When your TikTok feed is flooded with “top 10 Amazon must-haves,” and anything you could ever want is only as far away as your thumb is from the online checkout button, it can be hard to shop for the holiday season since it feels as though everyone already has everything. Finding the perfect gift for that special someone just gets harder and harder each year.
So I’ve ditched the traditional gift guides filled with tchotchkes, kitchen-ware (your mom really doesn’t need another apron) and themed socks, and instead, I’ve curated a list of products you really can’t go wrong with.
To me, the perfect gift should answer “yes” to at least one of these three questions:
- Is this gift an elevated version of something the gift-receiver may already have?
- Is this something I may not necessarily splurge on for myself, but if I were gifted it, I would love?
- Is this gift personal, unique, customizable and can’t be found anywhere else?
As you browse the following list, if you can answer "yes" to any of those questions, you're already on your way to becoming the best gift-giver this holiday season!
1. Custom Engraved Lipstick by Guerlain
For the one who's always touching up their makeup—A lipstick may not initially strike you as remarkable or significant when it comes to gift-giving. That is, until you realize this particular lipstick comes with a compact mirror and the option to monogram it with a name or a special message. This is an example of a gift I wouldn’t necessarily deem as urgent to purchase for myself, but if I were gifted it, it would be a cherished keepsake for life. Need I mention, the lipstick is refillable?
2. Personalizable Birthstone Jewelry by Brook & York
For the minimalist with a touch of sentimentalism—This is a minimalist play on the oh-so-popular custom name necklaces we’ve all seen. I love this alternative because only the wearer knows the exact significance behind each gemstone, and it’s a piece they can keep adding to over the years.
3. Homeland Series Apparel by Halaballoo
For the homesick one or the one who loves telling you where they’re from (like okay, we get it, you're 1/8th Irish or something)—With over 35 different countries to choose from (the list keeps growing), these custom-made-to-order sweatshirts are the perfect way to wear your homeland just a little closer to your heart. We love the minimalism of these line-art map renditions as a way to represent where you’re from without needing to yell “I AM FROM EGYPT AND I AM PROUD” (although I am, and I would).
4. Custom Match Books by For Your Party
For the trendy host—Okay, these are a bit extra, but how fun would it be to have custom matchbooks? Just imagine having a little bowl of your very own matchbooks at your door to give to guests on their way out. Extra? For sure. Cute? Absolutely! I’ve always thought it would be funny to personalize them with something like “Stolen from Hala’s."
5. Custom Zodiac Flower & Name Sweatshirt by Halaballoo
For the mom who doesn't want another kitchen gadget—Did you know just as there are zodiac signs, there are also corresponding zodiac flowers? This is a gift you can guarantee that special someone doesn’t already have—because it’s 100% personalizable. You can select up to five different flowers and corresponding names that are custom-designed and embroidered. Want to personalize it even more? Add embroidery on the sleeve for an extra special touch!
6. Embossed Luggage Tag by Leatherology
For the jetsetter—This is another example of “not a need, but a definite want." I love gifts that are elevated versions of things you may already have. Does everyone already have a dingy, under-used luggage tag? Sure. But do they have a luxurious leather tag with their initials embossed on it? Not everyone can say yes. I’ll let you think on that.
7. Personalizable Roman Numeral Sweatshirts by Halaballoo
For the one who forgets the important dates—Does it feel like your significant other can never seem to remember the important dates? (I promise this is not a jab at my own husband, I can just imagine this being a problem for some people). Do you sometimes wish you could tattoo that date on your partner’s forehead? (Again, I’ve literally never had this thought…but hey, maybe some people do). Well, let’s take that thought down a notch, and instead, opt for a custom embroidered sweatshirt with the date. It’s personal, unique, and a timeless keepsake, all while still minimal and wearable—and it's less dramatic than a tattoo.
8. Personalized Constellation Map by The Star Poster
For the astrology enthusiast—On the topic of memorializing significant life-milestone dates, here’s another way to do so. These beautiful posters are customizable in nearly every way and are so easy to put together. Just enter the date, time, and location, of your special date and they’ll take care of the rest.
9. Freedom & Resiliance Sweatshirt by Halaballoo
For the advocate—This sweatshirt features the Keffiyeh design which is a symbol of Palestinian nationalism and resilience. Show your support and fight for Palestinian freedom with this sweatshirt—whether you're wearing it at a protest, to school or at home, it’s a gift that shows resilience, advocacy and strength for the Palestinian cause.
10. Mix & Match Custom Linen Napkin Set by Halaballoo
For the hostess with the mostess—Whether you're having an intimate family dinner, gathering with friends, or hosting the in-laws, these napkins are the perfect gift to help set the table for you—making every meal a special occasion. Inspired by the fruits and plants of a Mediterranean garden, each napkin from this set features a different bloom—lemon, pomegranate, jasmine flower, and rosemary. Oh, and did I mention you can mix and match them for the perfect curated set?
By focusing on these three simple criteria—elevating something they already love, offering a thoughtful splurge, or choosing something truly unique and personalized—you’ll ensure your gift stands out and feels meaningful. Because after all, the best gifts are those that show you’ve put thought into the person receiving them. Whether it’s a custom piece of jewelry, a monogrammed lipstick, or a personalized keepsake, remember it’s the intention behind the gift that counts most. Happy gifting!
