I know I complain about this every year, but G's extended family all exchanges gifts, which means that we (meaning I)have to come up with ideas for two aunts, three uncles, and an uncle's mother & step-dad (on top of our parents, siblings, etc.) They are all at Christmas dinner and everyone opens gifts one at a time. I usually get the same things for everyone and I don't mind doing couples gifts-- the uncles really don't give a shit, the aunts are super into it. It's a bit competitive and if it's a lame gift, feelings will be hurt.
In the past I've given handmade soaps, ornaments, movie theatre gift cards + candy, and holiday-themed glass plates. Lately I've been making things myself-- wreaths, wine cork cutting boards, and pottery. I am totally out of ideas. Seen anything on Pinterest maybe?
My family doesn't really get that into it, so to me, that sounds fun...for maybe one Christmas.
What about a cookbook with a basket full of non-perishable items that would help them to make a meal from the book? I have done this and it is a big hit. Like an Italian cookbook and a basket with olive oil, pasta, etc.
Or, what about a winter themed gift with gloves, scarves, hot chocolate, etc.
I love your homemade gifts and would be pumped to receive that if I were your Uncle-in-laws-step-dad's wife's, son.
What are their hobbies? Could you buy them something related to that? Or tickets to a show or something?
I'm really terrible at these things.
Both aunts like cooking. One decorates cakes as a hobby. One uncle likes golf and pool, one likes video games and Nascar... other uncle likes dogs? I have no idea what uncle's mom & SD like (we see them once a year!).
What are their hobbies? Could you buy them something related to that? Or tickets to a show or something?
I'm really terrible at these things.
Both aunts like cooking. One decorates cakes as a hobby. One uncle likes golf and pool, one likes video games and Nascar... other uncle likes dogs? I have no idea what uncle's mom & SD like (we see them once a year!).
Cookbook and non-perishable items basket is a good idea. Does the aunt that decorates cakes need more or replacement supplies? Pans, etc? Or maybe a basket of cake decor supplies? Uncle who like's golf: gift certificate for a day of golf at a nice course? Maybe throw some Ts and balls into the mix. You should get the Nascar uncle a sweet Nascar trucker hat! (so just kidding) I'm running out of ideas.
So glad we don't exchange gifts with extended family. That's exhausting!