Life
16 Gifts For The Person In Your Life Who Doesn’t Want Anything
Millennials ruin everything, apparently. Millennials have been accused of killing J.Crew, napkins, and sex (just to name a few). In recent years, my age cohort has killed yet another American hallmark — conspicuous consumption (R.I.P.). That’s right. More and more people are identifying as minimalists, and purporting to not really want anything for the holidays — even though you'll probably get them something anyway.
Minimalists often live with fewer material possessions and value experiences over things. While minimalism has gained traction in the United States over the past few years, it’s not just an Instagram trend. Some folks have made huge lifestyle changes in the name of minimalism. Folks who choose to downsize inspired an entire Tiny House Movement, and fashionistas from coast to coast swear by the capsule wardrobe.
There’s definitely nothing wrong with owning material possessions. But what do you get for a minimalist who keeps their consumption to, well, a minimum? During the holidays, it’s natural to want to buy gifts for family and friends to show your love and appreciation. Not everyone wants a bunch of things cluttering their space just because it’s the holidays. Shopping for a minimalists takes a little more effort, but it’s not impossible. In that spirit, we've put together this gift guide for the person in your life who really, truly, doesn't want anything. I mean, the gift guide itself isn’t minimalist because it has 16 items, but you get the point. Ahead, find gift suggestions for your favorite minimalists.
1Words of Affirmation
Affirmators!, $12, Amazon
Everyone needs a pick me up every now and again. These words of affirmation will do the trick.
2A Donation In Their Name
Donation, Your Chosen Amount, Your Chosen Charity
Giving to others is the best gift. Consider donating in someone else’s name to a charity or organization they support.
3A Coloring Book
Avie's Dreams: An Afro-Feminist Coloring Book, $10, Amazon
Adults like to color, too, if the mindfulness coloring book trend of last year is any indication. A coloring book is a relaxing way to make beautiful art.
4A Heartfelt Message
Merry and Bright Christmas Card, $4, Cypress Card Co.
When was the last time you told someone why they mean so much to you? A heartfelt message written in a card is a timeless gift.
5A Library Card
Library Card, Free, Your Local Library
Libraries fit into the minimalist lifestyle. Sign your favorite minimalist up for their local library, if they're not already signed up.
6A Framed Photo
Ikea Fiskbo Frame, $6, Amazon
If you have a picture with your friend, a framed photo will be a nice reminder of a fun time.
7Groceries
Homemade Recipe Subscription, $45, The Homemade Shop
Everyone needs food. Not having to spend money on groceries for a week can really help out the recipient, and they’ll think nice thoughts of you every time they take a bite.
8Card Game
Black Card Revoked - Third Edition, $20, Cards For All People
Games are a great way to bring folks together. If the minimalist you know likes to entertain guests, a game would be a great gift. Black Card Revoked is the perfect game for a family or group of friends that loves to celebrate Black culture.
9Podcast suggestions
Another Round, Free, iTunes
Podcasts are a great source of entertainment and information, but sometimes the good ones are hard to find. Save your friend the trouble and make them a playlist of your faves.
10Movie Tickets
Movie Ticket, $17, AMC Theaters
Experiences are often more cherished than things. Buy the minimalist you know a ticket to a movie, concert, or sporting event.
11Independent Magazine
Issue 003, $20, Banana Mag
Independent media is seeing a resurgence. An independent, print magazine will keep the minimalist in your life informed, and they can recycle or give the magazine to a friend when they’re done reading. Banana Mag is a bi-annual magazine that's geared towards first-generation Asian-Americans.
12Fresh Flowers Subscription
Bloomsy S, $40, BloomsyBox
Fresh flowers can brighten any room. Add some color and life to your minimalist friend’s living space with this monthly subscription.
13Home DNA Kit
Ancestry reports, $100, 23andMe
The results from home DNA kits don’t take up that much space, and they give so much insight about your ancestry.
14A Gift Box
The Frida Box, $60, The Homegirl Box
Themed gift boxes are curated to feature the very best items. Get the minimalist in your life a gift box that fits their interests. This box includes a Frida-themed t-shirt, candle, pair of earrings, and more.
15Art
I Can and I Will, $15, INPRNT
Art adds character to any space. Give your minimalist friend a piece of art that will enjoy for a long time.
16A Gym Membership
Monthly Membership, $30, LA Fitness
Most folks start resolving to exercise more around this time of year. Give your buddy a gym membership to help them stay fit.
Minimalists usually don’t like a bunch of material items, but that doesn’t mean they won’t want anything this holiday season. There are plenty tangible and intangible gifts you can share with the minimalist in your life.
