You blanked that your aunt got engaged this year and is bringing your uncle-to-be to the family gathering. Your beau “forgot” to tell you about his cousin’s holiday party, and you need a last-minute hostess gift. Or, you’ve simply been too busy eating, drinking, and being merry to bother with hitting the malls.
Sometimes, waiting until the 11th hour to pick up presents is inevitable, but that doesn’t mean you have to be stuck gifting the remnants left on the holiday aisles. Check out these quick and easy ideas to guide you gracefully through those last-minute gifts.
1. For the Holiday Host or Hostess
A great last-minute gift set for anyone putting together a holiday party: A disposable camera (for guests to snap pictures at the party!), a Target gift card (to cover getting the photos developed), and a nice set of coasters (beloved by hostesses the world over).
You’ll be considerate of the occasion and of her home, and help her keep memories of the event all at the same time.
2. For Your Parents
If you’re totally out of time (how is it Christmas Eve already?), a subscription to a food or wine club is a generous, thoughtful gift that is actually supposed to arrive after the holiday has passed. Consider Cellars Wine, which has options at multiple price points (starting at one bottle), the American microbrew club Ale in the Mail, or an Artisan Cheese of the Month subscription. And if you want Dad to have something under the tree, grab a wine opener or marble cheese plate from, well, wherever’s open.
3. For the Forgotten Relatives
Everyone needs to be kept warm, so gloves, hats, and scarves make great low-pressure gifts to both give and receive. Plus, easy-to-find chain stores often have sets on sale at this point in the season.
We love the look of this deep brown plaid scarf from Gap.
4. For Anyone Else
A gift card to TicketsNow.com is a great gift to keep handy in your purse, glove box, or even your inbox. Let the sports, music, or theater-lover in your life attend the event of their choice—and save yourself worrying about having to predict their calendar.
And for anyone more likely to enjoy a nice night in over an evening out, give the gift of art—a gift card to Artsicle will let them rent beautiful, curated art pieces for their home.