2012 D*S Gift Guide: No-Buy Gift Guide

http://assets8.designsponge.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/4038531.jpg Image by MPessaris Every year when the holidays roll around, I'm overwhelmed by two very different feelings: excitement for the warmth of the season and time spent with family and friends and the somewhat icky feeling that comes with an intense round of shopping/buying/product talk. While gift guides are simply part of the season, I prefer to start this time of year with something a little different: a guide that's dedicated to putting down your laptop and car keys and using your own two hands — and your heart — to celebrate your loved ones. Last year, I rounded up a handful of ways to give friends and family experience gifts — moments and special days that they'd cherish without you having to make a trip to the stores. And this year I'd like to keep that concept going with a much longer list of ideas to take those gifts to the next level. Because Thanksgiving is tomorrow and Hanukkah is right around the corner, it felt like the perfect time to focus on ways to show people how thankful we are for having them in our lives. These homemade gift ideas are all about showing people you care through spending time with them or thinking about what they truly love and would appreciate. As always, this post is more of a collaborative project, and I hope you'll share your favorite ideas in the comment section below. These ideas will hopefully turn into truly memorable moments for all of you reading and for the people you want to treat with something handmade and from the heart. Happy holidays, everyone, and best wishes for a safe and happy Thanksgiving. I'll be back on Monday with new posts, our first round of traditional gift guides and more holiday decorating ideas than you can shake a stick at. xo, grace The full 10 ideas (with options for expanding each idea) continue after the jump . . . (more…) via Grace Bonney http://www.designsponge.com/2012/11/2012-ds-gift-guide-no-buy-gift-guide.html tagcakedesignnews

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