Don’t you just love the holidays? Shopping, buying and wrapping gifts, cooking and baking holiday treats; between all of it you barely have time to enjoy the holiday sprit or spend time with loved ones.

Often we tend to give the gift of material goods, but experiences make for more memorable presents. Whether it’s a family trip, or another gifted experience it will show that you have put effort into the gift. Another added benefit is that research shows that these presents make people feel more bonded to the gift-giver than a tangible item ever could.

Studies show that experiential gifts provide more happiness than tangible presents. In other words, the latest gadget might bring a smile for a short period of time, but when the gift is experience-based, it is much more meaningful.

Remember, life is about memories, not things! So spread some joy this holiday season with the gift of experiences.