We all give and receive love in different ways. (Have you done your Love Language test yet?) That knowledge can be especially key as the gift-giving season approaches. Here’s a list of gift ideas to show love to everyone on your list - whether it’s the gift of time spent together, something that fulfills a need, or a material object. We’re here to help you think outside the box to show your love in unexpected, creative ways.
Gift cards, classes, or products from Palace Art & Office Supply
Who doesn’t love Palace Art Supply?? Even just going in there is a gift. Being around all that colorful paper and plethora of pens instantly makes you feel like you can do anything. No matter if your gift-recipient is a self-identified artist or not, there is something for everyone at Palace. Literally. Anything. Have fun picking out what your friend would love, or simply grab a gift card, which is always fail-proof. They also offer art classes for the more educational-focused on your list.
Dance classes at Motion Pacific
A gift like this is more than dance - you’ll be giving the gift of self-expression, health, community, and joy. Dance studio Motion Pacific offers jazz, hip-hop, contemporary, ballet, Rhythm & Motion, Power Prance, and more. Beginner to advanced level classes make it a welcoming space for everyone. With a teen/youth program, varied class packages, and memberships to choose from, there are plenty of options to find the perfect fit for who you’re buying for.
Membership to the MAH
An especially amazing present for families, a MAH membership isn’t only free museum admission. Rather, it's an opportunity for folks to bond, create, share, and grow closer together. This annual pass is a fantastic gift for anyone though, with ever-changing art exhibitions, entry into events, and simply a nice place to relax. (Buying a membership is a gift to us, too, because then we get to see you more! We love seeing and getting to know regulars.) The MAH offers a range of membership options, and with various $10 off discounts, these won’t break your bank.
Spa day at the Well Within Spa
We all need a little #selfcare. The end of the year can sometimes feel frenzied with wrapping things up (figuratively and literally), meaning that self-care sometimes gets pushed to the side. With such a focus on other people, it’s easy to lose sight of ourselves during the holidays. Gifting someone the chance to take time for themselves can be a surprising and extra special present. Consider a gift certificate for a private hot tub (especially on cold Santa Cruz night!), a massage, or facial to make a loved one feel extra loved-up on.
A MAH publication
The holidays can be fun. They also can be stressful, with relatives you see only once a year asking, “So, what have you been doing with your life??” Save your sanity and divert these questions to a more manageable topic - interesting, local history in the form of one of the MAH’s publications. Harvesting Our Heritage is a wonderful book filled with stories about local food, crops, and farmers that have enriched our community. A perfect gift for a time that is all about gathering, cooking, and sharing meals together. If anything, you’ll wow them with your impressive local knowledge and start some great (and less stressful) conversations.
Classes at All Hands
Downtown community workshop space All Hands is bubbling over with creative, educational workshops, covering a huge range of techniques. Choose a specific class you know someone would love, or give a gift certificate and let them decide. Better yet, do a workshop together and make it two gifts in one (the other gift is time spent with you, duh!)
Donate in someone’s name to a local nonprofit
What about those on your list who have everything or don't prefer material things? Donating to a charity or organization in their name can be a great, uplifting gift. Santa Cruz is home to countless nonprofits doing incredible work in the community. It's easy to find one with values that resonate with your gift-receiver, and you can feel good supporting good work. Here are some of our 2019 community partners that we are proud to work alongside... Positive Discipline, Santa Cruz SPCA, Senderos, and the Santa Cruz Public Libraries. Check out this list of other local nonprofits for donation inspiration.