7 Christmas gifting trends in 2021

Christmas 2021 will hopefully look a little more normal than last year, when strict COVID-19 pandemic restrictions were in place over the festive period. That being said, the pandemic is not over and Christmas plans are still likely to be affected, whether that means a smaller gathering or a change in location.With that in mind, we've taken a look at 2021's Christmas releases and trend forecasts and rounded-up everything you need to know about Christmas gifting this year.

1.Letter Box Gifts
Gifts that can fit through letter boxes are set to be a big hit this year, as people might be less likely to exchange gifts in person. We also want to avoid a delivery waiting on the recipient's doorstep unprotected. The letterbox gift market has really expanded. It's the perfect way to send a practical gift to a loved one.

2. Quality Gifts that Last
One-off gimmicks and toys, clothes and accessories that will soon be grown out of are falling off the agenda, fortunately. It's now all about gifts and possessions that are well made, long lasting and are genuinely adding something to the recipient's lives. Even if these gifts are more expensive, one quality gift that will last is surely better than several less expensive gifts that will not withstand the test of time.

3.Personalised Gifts
Personalised gifts are set to be one of the ways we can add a little extra thought to our gifting this year, as we aim to give people something that's truly 'them'. It might be an initialed diary to help plan the things they weren't able to do in 2020, a handmade scarf in someone's favourite colour, or a piece of jewellery featuring a birth stone.

4. Sustainability
Although we know that living sustainably is not a trend but a way of life we should all adopt, it's worth reminding people that Christmas can produce a heap of waste and single-use plastic if we are not careful. Global lockdowns have had a number of positive effects on the environment and proved that human actions have a direct impact on air quality, habitats and animals. When we stop harmful behaviours, the environment improves.

5. Wellness and Self Care
The last two years have reminded us how important it is to take care of ourselves and appreciate what we have. Many of us will want to continue this thought process into 2022 and hold on to the small things that made us smile during lockdown, whether it was gardening, taking up a new hobby or re-igniting a passion for an old one, or simply reading more good books.

6. Gifts that Give Back
Community spirit and charitable actions have come to the fore and it's a trend we'll definitely see oozing into Christmas and, hopefully, well beyond. Gifts that give back are set to be huge this year as we aim to help as many people as we can through one purchase. Here's a few we love.

7. Small Businesses Gifts
One of the positive things to have come out of the pandemic is a renewed appreciation for small businesses, independent artisans and handcrafted products. Many of us have made a real effort to shop small and help keep our lovely cafes, bakers and boutiques afloat during difficult times.