BEAUTY

Super Last Minute Holiday Gifts

Written by Bryce

Scrambling for super last minute holiday gifts? Don’t worry! Here are the top 5 ideas to get you through gift giving this season with only a few seconds to spare.

1. A bottle of Stoli is always a good idea. Whether you’re giving a bottle to your next door neighbor or bringing something nice to your uncle’s house, a bottle of Stoli is always appreciated. You don’t need too much planning for this one– just pop into a liquor store and find some beautiful foil wrapping. If you want to step your game up, look for Stoli Hot (it’s the spicy variety), and pack it into a gift basket with bloody mary ingredients. Seriously, best gift ever for a brunch lover. Some Stoli recipes here, because your gift should be limitless in terms of possibilities.

2. Chocolate, chocolate, chocolate. But please, go for the good stuff. GODIVA stores are open till pretty close to the big day (and throughout most of Chanukah this year), and you can always head to GODIVA.com for an endless supply of gift options. The only trick is that you’ll have to fight yourself from over-ordering (one for friend, two for me, one for mom, two for me…).

3. The gift of knowing who they really are. If you haven’t had the chance to read my personal experience with taking an Ancestry.com DNA test, you should– it’ll make you want to do it and give it as a gift to the people in your family or a significant other. For $99 you get a DNA kit (saliva-based, easy peasy), and it’s not too late to order. Within a few weeks your loved ones will have their genetic histories mapped out, and you’ll have endless dinnertime conversation. Available at Ancestry.com.

4. Jewelry is always a hit. If you’re looking for budget-friendly options (perfect for friends or trendy gals), Simply Vera Vera Wang makes some super cute pieces in the $30 and under range. Available here at Kohls.

5. Tech gear. Everyone on your list loves technology, and if they’re already a Samsung phone user they’ll be totally dazzled by the Samsung Gear S watch. It’s easy to use, has bluetooth connectivity, and you’ll be giving the gift of a wrist that can make phone calls. You’ll be facilitating the future, basically. Well done. Samsung.com for more info.

6. Beauty for your cutie. Philosophy is a perennial holiday gift fave, but the Amazing Grace Layering Set is basically a gal’s best friend (chocolate and puppies aside). The set comes with jumbo size olive oil scrub, emulsion, and fragrance… all scented like the heaven that is Amazing Grace. You can have it shipped from Nordstrom.com, or pick it up in most Nordstrom beauty departments (you know, if you’re TRULY last minute). PS shipping is free on this one!

About the author

Bryce

Bryce Gruber is a New York mom to five growing kids, wife to one great husband and professional shopping editor. You've seen her work in Reader's Digest, Taste of Home, Family Handyman, MSN, Today's Parent, Fashion Magazine, Chatelaine, NBC and so many other beloved brands.