I’ll be honest—gift guides aren’t typically my thing. I spend most of my time thinking about paint colors, furniture arrangements, and how to make a room feel like home. But with Black Friday around the corner, Cyber Monday coming up fast, and the holidays in full swing, I’ve been doing my own shopping and thinking about what’s actually worth buying. And if I’m thinking about it, I know you probably are too.
I love being helpful, so I thought I’d share some of the things I genuinely love and would give (or have given) to the people in my own life. These aren’t trend-driven picks or things I think you should buy. They’re thoughtful, well-made items that feel special without being fussy—gifts that actually get used and appreciated long after the wrapping paper is recycled.
For Her
The women in your life deserve gifts that feel personal and considered—things that make everyday moments a little more special.
Think cozy essentials like soft lounge sets and slippers that she’ll actually want to wear, or a beautiful woven bag that works for everything from errands to weekend trips. I’m also a big believer in the power of good beauty staples—a luxe lip color, a glowing cheek tint, or a clean perfume that becomes her signature. And don’t underestimate the impact of a floral notebook or quality basics like the perfect white tee.
These are the kinds of gifts that say, “I see you, and I want you to feel comfortable and beautiful in your everyday life.”
For School-Age Kids
Kids at this age want gifts that let them create, move, and explore—not just more stuff that ends up forgotten in the toy box.
Look for open-ended play items: a dollhouse they can style and rearrange, craft supplies that encourage creativity, or outdoor toys like scooters and archery sets that get them off screens. Art easels, jewelry-making kits, and building sets let them make something with their hands. And yes, a few special toys like play kitchens or figurine sets are always a hit when they spark imaginative play.
The goal here is to give gifts that grow with them—things they’ll use for months (or years) rather than just the week after Christmas.
For the Hostess
If you’re heading to someone’s home for a holiday gathering, show up with something thoughtful that they’ll actually use and love.
Beautiful serving pieces like wooden boards, cake stands, and linen napkins are always appreciated. A gorgeous coffee table book (especially one about food, design, or travel) becomes a conversation starter. Candles, hand soap, and seasonal potpourri make the home smell inviting. And for the friend who loves to cook, consider a quality oven mitt, pretty dish towels, or a set of olive wood risers for displaying baked goods.
These are gifts that feel generous without being over-the-top—they show you care about the person’s home and the effort they put into making it welcoming.
For the Homebody
For the person who loves nothing more than a cozy night in, lean into gifts that make their home feel like a sanctuary.
Soft throws, textured pillows, and beautiful candle holders create ambiance. Coffee table books on design, gardens, or architecture give them something to browse through on lazy mornings. Vintage-inspired decor like brass frames, woven baskets, and simple vases add character without clutter. And don’t forget practical-but-pretty items like a ceramic mug, glass cloche, or set of taper candles.
The homebody in your life will appreciate anything that makes their space feel more layered, more personal, and more like the retreat they crave.
A Final Thought
Gift-giving doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. The best gifts are the ones that feel thoughtful—chosen with the recipient’s real life in mind. Whether it’s something they’ll wear, use in their home, or give to their kids, the intention behind it is what makes it meaningful.
I hope these ideas spark some inspiration as you think about the people on your list this year. And if you end up picking something from these guides, I’d love to hear about it!
Looking for more holiday inspiration? Head to my LTK to shop all of these gift guides and find direct links to each item. Happy gifting!
