Whether it’s a work party, family name-drawing tradition, or friend group, we are deep into Secret Santa Season. Here are some ideas to make that random person whose name you drew feel seen and special.
First, give some thought to the recipient. Think about the recipient’s interests: tech vs home vs games vs personal care.
- Pick something fairly neutral if you don’t know their tastes well (e.g., water bottle, travel mug, picture frame).
- Avoid overly personal or specific gifts unless you’re sure (e.g., fragrances can be risky). And for the love of all that’s holy, don’t give a woman a purse. You will NEVER pick the one with just the right pockets that she requires.
- Presentation helps — wrap it nicely or add a small note to make it feel extra. “I saw this chainsaw keychain, and it reminded me of the incident that required you to miss 6 months’ of work.” Something like that.
Still stuck for ideas? Here is a list to stimulate the Santa cells. Prices vary, so keep in mind the parameters of your group. Usually there is a dollar range specified.
- Portable Bluetooth speaker in your recipient’s favorite color.
- High quality water bottles like Yeti or Stanley are always welcome. It will probably replace the one their teenager left at soccer practice.
- Self-care boxes or ready-made makeup kits. Places like Sephora or Ulta will have a wide selection. Teenagers LOVE this stuff.
- Headphones or earbuds. Again, these are available in all sorts of prices/quality and people are always looking for a spare or replacement.
- Assortment of specialty coffees or teas.
- An unusual board game or party game. Those conversation-starter boxes with various themes are everywhere. Just the thing to get your recipient through awkward family gatherings.
- A Hori Hori gardening tool. Best device ever for digging, cutting, stabbing, all in one. Sounds kind of like a murdering tool, but it’s not.
- Pretty paper plates and napkins for the home entertainer.
- A hat with built-in light for the friend or cousin who runs rain or shine, light or dark.
Yes, it’s unusual advice from a financial planning blog, but go forth and shop!
