Top Tips for Creative Gift Shopping

The themed gift basket or pressie bag is my ‘go to’ when it comes to Christmas shopping,” says Lynn McMurray, owner of Balerno-based home & gift business The Seasonal Touch. Having just scooped a ‘Highly Commended’ in the ‘Most Enterprising Business of the Year’ category at this year’s Association of Scottish Businesswomen Awards, she’s one to be trusted when it comes to getting creative! Here she shares her top tips for creative gift shopping this year.

Coming up with inspired gifts is a headache we all share at this time of year so when I’m sourcing the unique gifts on offer at The Seasonal Touch, I’m always thinking about how they would work with other items, together in a little gift bundle. Start with a spark of an idea, something that you think would resonate with the recipient, and build your gift around it.

It’s a simple technique. Let’s say you know your recipient loves a good cuppa. Why not treat them to one of these gorgeous winter robin design fine bone china mugs. Add to it a matching milk jug and perhaps a luxury, made-in-the-UK robin kitchen towel and build from there. Add some locally roasted coffee or artisan tea - what else would they enjoy? A subscription to their favourite magazine to enjoy while they relax? Some gourmet chocolates perhaps? Pull them together in a cute bag or basket - job done!

I’m passionate about finding and bringing the unique to The Seasonal Touch. If it’s something I’ve seen in every gift shop and garden centre across the country then it’s not for me! That’s why I got so excited when I came across these Magnetic Stemless Wine Glass Charms. With so many design collections to choose from including shoes, handbags, tennis, golf, animal prints etc, you’ll be able to create a gift bundle for everyone on your list. No stem on your glass? No problem! These cool little accessories mean your guests will always know which drink is theirs and what a fun ice-breaker! How about adding them to a beautiful bottle opener or stopper, a couple of quirky glasses and a bottle of their favourite tipple?

Teens can be hard to buy for but the gift bundle approach works well for them too. I love these handmade, wool loop cushions with their messages of positivity. How about putting them together with one of our vegan friendly, best selling reed diffusers in an uplifting scent? A perfect accessory for their space at home or uni digs to help them through their studies. Add a cosy and comforting throw and you’re all sorted.

You can find all you need to create your own gift bundles at The Seasonal Touch and for all the inspiration you’ll need for gifts and decor ideas this Christmas you can follow Lynn on Facebook and Instagram @theseasonaltouch