Published December 9, 2025
BY TULLAH McCOLL
Whether it be the trendy items that are all the rage on social media or a quantity-over-quality mindset, in a highly consumeristic society there is always a desire for more.
The beauty of gift giving has been killed.
With the holiday season upon us, some are dreaming about their extensive wishlist, while others are feeling the effects of gift-giving anxiety. There is an undeniable pressure many feel to buy loved ones the ideal present that feels special, practical and personal, all within one gift.
Many resort to gifts that are safe bets in ensuring the person likes what they get, like another coffee mug or journal, maybe an item that is all over Instagram or those never-get-old gifts like a warm blanket or plaid pajama pants. Either way, the pressure to buy the perfect gift has taken away one of the greatest joys of the holiday season.
This time of year is an opportunity to show others love and appreciation, and gift-giving is an opportunity to show that, so much so that it is acknowledged as one of the five love languages, equivalent to physical touch or words of affirmation. Though handmade gifts like framed photos, small paintings, crafted kitchen supplies or desk decorations may not be as pricey and shiny as a new bag or sports equipment, there is time and thought put into making them, and time is something that can never be bought back.
Though not everyone may be the most artistically inclined people, there are always ways to show one’s love even when it is not the most conventionally beautiful thing, and remember, “It’s the thought that counts.” Even though that saying may also be used to justify impersonal gifts, like fast-fashion clothing, the reality is there isn’t much thought at all.
There are obviously instances where one truly doesn’t know another person well enough to make or get the best gift, and putting a bow on a new sweatshirt or coloring set is just fine. But the special people in our lives deserve more than the click of a button on Amazon for an overpriced candle or hand lotion.
Realize that being so loved by another person that they would spend minutes and hours personalizing something special just for you is a gift in itself. Give homemade gifts the appreciation they deserve and a little more gratitude for those making them this holiday season.
