D'office Threads December 2014 | Page 33

dismiss the clues being left before you, key in on even the smallest of things. After all, they may lead to the largest gift of the season. A sweater she saw in the window of a shop, a necklace in a catalog or even a mention of a book a friend has read.

We also recommend you be proactive. There is no reward for those who wait until the last minute. Now this does not mean that the shopping season need kick off in June, but the sooner it is done, the better for your stress level and for your loved one. Also, let us not forget the impact early shopping and planning can have on your wallet. Last minute gift buying can not only result in undue stress, but unnecessary and panicked spending.

Get crafty and use the resources available to you. There has never been a time more-so than today, where the world can literally be at your fingertips. We do not necessarily mean using Amazon or eBay, but rather use the social media sources available to get creative. A gift can be a wonderful thing to open and share, but a hand-made, personalized gift is even far more impressive and memorable. Nothing could be more personal or more romantic than something that cannot be bought. A photo album made of memorable moments shared together through the year; romantic dinners made for the couple exclusively or even a gift-a-day countdown to the holiday.

Lastly, consider the time. In other words, share in the moment. Do not dismiss the importance of the season. It is important to get the gifts, to shop and be ready to entertain family and friends and decorate, but remember the moments with each other while doing everything during the season. While the holiday is just that, one day, the holiday season is a collection of memories and moments that can be the difference between a present under a tree, and a gift of the season from a perfect gentleman.