There’s nothing more satisfying than giving someone the perfect gift, the kind that you are just as, if not more, excited about giving than the receiver is about, well, receiving. But what if that gift had a life beyond the confinement of its wrapping paper? What if the gift gave more than just an object, but an experience or repetitive value? The following 11 gift ideas attempt to do just that. They don’t just make great gifts—they make great stories!

11 Holiday Gifts That Keep on Giving

1. Yoga Membership

We all have that friend who wants to engage in more self-love activities, particularly yoga. Make it easier for your friend to get started by gifting her a month’s membership at the nearest yoga studio. Join her as much as you can to help her new habit stick!

2. Juicer or Blender

Nothing keeps on giving quite like a juicer or blender. Motivate someone in your life to start drinking healthier and more creatively with one (or both!) of these machines.

3. Books…Forever!

For your bibliophile friends, consider signing them up for a GiftLit subscription. Each month, the service sends age and content-appropriate books to them.

4. Drybar Membership

I can’t imagine a better gift. When blowouts became a thing, the world became a better place because of it. Gift a Drybar membership to a lucky friend or family member and she’ll always have her locks on point.

5. Skydiving

Okay, this is admittedly an aggressive gift that not everyone will enjoy receiving (raises hand), but if you have a daredevil friend who may have dropped a hint that she’d like to take the (literal) plunge, then gift her the experience of a lifetime. Just make sure she is a good friend, because skydiving can run for about $250 a pop.

6. Three-day Detox

Gift your friend a seamless escape from holiday indulgence with a foolproof re-set button: a three-day cleanse. Almost every major city has cold-press juice and raw/vegan food cleanses available. Find one fit for your friend and sign her up! This will not only make for a thoughtful gift but also motivate your friend to transform her diet for the better. My favorite service: Sakara.

7. Cooking Class

Join a local cooking class and bring your friend along for the perfect bonding (and eating) experience.

8. Singing Lessons

Okay, bear with me here. I am a strong believer that we should all practice our singing skills, even if we are admittedly terrible at it. It’s a form of expression and even if your friend is not naturally talented at it, she can at least have a lot of fun pretending for an hour. And if she’s good at it, your gift only cultivates a talent!

9. Endless Stream of Flowers

The Bouqs Co. is an e-florist that delivers “farm to table” flowers from sustainable sources on a weekly, monthly, or quarterly basis. Starting at $32 per month, your friend can enjoy bouquet after bouquet after bouquet. Every time she admires her flowers, she’ll think of you!

10. Language Learning Software

It’s never too late to pick up a new language, but it requires commitment. Help your friend or family member get started with a language learning software.

11. Grooming Essentials

This one is for the men in your life. Bevel sells high quality razors, shaving cream, and other grooming products. You can order a Shave System Starter Kit or sign up for a $29.95 subscription for quarterly shipping of grooming products.

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Have a few cat parents and their feline roommates on your gift list this year? Never fear, we have got you covered with gifts for all the cat lovers on your list.

Whether you are a fellow cat lover, or you are convinced that cats are aliens were sent here to take over the world, buying gifts for those who love cats and the cats themselves, may seem challenging. It’s okay, you don’t have to do it on your own. We have pulled together a round-up of some of the most purrfect gift ideas for cat lovers this holiday season. From gifts for the humans to gifts for their fur-children, this list has a little bit of everything.

Purr-fectly Wonderful Holiday Gifts for Cat Lovers

1. Cole and Marmalade calendar – Most cat lovers know who Cole and Marmalade are. If you don’t, look them up and buy their calendar.

2. Kitty Scarf – This kitty scarf is just purr-fect for the crazy cat lady in your life!

3. Music for Cats – Someone made species-specific music for cats. Intrigued? We bet the cat lover in your life would be too!

4. Snarky Cat Mug – While this mug might not be for everyone, the average cat person is 75 percent snarkier than your average dog lover. True story.

5. Cat Pillowcases – Humans and cats alike will approve of these cat silhouette pillow cases.

6. Digger Feeder – The evil geniuses at Catit keep coming up with clever cat toys and lifestyle products. This digger feeder is designed to help stimulate the natural hunter found in every cat no matter how domesticated.

7. Kipnipbox – Give the gift that keeps on giving with this subscription box that caters to cats and is full of treats, toys, and gifts just for cats.

8. Kitty Beds/Blankets – Cats love to sleep and their human parents love that these kitty beds help protect furniture and can be thrown in the washer and dryer too.

9. Grass Kit – Not only does eating grass make cats happy, it may make for fewer problems associated with hairballs and fewer trips to the vet–and maybe less cat vomit, but probably not.

10. Cat Mom/Dad Tee – Your favorite human cat parent will wear this tee proudly and appreciate your thoughtfulness at the same time.

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The holiday season is in full swing, so it’s time to stock up on some affordable gifts for those special people on your list.  

Whether you want a gift that’s classic and warm, glitzy and glam, or trendy and fashion-forward, we’re confident you’ll find something here that won’t bust your budget. Many of these are not only suitable for the eco-conscious gal, but also for the vegan ones, too! Affordable gifts with an eco-friendly twist — what’s not to love?!

1. Trendy Stackable Ring

If you thought boutique jewelry was out of reach for gift giving this year, then think again! This dainty and delicate sterling silver ring is handcrafted from hammered 18 gauge wire and is then dipped in gold to give it that lustrous finish. The style is perfect for the trendy woman in your life who loves to stack her rings — truly a beautiful and memorable addition to her collection. Priced at $40.

And for even more awesomely eco-conscious gifts, you’ll definitely want to keep browsing Bead & Reel’s online ethical boutique. Not only does this company take the time to carefully curate its inventory, but there is an ethical spin on all of the items in the shop. “Vegan friendly,” “woman owned company,” “made in the USA,” and “sweatshop-free” are just a few of the many responsible stamps that could come with your purchase.

2. Statement Knit Beanie

With its signature chunky knit and super noggin warming abilities, this beanie is a great classic gift for someone in your life who prefers to stay toasty, cozy, and classically cool. A hat like this would pair well with virtually everything in a winter wardrobe. Plus, its one-size-fits all circumference means you won’t have to worry about getting the fit wrong. Priced at $38.

3. Sweet Hostess Apron

If you have a friend or family member who loves to host dinner parties, or cook her meals while looking absolutely fabulous, then she’ll adore this glamorous apron. The gold polka dots and girly bow give off a designer Kate Spade vibe that’s perfect for someone who’s fashion-forward but not overly trendy. Present this chic apron with outer wrap to match. Priced at $34.

4. Warm Blanket Scarf

When it comes to affordable gifts that are practical and happily received, you can’t beat this oversized scarf. The brushed exterior, fringe trim, and variety of colors are able to work for many different styles and tastes. What’s great is that this can be tied around the neck, or draped around the shoulders like a wrap. Priced at $48.

5. Shimmering Bobby Pins

Whether your recipient is a hair styling fanatic, or can’t find her way around a straight iron matters not, because these beautiful bobby pins are an accessory that anyone can use. Pop them in an elaborate up-do, or pull back a few strands and slide them in. Either way, these geode and natural stone hair accessories are sure to “wow” this holiday season. Price at $48.

*Disclaimer: Help support EcoSalon! Our site is dedicated to helping people live a conscious lifestyle. We’ve provided some affiliate links above in case you wish to purchase any of these products.

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The holidays are fast approaching and it is time to get shopping. Of course, you want those special someones to receive special presents. If time and ideas are slowing you down, here’s your list of health and wellness gifts for everyone on your list. Best of all, you can buy them all online.

‘Tis the season to come up with amazing gift ideas for your family and friends. But once the festivities begin it can be hard to fit in time to shop for all of that awesome loot.

Sit back, grab a warm beverage, and feast your eyes on what you are getting everyone on your list. All healthy, green, and full of good vibes.

10 Holiday Health and Wellness Gifts for Everyone on Your List

1. Rosie Jane Leila Lou Candle

For the Meditator: Rosie Jane Leila Lou Candle sets the scene for zen.

2. Level Naturals The Mud Bath Bombs

For the Bather: No need to shell out big bucks for a trip to the spa. These sweet little bath bombs contain rhassoul, green, and pink clays for an indulgently detoxifying bath experience.

3. Satva Mantra Legging in Sahara Tile Print

For the Yoga Queen: What yogi wouldn’t love to see these beautiful leggings all wrapped up with a bow? Added bonus, they work great as lounge clothes too.

4. Kjaer Weis Lipstick in Adore

For the Party Thrower: A beautiful lip color gives the perfect greeting. This “Old-Hollywood-glam red” looks great on everyone. For ideas on what to give other party givers this season, check our green hostess gift guide.

5. Kure Bazaar Nail Polish

For Your Mani/Pedi Pal: Surprise your salon-going friend with a gift card to your fave pedi spot and a bottle (or two, or three) of hot color for their digits.

6. Fish Princess Farm Goat Milk Soap

For the Home Buddy: You know that friend whose house always looks like a million bucks? A few high-end looking soaps are just the thing. She can display them or use them to scent closets and drawers.

7. Goop Beauty Eau De Parfum: Edition 01—Winter 2016

For the Sophisticate: This girl is the first in on all the latest trends and fancy stuff. Know what she’ll love? A fragrance no one else in the room is wearing.

8. “The Little Book of Healthy Beauty”

For the Book Worm: A quick read, this book offers advice on looking your best by living a healthy life. A gift that keeps on giving.

9. Kusmi BB Detox Tea

For the Wine Connoisseur: Rather than giving yet another bottle of wine, help your wine loving recipient bounce back the day after with Kusmi BB Detox Tea.

10. Taza Chocolate Chocolate Mexicano Classic Collection

For the Chocoholic: Forget those sugary boxed chocolates and give the gift of pure cacao. USDA Organic, gluten-free, kosher, and non-GMO. Don’t forget one for yourself!

*Disclaimer: Help support EcoSalon! Our site is dedicated to helping people live a conscious lifestyle. We’ve provided some affiliate links above in case you wish to purchase any of these products.

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The purrfect cat gifts to give the cats and cat people on your list.

I honestly don’t need anything this holiday season. My cats, on the other hand, they could use some new toys, treats, a window seat, and a fresh scratching pad. Our household is a cat household, and we would so rather receive gifts for our cats (currently three of the furry critters) than be gifted with presents for ourselves. Not to sound ungrateful or anything, we are just really into our furry roommates. We even signed up for one of the cat subscriptions, for a time, but the cats were unhappy with the variety of products offered.

If you have any crazy cat ladies or cat dudes on your holiday list, it’s not too late to order up one of these thoughtful cat gifts for your favorite cats, and for their humans too.

Cat Gifts for the Holiday Season

1. Cat Treadmill – It may be a little bit pricey at $249, but every cat and cat lover will love this gift, and you probably won’t need to buy another gift for your cat lover friend for like four years. We love this idea to help keep kitty healthy and engaged.

2. “Catify to Satisfy: Simple Solutions for Creating a Cat-Friendly Home” – If you aren’t familiar with Jackson Galaxy, well then you probably don’t have cats as pets. Galaxy is the Cesar Millan to cats. A Jackson Galaxy book would be a great gift for any cat lover.

3. Gazebo Outdoor Pet Playpen – Cats love the outdoors, but the birds don’t love the cats being outdoors–not to mention the big wide open can be a dangerous place for our furry friends. The solution is an outdoor playpen to allow kitties outdoor time but in a safe and responsible way.

4. Music for Cats – Music for Cats features the first-ever music scientifically proven to enrich cats’ lives. It’s available for purchase, and you can buy a whole album or just one song, either as a digital download or for the iPhone.

5. Kitty Hammock – The cat crib is a place where kitty can hideout and sleep–and it fits under virtually any chair. It’s a great alternative for keeping cats from sleeping on the chairs–a gift for cats and the humans who clean up after them.

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Image: Cat gift via Shutterstock

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Turn your holiday gifts into works of art with some easy gift-wrapping ideas.

Sometimes the most odious thing about the holidays is the present wrapping–it just seems like a such a chore. You work really hard buying (or making) all those presents and then there’s more work. Have a little fun with it by using one of these easy gift-wrapping ideas. From fun to elegant and many involve repurposing stuff you already have on hand–these are gift-wrapping game changers!

10 Gift-Wrapping Ideas for the Holidays

1. Repurposed Paper Bags – Cut open brown paper bags, turn them over so the plain side is facing up, and decorate with holiday-themed stamps. Wrap up your packages and tie with string for a vintage wrapping look.
2. Metallic Painted Tissue Paper – Repurpose tissue paper from holiday gifts past, but bring it back to life by painting it with gold or silver paint. Many home improvement stores carry the Martha Stewart line of specialty finishes that features several different metallic options.
3. Old Road Maps – Turn old paper maps (who uses them anymore anyway!) into fun wrapping paper this season.
4. Brown Paper Packages – You can buy rolls of brown wrapping paper that can be customized a billion ways. One of the simplest is to use gold and silver pens to draw stars or snowflakes on your packages. Tie them up with pretty red and white bakers’ twine.
5. Origami Wrap – Wrap packages in white paper. Cut shapes out another layer of colored paper and double wrap your packages for an easy but pretty effect.
6. Chalkboard Wrapping Paper – If you haven’t seen it before, Chalkboard wrapping paper is a thing. It’s super easy to customize your packages with just some simple white paint markers. You can find it online and at some craft stores.
7. Washi Tape – Decorate plain white or brown paper with colorful patterned washi tape. Washi tape is Japanese masking tape, but it comes in all sorts of colors and patterns and is available online or at craft stores.
8. Duct Tape Gift Bags – By the same token, turn practical duct tape into gift bags. Here is an easy tutorial.
9. Repurposed Magazine Bows – Top your packages with pretty repurposed bows made from the pages of old magazines. Here’s a how-to.
10. Burlap, Black Ribbon and Gold Spray Painted Pine Cones – Turn everyday burlap into an elegant package by adding black velveteen ribbon and gold painted pine cones. It looks impressive, but it’s actually pretty easy to pull off. Burlap is available at most fabric stores.

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Image: Christmas Gift via Shutterstock

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Choose to opt-out of the consumerism of the holiday season by supporting a good cause.

Instead of shopping at the mall this holiday season, use your dollars to support a good cause in the names of your giftees. It’s the thought that counts, right? So, make it really count by supporting a good cause that you most identify with, or to try to match up your gift list with a good cause that they can support.

A note: Don’t just take our word for it. Whenever choosing a charity,  make sure to visit Charity Navigator, Charity Watch, or other charity rating sites for the low-down before donating to your good cause.

1. Nothing But Nets – Support this global grassroots campaign to fight malaria, a leading cause of death among children in many parts of the world. The group’s goal is to distribute as many mosquito nets as possible in the fight to stop malaria deaths.
2. Kiva –  Kiva is a micro-lending nonprofit with a mission of connecting people through lending to alleviate poverty. Leveraging the power of the Internet, Kiva connects individuals with the ability to lend (as little as $25) to help support and create entrepreneurial opportunities around the world.
3. Planned Parenthood – Planned Parenthood provides reproductive health care, sex education, and information for women and men worldwide. Its work promotes a commonsense approach to women’s health and well-being, based on respect for each individual’s right to make informed, independent decisions about health, sex, and family planning.
4. Starkey Hearing Foundation – The Starkey Hearing Foundation provides support to children and adults around the world who have disabling hearing loss (according to the World Health Organization, that accounts for more than 360 million people worldwide). The Starkey Hearing Foundation has worldwide initiatives to help people afford hearing aids and get access to the care they need.
5. Heifer International – Heifer International’s mission is to work with communities to end world hunger and poverty and to care for the environment in a sustainable manner. It  empowers communities and bring sustainable agriculture and commerce to areas with long histories of poverty.
6. National Public Radio – Support the non-commercial news and programming of public radio by donating to your local NPR station. Donations by individuals account for the largest share of NPR’s revenues–as much as 34 percent in 2013.
7. Meals on Wheels – Meals on Wheels provides both meals and company to seniors and others who may have lost mobility as a result of age or illness. Nationally, Meals on Wheels provides over 2.5 meals for seniors. You can choose to give to the national organization, Meals on Wheels America, or support a local provider of meals for direct impact in your community.
8. Highland Titles – Support land conservation in Scotland and give the gift of the title of “Lady” or “Laird” with a donation to the Highland Titles. The motto is “conserving Scotland one square mile at a time.”
9. Feeding America – Help stamp out hunger in America by supporting Feeding America, a nationwide network of food banks and the nation’s leading domestic hunger-relief charity. Feeding America serves over 46 million people annually with local food programs.
10. Farm Sanctuary – Finally, Farm Sanctuary’s mission is to protect farm animals from cruelty, inspire change in the way society views and treats farm animals, and promote compassionate vegan living.

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