Issuu

HOLIDAY TRENDS REPORT: GIFTING BECOMES MORE INTENTIONAL

As many consumers eagerly look to turn the page on 2025, they’re still planning to end the year on a high note, celebrating the holidays with family and friends. What is changing however, is their desire to embrace the season in more meaningful ways.

Many say they are being more intentional with their spending this season, seeking gifts that feel personal and purposeful without going over their carefully planned budgets. A majority of shoppers say they prefer giving useful gifts, rather than fun or frivolous items. Many also say it’s about more than just picking a present; it’s about creating a lasting impression. But no matter who or what they are shopping for, the myriad of choices gracing gift store shelves are sure to complete anyone’s shopping list. And experienced store personnel – working overtime as Santa’s helpers – are ready to lend their expertise.

Gone are the days of grabbing a gift card off the rack. Today’s shoppers aren’t just buying presents – they’re curating experiences, telling stories and making statements about what matters to them. The gift industry is riding this wave of change, and it’s transforming everything from how products are made to how they’re marketed and sold. Items that pull double-duty – think luxury meets practicality, or nostalgia with a modern twist – are turning heads.

There’s a growing appetite for gifts that do more than sit on a shelf. Whether it’s a smart gadget that makes life easier or a wellness product that shows genuine care, modern gifts need to strike a deeper chord. For retailers, this shift isn’t just interesting – it’s crucial for staying ahead of the curve.

A number of key trends have emerged for this upcoming holiday season. The first is an emphasis on intimate gatherings at home, again encouraging a more mindful approach to celebrations. Here, the focus is on quality time and meaningful connections, rather than

extravagant events. A recent survey found that over 30 percent of people polled planned to host more events this year than last year. This presents an abundance of gift-giving opportunities, from fashion-forward holiday tabletop and textiles, to candles, drinking accessories and barware in an array of on-trend styles.

There’s also a resurgence of vintage themes in holiday décor, particularly for Christmas. Classic motifs

like snowflakes and Christmas trees are being reimagined with modern twists, incorporating sleek geometric shapes and updated color schemes. This blend of tradition and contemporary design aims to evoke warmth while appealing to modern sensibilities. There’s something magical happening when vintage vibes meet modern design. From reimagined classic games to childhood favorites with a 2025 twist, these throwback gifts are hitting an emotional sweet spot across generations.

Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword anymore – it’s becoming the new normal. Modern gift-givers are diving deep into the stories behind their purchases, wanting to know where products come from and how they’re made. From packaging that disappears without a trace to materials given a second life, environmental consciousness is reshaping gift-buying decisions. To that end, designs featuring nature-inspired motifs such as leaves and wildlife are garnering attention. And eco-conscious patterns that feature neutral tones with pops of greenery, reflect a commitment to mindfulness and simplicity in holiday décor.

definitely gotten smarter. Items such as solarpowered décor and self-sustaining plant systems are gaining in popularity, perfect for those who want their gifts to be both eco-friendly and effortlessly chic. The popularity of Scandinavian minimalism has evolved into something special, bringing together clean lines, natural material and clever functionality in ways that make everyday items feel extraordinary.

Meanwhile, personalization is hitting new heights, with people falling in love with gifts that scream “this was made for you,” such as a monogrammed travel accessory, scarf, towel or throw.

The booming market for wellness and selfcare gifts promises to remain strong. Here, people are gifting peace of mind, whether through items like weighted blankets that feel like a warm hug, or aromatherapy sets that transform homes into personal spas.

One notable color palette on display this season includes rich deep hues like reds and blacks, contrasted with whites to create a dramatic and elegant atmosphere. This palette is sure to evoke warmth and indulgence, enhancing the festive spirit of any home environment.

Home goods have not lost their gift appeal, but they’ve

Candles continue to lead sales of all Christmas categories in gift stores, with 60 percent of consumers planning to purchase a candle this holiday season, according to the Strategic Insights, 2025 Gifts & Decorative Accessories Study. This is followed by ornaments, at 59 percent; seasonal gourmet items at 42 percent; apparel/fashion accessories, 42 percent; bath and body items, 36 percent; decorative accents, 35 percent; tableware, 28 percent, and advent calendars, pillows, tea towels are other textiles and nativity sets rounding out the most sought-after shopping categories. As consumers reassess their spending habits, there will be a focus on intentional purchases that quality over quantity . This trend encourages thoughtful gifting and decorating choices that foster connections and reflect personal

Here's to a holiday season filled with joy, love and meaning.