We all have that one person who is difficult to shop for around the holidays. They seem to have everything and want nothing. You ask them what they want or need to try the practical gift route, but they say they already have too much “stuff”. We get to the age where we’ve outgrown Santa Claus, we’re working so we can buy mostly anything we want year-round, and we don’t want to buy something that ends up stored away or donated. So where does that leave us during the season of giving? Experience gifts! People are looking to create memories with friends and family, long after the snow has melted and the wrapping paper has been tossed away.

Foodies

Think outside of the restaurant gift card box. Does your Foodie love trying out cocktails or mocktails? Find a mixology class or distillery tour for the two of you to attend together!

Farm-to-table restaurants offer unique seasonal menus year-round. Only 8 minutes from Camden Asbury Village is Herons. One of only 79 Forbes Five-Star restaurants in the world, many of the fruits, vegetables, and herbs that are served are grown at The Umstead’s One Oak Farm. Be sure to make reservations for a smooth and stress-free evening!

Grandma Hobbies

Grandma Hobbies are making a comeback with younger generations. Crafting, baking, gardening, and journaling all fall under the cute category of “grandma hobby”. Truthfully, they are low-cost activities geared toward imagination and relaxation. Think self-care, but working with your hands to create, not getting a massage.

Julie Berkowitz Ceramics is located in Chapel Hill, about 15 minutes from Camden Governors Village. This local studio offers adult and kid pottery classes in both wheel and hand-building. Craft something unique and functional with someone who doesn’t mind getting a little messy!

Photo Courtesy of Shutterstock

Family Friendly

One of the best gifts you could give a parent is a day to themselves, especially during the holiday season when their kids are home from school. Offer to take the kids for an activity-packed day away from home. Write out clues & place them in an ornament or advent calendar to really build the excitement! Print out tickets or a voucher for the day at the local zoo, aquarium, or trampoline park, describing the best day you’re going to have together. As a bonus, most of them offer memberships or passes so the kids can come back throughout the year!

Giving

Giving to a charitable organization or honoring a loved one through a donation is one of the most meaningful ways to celebrate the season. Think about what causes your recipient is passionate about and brainstorm. Donate toys, cleaning products, canned goods, or most valuable of all, your time. Spend a few hours giving back to your community by volunteering in someone’s name or alongside them!

Photo courtesy of Camden

This year, instead of adding more things to someone’s home, give something meaningful. Experiences keep us humble and remind us of what truly matters during this wonderful season. We are here to show compassion, build laughter and memories, while reflecting on the gift of loved ones.

If you’re interested in finding ways to volunteer in the Raleigh area, check out this Camden Cares blog post about team members volunteering at the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina.