Every year, as we approach the holidays, I try to think of everyone that helps make my life easier so I can be sure to thank them... and every year, I inadvertently forget someone. It's such a busy season, and often the people who make our year easier are the easiest to overlook.
This year, I'm making sure I don't forget anyone, and I want to share my checklist with you to make your holiday season a bit easier as well! You can download this checklist, print it and put it on your refrigerator. Whatever you need to do to keep your gift list top of mind.
Best practices
Budget: holiday gifting shouldn't be too much of a strain on your personal budget! Handwritten cards and homemade treats are equally meaningful, and it's the thought that matters most, not the monetary value.
Tipping: if you decide to tip instead of giving a gift, the simple rule of thumb that I use is to tip the service provider about the cost of one visit.
Holiday cards: if you've printed holiday cards for your family (not mandatory!), you can include one with your gift, and write a note on the back. Even businesses really appreciate a personal holiday card.
Family and friends
Parents and in-laws
Siblings
Close friends
People hosting you for the holiday events
The kids' world
Teachers and aides
School office and admin staff
Daycare and preschool staff
Coaches and activity instructors
Front desk staff at activities
Crossing guards
Babysitters and nannies
Good to know: many schools have their own gift policies. Check with your school, and consider a group gift from the class.
Around the house
Mail carrier
Package and delivery drivers (UPS, FedEx, etc.)
Trash and recycling crews
Helpful neighbors
Cleaners
Landscapers
Handyman
Dog walker
Dog groomer
Good to know: USPS carriers can accept gifts worth up to $20 per occasion (no more than $50 a year from one customer), and no cash, checks, or gift cards that can be cashed out. Small treats are a safe bet for private delivery drivers too.
Your building (if you're in an apartment)
Doormen
Supers
Security guards
Porters and maintenance staff
Good to know: ask neighbors what's customary in your building.
Your community
Synagogue, church, and other house of worship office staff
Clergy
Community center staff
Librarians
Professional and appointments
Coworkers and your boss
Clients
Accountant, financial advisor, realtor
Health care offices: doctors, dentists, veterinarians
Personal care: hair stylist, waxer, and nail salon
Good to know: a box for the front desk to share is a great one-and-done gift for an office.
Let butter & bloom take care of your gifting needs!
I would love to make your holiday season a bit easier. Below are some of my seasonal offerings:
Gift Boxes: perfect for teachers, neighbors, and friends
Classic Boxes and Party Trays: ideal for hosts and offices
Decorating Kits: lots of fun for the kids in your life
Order holiday cookie boxes · Order decorating kits
Let me know if I'm forgetting someone you want to acknowledge during the holiday season!
Now that you know who, next up is what... Keep an eye out for my gift guide, coming before Black Friday!