When I was a kid, one of my favorite gifts to make was a homemade coupon book. You know the kind: a handful of hand-drawn “coupons” promising things like a free hug, breakfast in bed, or to wash the car. They were simple, creative, and full of heart.
Fast forward to adulthood, and I still think this idea is pure genius. The beauty of a coupon book is that it shifts the focus from stuff to experiences—from material possessions to shared moments and thoughtful gestures. Plus, they’re especially great when you’re working on a short timeline, you can create a memorable gift without the stress of shopping or shipping.
Why a Coupon Book?
The charm of a coupon book lies in its versatility and thoughtfulness. It’s a gift that says, I see you. I know what will bring you joy. Whether it’s for a spouse, child, friend, or parent, you can customize it to suit their personality and needs.
And let’s be honest: who doesn’t love the promise of a special experience, tailored just for them?
Ideas for a Modern Coupon Book
If you’re ready to create a coupon book, here are some ideas to get your creativity flowing:
For a Partner:
- A no-questions-asked movie night pick
- Personal chauffer for a day of running errands
- A homemade dinner featuring their favorite dish or special night out
For Kids:
- An extra bedtime story or a 30-minute pass to stay up later
- A pajama day with extra screen time
- A “choose your own adventure” family outing.
For Friends:
- A coffee/spa/dinner date on you
- A “venting session” with snacks provided
- Help with organizing a closet or project
For Parents or Grandparents:
- A day spent together doing their favorite activity
- Homemade dinner and dessert
- A tech help session or free house chore or task (especially good for the ones a stubborn parent is avoiding)
Any of these coupons could be a spark to rekindle a childhood tradition or create your own new tradition!
Making a Coupon Book the Big Gift
If you’re planning to make a coupon book the centerpiece gift for a holiday or birthday, it’s important to elevate it beyond the everyday. This type of coupon book should feel substantial and extra special, with thoughtful touches and a clear plan for making those promises come to life. Here’s my formula for making it truly unforgettable:
- Include at Least 10 Coupons. A bigger gift needs enough variety to feel substantial, and 10 is the perfect balance between quality and quantity.
- Add three “Anchor” Experiences. I suggest that at least three of the coupons should be “big-ticket” items—out-of-the-house experiences like a sporting event, concert, dinner date, or outing. To make them feel real, specify the date or place so the recipient knows it’s already in motion.
- Plan for the Near Term. One downside of a coupon book is that some of the experiences can feel far away. To keep the excitement alive, I always like to include one special thing that’s already arranged to happen within 3-10 days. Whether it’s a dinner date, movie outing, or cozy night in with a favorite dessert, having something on the books soon makes the gift feel immediate and exciting.
- Mix in Simple Gestures. Balance the big items with thoughtful, everyday gestures. These are the “warm blanket” coupons that show you care about their comfort and happiness. Think a foot rub, a favorite home-cooked meal, or a day where you take over all their responsibilities.
- Personalize the Rest. Customize the remaining coupons to fit the recipient’s personality and interests. Are they a foodie? Include a coupon for a cooking class or wine tasting. Love the outdoors? Add a hiking date or a picnic in the park.
- Presentation Matters. If this is the big gift, package it beautifully. Consider a small box or envelope with decorative touches. Add a handwritten letter explaining why you chose these experiences for them. Let the presentation reflect the thoughtfulness of the gift itself.
The Power of Experiences
A coupon book is a small act of rebellion in a world where we often accumulate too much stuff. It reminds us that what we really want is time, connection, and care. It’s a gift that grows in meaning as it’s redeemed, one moment of magic at a time.
So this year, consider making a coupon book for someone you love. Whether it’s a simple gesture or the star of the show, it’s a timeless way to give what truly matters: your time, attention, and thoughtfulness.
After all, isn’t that the kind of gift we all want to receive?