5 Last-Minute Gift Ideas That Show You Still Care

While flipping through a gift guide in a popular newspaper, I couldn’t help laughing. Presented as impressive gifts for family members, the list was a slew of extravagant gadgets and accessories. I thought to myself that even if I could buy a $90 self-warming mug for everyone on my list, I doubt anyone would rave about it as the gift of the year.

As someone who loves giving gifts, I start dreaming of getting just the right thing for each person weeks before Christmas. But as many of us know, this is easier said than done. Whether or not we have a “gifty” personality, the bombardment of holiday ads and gift guides can be overwhelming. And whether we’re shopping for a few friends, a ton of family members, or a Secret Santa exchange, finding a gift someone will love while also sticking to a budget is never easy.

The good news is that the quality of a gift has nothing to do with price but with the thought and affection it conveys. That means a great gift doesn’t have to be expensive, but it also doesn’t have to be a handmade masterpiece! The trick is finding something simple that highlights a specific interest or quality of the recipient so that it sends the message, “I picked this out just for you.”

The exact size and type of gifts will look different for each of us. But here are five suggestions, with do-it-yourself and store-bought variations, to help get ideas flowing.

1. Personalized Playlist and Accompanying Treat

Have you ever listened to a song and thought of a particular friend or family member? Or maybe there’s a style of music you both love. Assembling a playlist on Spotify for a particular person is an easy yet effective way to recall memories or express appreciation through an artist’s lyrics. To go one step further, you can write down the song list and add a note next to each title, explaining why you chose each song. 

Adding something physical makes this gift exchange more concrete, so consider giving a nicely wrapped treat to accompany your playlist. Pick up Christmas cookies or an adult drink from your favorite bakery or liquor store, or create your own mason jar treat or other edible gift. Tie a ribbon around the treat with a note (“Enjoy this while listening to some favorite tunes!”) and a link to your playlist. 

2. Personalized Travel Toiletries Kit

This might sound too practical for a Christmas gift, but hear me out. We all have moments on the go when we really need a nail clipper, tissue, breath freshener, or other personal item and either dig through the black hole of a purse or whisper around for help. With a little creativity, a portable compartment to carry daily-use items can be both a useful and thoughtful gift.

For a stylish store-bought version, check out the variety of Minimergency Kits from Pinch Provisions. You can also assemble this gift yourself by filling a