To be original at Christmas takes careful planning. One might even check notes with other gift givers to be sure there is no doubling-up. Finding unique Christmas gifts can be easier than you think, however, when looking on well-chosen internet sites.
Christmas villages fit into category two: nostalgic. Though based on much earlier times, society seems to long for a simpler era and continues to prize these ornaments. Department 56 has developed their own line of villages for the satisfaction of history buffs.
Go way back with a Dickensian display and expect Ebenezer Scrooge to walk out of a house at any moment. A simple gazebo will add flare to a world of snow. Set-up a shop selling peppermints from the North Pole or wreaths from New England.
Another theme from childhood lived three or four decades ago would involve the earliest Christmas cartoons. These featured the likes of Charlie Brown, Snoopy and the Grinch. Department 56 sell globes, ornaments and figurines from these early classics, unique in that they are lovingly recreated from the originals, not new versions of old favorites.
Speaking of old favorites, since society loves all things new, be different by giving the gift of retro decor. For example, one website sells signs and curios derived from early advertisements. Surprise a good friend with old-fashioned versions of Santa and Frosty, perhaps triggering fond memories of holidays past.
The gifts are great, but what about a tree stand that keeps you fir standing tall over top of them? Companies focus on different features of their many stands. There are the no-tip stands built to address that age-old problem: inadequate support for a six to eight foot tree. Then there are those built for trees complete with roots. Give the gift of a stand that makes watering so easy that no one has to crawl underneath to fill up the pot. Provide a funnel and hose device for remote filling. Either the stand will be green and red-painted stainless steel, or there is the option to give a tree skirt along with the stand.
Dividing the holiday season between friends and family can be a real pain, but at least you get the chance to open some gifts early. Now is the time to present a family game to loved ones or friends with kids young enough to be at home and not yet too cool to play games with parents. This will help kill time spent waiting for Christmas morning and alleviate boredom in the days before returning to school. A personalized stocking or sack also makes a pleasant surprise, especially when opened the night before Christmas. If your family maintains this tradition, the stocking is a perfect choice.
Green items never get old, creators simply find new ways to shape them. A ready-seeded pot complete with soil and ready to grow all year will bring cheer to a February windowsill. Choose from varieties such as lobelia, dianthus or poppy, all in their own decorated box. Simply water and wait. A beautiful oil lamp encased in recycled glass would provide hours of light and vivid colors. The fiberglass wick lights up a small tree inside. Each of these lamps is individually made. No two are alike. How is that for unique?
About the Author:
Angela Price is an interior decorator and home staging expert. For more information on Department 56 villages, visit HardToFindItems.com.
