A Christmas gift doesn’t have to be brand new to bring joy to its recipient. Lifestyle influencer Minni Juuramo shares her best tips for choosing a second-hand gift.
An overwhelmingly materialistic Christmas celebration is becoming a thing of the past, and many people nowadays only buy gifts for a genuine need. Influencer Minni Juuramo, who describes herself as a second-hand enthusiast, however, goes one step further in spending Christmas in an environmentally friendly way. She also wraps up used items under the Christmas tree.
“Opting for a second-hand gift is sensible both for nature and your wallet. Besides, old items always have a story,” Minni says.
This Christmas, she’s going to pass on her own children’s toys that are in good condition, among other items, as gifts. According to her, second-hand gifts are also a great choice for adults.
“Second-hand gifts are particularly suitable for those who want to do their share in reducing the strain on our planet.”
The internet is a treasure trove of second-hand goods
In addition to children’s toys and clothes, books and hobby equipment are examples of second-hand goods that are perfect as gifts. Minni has bought used electronics refurbished by the manufacturer from specialized stores that also offer a warranty for the devices. “Personally, I might want a rare plate that’s missing from my dinner set or a beautiful piece of art glass. Old wool blankets are also absolutely gorgeous.”
According to Minni Juuramo, gifts can be found not only at flea markets and in second-hand bookstores, but also in second-hand online stores or local groups on Facebook, for example. “Companies that sell old goods, such as vintage stores, offer the right of return for online purchases,” Minni points out.
Sustainable thinking can also be applied to gift wrapping. “I reuse beautiful packaging materials I’ve received, such as ribbons and gift bags. You can also wrap gifts in read magazines and newspapers or fabric, for example.”
Tell the item’s story in the card
Since people are used to buying gifts new, many might be unsure about the etiquette of giving second-hand gifts. Should the recipient be told that the item is used? “You can tell the item’s story in the card. It makes the gift even more personal. In the card, you can also say why you chose to buy a second-hand gift.” Minni finds it bizarre that giving used gifts is a taboo in our society. She thinks it has to do with the deep-seated conception that new is better than old – even if that’s not always the case.
“Even luxury hotel guests sleep on used sheets and use used towels, but many people still think that buying used household textiles is somehow gross. It’s silly,” she says. This Christmas, Minni encourages everyone to be more open-minded about what could be given as a Christmas gift.
“It’ll certainly take time to transform our thinking in a more sustainable direction. Fortunately, changes are already taking place.” Get started with these:
A diverse marketplace for items such as clothes, dishes, furniture and toys.
Second-hand Marimekko products from vintage gems to newer styles.
Design products for friends of vintage treasures.
High-quality and well-kept brand apparel.
Second-hand clothing and hobby equipment.