I've had enough of bad Kris Kringle presents, the Christmas tradition needs to go

I’m no Grinch, but this tradition needs to go… now!

Dominique Birouste

3 min read

December 12, 2023 - 9:52AM

I think it's fair to expect a TINY bit of effort, right? Source: Supplied and iStock

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If there’s one holiday I love, it’s Christmas.

The lights, the Christmas tree, Santa, pudding; I’m ALL about it.

With a hybrid ‘acts of service’ and ‘giving gifts’ love language, I especially love curating the best gifts for my friends and family.

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Making it memorable

From the moment the pumpkins are swapped to reindeer in store, I begin thinking of the perfect presents for everyone and take my time to ensure each last one is thoughtful and memorable.

I consider their hobbies, upcoming plans, life stages, and things they’ve said to me over the year in passing.

I look forward to seeing their faces when they open their presents more than receiving my own.

However, in saying that, that doesn’t (and shouldn’t!) mean I don’t get good presents in return.

I think it's fair to expect a TINY bit of effort, right? Source: iStock

It’s gotta go

Which is why Kris Kringle needs to go.

Every year, I get terrible KK presents that have either been regifted from the office Secret Santa, found next to the cash register, or purchased by someone who clearly has no idea who I am- which is ironic given it’s family!

I am not saying I only buy thoughtful gifts because I want something in return, but a little effort wouldn’t go astray.

The whole point of Kris Kringle is to remove the pressure of buying loads of presents for everyone and to focus your attention and effort on one recipient.

It’s not that hard

I tend to go a little above the budget for my KK gifts, but that’s totally by choice, and I in no way expect others to do so.

However, spending $9.95 (yes, that was my KK gift two years ago) when the limit is $75 is just plain lazy.

Now, before you come after me in the comments, tell me you don't hate when you open a gift that has had zero thought put into it.

I know times are tough and money is tight, but seriously, don’t be happy to receive a $75 gift if you’re only willing to spend 10 bucks.

It’s a different story if the item is DIY or homemade.

To me, time is worth more than money, so anything made especially for me is always so appreciated.

But is it really that hard to get it right?

Christmas is my favourite time of year; except when it's time to open my present.

A helping hand

When it comes to buying the right gift for my KK, I think about the whole person, and I really don’t think I’m so mysterious that I’m constantly gifted a crappy present.

If you really think about it, buying a gift for someone shouldn’t be such a headache, and I’ll prove it.

Let’s deconstruct, shall we?

I’m a writer, so anything associated with that is an idea. A notebook or a really lovely pen are two easy and inexpensive options.

I’m a mum to a one-year-old, so something that saves me time and/or helps me relax and unwind. Sheet masks, an UberEats voucher, a facial or a wash and blow dry are more options.

I’m a chocaholic, so basically, anything from Haighs will see me beaming from ear to ear.

And voilà, not so hard, is it?

This is my final year

I’ve decided that if I receive another lame, unthoughtful and cheap gift this year, I will remove myself from KK next Christmas and just spend the money on myself.

I’ll even wrap it and pop it under the tree to share the experience with everyone.

I’ll even act surprised and won’t need to pull out my Academy Award-worthy performance, pretending I love it.

But, if I don’t receive a gift in KK, that means I don’t give one either.

Family and friends, you’ve been warned!