The Art of Intentional Gifting This Holiday Season
As the holiday season approaches, we’re often swept up in the search for the “perfect” gift—a small token that will surprise, delight, or comfort. But in a world that urges us to go bigger and faster, it’s easy to lose sight of what makes gifting truly special. Intentional gifting is about giving from the heart, with thoughtfulness, care, and genuine connection.
At Ardent Market, we believe that the best gifts are those that are meaningful to give and receive. This year, we’re sharing our approach to intentional gifting—a simple process to help you focus on purpose, presence, and joy in your holiday giving.
Step 1: Set an Intention for Each Person on Your List
Start by thinking about the people in your life and the feelings you want to share with them. Intentional gifts go beyond objects; they carry a sense of love, comfort, or inspiration. Before you even start shopping, consider each person individually:
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What do they need right now? Could it be comfort, encouragement, a helping hand, a little pampering, or a tool for relaxation?
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How can you make them feel cherished and seen? Reflect on the experiences or simple joys they treasure, whether that’s a cozy night in, a favorite hobby, or a cherished memory.
Creating this focus for each gift helps you avoid the pressure of finding “perfect” items and instead centers your gift-giving on making that person feel truly seen and valued.
Step 2: Keep It Simple, but Thoughtful
With gift-giving, more isn’t always better. Rather than trying to go big or check everything off a list, focus on quality, meaning, and simplicity. What small items could bring real joy, ease, or comfort? Maybe a beautifully crafted candle, a hand-thrown mug, or a favorite book is all it takes to bring a sense of warmth and connection.
Intentional gifting is about thoughtful curation—choosing items that resonate and feel authentic to them. When each gift is chosen carefully, it has a story and purpose that are felt long after the season is over.
Step 3: Make Space for Experiences
One of the most meaningful ways to give is by creating shared experiences. This could be a planned day trip for the new year, a quiet dinner, a hosted movie night, or even a DIY project you can enjoy together (as a special act of service). Intentional gifts don’t have to be tangible; they can be moments or activities that bring you closer and create lasting memories.
For example:
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INTIMATE GATHERINGS such as holiday happy hours, crafting nights, Skillshare classes, New Year's mood-boarding sessions, wine tastings, or board game nights foster connection and kinship.
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EXPERIENCE KITS with ingredients for a shared recipe, a custom cocktail night, a stack of movies for a cozy movie night, thrifting dates or estate sale itinerary, travel essential kits, adult documentation nights (I mean who wouldn’t want to turn this chore into a fun night in), or supplies for a craft project can make the gift-giving season fun, practical, and memorable.
Step 4: Add a Personal Touch
A personal note, handmade wrapping, or a simple card can transform a gift into a memory. Your words and creativity add a layer of care that no store-bought item can replicate. Whether it’s a thoughtful tag, a story about why you chose the gift, or a shared memory, personal touches turn the act of giving into something intimate and heartfelt.
Consider:
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HANDWRITTEN CARDS to share why you thought of them and what you hope they feel or experience through the gift. Consider using ticket stubs as gift tags or postcards from shared trips as part of the wrapping. (check out our curated cards)
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HANDMADE WRAPPING using fabrics, reusable materials, or pressed flowers to create a presentation that is both beautiful and sustainable. There are so many videos out there on how to creatively wrap. Consider gifting a book from their Goodreads list and folding the wrapping paper into a pocket to hold funky/handmade bookmarks.
Step 5: Remember the Purpose Behind It All
As you select and wrap your gifts, come back to the intention you set at the beginning. Intentional gifting isn’t about filling up space under the tree or satisfying wish lists; it’s about celebrating your relationships and letting your loved ones know how much they mean to you. With this purpose in mind, each gift becomes a true expression of care—a chance to share joy, love, and presence in a meaningful way.
If you need help keeping track, download our *FREE* Gift List Tracker
Find Inspiration with Our Intentional Gift Shop
If you’re looking for ideas, our Intentional Gift Guides are here to help. At Ardent Market, we’ve curated a collection of items that are crafted and chosen with heart, each designed to inspire a feeling, a moment, or a memory. And if you need guidance, we’re always here to help you find gifts that carry the spirit of intentional giving.
This holiday season, let’s make gifting about connection. It’s not about perfection; it’s about presence and the love we pour into each choice. By giving with intention, we create lasting memories, show appreciation, and share in the beauty of the holiday season.