Stuck On What Christmas Presents To Buy? Use Their Love Language As A Guide

The five love languages are Physical Affection, Words of Affirmation, Acts of Service, Quality Time, and Gifts. Now that we've had a little refresher, the fun can begin! Christmas is coming, so let's utilize this theory and become the most legendary gift-givers ever. Whether you're searching for a Christmas gift for your man, your mom, or your sister-in-law, you can use their love language as a guide. Here’s the only Christmas gift guide you’ll need this year. 

1. Physical Affection 

If anyone you know feels most loved by acts of physical affection, you know they love their back pats and hair strokes. The trouble is, Christmas gifts traditionally come in brown paper packages tied up in string. We don't make the rules! 

But don’t fret – there are still great gift options for all the cuddle bugs. When shopping for physical affection folks, look for items that appeal to their tactile and sensory nature, such as:  

• Blankets 

• Slippers 

• Scarves 

• Pillows 

• Tea Samplers 

• Great-Smelling Candles 

• Crochet Plushies (Great for the kiddos) 

2. Words of Affirmation 

Those who feel most loved by words of affirmation couldn’t feel better after receiving an encouraging email from their boss or a loving text from their spouse. But ‘tis the season, and texts and emails are just a little too blah for Christmas. 

Instead, opt for gifts that allow them to write their own story, speak highly of themselves, and grow in confidence in the process. Even better – take one of the options below and pair it with a handwritten note full of affirming prose. Be sure to gift your words people: 

• Hardback Journals 

• Pretty Stationery 

• Fancy Pens 

• Conversation Cards 

• Self-Help/Leadership Books 

• Cheerful Yearly Planners 

• Motivational Canvas Prints 

3. Acts of Service 

Frankly, acts of service may be the most practical of the love languages. If you know anyone who feels the most loved when someone fills up their tank, does the dishes, or unclogs their sink, chances are they’re an “acts of service” person. 

The challenge in question? Acts of Service people are quite practical. Froofy knicknacks probably won’t tickle their fancy. But here are a few gifts that might do the trick: 

• Grocery Store and Gas Gift Cards 

• Nifty Kitchen Appliances 

• Monthly Meal Kit Subscriptions 

• Storage Caddies and Containers  

• Bougie Cleaning Supplies (perhaps a gift basket of them) 

• Cooking Classes 

• Tupperware or Water Bottles (practical = ideal) 

4. Quality Time

Quality time people crave time with friends and loved ones, often regardless of the place or activity. So, to show your loved ones with quality time as their love language that you appreciate them, look for items that showcase your appreciation for their time. 

And, if you can help it, don’t give any of the items after Christmas day. Punctuality for QT folks is key! Let’s not waste another minute – here are some optimal quality time gifts: 

• Concert Tickets (Plus one for you) 

• “Movie Night” in a Box (Popcorn and DVDs included) 

• Productivity/Time Management Books 

• Ferry or Train Tickets, to be used on full-day trips 

• Reservations for Afternoon Tea  

• DIY Herb Garden Kits (only for the most patient) 

5. Gifts 

Last but not least on this list are the gifts people. Luckily, these individuals feel most loved with gifts of most kinds, so you can really get creative here. Just make sure that your presents for these people are charming and unique to their interests.

Speaking as a gifts person myself, we know a drugstore teddy bear when we see one. Some of the best ideas for this type are (but aren’t limited to): 

• Puzzles and Games 

• Craft or Calligraphy Kits 

• Room or Office Décor in Their Aesthetic 

• Polaroid Cameras with Film (for sentimental mementos) 

• Candle Versions of Their Favorite Scents 

• Gourmet Versions of Their Favorite Snacks and Candies 

• Literally Anything from Etsy 

The five love languages are a great key to helping us make our friends and families feel loved and appreciated. While it may take some effort to figure out something for everyone on our list, gifting in accordance with their love language is the way to go. Happy shopping!