I just hired this great cleaning lady. The holidays are coming and I want to get her something but I already pay her. I thought of a gift certificate but that's kinda like money too. I don't want to get her something too nice because she only cleans once a week for me but still I want to let her know how much I appreciate her help.
I know that this is not in response to your request. But I saw that you work with low income families. I am a single mom of four and I am looking for housing. What steps do I need to take and where can I go and what do I need to do? Please help.
Rachel, I am not sure where you are located but I would suggest a specialty gift basket,maybe a family basket, or a personal one for her like bath soaps, towels, body lotion, ect.. I custom make baskets and have l50 to choose from or can design one for you they range is from 25.00 and up depending on how you want to spend.. you can email me at [email protected] or call 440-487-8093 I am located in Ohio
One thought is to give a gift card to a particular restaurant - it "technically" is money, but it is a great evening out for her. Also Barnes and Noble or Borders gift cards are really nice because the person can pick out what they want.
I'm trying to figure out the same thing this holiday.
Good luck,
Sue
I think the custom for service providers is a monetary gift.
Hi Rachel,
I am a SAHM who also babysits. I, like your cleaning lady, get paid for my services. Some of my parents get me "things" and I have a couple of them who pay me extra. For me, the money comes in handy. That is just me though. I had one mom who would give me an extra of whatever she paid me for the week. Let me tell you, it was great. I have one parent now who gives me extra money. Whatever you do for her I am sure she will appreciate.
I would say that cash is the best option. I know it seems impersonal but this way she can use it for what makes her happy. Don't give her something that will asit around her house and collect dust until she finally gets up the nerve to give it away or donate it. Good Luck.
Rachael,
Cash. Just put it in a nice little gift bag with paper stuffing or something.
How about getting her a 1/2 hour massage gift certificate so she can take time to relax. Tell her that she does such a good job for you -- you thought she deserved some pampering. Or when the house isn't too bad -- and she shows up to clean --- tell her to take the day and go shopping ofr herself. Of course pay her what you would normally pay her. It would be kind of like a mini paid vacation.
Carol
Rachael
Just about every store has gift cards-grocery's, gas, books, spa. The generic female gifts of candles and soaps and coffees bug me to no end. When I get one I can't help but think it is a "re-gift" since I just want to give it away too! How about a very useful gift card inside a little purse and a nice personalized ornament.
Have you ever thought about something like a gift certificate to get a pedicure? I know it's kinda like money but if she get money you never know what she'll do for herself. This way you know that she is going to take time for herself. What about something from Bath and Body Works? Something girly that everyone enjoys.
What about giving her something you've made yourself- like fudge, or cookies, or pumpkin bread? Just about everyone appreciates something homemade, they know it isn't a re-gift, it's personal, and it's a gift of time, which I think every woman appreciates. You could put it in a nice tin, or on a very nice plate (clear or a Christmas plate) with a bow on it. Inexpensive, but very much appreciated.
I have mother in law that cleans houses to, and she always loves for the hoildays when the person she cleans for double what they would pay her for that week as a gift. I dont really know anyone who does not like money as a gift.
Rachael - Bennett Brothers has "Choose your Gift" catalogs in various denominations that I think are great. High-quality name-brand merchandise, each catalog has 50 or more items that the recipient can pick to have delivered to their door.
Hi Rachael :)
How are you? There are so many great ideas already.
It is so generous of you to think of your cleaning lady and thank her in this way. She will be so happy with any gift that you choose to give. I would be happy to tell you about the amazing products and baskets that I have to offer. I have started a business out of my home with Arbonne. The products are wonderful. I would love to share the sea salt scrub with you as a gift idea. It exfoliates dry skin to reveal healthier, softer skin leaving your skin feeling silky and smooth. I am sure her hands are really dry from the chemicals she uses to clean all day. There are some great mild washes and lotions for sensitive skin too. I also offer gift certificates so she could choose a product to pamper herself, compliments of you. Good luck with your decision.
I also clean houses for a living and Christmas time can be a little tricky according to most of my customers.The average gifts that I recieve from my customers is usually money or a gift certificate.Trust me a gift certificate to a women's only store or to a day spa for a massage is always appreciated.Hope this helps out.~Natalie
You can always buy a homecleaning for one of your friends. It gives your friend a nice gift and your housecleaner more income.
I am looking for housekeeping service. Is your cleaning lady excepting new clients?
Hi Rachel,
A Massage Gift Certificate would probably be well accepted. It's not really giving her money...it's giving her a gift that she will definitely appreciate! Most women & men, don't take the time to pamper themselves, because 1. They don't think they have the time 2. They are not sure who to go to & 3. They may not think about going! I am a Massage Therapist and this time of year is a Great Time to show your friends, family & employees how much you appreciate them!