wonderful memories you can create as a family.

6. Books instead of cards 

Many early childhood experts will tell you that it’s important to read to your child. Foster literacy while also reducing waste. Ask your child’s birthday guests to bring books instead of cards. The message written inside a book cover will last forever.

Chef-inspired eco-friendly birthday gifts

7. Indoor herb garden

Grocery stores package herbs in plastic containers, but it’s easy to grow your own at home. There are plenty of product options you can add to your sustainable birthday wish list.

8. Eco-friendly food storage 

Disposable plastic bags and cling wrap have a bad reputation for contributing to waste. There are eco-friendly options, such as reusable storage bags and beeswax wraps to keep food fresh. They’re pricier, which makes them perfect for your wish list.

9. Sustainable food subscriptions 

Many companies provide ethical and sustainable goods, such as coffee and wine, in monthly subscription packages. The packaging is also usually biodegradable.

Earth-friendly fashion finds 

10. Recycled sunglasses

Sunglasses are an amazing fashion accessory, but recycled sunglasses are even better. Add a new pair of recycled shades to your wish list for a sustainable birthday.

11. Ethical jewelry

For your birthday wish list, consider jewelry made with recycled metals and ethically-sourced gemstones. You can look beautiful and help keep the earth beautiful, too.

12. Eco-friendly watches

Add a watch made from natural stone and original wood to your birthday wish list. This sustainable accessory will help you keep time and preserve the earth.

If you’re ready to get started on your eco-friendly birthday wish list, make an account with Giftster. It’s a free, private gift registry, so you can share your sustainable gift requests with others and give them an opportunity to do the same too.

The post 12 Eco-friendly Birthday Gift Ideas To Add To Your Wish List appeared first on Giftster and was written by Giftster.

This guide from the gift experts at giftster.com makes everything a little simpler. Here are thoughtful gifts for a friend going through a divorce and tips for creating a divorce gift registry.

Gifts for Comfort and Self-Care

Divorce is difficult, and it’s possible friends going through a divorce will neglect to take good care of themselves.

Gifts that help your friend relax and take care of their basic needs can help them through this stressful time. A few ideas include pre-cooked meals or a gift subscription to a meal kit service, a gym pass, or a voucher for a spa service or massage.

You can also put together a self-care or stress-relief care package for a friend who is going through a divorce. It could include luxurious creams, comfort foods, a book or journal, and stress balls or fidget toys.

Gifts for Starting Over

During a marriage, a couple creates a life together. With divorce comes the need to define themselves as individuals again. A recently divorced friend may also need to create a new living space.

You can help your friend start over by gifting them household essentials, like new bedsheets or bath towels, small kitchen appliances like a toaster or coffee maker, or a houseplant.

Ultimately, one of the best gifts might be your time. Offer to help paint walls, hang curtains, box or unbox items during a move, or shop for home essentials with them. They’ll appreciate the assistance as they redefine themselves and their space.

Gifts for Laughing and Having Fun

Since divorce is typically unpleasant, even when it’s “amicable,” don’t forget to gift your friend some opportunities to have a good time.

Enjoy a day out participating in your friend’s favorite activities. Go wine tasting, visit a lake to go fishing, hit a round of golf, get mani-pedis together, go on a long walk or hike, try ax throwing, see a movie together in theaters, or enjoy a nice meal.

You might even consider throwing your friend a divorce party, with themes like “I Don’t” or “Jail Break.” (Just make sure it’s tactful and about your friend, not their ex.)

Creating a Divorce Gift Registry

If you’re going through a divorce, you’ll have plenty of friends and family who want to help you get back on your feet. Creating a divorce gift registry puts all of the essentials you need in one place so friends and family know exactly what will help the most.

With a free online registry like giftster.com, it’s easy to create a divorce registry. You can list items from any store or website, and users can mark them when they’re purchased. Plus, you can share it easily with anyone who asks. Giftster is a personal registry for every season of your life.

The post What’s a Good Gift for a Friend Going Through a Divorce? appeared first on Giftster and was written by Giftster.

A new year signals a fresh start. And with every fresh start there is a little bit of clean up to be had. It’s also a great time to review your Giftster wish lists and remove items you no longer are interested in or have received.

Here are a few tips for making the most of Giftster.

Archive gifts with the I Got This button

Giftster has an archive feature called I Got This. When viewing your list, use the I Got This button to archive gifts you have received over the holidays and throughout the year.

Any item you archive with the I Got This button gets moved over to your I Got This list. It’s a way to see all of the items you’ve received.

Rename your list and choose a new list image

Did you name your list for a specific holiday or event this year? Update your wish list name so it’s clear what it’s for. Or if you’re like me, name it sometime you won’t have to change so you can use it for birthdays, anniversaries and anytime gifting.

Now Giftster offers a collection of creative list images to personalize your wish lists even more. Spruce things up with a new image for a whole new year of gifting.

Remind your group members to update their wish lists

Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or just because, Giftster makes it so easy to surprise someone you love with a gift they really wanted or needed. But…it only works if they add gift ideas.

To help, Giftster has a handy little reminder feature which sends the list maker an email giving them the subtle nudge to add a few items to their list. The fun part is it’s completely anonymous if you want it to be. Or you can include a personal note too. Go to Shop For and at the bottom of someone’s list look for the little lightning bolt.

Prepare for life changing magic

Keeping your wish list tidy and up to date will set your friends and family up for gifting success year-round. This not only gives your family the confidence they need when they want to surprise you, but also offers the same benefits to you when you want to show them a little love too.

Remember, with Giftster, gifts come in all forms. They don’t even have to cost a dime. Sometimes the best gift we can ask for is some time with family. Put that on your list – or whatever you need the most this year.

And in the spirit of tidying up…maybe a vacuum that cleans for you too

Happy gifting!

The post The Life Changing Magic of Tidying up your Wish Lists appeared first on Giftster and was written by Giftster.