They say they don’t want anything for the holidays. And you say it back, “No really, I don’t need any more stuff.” And you both mean it. But you also both really like to give. Don’t you? Yeah. We know you do. So how about considering some non-stuff gifts, and go right to the heart of giving what matters most?

10 non stuff gift ideas

  1. Passes

Know a hiker? A parks pass is sure to be a hit! Or a sno-park pass for your snow angel friend! Passes guarantee the gift of experience, plus, there are so many options you can find one that works with your budget and their lifestyle. You can find day passes to museums, theme parks, rock gyms, yoga classes, the zoo, city gardens, and so much more.

  1. Subscriptions

Of course magazine subscriptions are obvi, but think about all the valuable digital subscriptions out there now! Think Netflix, or audiobooks, software subscriptions like Photoshop. Or how about some delicious subscriptions like chocolate of the month or wine club? You can even find seed subscriptions for your gardening friends!

  1. Tickets

The best thing about tickets to an event or a concert is you can totally buy one for yourself, too. Make it a gift of togetherness! The memories of the experience you’ll share will be gifts that keep on going.

  1. Memberships

A gym membership might not go over so well, but then again, maybe it’s exactly what your friend or partner has been wanting but has been hesitant to indulge in the expense. Consider other membership ideas, like one that will save them money (Costco …) or one that will help them hone a craft (membership to a writers group or artist community) or roadside assistance for bike or car with Better World Club.

  1. Lessons

Salsa, anyone? How about a pole-dancing class? Or a painting workshop (bonus if there’s wine …)? We all have something we want to learn. Now’s a great time to hook someone up with those clarinet lessons they’ve been dreaming of (and desperately need).

  1. Services

Imagine someone gave you a gift that said “Your house will be spotless for a whole month.” YES PLEASE! Or maybe you book your friend a pedicure, or time with their favorite hair stylist. Household, office, or pampering services show your friend you’re paying attention to the extras that they really value, but maybe don’t prioritize in their own budget.

  1. Donations

Donate to a cause that’s close to your friend’s heart. Put it in their name. Or, if they’ve been working on something specific, offer to join in and help. Your time is a valuable gift that will make a lasting impression.

  1. Food

The gift of food – especially food that you know your friend loves – is a gift you know won’t go wasted. Drop off some butternut squash soup on a day you know your friend is too busy to cook. Or put a date on the calendar and offer to make dinner. Or bake holiday cookies! Cookies are popular for good reason.

  1. Plants

There’s a plant for every one, even those with a less than green thumb. Air plants, succulents, and cacti make wonderful desk toppers that will brighten up a friend’s desk space without causing them anxiety about over or under watering.

  1. Gift cards

Gift cards don’t need to be impersonal. Sure you could go the catch-all route and snag a gift card to Amazon, or you could support a small local business and let your friend redeem it at their leisure. Maybe there’s a specialty tea shop, or a yarn store, or that super fancy high-end all-organic grocery store that makes you feel healthier just looking at it. Or maybe an iTunes gift card, and serve it up with a custom playlist you made just for your friend.

The holidays remind us to focus on our relationships. We think a little bit harder about what our friends and family need or want, and then we seek to delight them with finding that perfect gift. What other ideas do you have for giving delightful non-stuff gifts?