Mindful, Magical, Heartfelt Gift Ideas (Not Just Stuff)

This year, give intentionally and with joy. Here’s a gift guide with lots of meaningful presents for the folks you treasure the most.

The holidays can feel so commercial. So many gift guides and ads show us stuff that seems hollow, impersonal, and (worst of all) destined to be clutter.

But that’s not what we want for our dear ones. We want to give them something that feels like a blessing, not a burden. We want to wrap them up a little magic: the kind of gift that makes them feel truly seen and scatters a pinch of faerie dust across their season.

So, here are some thoughtful, meaningful, and decidedly un-boring gift ideas—little treasures that feel soulful rather than commercial. Think of them as offerings from your spirit to theirs: intentional tokens of your appreciation and devotion.

(There are Amazon affiliate links in this post.)

Heartfelt Gift Category #1: Natural Treasures

A natural treasure is a fae gift: a bit of wild magic from the earth or sky. Like…

A crystal

If you have a crystal lover in your life, use your intuition to find them a crystal that feels just right. Visit a local crystal store or check out the many selections on Etsy.

Space swag

Get the star person in your life some space swag, like moldavite jewelry or a meteorite.

plants

Get an indoor gardener a plant or plants. Like maybe this air plant starter kit.

Herb Bundles

Consider something like these festive bundles for the herb magic or space clearing enthusiast.

Heartfelt Gift Category #2: Books

The problem with giving books is that not everyone likes them, and those who do are picky. But sometimes, a book can be just the thing.

Here are some ideas.

Reference Books

For the beginning astrology enthusiast, get The Only Astrology Book You’ll Ever Need or You Were Born for This. For a Witchy pal, get The Encyclopedia of 5000 Spells.

For a plant lore enthusiast, try this fun one I found recently at a local bookstore.

Poetry Books

As a gift, a book of poetry is like a beautiful secret the two of you will always share. My all-time favorite is The Gift by Daniel Ladinsky/Hafiz, but find the one that speaks to you and that you have a feeling will speak to your loved one, too.

Beloved Spiritual Classics

I’m thinking of two books here: The Prophet by Kalhil Gibran and Tao Te Ching by Lao Tsu, translated by Stephen Mitchell. Both transcendent, heart-opening, words-to-live-by books that even non-readers love having around–books you open to any page, read a few lines, and feel inspired.

Heartfelt Gift Category #3: Creative Hobbies

For those who love to create, get something to spark their excitement and help them get into the flow.

For example:

Indoor Gardening Projects

This DIY air plant terrarium and these little window propagators are great choices for a plant lover or gardener.

Paint Projects

I just ordered this watercolor workbook and this watercolor set for my sister-in-law who used to love painting along with Bob Ross. (I hope you’re not reading this, Tara.)

Also, have you heard? Paint-by-numbers projects have come so far! Check out this acrylic on canvas 2-pack.

Heartfelt Gift Category #4: Food and Drinks

Whether you make it yourself or get something delicious for a loved one to feast on or imbibe, food is a wise choice for the practical and eco-conscious gift giver. (Because we’re going to eat and drink anyway!) Here are some thoughts to get you started.

Homemade Granola, Baking Mix, or Trail Mix

I like these ideas because they’re personal, but not overly perishable. Plus you can put them in mason jars and tie them with a bow!

Here’s a granola recipe to try.
Here’s a great looking baking mix recipe for vegan cowboy cookies.
And here are some instructions for building your own wholesome and delicious trail mix.

A Bottle of Liqueur

Several times my dad and I have been watching TV and we’ve seen an ad for Chocolate Bailey’s, and he’s exclaimed, “Hey, that looks pretty good!” So of course, there’ll be a bottle of it for him under the tree. Translate accordingly for your loved one.

A Produce Subscription Box

What food lover wouldn’t love to receive a box of organic fruits and/or veggies regularly throughout the year? There are many options for produce subscriptions, but you might want to start by checking out the options at Farm Fresh to You.

Heartfelt Gift Category #5: Handmade and Personalized Items

Obviously, if you love to craft and create, there you have it. Paint, knit, crochet, cross-stitch, sew, decoupage, or whatever you like to do. Or, visit Etsy or a local craft fair to find something one-of-a-kind.

You can also add your own photos to personalize countless gift items. For example,

Artistic Renderings of Your Loved One’s Animal Friend

Check out this ring made from a photo of a pet’s face or this lovely watercolor of same.

Other Meaningful Images, Made into Gifts

Of course, a customized mug is a beloved old standby. And check out these venue paintings to immortalize a sacred spot, like a first date location.

Heartfelt Gift Category #6: Tarot and Oracle Decks

Before you go, allow me to promote my very own wares: the beautiful tarot and oracle decks that I write. Each one will offer your loved one years of comfort and inspiration.

I am honored and privileged to work with immensely talented artists who make every card breathtaking.

Here are my latest decks.