Last Minute Christmas Shopping?

We all know how easy it is to get stuck on the idea that a good gift needs to be expensive and/or elaborate, but some of the most memorable ones are understated and heartfelt. Think back to the times when you gave your mum that spaghetti and macaroni necklace you made in kindergarten. How happy did she look? Don't worry, we won't be going quite that level of arts and crafts today. But it's the same thought that goes behind it.

But, before you start to panic and grab the first thing you see, let’s take a deep breath and see if we can come up with something together. Here’s a quick guide to some thoughtful, last-minute Christmas gift ideas that show you care without completely stressing yourself out.

Keep it simple and thoughtful with these ideas.

• Handwritten Notes: Write a letter from the heart or a short note sharing why you appreciate the giftee. It’s personal, timeless, and costs almost nothing but some of your time.
• Their Favourite Treats: A box of their go-to chocolates, a fancy coffee blend, or even a six-pack of a craft beer they love shows you pay attention to what they say or do.
• A Plant: A cute little succulent or herb plant is a small, lasting reminder of your thoughtfulness. (And for those friends who don't have a green thumb, there's always a fake version somewhere.)
• Warm Accessories: Who doesn’t love cosy socks, gloves, a scarf, or a soft sweater during the winter? Just make sure when gifting clothes that you have their size.
• Customized Playlist: Collect songs that remind you of them or match their taste. Bonus points if you share a story about why you picked some or even each song.
• Jar of Notes: Fill a jar with handwritten notes; funny memories, things you admire about them, or inside jokes.
• Recipe Kit: Package the ingredients for their favourite meal or dessert, complete with a handwritten recipe card.
• Tea & Mug: Pair a cute or meaningful mug with their favourite tea, coffee, or hot chocolate mix.
• DIY Spa Kit: Bath bombs, a face mask, and a candle can instantly transform their evening into a spa day.
• Puzzles or Games: A mini puzzle or a deck of cards is small, affordable, and always fun.

Simple gifts with an impact for the friend who already “has everything,” or when time is short, these ideas are both thoughtful and practical

• Reusable Water Bottle: Pick one with a sleek or colourful design. This is a functional and sustainable gift. Showing you care about them and the planet.
• Portable Keychain Tool: Handy and practical, from mini flashlights to bottle openers, to all-in-one tools
• Movie Night Kit: Include popcorn, their favourite candy, and a ticket or link to a movie they’d love.
• DIY Spa Night: A simple invitation to your place or theirs to unwind with wine, laughter, and self-care essentials.
• Local Adventure: A handwritten “voucher” for a coffee date, a scenic hike, or tickets to a nearby museum shows you value spending time together.

And for the sentimental heart, sometimes, the best gifts are the ones that tug on the heartstrings.

• Photo Keychain: Slip a tiny picture of a shared memory into a keychain frame.
• Coupon Book: A homemade book of “coupons” for things like breakfast in bed, a car wash, or even just a coffee on you. Cliché? Perhaps. But it works
• Memory Jar: Write down fun or meaningful memories on little pieces of paper and collect them in a jar.
• Simple piece of jewellery: A necklace or bracelet with charms that reminds them of special moments or personal traits is a thoughtful, lasting gift that carries sentimental value.