What is the most polite way to share a Christmas wishlist with family?

Question

So we have this big family gathering every December in Ohio and my aunts always start bugging me about what I want for Christmas right around now. I really dont want to come across as greedy or like Im just handing them a bill for my hobbies. I did a bit of searching online and saw people suggesting Elfster or just sending a group text with an Amazon link but honestly sending a link feels so cold? Like here is what you owe me for being related to me lol. Plus my grandma isnt great with tech so a link might just confuse her.

I'm trying to find a middle ground where I'm being helpful but not demanding. Here is what I'm looking for:

Something that works for a $50 budget per person

Needs to be easy for older relatives who arent tech savvy

Ideally something that feels like a suggestion not a requirement

Needs to happen by the end of next week so they have time to shop

I saw one blog say you should wait until they ask but then I get five people asking on December 20th and I have to scramble. If I send it out first is that rude? Does it look like Im expecting a lot? I just want to make it easier for them since money is tight for everyone this year and I dont want them wasting cash on something I wont use... how do you even bring it up without sounding entitled?

yquihwwwht · Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, digital lists dont work. I had issues with links feeling cold, so mailing a physical list with $50 ideas is a more professional way to guide them. Much more reliable.

Bikkken · Answer

^ This. Also, in my experience, delivery is everything when you dont want to look like you're sending a bill. I've tried many ways to handle the Ohio aunties over the years... it's a specific kind of pressure lol. Quick question tho—what kind of hobbies are you into? It makes a big difference if they can just grab something at a local shop vs. hunting down some niche thing online. I've compared a few methods:

The Theme: Tell everyone you're into baking or hiking. Pros: Super low pressure and fits that $50 cap easily. Cons: You might end up with three of the same spatula.

The Gift Menu: A simple one-pager with pictures and prices. Pros: Grandma can actually read it and take it to the store. Cons: Little bit of extra work for you to print it. In my experience, the menu style feels the least demanding because it looks like a list of suggestions rather than a demand for cash.