The Five Love Languages Gift Guide
Love Language Gift Guide: Gift Ideas for Love Language Types by Gary Chapman
The holidays are special for so many reasons. From spending time with friends and family enjoying amazing food to giving gifts that bring happiness and joy to our loved ones, the magic of the holidays is all about the moments we create. Gift giving, though, at its core is about more than just physical objects. It’s about showing love and appreciation to those special people in our life. The gift itself isn’t the only thing that’s important. How it makes others feel, is. Although this year’s holiday festivities might look a little different, we can find joy through gift giving whether it's virtual or in person.
We put together a unique holiday gift guide inspired by The 5 Love Languages. In the book of the same name, Dr. Gary Chapman shares how everyone gives and receives love differently. To make this gift-giving season a memorable one, use this gift guide to help you communicate love meaningfully for those you care about.
While these languages are normally used as a guiding light in romantic relationships, they can also be applied to relationships with friends and colleagues. And since not all of us receive love or appreciation the same way, we are breaking down how to shop for those you care about this season by giving them a gift that speaks to their love language.
WORDS OF AFFIRMATION
Those who prefer Words of Affirmation as their love language desire verbal affection. In short, they love to be constantly told that they are appreciated. This holiday season, giving the gift of words will fill the hearts of those who identify with this love language.
You might find they love journaling or a comforting “You Got This” sign at their desk. Give them some words to show them your care. Or, share some words that will inspire them to keep going!
Say something that you know your partner, friend or family member will love!
Words of Affirmation as Gifts
1. Mail a letter with some cute cards
2. Gift journals
3. Call and remind your friend how much they inspire you
ACTS OF SERVICE
If your loved one is a believer that actions speak louder than words, then their love language is Acts of Service. They require more than just words; they need an action tied to your appreciation for them. Make them breakfast in bed, fill up their car with gas, or buy them concert tickets to see their favorite artist.
This person prioritizes taking their time in the morning to make a cup of joe, loves having a clean house, and melts every time someone brings food to share in the office. What else comes to mind?
Acts of Service as Gifts
1. Send some treats to your friends with pets
2. Clean the dishes and let your loved one take the night off
3. Drop off their favorite coffee order
RECEIVING GIFTS
Among the most commonly adored of the love languages are Receiving Gifts. Although still very heartfelt, this love language is a bit more material driven. If you're gifting this individual, your gift still requires thoughtfulness and intention. The gift must be very deliberate and representative of your relationship with that person.
When this person goes on vacation they always bring back souvenirs. There’s also no such thing as a solo stop in the morning for donuts; this person grabs a dozen to share with the office.
Gifts to Give-Etsy is a great resource
1. Mail a surprise treat from a local business
2. Keep them warm during cuddle season with a sweater
3. Handmade gifts that help give back
4. Pamper them with self-care gifts
QUALITY TIME
Those who identify with Quality Time as their love language adore when their partner, friends, or family prioritize quality time with them. Undivided attention–and lots of it–is where they feel loved. You can make them feel loved by not looking at your phone when you’re spending time together.
This person tends to love to spend time in nature and will jump at any opportunity to plan quality time. They also enjoy when someone they care about plans activities for them.
Quality Time as Gifts
1. Plan a virtual spa day with a mask
2. Set a FaceTime date
3. Invite your quarantine group to a backyard smores hangout
PHYSICAL TOUCH
The last of the love languages is Physical Touch. This person melts when love or care is communicated through touch. When they consent, they like to be hugged, kissed, or to have their hand held. Physical intimacy is what they value most as it represents emotional connectivity.
This person never passes up an opportunity to go to the spa. They are the friend who shows affection and the type of person that says “I’m a hugger” when meeting new people.
Physical Touch as Gifts
1. Soft sheets for a hard snooze from
2. Create closeness with a signature scent
3. If you can, give them a big hug