Clutter-Free Giving

Clutter-free Giving is the act of giving someone a present that will not, in turn, clutter their home, office, or life! It is a reciprocal philosophy; it applies not only to the act of giving gifts to others but also to listing presents that you would like to receive.
If you are really creative, it’s not too hard to come up with a gift idea that will enrich someone’s life without causing physical clutter. Here are some options for Clutter-free Giving to get you started…
> Passport Wine Club Membership from The Traveling Vineyard
You can set up a 3, 6 or 12 month membership for someone on your Christmas list!  Two boutique wines from around the world will be delivered each month – either 2 reds, 2 whites, or 1 red and 1 white.  Prices start at $29.95 per month + $7.95 for shipping.  For more details, go to this website: http://www.myttv.com. Select “Our Products” from the top menu bar, and then “Passport Wine Club.”
> Netflix Subscription
If you have a friend or family member that loves movies, then connect them to the movie world without bringing the DVDs into their home to stay! Purchasing a membership provides the recipient the ability to make an online wish list, watch movies, and return movies with no due dates or associated late fees. If you would like more details on Netflix and their membership options, see http://www.netflix.com/.
> Professional Organizing Services
Most professional organizers offer gift certificates upon request. It is typical to buy a gift certificate for a set amount of time (such as 1-2 hours of professional organizing services) or for a particular project (such as organizing a closet). Prices vary depending upon the professional organizer’s experience and location as well as the project in question. The National Association of Professional Organizers provides a free Automated Referral Program for those searching for a professional organizer in their local area: http://www.association-office.com/napo/referral/index.cfm.
> The remaining Clutter-free Giving options don’t require much of an explanation and can be found easily in your local area:
>> Gifts that Save Time
Professional Housekeeping Services
Lawn Mowing Services
Car Wash and/or Detail
>> Gifts that Save Money
Grocery Store Gift Card
Gas Gift Card
Pre-paid Phone Card
Dry Cleaning Gift Certificate
>> Gifts that Pamper
Spa Treatments
Flowers
Babysitting
Restaurant Gift Certificate
>>Gifts that Improve Quality of Life
Savings Bonds
Online Magazine Subscription
Event Tickets (Theater, Concert, Movie, Sports)
Gym Membership
iTunes Gift Card
Classes (Self-defense, Singing, Language)
>> Gifts that Give Back
Donation to Recipient’s Favorite Charity
One last note – contrary to popular belief, gift cards to department stores do not count as Clutter-free Giving! While the card itself may be small and un-clutter-like, the person will use the card to buy something for themselves, for their home, or for their office – and that something will eventually turn into clutter!