Who’s still on your holiday shopping list? There are definitely a few individuals who can be quite challenging to buy for, and you let us know that the people causing the most trouble are preteens/teens, in-laws, and teachers. So, here are some suggestions, many priced under $30…
TEENS AND TWEENS:
Shopping for preteens and teens can be notoriously difficult, so here are several suggestions: a café gift card allowing them to order anything they fancy, or a silent basketball for practicing dribbling quietly while parents are occupied. For those who care about fashion, think about a stylish nightshirt (affordable option available), a gift card for H&M, or a trendy phone case (I’d want one myself, to be honest). Lastly, if you’re seeking a book recommendation for preteens, 11-year-old Anton and I are diving into the graphic memoir Uprooted, where Ruth Chan shares her journey moving from Toronto to Hong Kong.
TEACHERS:
Now that my kids are in middle and high school, I feel more grateful to teachers than ever. (Anton’s teacher recently had to remind the students to go easy on the cologne, haha.) Show your gratitude with thank-you notes, advises a teacher named Kristyn: “I pin them behind my desk to lift my spirits on challenging days.” Additionally, “Emailing our supervisors to share a story about something we did for your child is THE BEST,” adds Whitney. Gift cards to local cafés, lunch spots, or Target would be appreciated throughout the year. Keep in mind, “Teachers have all the mugs,” says Katie, but kids can never go wrong, according to Sarah: “A leaf your child found will move me to tears every time.” And if all else fails, I swear by these earplugs around chatty teenagers, and my boyfriend Freddie, who teaches history, admits, “I always appreciate a good scarf.”
IN-LAWS/GRANDPARENTS:
For in-laws or grandparents, opt for a personal gift, such as a traditional snack, condiment, or cookies from your hometown (I might choose British shortbread or Michigan cherry jam). Alternatively, consider practical gifts they’ll use often, like a magazine subscription or a duckhead umbrella. Another strategy is to think of their hobbies. If they’re into home décor, consider a bow hook? For avid readers, look at this clever novel, which has appeared on many Best-of-2024 lists. Finally, a donation to a cause they support is always a lovely gesture.
What do you think? Are these suggestions useful? What other tricky gift recipients do you have in your life?
P.S. Check out last year’s guide for hard-to-shop-for individuals and the complete 2024 Cup of Jo gift guide!
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**Gift Suggestions for the Hard-to-Shop-For: Teens, In-Laws, and Beyond**
Finding gifts can be an enjoyable task—until you come across those famously hard-to-shop-for personalities. Whether it’s a teenager whose preferences evolve with each TikTok trend, in-laws you’re still getting acquainted with, or that one friend who “has everything,” pinpointing the perfect present can feel like cracking a code. But don’t worry! With a sprinkle of imagination and consideration, you can discover gifts that will enchant even the most challenging individuals. Here’s a guide to help you traverse the tricky landscape of gift-giving for teens, in-laws, and more.
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### **1. Teenagers: The Trendsetters and Individuals**
Teens are frequently the toughest demographic to shop for due to their quickly shifting interests and awareness of what’s “in” versus “out.” To earn their seal of approval, emphasize gifts that are fashionable, customizable, or tech-savvy.
#### **Gift Suggestions:**
– **Gadgetry:** Wireless earbuds, Bluetooth speakers on-the-go, or phone accessories like stylish cases or PopSockets are always popular.
– **Subscription Services:** Monthly boxes suited to their interests—be it beauty items, snacks, or gaming gear—provide continuous excitement.
– **Gift Cards:** Although it may seem less personal, a gift card to their favorite store, café, or gaming service lets them select what they truly want.
– **Craft Kits:** Foster their artistry with DIY kits for making jewelry, painting, or coding.
– **Fashion Essentials:** Trendy sneakers, graphic hoodies, or accessories like bucket hats or beanies can match their unique style.
– **Books or Journals:** For reflective teens, consider trending young adult novels or guided journals for expressing themselves.
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### **2. In-Laws: The Delicate Balance**
Shopping for in-laws may feel like walking a tightrope—you want to impress without crossing any lines. The secret lies in selecting thoughtful, universally appealing gifts that resonate with their interests or enhance their everyday lives.
#### **Gift Suggestions:**
– **Personalized Items:** Monogrammed towels, engraved cutting boards, or custom photo frames convey thoughtfulness without being overly personal.
– **Food and Drink Delights:** A curated basket filled with quality wines, artisanal cheeses, or gourmet chocolates is always a winning choice.
– **Home Luxuries:** Cozy candles, comfortable blankets, or elegant serving trays make for pragmatic yet stylish presents.
– **Experiential Gifts:** Treat them to a wine-tasting excursion, cooking class, or tickets for a local theater performance.
– **Gardening Kits:** If they enjoy tending to plants, a kit with seeds, tools, and planters can be a considerate gift.
– **Coffee or Tea Essentials:** Premium coffee beans, a French press, or a selection of loose-leaf teas paired with a lovely mug can enhance their morning ritual.
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### **3. Friends Who “Have Everything”**
We all know that one friend who seems to own every gadget, book, and trendy item under the sun. For these types, focus on unique, experiential, or sentimental gifts.
#### **Gift Suggestions:**
– **Customized Treasures:** A personalized map of their favorite city, a star map of a special moment, or a custom portrait of their pet can be heartfelt and one-of-a-kind.
– **Exceptional Experiences:** Gift them an opportunity like a cooking class, pottery session, or even a hot air balloon adventure for a memory they’ll treasure.
– **Charitable Contributions:** Organize a donation to a cause they support in their name—it’s a gift that gives back in every sense.
– **Interesting Finds:** Seek out fun and distinctive items, like a mini waffle maker, a tabletop firepit, or a puzzle featuring their favorite artwork.
– **Self-Care Kits:** Create a box filled with luxurious bath products, face masks, and cozy socks for a pampering experience.
– **Digital Subscriptions:** Consider getting them a subscription to a streaming platform, audiobook service, or online class.
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### **4. Colleagues or Acquaintances: The Diplomatic Choice**
When shopping for coworkers, neighbors, or acquaintances, it’s wise to stick to neutral, broadly appreciated gifts that don’t feel overly personal.
#### **Gift Suggestions:**
– **Desk Enhancements:** A chic notebook, a stylish pen set, or a small desk plant can brighten up their workspace.
– **Yummy Treats:** A box of gourmet cookies, a tin of flavored popcorn, or a collection of artisanal hot chocolate mixes is usually a safe choice.
– **Season-themed Gifts:** Festive decorations, holiday-scented candles, or cozy scarves are perfect for this time of year.
– **Sustainable Items:** Eco-friendly options like reusable water bottles, tote bags, or beeswax wraps are both functional and considerate.
– **Games or Puzzles:** A compact board game or a challenging puzzle can provide enjoyable entertainment.
