November 22, 2020: The Art and Heart of Giving
The Art of Giving!
“Gift Giving is a true art”
Vera Nazarian
Like the checker flag waved at the beginning of a race, Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, has been a modern signpost for the commencement of holiday shopping. In times when a pandemic has impacted both our ability to shop as well as spawned economic concerns, it can seem overwhelming to find a meaningful, yet affordable gift.
“Since you get more joy out of giving joy to others, you should put a good deal of thought into the happiness that you are able to give.”
―Eleanor Roosevelt
Yet, the quest for a “perfect gift” can cause undue stress, diminishing the joyful parts of a holiday season. From personal and professional experience, one would rather receive a gift that is well thought out, rather than a “duty” present randomly chosen at the last moment. The simple reflection that the giver took time to consider the recipient, adds to the sweetness of the gift.
Gifts can involve tangible items or acts of kindness, even during times of social distancing. You can brighten a friend’s day with simple gestures like sending a beautiful, frameable card https://dreamscapejewelry.com/dreamscapes-visions-of-nature-photography/ or dropping off a special baked treat. Taking into consideration a person’s current needs and situation can help to define your choices.
Upon consulting with customers on their search to find a jewelry gift that is meaningful, I always advise them that it helps to think of the following questions:
- Who is the recipient? (A teenager, new mom, teacher, elderly friend, etc.)
- What do they need or want?
- What are their hobbies, interests, passions?
- What is their style? (classic, elegant, bohemian, artsy, glamorous, minimalist, etc.)
- What colors do they like and wear?
- And the important and practical question: What is your budget?
When these questions have been answered, the choices are much easier to find; whether you choose a card, a favorite artist’s cd, a custom Silverstone piece or a pair of holiday earrings.
“For it is in giving that we receive.”
―St. Francis of Assisi
Recently, a sweet customer wanted to thank her “tribe” of women who had traveled with her along a yearlong journey fighting cancer. In her own words, these wonderful friends were the ones who supported her during her arduous ordeal; from feeding her special meals when she didn’t want to eat, to driving her back and forth to her chemotherapy appointments. Now cancer free, she wanted to thank them. In answering the above questions, she was delighted to be able to give them personalized gifts which reflected each one’s unique personality. There was joy for her in finding the “perfect pieces” and in watching their delight when they opened their presents.
“I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver.”
―Maya Angelou
During times of economic concern when financial resources are limited, finding a meaningful gift takes on more importance as the choices can be limited. Taking the time to think through the needs, wants, and interests of those on our gift list can help, while retaining the heartfelt joy of giving.
Thank you so much for taking this time to read our blog. Please feel free to share it with someone who might find it meaningful. As always we welcome your comments in the space below.