As I sorted through bins of holiday decorations and assorted knick knacks over the weekend, I stumbled upon the ghosts of holiday gifts past. Festive dish towels, countless holiday mugs and cookie tins, picture frames never taken out of their boxes, holiday cds still in their plastic wrap. And I began to think that with all that so many of us already have, giving an experience as a holiday gift is a pretty terrific idea. It doesn’t have to be expensive, it won’t be found buried in the bottom of a box next year, donated or re-gifted, and it will be remembered.
Following are a few experiences that could make a perfect gift for someone on your list:
Dinner certificates or a night out: Pick up a gift card for a favorite restaurant or purchase a certificate for a Chef’s Expressions Wine Supper at Gramercy Mansion. These phenomenal evenings feature amazing wines paired with gourmet cuisine and are truly a culinary experience. I’d be remiss not to mention our Gramercy Mansion B&B gift cards, perfect for an overnight stay following that fourth glass of wine! If you’re gifting to parents with young children, don’t forget to include an evening of free babysitting.
Holiday tours & festivities: Whether joining us at Gramercy for a Tuesday tour followed by lunch during December, planning an afternoon of ice skating in the Inner Harbor, strolling along 34th Street in Hampden and sipping hot chocolate or taking in a show at the Modell Performing Arts Center at the Lyric, be sure to snap a few photos of your experience. Smiles and the memory of time spent together makes that picture frame worthy of display!
When all else fails, think of something you and your giftee like – movie tickets, happy hour, dance classes, a fishing trip – and pair it with a heartfelt note (maybe even a homemade card if you’re crafty) and a promise to enjoy some time together. Just make sure you follow through, set a date and share an experience! What’s better than a gift you can enjoy, too?
Tags: dinner gifts, gift experiences, gift ideas, gifts without stuff, holiday festivities, holiday gifts, holiday tours