For most of us, Christmas shopping can be stressful this time of year. Despite our best intentions, we can very easily get caught up in the spirit of commercialism just like everyone else. The mall by my house started playing Christmas carols right after Halloween and the lampposts are already festooned with wreaths. But do we really want to spend the holy season of Advent pushing our way through stores, getting more stuff for our friends and family?
My family says I’m impossible to shop for. As a single woman, I usually buy the things I need. I don't wait for my birthday or Christmas. Sometimes I treat myself to something a bit more luxurious, but usually I stick to the basics. I can't exactly put a husband and children on my list—although I do ask for a puppy every year.
What could I possibly want for Christmas? What might other singles appreciate? Here is my list of gifts for single Catholics.
- Candy. Just give in to the end of the year weight gain. There are so many religious orders out there who make candies and other treats, you’ll be more charitable if you buy some. This butternut munch looks heavenly, and this fruitcake almost looks good enough to eat.
- Culture. We could all use more. Look up partial subscriptions to a concert series or a museum pass for a year. This is not only something a single person wouldn’t normally get for herself, but it also might get you an invitation for a night out!
- Beer. I love beer. I love to drink it, I love to visit breweries, I’m even thinking of making my own after reading this book. And because I like to support Catholic companies, you can buy me Trappist ale from Spencer Brewery.
- Classes. There are so many new and fun things that are always popping up and they often have great year-end deals. Christmas is a perfect time to plan some classes with friends—you can learn a new activity and spend time together. Dancing, cooking, wine-tasting, origami—a gift that comes with a partner is always welcome. (For myself, a German class buddy would be ideal.)
- Movies. Everyone loves a good movie. Ignatius Press has tons of good films, appropriate for babysitting the nephews or watching alone. They even have some of my favorite sports movies with rousing inspirational speeches. If you haven’t seen Little Boy yet, check it out with the whole family!
- Photo book. Who says only Grandma can have a brag book? This isn’t something I’d ever get for myself, but I would like to receive one (ahem). If you can’t find pictures to put in a book, give your single friends a gift certificate to make their own.
- A single-serve coffeemaker. When I’m feeling fancy, I will take out the French press—but who really has time for that on a daily basis? While you’re thinking about coffee, how about supporting monks at the same time? Mystic Monk Coffee has some great seasonal flavors right now!
- Shop local. I’m a huge fan of local businesses. If you’re out of gift ideas for the girl or guy who has it all, try assembling a personalized gift basket. It can be small or large, it can have food or beauty supplies. The thoughtfulness behind your choices will shine out and you’ll be helping new companies support their own families. Check out your local farmers market and see what sort of goodies they’re selling (buy local honey!). Assemble a game night basket. Ask me for ideas—I always have some.
- DIY gifts. We can’t always hand deliver goodies to our friends, but what if half the work was already done? Verily has some suggestions for a hot cocoa mix and a body scrub that would make lovely gifts. N.b. You can always tie a mini bottle of Irish cream to the hot cocoa to make it more festive. A mulled wine kit makes a thoughtful gift to bring to Christmas parties.
- Gift certificates. I know. Gift certificates are usually my last resort. But a well-thought-out gift certificate can be a real treat. What are some things that I might not get for myself but would use if I had a gift certificate? Car washes (the past few winters have made this a necessity if I want to see out my windshield). A massage. Zumba classes. Coffee (have I mentioned this before?).
- Dates! Speaking of gift certificates, what about a gift certificate to CatholicMatch? You can send some singles resources along to that stubborn friend who is still dragging his feet. The Catholic’s Guide to Being Single is our latest release and well worth the pay-what-you-want price. If you want a step-by-step guide to creating a great profile, our Dating Guide will show the way.
- Time. This might be the most important and best in keeping with the Christmas spirit of them all. Maybe you’re short on cash this year. Maybe you really are out of ideas. Make an effort to spend more time with your single friends. Write up your own gift certificates to dinner and a movie, a spa day, or a day trip away. Once the bustle of Christmas is over, January can be so anticlimactic. Most of us singles go back to work in dreary weather (sometimes several feet of snow) and the joy of Christmas is forgotten.
Can you think of Christmas gifts for the singles in your life? Did my list help you write a better list of your own? Could you get me a puppy?
