What do you gift someone who has everything? More jewellery? Another bathbomb? a gift card? - although these could all be valid responses; what sentimental value do these sorts of gifts actually hold? Living in Auckland, we often feel as though we’re limited in terms of affordable yet meaningful options - but in reality that's not the case! Masala Bazaars newly introduced DIY Station comes just in time for the gifting season! The goal is allow our customers the chance and space to create personalized gifts without the hefty price tags.
The Science of Giving
It's no news that gift giving (as well as receiving) often leaves us feeling warm and fuzzy! The look on the recipients face, the gratitude expressed and the strengthened bond - these are just some of the reasons why we tend to find joy in gifting. Even science agrees that gift givers tend to experience what is known as the “warm glow” - an intrinsic delight in doing something for someone else! When we gift a loved one, we are activating pathways in the brain that release oxytocin, a neuropeptide that signals trust, safety, and connection. aka the cuddle hormone!
Now, imagine those emotions magnified when the gift is handmade, crafted with thought and care. The human connection in that exchange becomes even deeper. That’s the beauty of our DIY station—it gives you the chance to create something personal, a gift infused with meaning, whether for yourself or a loved one.
The Love Language of our Most Loved
This idea of handmade gifts is nothing new—it’s something our parents and grandparents understand so well. For many of us, the thought of DIY gifts reminds us of our grandparents. Sometimes due to language barriers or maybe disliking the awkwardness of affectionate conversations, their affection was woven into things like the clothes they sewed, and stirred into the home-cooked meals. It wasn’t just about what they gave us, but about the care that went into making it. It was sometimes an overlooked love language of quiet action and meaningful gestures. The soft touch of a hand-sewn scarf, the familiar taste of their special chai blend—each act was a testament to their love, passed down through generations in ways that didn’t require words. At Masala Bazaar, we hope to revive this beautiful tradition, offering you the chance to channel that same spirit of care and connection into your own handmade creations.
Moving Beyond Overconsumption: Crafting with Purpose
In contrast to the era of our grandparents, today’s consumer culture pressures us into overconsumption. We’re constantly spammed with ads that tell us we “need” the latest Barbie pink iPhone, or to take advantage of the “biggest sale of the year” (3x a year!). It's hard to deny that these things don’t bring pleasure when we indulge in them, because it's true they do! but the joy they bring is often temporary, fading quickly in the wake of the next “must-have”.
At Masala Bazaar, we’ve come up with a remedy to this never-ending, draining cycle—a return to mindful creation. Our DIY station encourages you to step away from mass-produced, commercialized goods and instead embrace the beauty of intentional crafting. Handcrafting a gift gives it more meaning that just picking it up off of a shelf or rack. A DIY room diffuser isn’t just a scent—it’s a scent that reminds you of personal memories. A tea blend isn’t just a drink—it’s a customised combination of flavours that YOU associate with a certain story of comfort, tradition, or adventure. As much as being an art piece, block printing is also a reflection of your individual creativity!
By opting for the DIY option, you reject the notion that happiness can be bought. Instead, you remind yourself and your loved ones that joy often comes from the simplest, most personal acts. In a world that tells us quantity is quality, we stand by the belief quality is quantity.