Experiential Gift Guide for Your S.O.

Christmas is tough because, well, what is the perfect gift. You love someone, we know, but how do you show it? Jewelry is beautiful, clothes are practical, but what do you get someone that has it all? Better yet, what do you get someone that wants nothing at all? An experience. In this day and age, it's all about the experiences. Gifting an experience is special in multiple ways: it's thoughtful, it's a bonding , and it's customizable. And a note: there are so many deals for these gifts (Groupon), which make them fun and affordable. Which we love.

Without further ado, the gifts:

For the Romantic

Sunset Dinner Cruise

Who doesn't love dressing up and having a romantic dinner? Make this holiday extra special by taking dinner out onto the sea for a dinner cruise. If you live near the coast of California, there are tons of opportunities to experience this. Make it a night your S.O. will never forget!

Hotel Sleepover

Pick a local hotel and spend the day basking in the sun. Poolside drinks, order room service, the whole shibang. If you're feeling extra loving, check into the room ahead of time and plant a couple of surprises for him/her upon arrival. We're talking flower petals on the bed, homemade chocolate covered strawberries, maybe even an origami towel swan. This will make a big difference especially if you aren't staying at a super expensive resort. If you're really trying to cut costs, you can even get a "pool pass" and simply use the pool all day. Aside from the hotel room, it'll really feel like you are on vacation!

Couple's Massage

A massage is one of those things you probably never invest in, but when it's given as a present, it is SO appreciated. Taking the time to pamper your S.O. (and you because let's be real, that's why you're doing a couples massage) is a special occasion, which makes this even more significant. If you want to take it to the next level, have an entire spa day together.

Cooking Classes

Now this is something your girlfriend would be bragging about to her friends. Cooking classes with your S.O. is not only so movie-esque and adorable, but practical too! If you both enjoy cooking, learning a couple of techniques is a great way to spend quality time together. Sur La Table has classes available all year long and I have heard amazing things about it.

Brush & Bottle

Wine, painting, and your sweetheart by your side. Now THAT's a date night. This is wonderful for the crafty type, or even just two lovebird's looking to have a fun night out.

Wine/ Beer Tasting

Take a nice little trip out to the nearest vineyards or find a brewery near home! This is a fun outing for you and your S.O. to spend, especially if you both are wine/beer enthusiasts.

Lessons

If there is something your S.O. has always wanted to do, this is the time for you to give them the gift of learning! Whether it be photography, sailing, guitar lessons, etc. it is such a thoughtful gift. Many times, people are unwilling to spend the money on themselves, but gifting it to them makes a dream a reality.

For the Kid at Heart

Day Trip to Disneyland

Make this trip extra special by creating a big reveal! Opt in for a movie night of classic disney movies, ending with present opening. Gift a pair of DIY (or store bought) Mickey Mouse ears along with the ticket for an extra surprise.

Knott's Berry Farm

If you're looking for something a little more reasonable price wise, Knott's Berry Farm is the perfect place. It's more affordable, at around $40 per ticket, but still so much fun! The rides are great and its never as crowded as Disneyland. It's one of my favorite amusement parks.

For the Dare Devil

Sky Diving

Slightly on the pricey side, but if your S.O. is up for it, why not?! There are Groupons usually available which make it a little more affordable. If you are able to, pick a destination you will enjoy skydiving over; sometimes deserts don't make for the best scenery. For the faint of heart, indoor skydiving is a great option!

Day on the Dunes

Take a little road trip to the nearest sand dunes and go ATVing! Rent a couple of four-wheelers and have fun carving through the sand. You can ride anywhere from one to four hours depending on the day's itinerary. It is relatively cheap too, around $40, but Groupons are usually available too. Pismo Beach, CA has a great rental place I just love!

Car Racing

Now this is a little expensive, but MAN it'd be fun. Give your S.O. the rush of driving a race car on a good ol' fashion track! At around $100-400 depending on the ride you choose, it is definitely something you'll want to experience.

Concert Tickets

A ticket to see their favorite band is so sweet and thoughtful. Extra points, give your S.O. a ticket for them and their best friend! It may seem odd, but if it is a band you don't enjoy and they have it in common with their friend, it might be an even better time for him/her. It's thoughtful and honest, but in reality, we both know they'll probably take you in the end. But, it's the thought and consideration that counts.

Mystery Murder Dinner

While I haven't attended one of these myself, I hear that they are so much fun. If you and your S.O. spend date nights watching horror and mystery films, well it's time to kick it up a notch for this holiday. They are around $60 per person and available all over the country. If home is Tucson, keep it local and head here!

Snow Day

Head up to the mountains for a day of skiing and fun! Cozy lunch at the lodge, then off to an adventurous day. If you are not expecting a white Christmas this year, this makes winter extra fun and spirited.

For the Nature Enthusiast

Whale Watching

A trip out to see to watch magnificent whales is an incredible experience. If you're near the coast, this is a great day trip to be followed with a romantic sunset dinner. Tickets are generally around $40 and it gets you a full day of adventure!

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Imagine flying over the most beautiful landscape. But, wait, don't end it there. Upon landing, have a beautiful picnic spread laid out. Now, does it really get any more romantic than that? For picnic packing tips, head to my picnic post.

Fitness Classes

Now, if your S.O. is the yogi type and *this is important* CURRENTLY attends fitness classes, then a package of classes is a wonderful gift! They get expensive, so allowing your S.O. to treat themselves to a few yoga classes is a very thoughtful give. However, if they do not already attend classes and work out, this is going to get you in a bit of trouble so be strategic.

Rock Climbing

It's more than just a hike; go rock climbing! This could mean go into the wildness if you are experienced, or simply just to a rock climbing gym. This is unique and may even throw your S.O. back to a few childhood memories.

Deep Sea Fishing

Get a little friendly competition going and see who can catch the biggest fish! It's an early morning and a full day for only about $40. The adventure continues when you get home if you decide to whip up some fresh fish tacos. Find my recipe for incredible fish tacos here.

I can't wait to hear about all of the fun gifted experiences this year! Hopefully this list allowed you to brainstorm a bit and create something completely customizable for your S.O. For more gift ideas, head here, or to my Pinterest. Feel free to DM me with gift questions; I am always happy to help!

xoxo,

SKY