By Mia Winkler
The Holiday Season is notoriously stressful, and the process of buying specifically curated gifts for each person you know can be daunting. Luckily, many last-minute gifts can help lighten the load of responsibilities while still being interesting and meaningful.
1. Homemade Gifts
Whether it’s a card, a gift box, a crocheted accessory, or a meaningful art piece, homemade presents will always have a special place in your loved ones’ hearts. These gifts can be as extravagant or as simple as you want, and the amount of effort put into them will not go unappreciated. Homemade gifts are extremely affordable, getting to be as little as $5.00 or less. Supplies can be found at any craft store such as Michael’s, Hyatts, or Hobby Lobby, and many supplies might be found in your own home!
2. Pajama pants/comfortable socks
Arguably one of the most popular gifts, a simple pair of fluffy socks or a relaxing pair of pajama pants can go a long way. They last for a long time and can be frequently used, making for a greatly appreciated last-minute gift that’s perfect for everybody this season. Prices can range from $5.00 to $20.00 each and can be found anywhere from Target and Amazon to American Eagle, making both options affordable and accessible.
3. Candles
Perfect for providing a calming scent and a relaxing space, candles are a thoughtful and lovely gift for this holiday season. Aside from their calming factors, candles also serve as a decoration and a source of ambient lighting, which is perfect for the bleakness of winter. Bath and Body Works, Target, and any Home Goods store will carry a wide variety of candles to choose from! They can range from $15.00 to $40.00 depending on where they’re bought, making them slightly more pricey, but if you have the budget, candles are great gift options for the holidays.
4. Stuffed Animals
With the rising popularity of Jellycats (a brand known for its plushies), stuffed animals are an amazing present for everybody, and they can brighten up anyone’s mood in an instant. They’re great for decoration and comfort, and can even have sentimental value. Buying a stuffed animal of your loved one’s favorite animal, or a plushie that reminds them of one that they had when they were younger, can truly mean a lot. Stuffed animals often range from $10.00 to $40.00 depending on size, quality, and brand. Target, Jellycat, Amazon, and Walmart are all great places to buy plushies, as there is an extremely wide variety of choices.
5. Gift Cards
Gift cards are very simple, but they’re definitely effective if you’re scrambling to find a gift in time. If you’re struggling to find a gift that your loved one would truly enjoy, getting them a gift card to one of their favorite stores is a great option. Getting a gift card to their favorite restaurant and taking them out to dinner is also a great way to spend time with your loved one while also giving a meaningful present. You can buy a gift card at the store of your choice (preferably a store that the recipient loves), and the amount put on the card is completely up to you.