Downtime doesn’t have to mean doing nothing. Here’s one idea for making the most of your weekend.

The holiday shopping season is in full swing, so hopefully you’ve made your list and checked it twice. But no matter your shopping strategy, there’s bound to be at least a little stress. Think: Those notoriously picky friends and family members — not to mention stubbornly high inflation and fears of a recession. That’s why we’ve gathered some key tips to make holiday gift-giving a little more merry and bright.

• Focus on their interests. Start with what they love to do. For an avid runner, that could mean upgraded gear, like a superior fitness tracker, or something pampering, like a foot massager. For someone who loves to cook, it might be a couple of your most beloved cookbooks. (Pro tip: Mark your go-to recipes to make it even more personal.) Or, use their interests to pick an experience they’d enjoy. Think: A cake-decorating class for a passionate baker or tickets to the ballet for a former dancer.

• Elevate the everyday. Because, there’s no better feeling than knowing someone will actually use what you got them. If your mom still swears by paper planners, get one that’s a bit fancier than her standard. If your dad is your favorite walking buddy, help him step up his shoe game with a nice pair of sneakers. If your little one goes through coloring books quicker than actual books, get them a set of crayons that spell out their name.

• Don’t be afraid to DIY. Your siblings or parents might not appreciate a homemade picture frame (unless, of course, you’re a pro woodworker). But they will appreciate a holiday treat, like hot chocolate mix or peppermint toffee bark.

• Think outside the (gift) box. Feeling extra worried about your wallet? Trust us, you’re not the only one this year. Remember that you don’t have to get a present for each and every person — and that in this economy, others are likely feeling the same way. Instead, you could organize a Secret Santa or White Elephant exchange with your friends or family. Or, you could ditch gifts entirely and have everyone over for a holiday movie marathon, a game night, or even a home-cooked meal.