Any gift that will be sipped, supped, or otherwise consumed is an ideal minimalist present, because it will take up space for only so long. A bottle of wine is a classic offering, especially for the host of a gathering, but also for friends and family — holidays are a chance to give them a nice bottle they might not buy for themselves.
Likewise, handcrafted chocolates or fine aged cheeses that someone might not typically seek out are a delight to receive. You might offer the tea lover in your life a specialty tea, such as pu’erh or genmaicha, that doubles as a gift of experience.
Coffee drinkers reliably appreciate a bag of quality coffee beans, and gift cards to coffee shops are another thoughtful present. (Note: Coffee shop gift cards can be a surprise hit with hard-to-please teens.) Like restaurant meals, a treat in a café is more fun when someone else is buying.
Skincare products are a thoughtful gift: They encourage self-care, add something special to daily routines, and are soon enough used up. (Products are also quite personal, so if you know someone favors a specific brand, steer in that direction. Also, check out some of our favorite sustainable body-care products — all packaged without plastic — for an earth-friendly gift.)
On the minimalist score, be mindful about synthetic scents and ingredients, which can have health consequences. You can shop with confidence about ingredient safety at a clean-beauty site, like Credo or The Detox Market.
They technically take up space, but plants make lovely gifts for green thumbs. Potted fresh herbs are fun, especially for foodies — and hew to the consumable theme.
For a beer or kombucha lover who also likes a DIY project, consider a brewing kit. Craft a Brew makes good ones; it also sells wine kits. (The less crafty beer or wine lover in your life might like a gift certificate or guide to local breweries, distilleries, or wineries.)
For more thoughtful presents that don’t add to life’s clutter, see “Minimalist Gift Ideas” from which this article was excerpted.
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