Regift, Refresh, Reimagine

Regifting gets a bad rap, but if done right, it’s pure genius (and eco-gold). That barely-used coffee table book? Perfect. The scarf you loved until you realized it didn’t match your coat? Gorgeous! Tableware that just collects dust in your credenza? Give these treasures a new home—just add thoughtful packaging, a handwritten note, and voilà, you’re the master of curated charm.

Thoughtful Tip: Pair with a heartfelt story: “This book inspired me, and I hope it does the same for you!”

The Power of Handmade: Unleash Your Inner Elf

Channel your creative side and make gifts that are as unique as your recipients. You’ll save money, reduce waste, and score major “Wow, you MADE this?” points.

Ideas for DIY or personalised gifts:

1. Oshibana – get artsy with pressed leaves and flowers then frame it. A therapeutic activity and makes a nice home décor

2. DIY soaps and candles

3. A homecooked or baked dish

4. Any linen personalised with embroidered name

5. A pot, cup, vase you made from a pottery class

6. Your own painting nicely framed

7. A handmade wreath or tabletop tree

Experiences: Always a Gift to Remember

The best gifts don’t always fit in a box. Memories last longer than socks—and they don’t clutter up closets.

Thoughtfulness goes a long way. Think about one of your loved one’s favourite things to do. Your friend loves coffee? How about getting a credit from his favourite shop so the next few times he goes he is reminded it is coffee on you! He loves to host BBQ’s? Get him party package from a BBQ supplier. Your husband loves wine? Sign him up for a wine tasting! Got an artsy daughter? There are loads of art and crafts workshops offered around town. Your wife is into interiors? How about signing her up for an online masterclass? I was gifted this once before by a dear friend and it was truly an experience to remember forever!

With the power of technology, you can easily acquire digital gifts in the form of electronic gift cards or vouchers. Quite a few venues offer these now in their mini programs. You can then create a nice and personalised digital gift card with a sweet note, send via email, Wechat, or get the venue to create one and there you go, an ultimate green pressie!

Shop Local, Small, and Sustainable

Support artisans, local brands, and small businesses that are in line with the same philosophy. Think handcrafted homeware, organic skincare, or upcycled fashion pieces. It’s a win-win: you’ll find unique gifts while supporting those who also CARE.

useDEM

Sustainable Brands I admire:

Studio Noosh for home linen

useDEM for upcycled denim for any textile need

Modern Littles for sustainable items for kids

AALUNA for ethically made home décor and bags

AALUNA

Loop for swimwear made of recycled plastic

Carrot and Cleaver, DULI for vegan food

Kate Wood for handcrafted wooden sunglasses, watches, and bamboo bicycles

Unicare for boots made of recycled rubber

Kate Wood

The Gift That Grows (Literally)

Plants, seeds, or DIY herb garden kits are gifts that keep on giving. Not only do they freshen up spaces, but they’re a perfect symbol of new beginnings—plus, they’re much harder to kill than your willpower around holiday cookies.

Rethink Your Wrapping: Zero-Waste is the New Pretty

Gift wrapping paper and endless ribbons? Cute for two minutes, trash forever. Think an old tea towel, table napkin (any reusable fabric), old newspapers (hello, vintage charm!), a colourful scarf or even jazz up one of those kuaidi boxes! Embellish with a rosemary, pinecones, or perhaps any leftover ornament you might have. And that’s a wrap!

Sustainable gifting isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being thoughtful and intentional. Because GREEN really is the best colour of the season.