Preparing for the holidays can be a fun and exciting time, but it can also be chaotic, especially when it comes to buying gifts. Between friends, family, teachers, coworkers, and others in your life, the gift list can get quite long, and it’s easy to forget someone important. To help, we’ve put together a list of people that should be on your holiday gift list, just in case they slipped your mind.
MAIL CARRIERS
This is the busiest time of year for mail carriers, so help them feel appreciated by giving them something special for the holidays. Because mail carriers are government employees, they cannot accept cash from the public or gifts valued at more than $20, so something small and inexpensive like coffee, candy, or a gift card can show your gratitude.
DELIVERY DRIVERS
Along with mail carriers, delivery drivers are busier than ever during this time of year. Braving the rain, snow, and cold, these people ensure you have your packages and gifts in time for all your celebrations. Many of these drivers aren’t allowed to accept cash and have limits on the value of a gift they can accept, so keep that in mind as you do your shopping. But smaller gifts, gift cards, or baked goods can all be nice gestures.
DOORMEN
If you live in an apartment or complex with a doorman, you’ll likely see them quite a bit as you run your holiday errands. A small but thoughtful gift like a hat, pair of gloves, bottle of wine, or baked treat can mean a lot.
NANNY/BABYSITTER
If you’re a parent, you may have a nanny or babysitter who helps care for your children. Whether their presence allows you to work from home in peace or enjoy a night out with your spouse, thank them with a gift that helps them to relax as well. Socks, slippers, a robe, a gift card for a nail salon or spa, or even a restaurant gift card are great ideas.
BUS DRIVER
If you take public transportation or your child has a bus driver who takes them to and from school every day, consider adding them to your holiday gift list. You may not know them well, so this gift can be small—coffee, gloves, a book, or something similar will likely be appreciated. Or, your child can make something homemade to show your appreciation.
HOUSEKEEPER
Housekeepers make life easier by ensuring your home is clean and tidy. Even though you pay them for their services, something special or unique can let them know how much you truly value them. If you can make it something personal that they will enjoy, do so. Or, chocolates, baked goods, gift cards, or similar items can do the trick.
TEACHER
Your child’s teachers spend many hours with them throughout the week, so it’s always nice to show your appreciation for their services and dedication. Something homemade or thoughtful can have a lot of meaning. A travel coffee mug, lunch box, book, gift card, or similar item that they can use during the day is also kind.
TRASH COLLECTORS
Trash collectors manage hundreds of thousands of pounds of garbage and recycling each year, often in the early hours of the morning, regardless of weather or time of year. Because their services are a part of our weekly routine, it’s easy to forget to add these people to your holiday list. However, a thermos, coffee, or even a box of breakfast treats can help them get through their days and show how much you appreciate what they do.
BOSS/COWORKERS
It may be nice to show extra appreciation for your boss and/or coworkers during the holiday time. If you've gotten to know one another throughout the time you’ve been working together, your gift can be more personal. Choose a gift that reflects what you know about their favorite foods or hobbies. Choosing something special they can use in the workplace is another good option.