The holiday season is here, and with it comes the annual question: What do you get for those people on your list who seem to have everything or are just plain hard to shop for? Whether it’s a picky friend, a minimalist sister, or a father-in-law who insists he doesn’t need anything, finding the perfect gift can be a challenge. But don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with thoughtful, creative, and foolproof ideas that are sure to delight.

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Personalized Gifts: Thoughtful and Unique

Personalization turns an ordinary gift into something extraordinary. 

Wear Felicity

Wear Felicity sells a range of items, including jewelry and ornaments, and many include a photo with a unique presentation. You have to look into the jewel of the item (or use your phone’s camera) to reveal the image. It’s a way to pay tribute to a special moment or person without putting a photo on display at all times. This paw print ornament would be a great way to commemorate a four-legged family member who’s crossed the rainbow bridge.  

Moon Glow

The jewelry at Moon Glow offers a unique take on personalization. Instead of simply putting a birthdate or anniversary on a necklace, ring, or another piece, you personalize it with the phase of the moon from that day. Their Moon Calculator page will help guide you and tell you the significance of each phase. There are necklaces, bracelets, and key rings that can include multiple moons – perhaps to signify the birthdays of several children or grandchildren. 

Gossby

There are lots of personalized items from mugs to fridge magnets at Gossby. But the personalized puzzles for kids caught our attention for the adorable design and the customization available. There are many different themes so you can pick out a child’s interests or start with like this Dream Job one and pick from several selections including doctor, scientist, teacher, zoo keeper, and more. 

Other Ideas: 

• Customized Jewelry: A necklace or bracelet engraved with a name, date, or meaningful coordinates.
• Photo Gifts: Create a calendar, mug, or canvas print featuring special family moments.
• Monogrammed Accessories: A scarf, wallet, or tote bag with their initials adds a personal touch.

Pop Culture Collectors

Middle of Beyond

Do you have someone on your list that has a thing? Maybe it’s Star Wars, maybe it’s a band, maybe it’s Sasquatch… whatever it is, Middle of Beyond might be your lucky shopping spot. Their unique collections cover a range of pop culture and cult favorites. If you happen to know someone who loves “The Shining,” peep their Hotel Collection.

Funko

Funko Pop! figures are a must-have for pop culture enthusiasts. These collectible vinyl figures feature an adorable, oversized-head design and depict characters from movies, TV shows, video games, music, and more. With thousands of options available, from superheroes to classic movie icons, there’s a Pop! for every fandom. They’re perfect for decorating shelves, desks, or even as part of a larger collection. They even have holiday items like this Grogu with a Christmas Cookie figure. 

Other Ideas:

• Pop culture games: Look for trivia and board games based on their favorite movies, TV shows, or music. 
• Limited edition or retro posters featuring iconic movies, TV shows, or music artists.
• A collectible vinyl record from a popular or nostalgic musician.

Gifts for Foodies

Everyone loves good food!

Exotic World

If you’ve got someone with an adventurous palate on your shopping list one of Exotic World’s mystery boxes will make a fun surprise and even you won’t know what’s inside!

Chomp Chocolate

Chocolates may be a typical holiday gift, but Chomp Chocolate has a bar you can customize from the type of chocolate (milk or dark) to the ingredients to the label. It’ll be a special treat for someone and they’re significantly bigger than a standard bar of chocolate. 

Cheese Maker

The cheese making kits from Cheese Maker come in a variety of styles including Farmhouse Cheddar, Poutine, and even Vegan Mozzarella. 

Other Ideas:

• Gourmet Gift Baskets: Include cheeses, chocolates, or artisanal snacks.
• DIY Food Kits:  Not everyone will be into the cheese-making kits but pizza-making kits, cookie-decorating sets, or spice blends are fun and interactive.
• Cookbooks with a Twist: Try themed cookbooks for baking, grilling, or international cuisine based on their interests. 

Experiences Over Things

Sometimes, the best gifts aren’t things—they’re memories.

• Cooking or Art Classes: Perfect for the hobbyist or lifelong learner.
• Event Tickets: Consider concerts, theater shows, or sports games based on their interests.
• Spa Day: Who wouldn’t appreciate a little pampering and relaxation?

Subscription Boxes: The Gift That Keeps on Giving

Subscription boxes are great for extending the holiday cheer.

• Wine or Coffee Clubs: Ideal for the beverage connoisseur.
• Book-of-the-Month Club: A must for avid readers.
• Self-Care Boxes: Think beauty products, candles, or cozy socks.

Tech Gadgets for the Practical and Curious

Tech doesn’t have to mean complicated or expensive!

• Smart Plugs or Light Bulbs: Perfect for anyone new to smart home tech.
• Digital Photo Frames: Great for grandparents who love to see family photos.
• Portable Chargers or Wireless Earbuds: Always practical and appreciated.

Handmade and Artisan Gifts

Handcrafted items add a unique and heartfelt touch.

• Local Artisans: Visit craft fairs or browse Etsy for one-of-a-kind finds.
• DIY Gifts: Homemade candles, bath salts, or knitted scarves show you care.
• Fair Trade Products: Support artisans worldwide with beautifully crafted goods.

Sentimental Gifts for the Heartstrings

Capture memories or create new ones.

• Memory Books: Gather stories and photos from family and friends.
• Custom Star Maps: Commemorate a special date with a map of the night sky.
• Legacy Letters: Write a heartfelt letter or create a video sharing your favorite memories.

For the Person Who Has Everything

When you’re truly stumped, these gifts are so unique they didn’t fit anywhere else! 

The Growing Candle

Candles always make a nice gift but this one has the special bonus of turning into a potted plant! The Growing Candle starts as a fragrant candle but once it’s burned down the label can be planted to grow a lovely wildflower blend. 

Mooncat

Mooncat’s nail polishes come in eye-catching shades and styles but what really got our attention are Mooncat’s thermal polishes that change with the temperature. It’s like a mood ring on your nails! 

WoodBests 

These 3D puzzles look like works of art! Part diorama, part puzzle, these intricate kits come in a variety of styles and shapes. They also come in different sizes so something like this Dragon’s Library kit can be done with your kiddos with 50-70 pieces or become a bigger challenge with 250 – 300 pieces. 

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Shopping for tricky recipients doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little creativity and a focus on thoughtfulness, you can find a gift that’s sure to bring holiday cheer to even the hardest-to-please person on your list.

Related: How to Be a Good House Guest During the Holidays