We believe the most meaningful gifts aren't always the ones wrapped in bows—they're the ones that create lasting memories or bring joy in simple ways. This holiday season, we’re focusing on experiences over things, quality over quantity, and highlighting some incredible local businesses we love. Whether you're treating yourself or surprising someone special, this guide offers a range of thoughtful gifts to make your holidays more memorable, without adding clutter.

I have been lucky enough to experience the creativity and talent from each of these businesses over the past several years, so take my word for it…anything from these local businesses would be a hit for those on your gift list. But to make the season of giving even more fun, each of these small businesses has a special offering for you, TBM friends! Enjoy and support local this holiday season.

For the Game Lovers: Mahjong with Jaime Keith

Give the gift of connection and fun with a personalized Mahjong class from Jaime Keith, aka Meet at Mahj - Mahjong Mentor. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned player, Jaime’s workshops promise hours of laughter and strategy. Gather a group of friends or neighbors for a Mahjong night, and let the games begin! Reach out to Jaime on Instagram (@meetatmahj) to book.

I can vouch for the fun that a Mahjong 101 class can bring for your friends after hosting a neighborhood class earlier this Fall. We all fell in love with the game and are itching to play again soon - which is great, because Meet at Mahj offers local meet-ups.

For the Thoughtful Host: Custom Acrylics from Painted Letter Co.

Looking for a gift that marries form and function? Painted Letter Co. creates beautiful custom acrylic items, perfect for adding a personalized touch to your holiday celebrations or gifting loved ones. Whether it's a chic holiday decor piece or something special for their home, these items are perfectly personalized without taking up too much space.

If you’ve been to any TBM events, you’ve seen Painted Letter Co making things oh so special - from our custom Luxe Edit hanger, to the drink markers for my 40th and stir sticks for every event in between, she can do no wrong.

For the Foodies: A Private Dinner with Tanorria's Table

Skip the typical restaurant gift cards and offer an intimate, unforgettable dining experience with Tanorria’s Table. Renowned local chef Tanorria Askew will create a personalized menu, cooking a meal that is as soulful as it is delicious. Whether it’s a holiday dinner or a special event in the new year, this gift guarantees a night to remember. Book directly at tanorriastable.com.

We recently hosted a 40th anniversary celebration for my parents and Chef Tanorria designed such an incredible menu, but half the dinner guests (including my mom) came down with the flu prior to the event. Which meant that Henrik and Luna were treated to one incredible meal!

For the Detail-Oriented Host: Elegant Linens from Parkside Linen, Embroidered by Lalalinen

Elevate someone’s dining table (or your own) with luxury linens from Parkside Linen, embroidered by Lalalinen. Shandon with Parkside Linen will steer you in the right direction, whether you are looking to spruce up your table or slip into the most amazing sheets on New Years eve.

And then, take those beauties to Katherine with Lalalinen. From beautiful napkins to tailored table settings, these linens will add a touch of elegance to any gathering. The perfect way to add style without the clutter, Lalalinen’s offerings are timeless gifts that will be cherished for years. Heads up—if you’re placing a customized order, get moving! The current turnaround time is around four weeks, so plan ahead to ensure your gift arrives on time. Shop the collection at lalalinencollection.com.

For the Green Thumb: A Session with The Concierge Gardener

For the plant enthusiast in your life, give the gift of nature with a personalized porch pot from Erica Morrissey, The Concierge Gardener. Erica’s expertise in crafting beautiful, sustainable outdoor spaces will transform any garden into a peaceful retreat. Follow her on Instagram (@the_concierge_gardener_) to explore more and schedule a session.

I have never felt as grown up as I did the day Erica created magic on my doorstep with a fall-inspired pot. I can’t wait to see what she has up her sleeve for our Christmas porch pot.

For the Fashion-Forward: The Luxe Edit Wardrobe Refresh

Gift a loved one a fresh start with a wardrobe makeover from Style Riot. Whether it's revamping their closet, personal shopping, or building a capsule wardrobe, the Style Riot team will help them look their best while keeping things simple and stylish. Find out more at mystyleriot.com.

And if you want the true luxe treatment…The Luxe Edit is just a click away. We would be delighted to help you!

For the Sentimental: The Keepsake Collection by Less is Maura & Meghan Barich Creativity

If you’ve followed along for a bit, you know how much I treasure the twin’s art books from Less is Maura. But why should the kids have all the fun?

Maura has partnered up with local artist, Meghan Barich, to create the Keepsake Collection. This new offering helps clients beautifully preserve important keepsakes without the clutter - consider YOUR (yes, your) art that has been tucked away for years in a box that your parents handed down. Maura will professionally photograph each piece to create a keepsake book and then hand the pile off creations to Meghan who creates an incredible collage to display. It’s almost too much!!

Don’t tell Mr. Baer, but a Keepsake Collection gift just might be under the tree for him this year (but only if he stays on the nice list).

Gift guides are so fun to create, but we realize not all of you are lucky enough to live locally where you can enjoy these services. So, if you are still looking for a little direction, we’ve put together a couple of gift guides here: Anti-Clutter and Kids. We’ve also got our wrapping essentials and our holiday lookbook guides too. And finally, our friends at Better Homes & Gardens put together this SUPER comprehensive gift guide for parents that is chock full of goodies - especially the Marlow Pillow and Fitbit Smartwatch! A great night of sleep is high up on my list.

Now, I just need to know from you…what is the most meaningful gift you’ve received in the past few years?? Send me a note - I’d love to hear from you!

The Baer Minimalist creates simplified, sustainable spaces with Minimal Clutter. Maximum Style for families across the Indianapolis area. Owner, Maria Baer, is passionate about being a conscious consumer when it comes to filling her home, but loves nothing more than finding and giving the perfect holiday gifts for family and friends.

To keep up to date with all of the tips, tricks and inspiration doled out, subscribe to our newsletter, The Minimal-List, here.

Less is More // Your 2024 Guide to Meaningful Gifting