Chandice Probst is the co-author of Gluten-Free on a Budget and the voice behind popular blog, GlutenFreeFrenzy.com. She also writes for Sheknows.com and Delight Gluten-Free Magazine.
Holiday shopping can be daunting. Holiday shopping for friends and family that are gluten-free during a time of year when food is everything? Even more challenging. First you have to think about what the person you’re shopping for enjoys. Do they love cooking? Maybe fitness is more their thing? Or perhaps they’re most excited to receive a surprise. Whatever they’re into, we’ve got you covered with this foolproof gluten-free gifting guide.
For the cooks in your life:
Gluten-free cookbooks are great because they encourage your loved ones to get into the kitchen and do what they love best, cook! Some of my favorites are The Healthy Gluten-Free Life by Tammy Credicott, Blackbird Bakery by Karen Morgan and The Lagasse Girls: Big Flavor, Bold Taste. I also love Gluten-Free on a Budget, but that’s because I have tasted every recipe in the book…Lifestyle books like Celiac and the Beast, Gluten-Free Girl and Gluten Freedom are also great choices if you aren’t into the cookbook idea.
Kitchen gadgets and baking supplies are another great gift idea for the cooking lover. Go big with a new Kitchenaide or Nutramill grain grinder, or keep it simple with new baking sheets and silicone baking mats. Keep it budget-friendly by buying what you can afford, and then pairing it with a gluten-free cake or cookie mix.
For a gift that almost does the cooking for you, fill a stainless steel colander with all the ingredients needed to make an Italian dinner at home. Gluten-free pasta, Italian pasta sauce, gluten-free bread, a gourmet cheese wedge, specialty olive oil and a bottle of sparkling cider to top it off.
Cookies in a jar are cute and very personal. They’re also super cheap to make if you already have gluten-free flour on hand. Find your favorite gluten-free chocolate chip cookie recipe (or check out the one here) and layer the dry ingredients into a mason jar. Attach the recipe so all they have to do is add the wet ingredients to the jar of dry in a bowl, then bake. Glutenfreelabels.com have great stickers, reusable labels and flags for keeping your food safe wherever you are!
Now for the foodies in your life:
Monthly subscription boxes (like the gluten-free Love With Food box) are a great way to let your loved ones try a variety of gluten-free products without going through the hassle of finding them. Believe me, they’ll thank you!
Magazine subscriptions are another gift that keeps on giving. There are so many great gluten-free magazines out there with lifestyle tips, recipes and the latest research. GFF Magazine, Delight Gluten-Free, Gluten-Free Living, Simply Gluten-Free, Gluten-Free and More, Allergic Living and Paleo Magazine are all excellent choices.
Speaking of gifts that keep on giving, why not make up your own personalized “of the month” gift to give? Does your loved one enjoy jerky in every variety, or are they a cookie connoisseur? Make them a gift certificate stating they have joined the “[Blank] of the month club.” Then hand deliver or mail them a new package of goodies each month. This is such a fun gift that is deeply personal, selfless and can definitely be done on a budget.
Lastly, I can’t think of a food-related gift that would make me smile bigger (especially during the holidays) than getting my favorite cinnamon rolls from Kyra’s Bakeshop delivered right to my door. If your g-free loved one is truly a foodie, then like me they have a favorite dedicated gluten-free bakery out there somewhere that they still dream about. So why not give them the ultimate surprise and have those special goodies delivered right to their home?
So what if your loved one isn’t really a foodie? Create the ultimate date night gift with a movie basket filled with a warm blanket, a DVD you know they will love and some gluten-free candy and popcorn. Not only will they love the gift, but they’ll also enjoy the company!
Make the fitness friend in your life’s holiday by filling a new pair of running shoes with a variety of gluten-free nutrition bars. Looking to go bigger? Include an iTunes gift card so they can stock up on their favorite workout music.
Your gluten-free beauty-minded friends will be beaming when they open your gift to find gorgeous new gluten-free makeup. Red Apple Lipstick provides a variety of products in the most amazing colors, all made in a dedicated gluten-free facility. I recommend a bold lip color for the holidays like RAL Wine & Dandy.
DIY spa baskets are another great idea for the sensitive celiac in your life. When even skincare can cause a reaction, this gift is sure to please. Fill a wicker basket with a plush, cozy robe, then add a good book and a few products from a dedicated gluten-free skincare line like Lovely Lady or Dr. Hauschka.
Is your friend or family the ultimate gluten-free activist? Help them shout it from the rooftops with apparel from Celiac and the Beast. Running low on funds? Create a gluten-free “staycation” for your sweetie. Make a delicious breakfast in bed, give them a mani-pedi out in the sunshine while enjoying a spa lunch, go for a hike, then finish the day with dinner at their favorite gluten-free restaurant.
Remember, no matter what you choose to give, the thought and intent behind your gluten-free gift is always more important than what you actually give (unless you give gluten, then you’re in trouble 😉 ). Happy holidays and a very healthy gluten-free new year to you all!
Are there any other gluten-free holiday gift ideas you’d like to share with us! Tell us in the comments below!
