We call our Roadside Blooms retail shop a “magical mercantile” because it is filled with not just flowers but indoor plants, funky hand-made jewelry, crystals and all kinds of unique gifts from small makers. We continually ask our customers about things they’d like to see in the shop, what they are looking to give to others and what kinds of things they’d like to receive. We use this feedback to curate the items we carry and the services we offer each season.
Our clientele is interested in gifting things that are “different,” “experiential,” “meaningful” and “has a good maker story.” This has been the sentiment ever since Covid forced us to take a good look at what’s important in life. In speaking with other shop owner friends across the country, this sentiment isn’t unique to our community.
Here are a few considerations and ideas as you make your way through your gift-giving list this year:
It’s more than the thought that counts! Research described in a 2021 Washington Post article challenged the idea that how much a recipient likes a gift is related to the amount of thought that went into it. Turns out that although the efforts and sentiments are appreciated, what determines how much a recipient enjoys their gift is how much they like it and how much use they have for it. You don’t have to be a fortune teller to nail down a good gift. You can ask directly or simply listen in conversation for their interests. Our shop, for example, has a wish list box where people can list the things that they like and gift givers can come and review the lists for ideas.
The gift of time to flex creativity is impactful. Many of those who have taken flower-arranging or plant classes with us have said that not only did they have a great time creating something, but they’ve really enjoyed the time away from their neverending to-do lists. In a culture that values busyness, giving an experience allows the recipient to relax and use creative muscles that get overlooked. Recently, we had a new mom in our class whose partner gifted it to her for a much-needed break from caring for her newborn. She said her cup was full following the class and that she could go back home feeling more like herself. She was also able to connect with others in the class with similar experiences.
Gift cards are always welcome but don’t stop there. Give the gift card to a favorite plant or crystal shop and make a date to go with the recipients. Let them share all of their knowledge and enjoy their excitement as they discover things they love. The gift card is the gateway in creating an opportunity to connect.
We all love a good story. If you purchase something handmade or from a company that has good business ethos, include that in your gift by writing it. For example, we carry Seattle Chocolate, a company that is 100% woman-owned and carbon neutral with 10% of all net profits going to Girls Inc. It offers programming in 350 cities in the U.S. and Canada that inspires girls to be strong, smart and bold leaders of tomorrow.
However you approach your gift-giving this year, don’t overthink and stress about it. Think of ways to use your gift as a way to connect rather than just checking a box and you’ll be off to a great start.
Toni Reale is the owner of Roadside Blooms, a unique flower, plant, crystal, rock and fossil shop in Park Circle in North Charleston. roadsidebloomsshop.com
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