This festive season, we want to discuss gifting with you. Inspired by our philosophy of financial wellbeing, lets explore gifting for wellbeing and how you can create deeper connections and a more lasting impact . . .

Experiences – The Priceless Present

We have explored the connection between wellbeing and the gifting of experiences in previous years. We believe this is a wonderful way of gifting for wellbeing as it often leads to shared time and can strengthen relationships – often far more productive than giving “stuff”.

• Imagine funding a photography workshop for a creative friend, where they learn new skills and capture moments that last a lifetime.

• Consider purchasing a season pass to a local theatre for your parents, giving them multiple evenings of shared enjoyment.
• A weekend cooking course could be great for a foodie sibling, and in turn you could get an invite as they may be keen to share their new skills.

It’s all about creating memories that become stories for years to come.

Episode 33 of The Financial Wellbeing Podcast explored how waiting for experiences over immediate gratification of purchases can increase our wellbeing.

Values – Leaving a Lasting Impression

Incorporating personal values into gifting for wellbeing gives an opportunity to reflect on what truly matters to you and your loved ones. This approach makes gifts more meaningful, as they align with our beliefs and leave a lasting impression.

Reflect on what truly matters to your loved ones. Then research gift options that align with this. For example:

• You might support a loved one’s financial future with a contribution to a long-term savings goal they have.

• You may present a friend with a yoga class or spa day as this supports their mental health.

• Buying gifts from local businesses, which helps to support the local community.
• Donating to a charity close to their heart in their name
• Purchasing a gift that donates alongside your item;

(such as Stand4Socks who give a pair of socks to the homeless for each pair purchased)

B Corp Gifting – Sustainable Presents

Earlier in the year we were excited to share that Ovation Finance earned B Corp certification! Becoming part of the B Corp family reflects our commitment to practicing what we’re preaching. Ensuring that as a business, we’re striving to be a force for good. We are always looking to improve our business practices to benefit our staff, clients, community, and the environment.

If you also value a commitment to sustainability in your gifting for wellbeing, you can consider fellow B Corp options found here in Bristol:

At The Mall, Cribbs Causeway you can find:

• Fatface clothing

• L’Occitane cosmetics

• ProCook kitchenware

• Rituals cosmetics

• The White Company homewares

• Seasalt clothing

• You can even stay the night at Mollie’s, a B Corp hotel!

If you are looking for entertainment over the holidays, we have both The Wave and Wake the Tiger in the area who have B Corp status.

Whilst not a gifting option, you can try the Too Good To Go app, a sustainable way to avoid food waste. It could be helpful for those late-night nibbles after all the festive partying!

For those further afield or looking for different options, there is a B Corp directory you can search, from location to industry to find your gifting options.

Each of these B Corp brands reflect our commitment to sustainability and ethical practices, aligning with the values we cherish personally, and here at Ovation Finance.

A Final Thought On Gifting For Wellbeing

We all know gifting isn’t about the price tag – it’s about the intention behind the gesture. By aligning your festive giving with wellbeing, you’ll foster not only holiday cheer but also something that could resonate for a lot longer. Let’s make this season about what truly matters—because thoughtful giving has the potential to enrich everyone involved.