by Emily Duff
‘Secret Santa’, we’ve all had to do it. That last minute panic of buying for someone you half know, and ultimately grabbing a scented candle or box of chocolates and hoping for the best.
But it doesn’t always have to be like that. Perfect for all budgets, take the stress away from your holiday shopping. A cheat sheet for the season of giving, if you will.
When gift giving is just too much, whether it's an awkward work colleague or that friend you only see once a year, here's the perfect choice for each type of person you know:
1. For the Jetsetter: Carry On Duffle Bag
Help your globe-trotting friend or co-worker stay organised and stylish with a trendy carry-on duffle bag. Opt for a cute colour to add a touch of personality to their travels. With a range of options for different budgets, it makes for a thoughtful gift that's both practical and chic - and helps take the stress out of their next adventure so it’s even more enjoyable.
2. For the Self-Care Queen: Shower Steamers
Treat the self-care enthusiast in your life to a luxurious shower experience with shower steamers. These delightful aromatic fizzers turn an ordinary shower into a whole new experience. Packed with different scents, there’s different options for different purposes. From ginger smells for those who always seem to be sick, to minty smells for the sleepyheads, steamers provide a moment of chill amidst the daily hustle.
3. For the Child at Heart: Lego Orchids Set
Flowers will eventually wilt, but Lego won’t! Unleash the inner child with a Lego orchids set, a unique and playful gift that allows them to indulge in the joy of building while creating a beautiful display of Lego flowers. We’ve opted for orchids but there’s plenty of other options like sunflowers and roses depending on their vibe. It's silly and fun but combines home decor with a creative activity, perfect for the festive season.
4. For the Fashionista: Colourful Tights
Elevate your fashion-forward friend‘s style game of with a set of colourful tights. Go the extra mile by choosing fleece-layered versions for added warmth during the colder months. It's a practical yet trendy gift that complements an outgoing wardrobe and keeps them both cozy and in style.
5. For the Book Worm: Hunger Games 4 Book Set
Delight the book lover with a Hunger Games set - including the latest instalment in the series, a prequel novel turned blockbuster, "The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes". Written by Suzanne Collins, this pick promises to immerse them in a captivating tale of the dystopian world they love, including the story that goes back to President Snow’s roots.
6. For the Plant Lover: Propagation Station
Noticed they always have a desk plant? Both a practical pick, helping to grow more, and something beautiful, consider a propagation station. This aesthetically pleasing gift allows your plant-loving friend to propagate and grow new plants from other plant cuttings in a stylish and organised manner. It's a thoughtful choice for anyone with a green thumb.
7. For the Skincare Freak: Burt’s Bees Set
Pamper the skincare enthusiast with a Burt’s Bees set. Known for its natural and nourishing products, Burt’s Bees offers a range of skincare treats that cater to different needs. From lip balms to moisturisers, this set ensures your friend's skincare routine is as pretty as it is effective.
8. For the Movie Buff: 100 Movies Scratch Off Poster
Elevate movie nights for the cinephile with a 100 Movies Scratch Off Poster. An interactive and visually appealing gift allows them to track and discover iconic films. It's a great way to turn their love for cinema into a fun and rewarding experience, ensuring they never run out of movie night ideas. Perhaps pair it with a Letterboxd subscription if you’ve got a slightly bigger budget.
In the spirit of 'Secret Santa,' these thoughtful picks cater to a diverse range interests, making those awkward gift-giving encounters actually useful.
Whether it's a co-worker, friend, or family member, these selections show that even with a limited budget, you can spread joy and consideration during the festive season. And with most doubling up on practicality and aesthetic, surely it’ll be a hit.
Any products featured by Darling Magazine are always independently selected by our writers and editors. However, when you buy something through links, we may earn an affiliate commission.