The ULTIMATE last minute gift guide for the holidays

Hope you have that card ready because this is going to be a long one.

Christina Hance-Aloi, Editor

December 16, 2024

If you don’t know what to get anyone for gifts, I have you covered with over 30 options.

’Tis the season for gift giving, and I am here to relieve your worries when it comes to deciding what to get your parents, significant other or friends. Below, I have put together personal, thoughtful, and practical gifts for all of the people special in your life.

What to get your Parents

This one can be difficult because your parents may like completely different things. This is why I have gathered joint gifts as well as separate lists for each of them.

Joint Gifts

1. Back Shoulder and Neck Massager with Heat

For $49.99 on Amazon, This specific massager includes eight kneading massage nodes that get even deeper to provide more muscle relief. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

A back, shoulder, and neck massager with heat is a thoughtful gift for your parents offering stress relief, muscle relaxation, and improved circulation. This can help them unwind at home after busy days or just relax while watching TV.

Other cool features include infrared heating, three adjustable speeds, and direction control.

This specific Amazon seller offers a 30-day money back period in which you can return the massager for any reason, while offering a 1 year replacement.

2. Heated Towel Warmer

For $99.98 on Amazon, the built-in timer can keep your belongings warm for 30min, 1h, 2h or 4h before it shuts off automatically eliminating risk of overheating. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

A heated towel warmer is a great gift for your parents because it adds a touch of luxury to their routine and bathroom. It’s a comforting and thoughtful way to enhance their relaxation, and make them feel like they are in a spa.

This specific towel warmer can accommodate up to two 40″ X 70″ oversized bath towels, bathrobes, blankets, PJ’s and more, so it isn’t just for towels!

3. Holiday Scented Candle

For $18.70 – $165.75 on Nordstrom, this candle can also add a decorative touch to their space and enhance the holiday spirit. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

A holiday candle is a great gift for parents because it creates a cozy and festive atmosphere, while filling their home with seasonal scents.

This specific brand is one that I love, NEST. The candle shown by them provides notes of pomegranate, mandarin orange, pine, cloves, cinnamon, vanilla, and amber.

When smelling their candles, you can really smell everything, and the authentic ingredients put into their products rise above others.

4. Aura Digital Picture Frame

For $149.00 on Amazon, you can invite family and friends to add photos from anywhere in the world. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

A digital photo frame is a great gift because it allows parents to display and enjoy a rotating collection of cherished memories in one device. Unlike traditional frames, it can hold hundreds of photos, which eliminates the need for multiple frames.

Many digital photo frames, like this one, also allow easy updates through Wi-Fi or USB, so new memories can be added at any time.

You can send photos and videos directly from your phone to the Aura digital picture frame.

5. Wood and Marble Rectangle Cheese Board

For $49 on Mark & Graham, you can enjoy a handcrafted board from polished marble with an acacia wood inlay.(Christina Hance-Aloi)

A customized cheese board is a lovely gift for parents who cook, it combines functionality and a personal touch.

It’s perfect for entertaining or family nights, adding style and sentimental value to their home. Parents love personalized things, especially from their kids.

Any monogramming is laser engraved which ensures the personalization to stay in place.

6. Philips Stainless Sparkling Water Maker

For $49.98 on Amazon, enjoy fresh soda water or flavored fizzy drinks with a touch of a button. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

A sparkling water maker is a practical and eco-friendly gift that provides fresh sparkling water at home, reducing waste and saving money while providing healthy alternatives to soda.

One carbonating cylinder makes up to 60L of sparkling water, replacing 120 single-use plastic bottles.

The cool thing about this machine is there is no electricity required so you can have it inside or outside.

7. Sips, Sights & Bites Food Tour of Washington DC

For $88 on Giftory, your parents explore the city’s best culinary spots while enjoying its history and landmarks. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

Experiences are a memorable and great gift for anyone. A Sips, Sights & Bites Food Tour of Washington, DC is a great gift because it offers a unique experience combining local food, culture, and sightseeing.

It’s a perfect way to create memories while experiencing the city’s vibrant food scene.

At the end of your tour, your parents have sampled different dishes from all over the world and DC.

Renowned and loved, this tour has earned the 2023 Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence!

8. Custom Handwritten Cuff Bracelet

For $45 on Amazon, this bracelet can incorporate the actual handwriting of your loved ones. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

A custom handwritten cuff bracelet is a meaningful and personal gift because it allows you to inscribe a special message, quote, or date that holds sentimental value.

It makes a timeless keepsake, offering both style and emotional connection.

Made with high-quality stainless steel, your bracelet is meant to last.

9. Custom Watercolor House Portrait

For $Unknown, you can gift a meaningful keepsake for parents. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

A custom watercolor house portrait is a sentimental and unique gift that captures a cherished home.

You can choose your style through the website which provides a versatile approach, offering a matching aesthetic to your parents furniture… If they care about those type of things!

The only thing you need is a frontal picture of your home to submit to the artist.

10. Parent matching hats

For $19.99 on Amazon, you can offer a cute way for parents to showcase their connection, whether for family outings, vacations, or casual events. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

Parent matching hats are a fun and playful gift that fosters a sense of bonding.

There is air ventilated holes on the top making this trucker cap to make it breathable and comfortable. To make it a one size fits all, adjustable metal buckles are present on the hats.

Gifts for Mom

1. Ember Temperature Control Smart Mug

For $119.96 on Walmart, the battery life can either be 80 minutes, or all day on the included charging coaster. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

The Ember Temperature Control Smart Mug is perfect for keeping drinks at the ideal temperature for longer.

It’s a practical gift for moms who enjoy sipping coffee or tea throughout the day. Plus, its sleek design is a nice touch for any kitchen or office without clashing.

The temperature pairs with the Ember app which lets you track it throughout the day.

The mug is also safe to hand wash and can be submersible up to 1 meter in water so that you don’t have to worry if you get it wet.

2. Lululemon Align High-Rise Pant

For $98 on Lululemon, these offer a flattering fit and are highly durable for moving. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

Lululemon Align High-Rise Pants are a great gift for comfort and style. These are made with soft, stretchy fabric, and they’re perfect for everyday wear.

Originally made for yoga, the buttery soft and weightless Nulu™ fabric feels almost like you’re wearing nothing at all which allows for endless movement without feeling uncomfortable.

Often known for their high price point, they can be considered worth the money because of the support they provide, as well as the durability of the fabric.

3. Everywhere belt bag 2L

For $48 on Lululemon, there is a two way zipper, and inside pockets that can provide organization for everyday essentials. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

The Everywhere Belt Bag 2L is a stylish and practical gift for every mom. It’s perfect for keeping essentials or quite literally anything. The versatile design works for both casual and active outings, with an easy and adjustable strap for everyone.

The body is made of 100% Nylon, and has incredible durability.

From personal experience, I bought my mom, Jacqueline Perez, one and she has now racked up 3 different colors of it because of how convenient this bag really is.

She described why she likes it, saying, “I used to carry purses around and I never thought I’d end up with a fanny pack but its my new favorite since I just keep everything in it and I don’t have to dig around.”

4. Beis weekender bag

For $108 on Beis, this bag is laptop friendly, top of your suitcase friendly, and carry-on friendly. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

The Beis Weekender Bag is a perfect gift for the mom who travels a lot, the various compartments allow there to be space for anything one needs to pack. Its sleek and practical design is convenient with its many pockets to help organize any of the contents.

This is the perfect airline bag for over packers, and even road trips.

5. College Cityscape Wine Glasses

For $38 on Uncommon Goods, each glass is printed in reverse colors with hand-drawn, 360-degree illustrations of iconic buildings and landmarks around campus. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

College Cityscape Wine Glasses are perfect for the mom who loves her college and reps her alumni proudly. These provide a fun, chic, and practical approach to sipping.

After the final sip of their beverage, they’ll see their university’s logo at the bottom of the cup, providing character and flashbacks.

6. Owala

For $37.99 on Owala, The Owala Tumbler fits easily into most cup holders making it even more perfect for moms who need hydration on the go. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

Owalas have gained popularity over the past year dramatically. Known for leaving drinks warm or cold for long periods of time, their colorway choices are also very fun and versatile, leaving a colorway for all tastes.

Offering a spill proof lid, the Owala won’t spill when tipped over unlike other competitors.

7. Heating Pad for Neck and Shoulders and Back

For $49.99 on Amazon, there are nine Heat Settings & 11 Auto-Off Timers to prevent overheating and risk. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

All moms need relaxation, which is why a heating pad for their neck, shoulders and back is perfect for relieving muscle pain, stress, and other issues. With the convenience of buttoning it around you, it makes relaxation easy and convenient.

On this specific heating pad, the neck and shoulder heated wrap is machine-washable after removing the controller.

8. Instant Smartphone Photo Printer

For $69.99 on Amazon, it eliminates the need for pricy ink cartridges, as it operates with sticky-back paper with embedded dye crystals instead. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

An instant smartphone photo printer lets moms print photos with the touch of a button, providing an easy way to avoid costs of printing through third parties, while also allowing convenience at your fingertips.

The rechargeable battery prints 25 photo on a full charge, and weighs barely anything providing easy carrying and convenience.

9. Miss Dior Eau de Parfum

For $108 on Ulta, you can smell the notes of Lily-of-the-Valley, Peony, and Centifolia Rose. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

A staple amongst adults, Miss Dior is an amazing and versatile fragrance for moms. The floral notes lead to compliments left and right, as well as an aura of elegance as you walk past.

From an Ulta employee myself, I have quite the handbook of fragrances to recommend, this one tops the list.

1o. Pajama set

For $25 on Target, choose from varieties of designs and fabrics, they all are guaranteed to have your mom feeling her best. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

A pajama set can provide comfort while also looking and feeling put together. Auden from Target creates stretchy, soft, and cute pajama sets for any woman in your life.

Crafted from soft, stretchy knit fabric to keep your mom comfortable and warm, they also remain affordable so that you don’t break the bank.

Gifts for Dad

1. Hybrid Electric Razor and Beard Trimmer for Men

For $38.78 on Amazon, it can flex in all directions, which ensures that there is always skin contact. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

The Hybrid Electric Razor and Beard Trimmer is a great gift for dads who like a clean shave or maintain facial hair. It offers precision and convenience in one device, which makes grooming quick and easy.

This specific razor has seen a surge in popularity across platforms, as it provides precise cutting.

With the dual-sided blade, 5-in-1 comb, and easy to charge port, it is sure to be a staple in your dad’s routine.

2. Exceptionally Bad Dad Jokes Book

For $10.99 on Amazon, your dad will surely have a laugh. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

The Exceptionally Bad Dad Jokes book is a fun and lighthearted gift for dads who love to tell corny jokes. It’s a great way to make him laugh while adding some humor.

This book contains clean family friendly jokes, and there’s even a spot for you to leave dad a message at the beginning of the book.

3. Y Eau de Parfum Cologne Set

For $160 on YSL Beauty, you can smell a fresh and masculine scent, making it perfect for everyday wear. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

The Y Eau de Parfum Cologne Set is a sophisticated gift for dads who enjoy a good fragrance.

This gift set contains a 3.4 oz. Eau de Parfum spray and a 0.33 oz. Eau de Parfum travel spray. The key notes in this fragrance are sage, geranium, and wood, making it a staple when your dad walks past.

An Ulta customer I helped told me why it’s his favorite, “It lasts so long and my girlfriend can distinguish it above all my other ones. It’s worth the buck by far, I’m on my third bottle.”

4. HOKA Clifton 9

For $115- $149 on HOKA, these feature a symmetrical bed of cushion without additional prescriptive technologies to make your father’s foot cozy and comfortable. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

The HOKA Clifton 9 is a great gift for dads who enjoy running or walking. Known for its cushioning and support, it offers comfort for long distances, making it ideal for active dads.

All HOKAs can provide comfort for anyone, these specifically though, are best for everyday running and walking.

Pasha Hort (Class of 2025) explained why HOKAs were the best shoe in the game, saying, “They are snug closer to the middle of your foot but wider where your toes are, the heel keeps your foot in place and everything too.”

5. College Cityscape Rocks Glasses

For $38 on Uncommon Goods, their university’s logo is printed at the bottom of each glass, so when they are done sipping, they are reminded of memories from their early years. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

The College Cityscape Rocks Glasses are perfect for dads who enjoy a drink while showing off their school. The unique design adds a personal touch to the home bar or office, making it both functional and sentimental.

He can twin with mom as she sips on her college wine glasses; don’t let them get confused!

6. NFL City Rocks Glass

For $38 on Uncommon Goods, dad can enjoy a set of glasses that are officially licensed by the NFL. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

The NFL City Rocks Glass is a great gift for dads who are football fans. It combines his love for the game with a stylish, functional glass that celebrates his favorite team’s city.

It comes with two 11-oz. rocks glasses. Another great touch, they are printed with a map of their favorite NFL team’s home city.

7. UGG Ascot Leather Slipper

For $110- $120 on Nordstrom, your dad can enjoy a slipper shaped from smooth leather and fitted with a smart rubber sole. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

The UGG Ascot Leather Slipper is a cozy and stylish gift. Its soft interior and durable leather exterior provide comfort and warmth, making it perfect for relaxing at home or running errands.

With many different colorways as well, he is certain to find his favorite.

8. Victoria Cast Iron Panini Press

For $20.99 on Amazon, dad can cook with a textured pre-seasoned skin that transfers and retains heat to provide easy cooking and tasty food. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

The Victoria Cast Iron Panini Press is a great gift for dads who love cooking. It helps make delicious, evenly pressed sandwiches with ease; smashburgers have never been better.

9. TheraGun Mini Massage Gun

For $149 on Amazon, there are three high-quality foam attachments to target wherever the muscle is, while also allowing different speeds. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

The TheraGun Mini Massage Gun is a perfect gift for relaxation after a long day. Its compact size makes it easy to use, providing targeted muscle relief and help to ease tension.

Convenience at its #1 priority, its compact and travel-sized to allow on the go muscle relief.

10. Garmin vívoactive 5

For $200 on Amazon, this watch can have a battery life of up to 11 days in smartwatch mode, it is designed to sustain almost anything that could come up. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

The Garmin vívoactive 5 is an ideal gift for dads who are into fitness or tech. It tracks workouts, heart rate, sleep, and more, offering smart features in a sleek design to help him stay active and healthy.

Features include getting a sleep score and personalized sleep coaching, 30 built-in indoor and GPS sports app, and wheelchair mode.

Gifts for Boyfriends

1. Pace Breaker Linerless Short 5″

For $68 on Lululemon, your boyfriend can enjoy an ultra-soft inner waistband, sweat-wicking fabric, pocketed lining, and breathable material for any movement. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

The Pace Breaker Linerless Short 5” is a great gift for an active boyfriend. It’s comfortable, breathable, and perfect for workouts or casual wear. The versatile design and lightweight fabric make it ideal for running or gym sessions.

I bought these for my boyfriend last year and they look so great, 5′ inseam is definitely the way to go when gifting shorts to any male.

2. Video games he actually wants!

Brighten his day with their favorite video game!(Christina Hance-Aloi)

Video games your boyfriend wants are a thoughtful gift, showing you pay attention to his interests. Popular video games right now include NBA 2K24 Kobe Bryant Edition, NBA 2K25, and others.

I would ask your boyfriend first though just to make sure.

3. Owala

For $27.94 on Amazon, you can live in luxury and style as you sip from this sleekly designed water bottle. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

An Owala water bottle is a great gift for your boyfriend. It features a sleek design, a convenient one-handed flip lid, and insulation to keep drinks cold or hot for hours.

Boyfriends love to steal sips from your water bottle which is why getting them their own could be a good gift, and they’ve probably already heard of Owalas.

Who hasn’t?

4. Essentials hoodie

For $120 on Fear of God, you can relax in a hoodie known for its soft fabric and relaxed fit. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

An Essentials hoodie is a great gift for your boyfriend, offering both style and comfort. The minimalist design adds a touch of versatility to his wardrobe, while also staying in trend.

Its made of 80% cotton and 20% polyester fleece, the shrinking is actually pretty limited coming from personal experience.

Its also perfect for winter because its a double layered hoodie, providing comfort and weight, and it’s a great gift for you to steal for yourself.

5. MYSLF Eau de Parfum

For $125 on Ulta, your boyfriend can smell the best he’s ever smelt. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

MYSLF Eau de Parfum is a thoughtful gift for your boyfriend because it offers a sophisticated fragrance. Its unique scent can complement his personality, and have you sniffing him like a dog whenever he walks past.

The notes in this fragrance are fresh accord, orange blossom absolute heart, and woods heart.

New and underrated as well, the MYSLF fragrance had recently released by YSL.

Gifts for Girlfriends

1. PASSPORT TO PARADISE PERFUME SET

For $68 on Sol De Janiero, your girlfriend can leave a tropical aroma as she walks past. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

The Passport to Paradise Perfume Set is a great gift for your girlfriend, as it offers a collection of refreshing, tropical scents. It’s perfect for someone who loves fragrance and tiktok trends, as Sol De Janiero is popular.

This set includes three of the most popular body sprays they have- Cheirosa 62, Cheirosa 68, and Cheirosa 40. All of these scents are tropical and versatile for all seasons.

2. Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm

For $24 on Sephora, your girlfriend will always have nourished lips. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

Summer Fridays products are very POPULAR. Known for their nourishing and effective formulas, they offer hydration and a healthy glow, the famous balm can make her lip care elevated and glossy.

With yummy flavor selections, they might be too good not to lick after applying which is why they are so popular.

Extra nourishing as some may describe, the lip balms include butters like shea and murumuru seed.

3. Eos Shea Better Moisture Body Lotion in Vanilla Cashmere

For $10 on Target, legs can feel the best they have ever felt, and smell delicious. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

EOS Lotion in Vanilla Cashmere is a sweet and luxurious smelling gift. Its rich, moisturizing formula keeps skin soft and hydrated, while the warm vanilla scent adds a well-desired, cozy, and comforting touch to her daily routine.

The lotion is lightweight and non-greasy which beats all of its competitors by far. There are seven nourishing oils and butters, including, natural shea butter and shea oil to moisturize.

With an affordable price tag adding to the pros, its obtainable and perfect.

4. Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote

For $155 on Nordstrom, your girlfriend is sure to be in style as she goes around campus, while also holding all the essentials. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

The Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote is going around platforms everywhere. The sleek, chic, and luxurious design lead to a stylish accessory for any outfit. Sizes can range from small, to big enough for a computer and binder.

Created with smooth, sleek nylon and embossed leather trim, it is sure to be an eyecatcher on the shoulder. With a water-resistant finish, she won’t have to worry about wearing the tote in any condition.

5. REVLON One Step Volumizer PLUS Hair Dryer and Styler

For $36.61 on Amazon, the perfect blowout can be achieved. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

The REVLON One Step Volumizer Hair Dryer and Styler is one of the most popular hair dryers I have seen purchased as an Ulta employee. The affordable price tag and styling abilities make it a bang for its buck.

She can get salon-like blowouts in up to half the time and treat your hair to up to 50% less heat exposure, limiting hair damage and problems that can come up in the future.

To make styling easy, there are also 3 heat options to optimize blowouts and styling.

Gifts for Friends

1. THE COMFY

For $50 on Amazon, you can stay warm and cozy in the convenience of a hoodie. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

The Comfy is a perfect gift for friends who love comfort. This oversized, wearable blanket provides warmth and relaxation, making it ideal for lounging, movie nights, or chilly days.

Fitting oversized with warmth and comfort, its ultra-soft microfiber and sherpa fabric leave anyone feeling warm and cozy. It’s a one-size-fits-all design with a large pocket, and hoodie.

Most say it’s lightweight too which is good because overheating won’t be in the picture. Don’t forget it’s machine washable, and versatile for lounging, working, or outdoor use.

2. Kitsch Satin Sleep Set

For $35 on Amazon, your skin will thank you and so will your hair. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

The Kitsch Satin Sleep Set is a perfect gift for friends who enjoy self-care. The silky fabric feels luxurious against the skin, promoting a restful night’s sleep while preventing hair breakage and skin irritation.

This set includes one standard size satin pillowcase, along with a matching satin eye mask and a volume scrunchie to have your friend living in luxury.

Satin does not absorb moisture unlike cotton, so skin stays hydrated which is something not a lot of people think of.

3. Monogram Block Print Travel Pouch

For $39- $49 on Mark & Graham, you will always know whose bag is whose when you travel. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

The Monogram Block Print Travel Pouch is a great gift for friends who love to travel or stay organized in general. Its personalized monogram adds a special touch, while the stylish design keeps toiletries or accessories neatly packed during trips.

There are many different colorways, along with two sizes and an option to personalize the bag with a monogram adding a thoughtful touch. It’s 100% cotton block printed by hand, and the monogramming is embroidered.

If your friend owns a business, you can even monogram the logo, you would just have to email the company.

4. Kintion Pocket Mirror

For $10 on Amazon, you have your companion for touch-ups on the go. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

The Kintion Pocket Mirror is a small and stylish gift for friends. Its compact size makes it easy to carry in a bag, and the sleek design adds a touch of elegance. It’s perfect for quick touch-ups on the go.

It’s options for magnification are 1X or 3X giving access to see real up close and personal, which can be good at times.

5. The Five Minute Journal

For $29 on Amazon, you can reflect on your days, mistakes, good things, or whatever comes to mind. (Christina Hance-Aloi)

The Five Minute Journal is a great gift for friends who enjoy personal growth and mindfulness. Its simple, structured format helps them start or end their day with gratitude, reflection, and positivity. It’s perfect for being productive.

It was crafted for positive manifestation and improved confidence, which are both important traits to adapt in your everyday life. There are also areas where you can reflect at the end of your day, which is extremely important

This concludes my ultimate gift guide as someone who loves gift giving! I hope you found some things your person would like within these options, and if you didn’t- comment more below to help others during the holiday season.

Or… I guess you could just buy a gift card and ignore the whole gift guide, it’s up to you.

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