It's always easy for me to buy for another collector, it's those non-collectors who are always
a challenge. Non-collectors usually don't want anything that will get them involved with more "stuff",
especially if it's not useful. And most of them are afraid of turning into me -- someone who collects everything! That's why these presents are perfect. One is enough and can stand alone as a gift or decorative item and won't make
them feel like a collector, unless they so choose..
1. Antique Postcards
Find and frame an old postcard to celebrate the holiday or a place that's special to the recipient. The framed postcard shown here was a recent find at a crafts show. The card was in an ornate frame, with a few dried flowers in the corner. Since this was an antique card that was used at one time, the crafter made a copy of the address portion of the card and adhered it to the back of the frame.2. Cookie Jar for the Holidays
Barbara Crews
Everyone needs a holiday cookie jar for the kitchen counter -- a Santa or Dreidel jar to hold all those special treats. There are so many options available that you'll have fun deciding just what one to buy and give.
3. Home Decoratives
In this case you have to really know their taste in decor and if they would appreciate a piece to hang on their walls. Although posters are oool, you can frame almost anything.Suggestions:
Vintage movie poster of a favorite movie.
Game board framed with the playing pieces.
A magazine cover of a favorite person.
4. Nativity or Creche
Barbara Crews
This is another gift that would only be given to someone that you know well. There are all sorts Nativities from inexpensive to very expensive prices, there will be one to fit your gift-giving budget.
Suggestions:
Give a few main pieces this year, adding to the set each holiday season for a gift that will be anticipated each holiday.
5. Newlyweds, New Baby, New Home?
Celebrate a baby's first Christmas, a newlywed or engaged couple, perhaps someone who has bought their first home. Give something that will commemorate their special year and a start on their holiday traditions. It doesn't have to be expensive, there are numerous specific ornaments made by just about every Christmas ornament company. Also thin about a dated sterling silver bell or crystal snowflake would be remembered every year when the decorations are displayed.6. Pet Lover on the List?
Joy to the World Collectibles
Is there a pet lover on your gift list? Find an ornament of their pet for the Christmas tree. Many ornament companies make dog or cat ornaments, but Joy to the World Collectibles makes really nice pieces of specific dog breeds.
7. Travelers and Vacationers
Landmark Creations
Not everyone will want an entire tree filled with ornaments from the places they've visited, but a single ornament that brings back memories of memorable trip would be a welcome gift. Or if a special trip is planned, what about an ornament to help anticipate the vacation. Examples might be a cruise ship for an upcoming cruise, a cable car if San Francisco is on their agenda, a red apple for New York City, etc. The ideas are endless. For travel ornaments Landmark Creations has my vote for variety and presentation.
8. TV Value Guide from Bangzoom
Bangzoom Publishers
The Official Collectors Guide to TV Guide from Bangzoom's was published to help collectors research values and covers of TV Guides, but it's much more than that. It's a time line of our television history and any remote control addict will love looking through the pages and enjoying the memories they bring back.
9. US Mint Proof Coin Set
This is one of those gifts that isn't necessarily a WOW gift at the time, but in a few years it will be appreciated. I like the ides of gifting a new baby with something special from the year they were born. Examples:
A Coin Proof set from the US Mint (or whatever country you reside in).
A set of dated Stamps from the Post Office.
A dated silver bell or first year ornament from Hallmark.
10. Vintage Glass
Remnants and Tias
For the hostess, think about a vintage or antique glass serving piece. Look for something that can be used at holiday parties or dinners. Find a special piece that will have a place of honor at the holiday dinner table.
Examples:
A pedestal cake plate.
Glass deviled egg plate
Small bowl or dish to hold candies
These would not only be fun to get, but also fun to shop for.
Image Courtesy of: Remnants Past/TIAS
