I’m constantly working to help others declutter their spaces, so when it comes time for the season of giving, I’m always trying to think of gifts that are consumable or feature some sort of new experience as an alternative to gifting another ugly Christmas sweater!

Of course there are exceptions, but the idea of treating those you love to something unique that doesn’t add clutter to their space is the perfect way to be a gift-giver extraordinaire. And that doesn’t mean you can’t get creative when it comes to wrapping if you still want to create a thrill around opening!

Here are five gift ideas to add to your arsenal this holiday season:

Indianapolis Food Tour Experience: This past summer, our wonderful city launched food tours in Fountain Square, Fletcher Place and Mass Ave. Food tours have got to be one of my FAVORITE things to do when exploring a new city, but I feel like this is also a really fun thing to do right here in our own backyard. Foodies will be pumped to receive this as a treat to use in the new year, giving them the chance to devour bites from a number of restaurants AND see behind the scenes of some innovative Indianapolis establishments. Tours start at $55 per person and can be booked here. Gift certificates can be ordered through Sarah Frey with the Indy Cultural Trail (sfrey@indyculturaltrail.org).

Penn & Beech Candle Making Class: Candles are the ultimate consumable gift (and great as an alternative to a bottle of wine as a hostess gift this holiday season). But why not take it one step further and create your own signature scented candle (or room spray, body spray, diffuser, or a set of wax tarts)? Penn & Beech, located at the intersection of Mass and College Avenues, offers Indianapolis just that. Creating your own candle starts at just $20 and you can make a reservation for groups of five or more. What a memorable outing to celebrate the season with friends or that special someone in your life!

6-month or Annual Subscription to Macs.Well: I’ve been crazy for Gallery Pastry Shop since the minute I stepped into their adorable space in SoBro. But for those who might not be able to pop in for $1 macarons every Wednesday, consider this most thoughtful gift (in my humble, and hungry, opinion). Gift a monthly subscription of either six ($15) or 12 macarons ($25) and I have no doubt they’ll be devoured within minutes of arriving.

Manicure or Pedicure from Nails by Neat: I’m obsessed with Nails by Neat for a couple of reasons! First, come 2019 they will be operating out of a tiny home converted into a nail salon. How fun is that? Second, their owner, Lindsay is a fellow girl boss who took the leap of faith to leave her corporate salon job to follow her passion. And her work (and color selection) is stunning!! Manicures start at $30 and Pedicures at $40.

Styling Session with Nicole Blair Wear: Another female founder that I’ve long admired is Nicole Blair Wear, stylist extraordinaire. For so many, we find ourselves staring aimlessly into our closet each morning stumped on what to wear. Well, wonder no more. NBW offers a Power Hour session which includes creation of 3 - 7 outfits using a client’s existing wardrobe to showcase YOUR style and personality ($200). Looking for a little more oomph and a shopping trip? Consider the Power Hour Plus which includes 3 - 7 outfits PLUS an online assessment, 10 wardrobe starters, a curated shopping list and a classic closet design ($299).

For even more ideas, check out the 2017 Consumable Gift Guide here! And do tell, what is your favorite consumable or experiential gift to give or receive?

The Baer Minimalist helps busy families create ORGANIZED + STYLIZED spaces and events throughout Indianapolis. 

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