#experiential-gifts

#experiential-gifts

If someone truly wants an object, consider choosing one that's fair-trade and environmentally responsible. Sadly, much of the "stuff" we find on shelves has been made in sweatshops by underpaid workers (and even children). You can make a difference by being selective about where you spend your dollars. Ethical consumption increases well-being-not just for the recipient, but for the giver, too-because it aligns our actions with our values and our care for the larger world.

On Me, a digital gift card startup founded by former Google employees, is aiming to redefine the gift card industry with its mobile-first gifting platform that lets users purchase digital gift cards categorized by interests rather than being restricted to specific retailers. The company on Thursday said it had raised $6 million in a seed funding round, which it will use to expand its gift categories to include things like horseback riding lessons, wine tastings, and theme park trips.

When buying for someone who's a little particular, an experiential gift is always a great shout. Instead of picking something you fear they'll end up shoving in a drawer, you can send them off on an adventure where they'll learn how to fly a plane, make their own ring or master the art of Mexican cookery. Here are some of the best gift experiences you can buy: