Stuffing the Stockings with Joy

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Tammy Severino is the President of RPC Development, a business and development 
consulting firm for local 
businesses and not-for-profit organizations. She has more than 20 years of experience in writing, from business writing to journalism to creative writing. In her spare time, this fashionista follows and writes about fashion trends and styles.

Tis the season to shop, shop, shop. From loved ones to friends and co-workers, your list undoubtedly has a lot on it. Small gifts for the stocking are often left for the last minute when you may be hard pressed to come up with creative ideas. There are many from which to choose – here are some of our favorites.
    Like any gift purchases, consider the interests of the person for whom you are shopping. A game aficionado might appreciate a deck of cards, a set of unicorn game cards or even a travel set of Cards Against Humanity. A techie will appreciate a screen cleaner, RFID protector or even a great new pop socket (also a super idea for a teen).
    When buying for young ones, there is no shortage of options. Keeping the gifts physically small is a must, so think of Match Box or Hot Wheels cars, mini dolls (Shopkins, Trolls, My Little Pony or others that she calls her favorite), super bounce balls, Crayola kits, plush toys or action figures.
    For the lady who loves to look put together, new nail polish – in the latest colors – will never disappoint. Lipstick gift sets or mascara and primer wrapped together are also great options. Both pretty and practical, a small make-up pouch [to hold it all when she is out and about] is another great stocking-sized option. You will find them in the collections of nearly every designer.
    Lip balms or a small bottle of cologne may do the trick for the man on your list. Help him polish his look with a new pair of shades or get a new copy of his favorite movie….it’s time to update that collection. If he loves to do things around the house, consider a new all-in-one tool to replace the one he’s had for years. You may also consider small accessory items such as a wallet, slides, or a new case for a cell phone.
    With wellness and self-care being front and center these days, you may want to include an essential oil, healing energy bracelet, or writing journal and a beautiful pen. Remember, gift giving is also an opportunity to provide something that the recipient would love, but may be reluctant to buy for themselves. 
    Don’t forget to include a gift card in each stocking. Consider an iTunes or Xbox card for music or game downloads or a card for movie tickets to the latest opening films. How about a card to your recipient’s favorite shop for an item that wasn’t purchased from their list? A card to a favorite coffee or ice cream shoppe will undoubtedly deliver a smile. If you are unsure of which kind of card to purchase, you can give a card that allows even greater choices – a Visa, Amex or Amazon card make great stuffers.
    If your four-legged family members have stockings, treats and toys are always welcome. Our furbabies look forward to the holidays to get new mice toys, feather toys and balls to chase. A new tub of treats is always appreciated.
    Remember, keep it small, keep it meaningful and keep it entertaining to extend the fun that comes from opening holiday gifts. Wishing you and yours a very happy holiday!