It can be hard to find the right gift for someone who seems to have everything. When shelves are full, rooms are overflowing, and Amazon wishlists aren’t being used, material things lose their appeal. Experience-based gifts are a caring and unique way to show thanks without adding more “stuff” to someone’s life.
Instead of looking for yet another tool or novelty item, why not give them an experience that makes them happy, calms them down, or brings people together?
If you want to give an experience-based gift that really stands out, even to someone who “has it all,” read on.
1. Wine Tasting at Home
It’s the right mix of luxury and leisure to taste wines at home. Pick the best wine gift basket that has a mix of red, white, and sparkling wines along with delicious snacks like chocolates, crackers, and cheeses.To make the experience better:
- Bring a wine-tasting mat or a notebook to take notes in.
- For a fun “guess the wine” game, put on a mask.
- When you pair it with a virtual sommelier lesson or this YouTube guide
If you’re giving this as a gift to a woman who likes to relax with a glass of wine, you might want to include the best wine for women, like a light Pinot Grigio, a floral Moscato, or a delicate rosé. Many people like these styles, so they’re good for a lot of different tastes.
2. Cooking Classes with a Twist
Reading about cooking is a wonderful way to learn something new, whether you do it in person or online. Some of them are making pasta in Italy (virtually, of course), rolling sushi, baking macarons, and even making the best lunch.
Tip: Make the class unique for the person you’re sending it to. If they love French food or want to visit Japan, the class theme can be the main part of the gift.
Bonus: Send the ingredients ahead of time in a pretty basket. It’s kind of like giving red wine for cooking, but with olive oils, spices, and sauces instead.
3. Scenic Picnic Experience
Plan a picnic in a park or yard near you as a surprise. In the sunshine, bring soft blankets, gourmet snacks, and a bottle of the best white wine for gift, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
You can make them a personalized gift ticket for a “picnic experience” that they can use whenever they want. Include these things in the box:
- A one-time-use lunch basket
- Wine glasses without stems
- A hand-picked playlist
For couples or close friends who like to relax in beautiful places, this gift is ideal.
4. Personal Styling or Closet Refresh Session
People who have everything tend to value time and ease of use. That’s why a virtual closet makeover is such a unique present. They can get new outfit ideas, clean out their closets, and improve their style all without going to a mall.
Many services now offer online wardrobe consultations and even shopping suggestions afterward.
Bonus: You could add a coffee table book on fashion or a wine-and-unwind theme at the end, with the best wine for women for a toast.
5. A Spa Retreat at Home
A spa day is ideal for everyone. Make the receiver feel like they are at a spa retreat even when they are at home.
Add these:
- Oils for aromatherapy
- Slippers and a soft robe
- Body scrubs and face masks
- Choose either herbal tea or sweet wine to help you relax.
- A mix for meditation or a sound bath
For a relaxing gift, pair the package with a bottle of Pinot Grigio or Chenin Blanc, which are often found in sets of the best white wines for gifts.
6. Concert or Theater Tickets (even virtual ones)
Tickets to a concert, the theater, or even a comedy special can be crucial if the person likes music, theater, or live shows. Plus points if it’s a show or act they’ve been wanting to see.
If getting to the theater is hard, you can choose to watch the show livestreamed, which many places now do.
Want to make it even more unique? Consider providing a pre-show night kit that includes snacks and wine to complement the experience. It’s a personal touch that makes me think of a party at home.
7. Adventure Vouchers
If you know someone who loves thrills, give them a real journey.
Some ideas are:
- Rides in hot air balloons
- Tours by helicopter
- Lessons in sailing or scuba diving
- Going ziplining or flying
- A plan for a weekend road trip
Make it your own by making a schedule or a “passport” booklet to keep track of new things you do.
8. Artistic or Crafting Workshops
Creative classes are a fun way to get rid of stress and learn new skills. Some popular choices are:
- Making pottery or pottery
- Painting with watercolors
- Making candles
- Do-It-Yourself Home Decor
- Jewelry Crafting
These activities are relaxing and fun, and they’re great for creative people who haven’t had time to do much of it lately. To finish it off, put a glass of wine and some materials in a small “gift box.”
9. Subscription Services (Tailored to Their Interests)
Not all subscription boxes are “experience-based,” but if you choose them carefully, they can give you something new and fun every month.
For example:
- Book of the Month Club
- International Snacks or spices
- Monthly wine deliveries with the best wine gift basketchoices
- Platforms for learning online, like MasterClass
What’s the best part? It’s a gift that keeps on giving after the event is over.
10. Host a Surprise Experience
Time and company are sometimes the best gifts. Throw them a surprise breakfast, dinner, or game night with a theme. Make plans for their favorite people to come, prepare their favorite foods, and raise a glass of their favorite wine.
You don’t need a significant reason to celebrate. Making sure they have a good time just for them is worth more than anything material.
Last Thoughts: It’s the Memory That Matters
Experience-based gifts are a meaningful way to tell someone who has everything that the best things in life are not things that can be bought, but things that can be lived. These gifts are memorable, whether it’s a quiet wine tasting, a surprise trip, or a journey of personal growth.
So, the next time you can’t think of a gift, don’t just think of a thing. As a gift, give time, connection, joy, and a moment that will last. You could even hold a glass of the best white wine.
