The gifts we give to family and friends always require some thought because of our desire to please by finding that one thing that could light up the eyes of the receiver. For a vegan gift recipient, we may need to understand what veganism is so we can find just the right gift. Fortunately, there are many products available in the market that are visibly marked as vegan. We can derive a lot of gift ideas from these and come up with a choice that is unique, special, and appropriate.
Vegans favor the non-use of animal substances and by-products on anything they consume or use. We should be aware that animal derivatives are usually included both in food and non-food items. Labels typically provide the essential information about ingredients used but may not provide other information as to whether an ingredient has been obtained through animals or not. Another thing to consider is finding products that have not been tested on animals. Vegans view animal testing as a form of cruelty to animals.
The easiest way to find a suitable gift is to search for possibilities at vegan stores. It has to be noted that vegetarian products are not necessarily vegan-appropriate since the former allows eggs and dairy as part of their diet while the latter does not. It can also happen that a non- vegan product may inadvertently be offered as a gift idea for vegans because of misinformation as to contents thus it is always best to ask questions and shop around before purchasing.
A person in the early stages of practicing veganism will appreciate all the support he/she can have from family and friends. What better way to show support than to give vegan books for added information as well as vegan cookbooks to help the practicing vegan added variety to food choices. The gift giver can be a willing participant to a taste test after every try so that vegan cooking becomes a fun activity rather than an obligation to perform. Nothing beats having someone to share new interests and new-found principles in life.
Vegans abhor cruelty to animals and would welcome the chance to make a difference. For vegan friends who appear to be ready to care for an animal at home, an animal adoption certificate may be a good idea. This can usually be obtained from animal sanctuaries where cruelly-treated animals are brought after being rescued. The gift giver can allow the recipient to choose the animal he/she prefers among the wide variety of animals ready for adoption.
Clothes and accessories are common gift ideas. These can be given to vegans as well as long as the gift giver stay away from materials obtained from animals such as leather, wool, silk, fur, feathers, alpaca, angora, and mohair. The best materials are those derived from plants such as cotton. Gifts can be made more personal by having clothes printed with messages promoting veganism.
Fragrances and cosmetics are also usual gift items. Again, the best place to look for suitable vegan versions are reliable vegan stores that carry a wide range of choices in scents, sizes, and presentation. Regular fragrances and cosmetics contain animal derivatives such as oils and lanolin. Do not hesitate to ask questions when you spot certain ingredients which you are not sure of.
Live plants are one of the most exciting gift choices for a vegan because of the wide varieties available. Decorative plants can instantly brighten up a house. Herbs and food plants can complement the needs of a vegan kitchen. Packets of seeds and small pots can also be the start of organic gardening at home. Living gifts can be enjoyed for many seasons to come instead of just one.
A bird lover would definitely enjoy getting visits from migratory or regular birds in the area. They can be gifted with bird feeders to place in their garden but be careful to choose those without varnish or paint since these substances contain animal components. To complete the gift, throw in a good quality but inexpensive binoculars as well as a bag of bird food. A bird book can also come in handy.
Metal items are also good gift bets such as jewelry, garden accessories, key chains, wind chimes, and picture frames. It might be a good idea to find designs related to animal care or other interests of the recipient. Again, take care to choose those items that have not been accessorized by any animal product or substances.
A vegan pet owner can be given food dishes and water bottles for pets. Any pet toy or trinket can add fun to their time together. Vegan pet grooming products are thoughtful gifts as well.
Glass items are relatively safe choices as a gift idea for vegans. A glass vase can come with an ornamental plant. Glass food bottles can be filled with beans, vegan candies or even decorative stones for display purposes. Vintage stores are good sources of useful glass items.
No vegan will refuse a vegan gourmet food basket. It can be filled with an assortment of vegan goodies which can be eaten at once or used for cooking later. A vegan gourmet cookbook could be tucked in the basket as well to make sure that vegan ingredients contained in the basket are put to good use. Any occasion can be an ideal launching point for new ideas and interests. The desired healthy lifestyle is achieved faster when a person is surrounded by all things that may be needed to succeed at it.
Wine is also a common gift. Not all wines though are vegan-appropriate because of the clarifying ingredients used that usually come from animals. Champagne is one of the most popular choices.
Gifts are not limited to objects. Gift givers can do a lot more by doing something for a vegan friend or family member. Anyone can try cooking vegan food for a vegan friend and make it a surprise gift. Going out of one’s way to show how important one is by respecting his/her chosen practices is a gift in itself. Vegan and non-vegans can still co-exist and they can do so with joy by accepting each other as they are.
Gift-giving is something we do because we like to and not because we are required to. Anything that is given with love and joy should be accepted regardless of the tag price attached to it. Many people have become way too materialistic when it comes to gifts that it is almost impossible to please them.
It should be much easier to please a vegan even with simple gifts as long as they show respect for their personal beliefs. When they espouse respect for animals, it is presumed that they espouse respect for people as well. Part of that respect is being grateful for a gift that has been given, which though may not be perfect, shows acceptance of the recipient, vegan or not.
Non-vegan gift givers can choose to stick to a vegan diet for a week with a friend or family just to show the extent one is willing to go through to make the other happy. The conversion of a friend or family to veganism is probably the best gift anyone can give to a vegan but that is something given without force or intimidation. Who knows if it will be realized the next gift-giving season?