Chocolate-less Gifts this Easter

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Everyone has at least one; that friend or relative who doesn't eat chocolate. It may even be you. Allergies, intolerances, personal tastes, health-consciousness, there are a million valid reasons for choco-phobia, as crazy as the concept may sound to some of us. So if you have an Easter gift to buy, and Red Tulip just won't cut it this year, keep reading for some different ideas that might just win you some serious Awesomeness Points.
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Drinkable Eggs**
If your choco-phobe enjoys a nice drop (and is over 18), why not hold an adults-only egg hunt? Try hiding piccolo bottles of red, white, sparkling, and/or beer around the house for a more exciting, and considerably more motivated egg hunt. You can get creative as you like. If you have the time, why not paint the bottles up or wrap them colourfully so it's closer to the real thing?

If your choco-phobe loves alcohol, but gets cranky if they have to work for it, best not to aggravate the situation. Perhaps just buy them a nice bottle and leave it in cellophane in plain view. Perhaps with a pamphlet or two.

Chocolateless Charity
For the choco-phobe who already has everything they need, try giving them the gift of third-party generosity. Find out what organisations and charities they support and donate in their name. For something a bit more in line with the occasion, Oxfam Unwrapped will donate a chicken to a family in need for $10, about the cost of a large Easter egg. This way, your choco-phobe still gets a gift, but the funding goes where it's really needed. There are a number of charities that do similar things, so get an idea of your choco-phobe's preferences and shop around.

Readable Rewards
Is there a book that your choco-phobe keeps meaning to read? Is there a book that you think they should read? Do they just love to read and aren't fussy? Why not buy them a book? If you are careful it doesn't need to be more expensive than their chocolate would have been, and if you get it right, you will look extremely intelligent and impressive. For those on a budget, the Book Depository and Amazon can be quite a bit cheaper, especially with the current exchange rate. Just be aware of the estimated shipping time before you hit "Buy".

Otherwise, a wander through the new-book-scented aisles in Readings can be therapeutic and quite good fun if you have the time.

Time Trinkets
Perhaps your choco-phobe is a parent or grandparent, or just someone who would appreciate seeing a bit more of you. Maybe they are someone who you would like to see a bit more of. Sometimes, just setting aside the time to catch up with someone can be the most valuable gift you can give. Perhaps give them a home-made voucher for a picnic or coffee with you, or a hiking, lunch, dinner, or movie date. It's the gift that will reward both of you. Best of all, if you are on a budget, this can cost as much or as little as you like.

Gifted Giggles
I have left this until last because it is my favourite chocolate-free gift to give. The Melbourne International Comedy Festival runs from late March to the end of April and is the most amazing time of year to be in Melbourne. The city is rife with international and quality Australian comedians, and the atmosphere is contagious. If your choco-phobe likes to laugh, and it is within your budget, an MICF ticket or voucher is the ideal Easter present. A list of shows is available for perusal at the MICF website . Keep an eye out for preview shows, as they can be quite a bit cheaper.

If you are unsure what sort of show they would like, you can get vouchers to the festival here , so that they can choose their own show.

It doesn't necessarily require a glass and a half of full cream milk to keep your loved ones happy this Easter. With just a little consideration of their character and some creativity, you can give the perfect gift at the perfect price that won't leave a shameful trail of crumpled foil in its wake.

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