First things first, none of the links or products I mention are sponsored.
I just know that you have sooooo much to do in December. Thinking of and buying a mindful and caring Kris Kringle present may be on your to do list, but you might not have the time to run around and look for good options.
If you are part of an office environment or have gatherings with friends, it is likely that you will have at least one kris kringle present to choose. One of those low cost ones, usually around the $15.- mark. The trouble is though, as lovely as the idea is – often it leads to a mountain of unwanted little things, that will find their way into the rubbish pile soon after Christmas is over. After all, what really good gift can you buy for $15.- and under?
If you are keen to participate in the kris kringle tradition but don’t want to buy senseless ‘silly’ things that end up in landfill, here are a few options for you that cause lots of joy but little waste.
Prosecco
This one is delicious, in a pretty bottle and a steal for $11.90 in six (stock up!)
Salt
Salt is highly underrated as an ingredient. The kind of salt you use will change the flavour of your food profoundly. One or two boxes of Maldon Sea Salt (readily available at the supermarket for around $4.-) are a great Kris Kringle gift. Add a pinching bowl if you must, but to me, just the salt would be reason for a beaming smile.
Even better yet, go local with Murray River Pink Salt if it’s available at your local supermarket or deli!
Just don’t do himalayan ;).
Dinner sorted
Aldi sells fantastic local wine. Try the One Road Shiraz for a red or Neve Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc (well, somewhat local anyway, hehe) for a white. Both are around $7.-. Add some organic pasta (also comes in Spaghetti but I couldn’t find a link) and sauce, together for around $5.50. Noone is going to be upset about receiving this treat – dinner is sorted. (Or choose two bottles of wine, come to think of it.)
Pancake mix
Make a batch (or double batch) of this pancake mix. Fill it into a nice jar, put the instructions on a little tag and all they will need to do is add some milk to have a glorious breakfast!
Parmesan Biscuits
If you’ve got some time on your hands, make these parmesan biscuits for the personal touch. Add a bottle of prosecco or wine mentioned above and you’ve got a great little gift to give.
Of course you can give sweet biscuits too – chances are though that there is already a lot of sweet going around this time of year and something savoury may be a welcome point of difference.
Tea
Tea is always a great option if you ask me. T2 sells beautiful little packs for $10.-. Add a little note to say they are for a moment of calm in this hectic period and anyone will be thankful for your thoughtfulness.
But if you just have time for the supermarket, they have a great selection of teas these days, that would make a lovely gift. It might depend on your local supermarket on what they stock, but there may be T2 Melbourne Breakfast , French Earl Grey, or Just Peppermint. But if they don’t have those, you’re bound to find other options. Just go for pretty packaging like this Blissful Green.
Personalized chocolate, vegemite or other treats
As I am typing this I’m munching on a huge Toblerone with my husbands name written on the package. He has received it as a kris kringle gift at the office and what can I say – it is a big hit :)! Don’t diss the simple options, they may well make someone’s day.
Honourable ‘non-food related’ mentions
Lip Cream
This lip cream from Aesop is small but a beautiful little gift (and a departure from the handcream that is often chosen when it comes to budget gifts).
Hand Cream
But hey, if hand cream is your thing – nothing wrong with that! This one from L’Occitane is lovely.
Soap
Soap is back! Shower gel in plastic containers is so last decade… Here is a good one. Verbena has a beautiful fresh scent.
There you have it, these are some of my kris kringle gift suggestions for you. If you have any other great ideas, let me know in the comments.
Much love and happy kris kringeling 😉
Katrine x
Cover Photo by Kira auf der Heide on Unsplash