Desperately Searching For Last Minute Gifts? I’ve Got You Covered
November 2021 we got a call about a little girl. She needed somewhere to stay for a short time (mhmm, sure!). After a quick discussion with our kids, my husband and I went to meet her. As anyone with a bleeding heart can attest, there was no other option besides yes. She came home with us that same day. Only a few days before Thanksgiving. Still plenty of time to gather the necessities and Christmas gifts alike. No problem, right?
I wasn’t a newbie foster mom, so this I should have planned for this.. the arrival of all the “other” gifts from generous charities, Foster Family Agencies, and DCFS. Pretty soon the gifts I bought to make sure the kids had a fair Christmas were causing a large imbalance. So a few days before Christmas, once all other gifts had been received, I was on the hunt to even it out again. For a planner like me, this was a bit stressful. Doable, but stressful.
I share this to say, don’t worry if time is running short – you can still find fantastic last-minute gifts that will bring smiles to your loved ones’ faces. Here’s a guide to help you choose thoughtful presents with minimal hassle:
1. E-Gift Cards: Delight them with an e-gift card to their favorite store, restaurant, or online platform for them to choose their own treat. I just did this Amazon gift card for my nephew who lives too far away!! Amazon also has a great collection of others like Target, Bath and Body Works, Starbucks, Sephora, and More! For many of these, you can schedule them to be delivered to their inbox at a specific date and time. Such a life saver!
2. Subscription Services: Consider gifting a subscription to a streaming service, audiobook platform, meal kit, or beauty box. There are so many great ones to choose from and cover almost every hobby and passion you can think of.
3. Local Experiences: Treat them to a gift certificate for a local spa, restaurant, museum, or entertainment venue. As I was recently searching for some date night ideas, I discovered so really cool activities in my own community! You never know what you will find.
4. Specialty Foods: Give the gift of deliciousness with gourmet chocolates, artisanal snacks, or a gourmet coffee set. If you’re a former launchable lover turned charcuterie obsessed, a good cheese board is a great option! I can always trust Trader Joes or World Market to give me a unique option for my more adventurous friends.
5. Personalized Items: Order personalized gifts like custom mugs, phone cases, keychains, or ornaments with a special touch. This can be a little tricky to do last minute. I know small business owners on Etsy try their best to make sure their customer needs are met. Places like Shutterfly have a great selection. I’ve ordered many personalized trinkets from them and have never had a complaint. Make sure you verify delivery before ordering!
6. Digital Books: Gift an e-book or audiobook that suits their interests, available instantly for their enjoyment.
7. Plants or Flowers: Brighten their space with a potted plant, succulent, or a festive bouquet. I like to select a plant based on what color reminds of that person. It helps make the gift feel more connected and personal.
8. Board Games or Puzzles: Choose a fun board game or puzzle that provides entertainment and quality time. Puzzles are always on my Holiday shopping list. I have quite a few puzzle masters in my life!
9. Spa and Self-Care Products: Create a self-care kit with scented candles, bath bombs, lotions, and relaxation essentials. One of my most used gifts from last Christmas were Eucalyptus shower melts.
10. DIY Kits: Opt for DIY craft or cooking kits that provide everything they need to create something special.
11. Online Classes: Enroll them in an online class based on their interests, whether it’s cooking, painting, or photography. I thought about signing one of my very close friends up for a coaching class to help them through some tricky life things. If they had more time to devote to making the most of it, I think it would have been the perfect gift.
12. Charitable Donations: Make a donation to their favorite charity or cause in their name, spreading goodwill. Some
13. Scented Gifts: Choose scented candles, essential oils, or diffusers to create a soothing atmosphere. I love a yummy smelling home. Candles aren’t cheap anymore and I would be thrilled to receive a cute, yummy scented anything!
14. Cozy Accessories: Wrap them in warmth with a cozy blanket, scarf, or pair of soft socks. I don’t know anyone who doesn’t love the feel of a soft blanket on a cold night. Things wear out, go out of style, or lose their fluff. A replacement of these cozy things every now and then is a must!
15. Tech Gadgets: Gift useful gadgets like phone accessories, portable chargers, or wireless earbuds.
16. Movie Night Set: Assemble a movie night package with popcorn, snacks, and a cozy throw. If you have the time, this is an easy on to run out to the store for. If not, check out this fun movie night package– movie not included.
17. Handcrafted Items: Support local artisans by gifting handcrafted jewelry, pottery, or artwork. I found the cutest gifts at a local craft fair. I happened upon it while walking with my friend, trying to help progress her labor! It was the perfect distraction and it was amazing rewarding these talented people for their dedication to their crafts. I found some unique gifts for people.
18. Fitness Gear: Choose workout accessories, resistance bands, or a yoga mat for the health-conscious. For the workout lovers, the gear can get wrecked over time. If you’ve noticed their gear losing it luster, surprise them with a refresh!
19. Favorite Beverage: Bring cheer with a bottle of their favorite wine, gourmet coffee, or specialty tea. In my family, Root Beer is a favorite. I love finding new brands to try in our root beer floats.
20. Crystals and Gems: This one is a shameless plug for my best friend. Setnstoneshop has the most incredible stock of crystals I’ve ever seen. She hand selects every piece specifically for her shop. She has fantastic customer service and her turn around time are great!
Above all, remember, the sentiment behind the gift matters most. Whether it’s a physical item, an experience, or something personalized, your thoughtfulness will shine through. The fact that you care enough to select a gift, say so much about you. Merry Christmas and Happy Shopping!
Sincerely,
Amanda
