The holidays are not only an opportunity to gift our near and dear; they're also the time of year when we should express our thanks and appreciation for all the people who work hard to enhance our daily lives. Here's a handy little guide to help you decide who to include and what to give.
First step: take into account your budget. Make a list of the people in your life and figure out what you can afford to spend on each person. Take into consideration whether you tip these people throughout the year or just at holiday time. Generally speaking, spending the equivalent of one "session" of service is a good way to go. For example, if your regular hair stylist charges $75, consider spending somewhere in that ballpark.
Babysitter- No need to gift a sitter you hire only occasionally, but you should gift someone who works with your children regularly. For a young sitter (teenage or college-aged), a gift card to iTunes or the local movie theater will always be a hit. Colorful, glossy makeup or skincare sets make wonderful compact but decadent gifts. Add a homemade card or picture from your kids.
Teacher - Some schools have a policy prohibiting gifting teachers, so check up first on the rules at your child's school. A houseplant is a great option, since it can be used at home or in the classroom. A DIY homemade treat is another great choice, since kids can actively participate in making it. Artfully packaged homemade jams, granola, candles or flavored popcorn are easy and fun to make and look beautiful in decorative jars or canisters adorned with ribbon.
Personal trainer- Best to avoid wine or chocolate treats, but you can still present your trainer with something decadent, such as luxe bath and body products or home décor items like candles or an artful vase.
Mail carrier - U.S.P.S. mail carriers are prohibited from accepting cash gifts, checks, gift cards, or any other form of currency. In addition, gifts must be under $20 in value. So a nice basket of fruit, nuts or candy are a good way to go. Or try basket of gourmet teas, coffees or other warm drinks such as mulling spices or cocoas.
Assistant – Try to find something in line with his or her interests. Does he or she love cooking? Why not treat to a series of cooking classes? Or a big-ticket piece of cooking equipment? A gift certificate to a swanky restaurant is a generous gift that anyone will appreciate.
Manicurist - If you regularly see the same manicurist, consider buying a gift card for a café near the salon. If you have appointments with various people at the salon, then it's appropriate to gift some sweets -- gourmet candies or nuts, for example – which everyone can share during work hours.
Newspaper delivery person/Trash Collectors - A cash tip of $10 to $30 per person is appropriate.
Cleaning person - If you have someone who works at your home weekly or bi-weekly, tip cash in the amount of one week's pay.
Last but not least: don't forget to include a handwritten card with your holiday gift. Your words of gratitude, from the heart, are the best present of all.
