Countdown to Christmas: Holiday Gift Ideas for Families That Focus on Quality Over Quantity

Can you believe it? Christmas Eve is just one month away! 🎄

If you're like me, holiday shopping might still be on your to-do list. And you're not alone—did you know that 26% of U.S. shoppers plan to start their holiday shopping in December, showing that a significant number of people leave their shopping for the final month before Christmas​ (Source: Salsify).

But here’s the thing: if your family is anything like mine, no one needs more stuff. That’s why I’ve created this guide to Holiday Gift Ideas for Families, with four thoughtful categories that focus on quality over quantity.

1) Experiences Over Things

Especially for kids, experiences create memories that last a lifetime. In the past, we’ve loved giving gifts like:

• Gift cards to the local trampoline park

• A family zoo membership

• Passes to the kids' play center

This year, we're planning something extra special—a chocolate fountain for Christmas morning! We'll have fruit, waffles, and other goodies to dip, creating a deliciously festive start to the day. We're also improving our basement play space—a gift that the whole family can enjoy for years to come.

If you’re looking to think bigger, consider gifting a family vacation! It’s a wonderful alternative to a mountain of toys.

2) Custom and Unique Finds

There’s something so meaningful about giving gifts that are one-of-a-kind. Supporting small businesses (like L'CREST Ornament Trees, wink wink 😉) or shopping through platforms like Etsy can add a personal touch. These gifts come with a story, and it feels good to support local artisans and makers.

3) Homemade Gifts with Heart

Handmade gifts are the perfect way to show love and creativity. They don’t have to be elaborate! Here are some ideas:

• Baked goods, beautifully wrapped

• Sentimental keepsakes, like a photo album or handmade ornaments

• Practical DIY crafts, like a painted birdhouse for grandparents

Not only are they affordable, but they’re also unique and made with care.

4) Practical Presents (But Make Them Fun)

For some people in my family, practical gifts are the best kind. My grandparents were even known to give out toilet paper and toothpaste to the grandkids! While that might be taking it to the extreme, practical gifts can be incredibly useful and appreciated. For instance, those needle-nose pliers my uncle gave me a decade ago are still a household staple.

When gifting practical items, it’s important to consider the recipient’s tastes and needs. My boys, for example, love receiving cool new shoes for Christmas—it’s both practical and exciting. Last year, they also got new helmets, making for a perfect mix of fun and functional!

Whether you go for experiences, custom finds, homemade treasures, or practical gifts, the key is to choose something meaningful for your loved ones. And as the countdown to Christmas continues, let’s focus on creating moments and memories that last long after the wrapping paper is gone.