A Simpler Way to Shop This Christmas
If you’re reading this with Christmas less than a week away and a short window of panic shopping ahead of you—welcome. Whether you’re grabbing stocking stuffers, filling in a few gaps, or just getting started (looking at you, husbands), this is your gentle reminder that meaningful gifts don’t have to be rushed or random. Before tossing just-anything into a bag, let’s talk about how to make even last-minute gifts feel intentional.
This season, we’re leaning into simplicity. Less noise, more meaning. Below are five ways to gift thoughtfully this Christmas—without sacrificing beauty, joy, or the magic of giving.
1. Buy Less, Choose Better
Thoughtful gifting doesn’t mean more gifts— it usually means fewer. Instead of filling a bag with small, forgettable items, focus on one well-made piece that will actually be used and loved.
I know that the gifts I cherish most are the more quality ones that I know I would be hesitant to buy myself- so if that means I get one quality gift over 10 cheaper ones I care less about then you best believe I am going to be more excited about that more heirloom piece.
A cozy throw that lives on the couch all winter. A serving board that becomes part of someone’s hosting routine. A mug that’s reached for every morning. Quality over quantity always feels more personal—and lasts far beyond December 25th.
2. Think About How They Live
The most meaningful gifts fit seamlessly into someone’s life. Pay attention to the little details:
Do they love hosting? Are they always cold? Do they treasure slow mornings or evening rituals?
When you gift something that aligns with how someone already lives, it shows care. It says, I see you. At Sage, we design pieces with everyday living in mind—objects meant to be used, not tucked away—because the best gifts become part of daily routines.
3. Choose Timeless Over Trendy
Trends fade fast. Thoughtful gifts don’t.
Neutral tones, classic shapes, natural materials—these are the pieces that feel just as good years from now as they do today. When in doubt, choose something that won’t feel dated by next season.
A timeless piece doesn’t scream for attention, but it quietly earns its place. And those are often the gifts people hold onto the longest.
4. Support Small, Meaningful Businesses
Where you shop matters just as much as what you buy.
Supporting small businesses means your gift has a story behind it—real people, real craftsmanship, thoughtful design. It adds another layer of meaning that big-box shopping simply can’t replicate. If you are on a strict budget, a gift card is still a great way to support small business this holiday season. I know people have strong feelings about gift cards but for those people that are hard to shop for this takes that stress out of it -especially when its a gift card to a local restaurant or attraction.
5. Let the Gift Feel Like a Pause
The holidays are busy. The best gifts invite people to slow down.
Something warm. Something tactile. Something that encourages rest, connection, or presence—whether that’s gathering around a table, curling up on the couch, or savoring a quiet moment alone.
This year my 5 year old and I made candles out of vintage glasses for friends and teachers. It was a great activity that we could do together and he is so excited to give them to his teachers since he was apart of making them. It checked alot of people off our list, saved us money and gave us a nice moment of pause and do something together. Whether or not they will actually have any scent to them- is another story.
A Final Thought
This Christmas, you don’t need to do more—you can do less, better.
At Sage, we believe gifts should feel grounding. Designed to be lived with. Loved hard. Used often. Because the most meaningful presents don’t overwhelm—they offer a sense of calm.
When we slow down the way we shop, we make space for what actually matters: connection, presence, and the joy of giving something that truly resonates.