By Erica GendaIn this story:
Gifting isn’t all about the biggest, most expensive option. The secret to a memorable gift is something that feels well thought out and tailored to the person you’re buying for. So, shift your mindset away from big, fanciful physical gifts and get the gifting glory by treating your loved ones to thoughtful experience gifts.
But that’s not to say that thoughtful gifts are always the easiest to come up with. If thinking of the perfect sentimental gift feels like trying to solve a Rubik’s cube blindfolded, then you’re in the right place. We’ve put together some hacks to help you master the art of thoughtful gift-giving.
Grab a cup of tea and dive into our favourite, foolproof hacks for giving mindfully!
Hack #1: Make good use of your notes app
The secret to a thoughtful gift isn't a huge budget, it’s paying attention! And it’s simple. All you have to do is create a dedicated note in your phone’s notes app. You can title it whatever you like, but something simple like ‘Thoughtful Gifts’ is easy to search for among the rest of your wonderful musings.
Whenever a friend or family member casually mentions in passing, "Oh, I’ve always wanted to make my own ceramics," or "I wish I knew how to make my own sourdough," whip out your phone and type it down for later.
By the time their birthday rolls around, you won't be staring blankly at a discount bin or racing around the supermarket questioning if that scented candle shaped like a lemon is sooo them.
Instead, you’ll have a curated list of their secret wishes ready to go.
Our top thoughtful experiences for hands-on people:
- Handbuilding and clay painting in Annandale, Sydney
- Sourdough basics class in Collingwood, Melbourne
- Beginners woodworking session in Millendon, Perth (where you make your own spoon!)
Hack #2: Gift memories, not clutter
If you’re looking at another thing to buy, be honest with yourself about where it’s likely to end up in six months. If it’s likely to end up shoved in the back of a closet, you might want to keep looking.
Instead of adding more physical stuff to your loved one’s life, give them a memory they’ll get to relive or reminisce on frequently.
Take that necklace out of the shopping cart and treat them to a jewellery making workshop where they can make their own! Or you could send your favourite foodie to something like this hands-on gnocchi making class in Brisbane—it comes with a yummy lunch, too.
No matter what activity you choose, your giftee will get the joy of trying something new, making something with their hands and sharing the experience with others. Who knows, you may just lead them to a fun new hobby.
Hack #3: Pair a small physical gift with the big surprise
When you want to make giving an experience feel extra satisfying to open? Combine it with a little keepsake.
If you’re gifting them a cute crochet class, wrap up a crochet hook and some yarn, and make sure the gift card has a sweet pun like, ‘you’re about to get hooked on a new hobby!’ This one's especially thoughtful if it's an activity you already like and are excited to share with someone else. They’ll feel honoured to be part of your passion!
Emma M. thought this beginner’s crochet class in Melbourne was a fantastic Christmas gift and recommends tagging along with a friend to make it extra fun:
“Our teacher, Hyoko, was amazing. So friendly and welcoming. She was very generous with each of us in providing one-on-one support when needed. There was no pressure to do it quickly, or perfectly, but instead, mastering the technique.
I left feeling confident that I could continue my project at home. And Hyoko was great to offer support afterwards with any questions or advice. I would love to attend another one of her classes, once I increase my skills. I went with a friend as a Christmas gift to each other. I highly recommend giving as a gift or going with a friend!”
Hack #4: Plan a ‘together time’ date
There’s no better present than your presence, right? Life gets busy, schedules clash, and often the best present is simply spending quality hours together without any phone notifications or distractions! So, plan your gift as a duo adventure.
Choose whatever experience suits both of you best. For example, if you’re a couple, ring making classes are a popular date idea. Or if you’re friends, tufting a rug together can be a whole lot of fun.
Whatever it may be, you’re not just giving them a fun afternoon out; you’re gifting a belly-laugh-filled date and a brand-new shared hobby that you can both keep doing for years to come.
Hack #5: Help them hit the reset button
We all have that one friend who works way too hard, or a family member who constantly puts everyone else first. This thoughtful gift-giving hack is all about figuring out what kind of energy your recipient desperately needs right now. Are they craving high energy fun, a creative outlet, or some overdue relaxation?
If they’ve had a chaotic month, don't buy them a bath bomb set that they’ll never get the chance to use. Gift them a calming watercolour workshop where they can slow down and paint the afternoon away. Or, if they need to let off steam, book them a messy splatter painting session.
By catering to their current phase of life and emotional well-being, your gift shows that you truly see them and care about their peace of mind.
Upgrading your approach to thoughtful gift-giving doesn’t have to be complicated—it’s all about putting a little heart and thoughtful observation into the mix. When you move away from flashy items and focus on creative experiences, you turn everyday occasions into memories that last.
So, close down those risky next-day-delivery tabs, open up your notes app, and get ready to gift memories that’ll make your loved ones feel extra cared for on their special day.
Now that you've mastered the art, dive into what to gift with these unique experience gifts in Australia.
