By Felicia Czochanski
Especially during the holidays, it’s the thought that counts more than anything else. This is the season when people tend to be more generous – whether it’s with a donation or spending extra time with someone in need, or even thinking of unique presents for the special people in one’s life. The holidays are a special time to reflect on all the blessings in life and spoil the people you love.
I’ve always loved this time of year because of the amazing atmosphere created by beautiful festive decorations, cooler weather and bundled layers, and the coming together of family and friends. This is what the holidays are all about – more than what comes under the tree or Menorah – but thoughtful gifts can go a long way too. The holidays can be a great time to show the wonderful people in your life how well you know them. It’s like a fun challenge – especially for those in a new relationship!
No matter who you’re shopping for, it can mean a lot to give someone a gift as unique as them. This doesn’t mean you need to break the bank! By shopping at a store like Goodwill, you can find incredible items for less than a quarter of their retail value. Some of them will be brand new with tags, others truly unique and vintage – the kind of items you won’t be able to find anywhere else! Not only will you be able to find something truly special second hand, but you’ll also be shopping the most sustainable way. Did you know the holidays create 25 million extra tons of garbage in the span between Thanksgiving and New Year’s? Avoid being part of that by shopping second hand and diverting goods from the landfill, instead of picking up a plastic toy at a department store that will break after a few uses.
When one walks into Goodwill, each store has its own vibe. Some will be known for designer apparel, others for an incredible shoe section, yet others for their accessories or home goods. No matter which store is in your area, there’s one thing for certain – there will be some amazing vintage items! I love the idea of gifting vintage because it makes the gift truly one-of-a-kind. It shows you didn’t walk into a department store and pull a fast fashion trend off the shelf. Instead, you found something made with quality materials that have allowed it to last years and continue to do so for years to come.
- Vintage Jewelry
I have seen some incredible pieces of vintage jewelry in the display cases by the Goodwill register. This is often the last place people look, waiting until they check out, but it can also be full of beautiful treasures. There is usually an assortment of earrings, necklaces, bracelets, rings, broaches and pins, watches and so much more. Even glasses frames! There is something for everyone if you have the patience to look through the items inspecting for quality and material.
- Vintage Handbags
This is another popular spot at my local Goodwill. There are two seconds of handbags in the store, half behind the counter, and half in their own section upstairs. Instead of going in and walking straight to the clothing racks (guilty!) stop by the handbag section first to see if there are any vintage gems that remind you of the loved ones in your life. You never know what you might find – there have been some incredible designers hidden in this section in the past, like this well-loved Dior!
- Vintage Books & Records
This can be a really special section, because there are so many books and especially records that are out of print! In some cases, vintage is really the only option to get the original text or sound for a book or album. Keep some of your gift recipients’ favorite authors and musicians in mind the next time you stop by Goodwill – and don’t forget to treat yourself if you find something you love!
