Unique Christmas Gifts

Finding a unique Christmas gift can take a bit of extra thought, but the results are well worth it. The trick is to think beyond wishlists and top ten lists and focus instead on unexpected, meaningful presents that take into account the recipient's true personality. Staying away from standard department store gift fare may even save some money this holiday season.

Unique Christmas gifts can fall under the following categories:

1. Homemade Christmas Gifts: Anything made by hand is automatically unique. Consider baked goods, art projects, mix tapes or photographs.
2. Personalized Christmas Gifts: Inscribing a person's name on a gift can change something from generic to unique. Picture frames, clothing, jewelry and electronics are all items which can be personalized, sometimes at little or no extra cost (Apple, for example, offers free personalization with any Online iPod purchase).
3. Service-based Christmas Gifts: A month's worth of pre-paid maid service, a pre-arranged babysitter for a night on the town, dance classes or a rock-climbing excursion are all potentially fabulous gifts when matched up with the right person. Consider a recipient's hobbies and immediate needs when planning a service-based gift.