Struggling to find the perfect gift for someone on your Christmas list? How about giving some time with friends and family via an ‘experience’ gift that will give your loved one something exciting to look forward to after all the fun of the Christmas season is over.
Give great memories without adding clutter of new “stuff” at your house. Here are some suggestions for experiences in Simcoe County:
Gifts of Adventure
Skydive Toronto (COOKSTOWN)
skydivetoronto.com
At Skydive Toronto, most first-time jumpers choose the tandem skydive package, which Sarah Snider says is a fantastic way to experience the adventure with the assurance of having an instructor by your side.
“A gift of skydiving is an adrenaline rush for anyone 16 and over,” she says. “You are pushing the limits and challenging your fears; with your best friend or your mom right there beside you.”
Gifts of Romance
LAKESIDE DANCE
Lakesidedance.ca
Lakeside Dance offers gifts of experience that last for many years and might even spark a
little romance.
“We are firm believers in gifting an experiential gift over a material one and we are truly happier each time we get to share those new experiences and the memories they create,” says Adam Spadafora.
The gift of ballroom dancing encourages communication and patience and literally, brings couples closer together to create memories.
Gifts of Pampering
SKINSATIONAL DAY SPA
Skinsational.ca
You can’t go wrong with a spa gift card for your boss, employee, sister or mother-in-law, but don’t forget to pamper the men on your Christmas list with a massage, facial or pedicure.
“For the person that has everything, it’s a gift they can use and will appreciate. Many of our clients look forward to their gift cards as a favourite Christmas gift year after year,” says Darlene Price at Skinsational Day Spa.
Gifts of Character
ALT. ROCK
Altrock.co
At Alt. Rock in Barrie, climbing requires you to think through different ways to move your body and it’s a social sport where participants sit back, analyze the challenge and work together to get to the top.
Owner Jaclyn Kane explains, “It (climbing) challenges you mentally and physically. It’s an activity where a five-year-old can participate alongside parents and the only thing you need is a pair of climbing shoes and some chalk – which you can rent.”
Gifts of Art
DRAWING HOUSE
Drawinghouse.ca
At Barrie’s Drawing House, Lori Salas says art lessons help children and adults with problem-solving abilities and creative thinking and the one-on-one classes can also motivate and inspire.
One-on-one art lessons are tailored to fit the specific goals of the student, regardless of age and skill level.
“Art is important in all walks of life,” says Salas. “It reflects our humanity back to us and we can see ourselves and what we are.”
Give personal growth and a chance to reduce stress, anxiety and negativity to someone on your Christmas list.
Gifts of Outdoors
MOTHER FUDRUCKERS FARM
motherfudruckers.ca
Mother Fudruckers Farm located just outside Orillia is a one-stop shop for all horse-drawn needs. The old-fashioned family business offers fresh outdoor experiences for families all year round. A team of majestic, black Percheron horses can draw 2-4 people on intimate sleigh rides and larger sleighs seat groups of 15 people for a ride through the 146 acres of snow-laden forest for that special family outing.
by Robin MacLennan
