Last Minute Gift Ideas
Last-Minute Gift Ideas That Work for Anyone
The holiday season is HERE, and if you’re still looking for last-minute gifts, don’t stress! You don’t have to overthink it to find something your loved ones will appreciate. Here are some easy, practical, and thoughtful ideas that anyone would enjoy — no matter how much (or little) they care about sustainability.
1. Quick DIY Gifts
Handmade gifts carry a personal touch that store-bought items often lack. Here are a few ideas:
Homemade Treats: Bake artisan bread, make granola, or fill old jars with homemade buttermilk syrup. Use your talents!
Easy Crafts: Frame a nice photo, make a cute ornament, crochet rubber grippers to make opening jars easier, get creative!
Time and service: “The greatest gift you can give someone is your time because when you give your time, you are giving a portion of your life that you will never get back.” — Rick Warren
Think: photo or recipe organization, special “date-night” with this person, free babysitting, etc. This option is a win-win - everyone feels good!
2. Gift Experiences
Why give more stuff when you can give memories? These ideas are always a hit:
Event Tickets: Concerts, movies, plays, sporting events, food tours, the list goes on!
Activities: Book a class like cooking or painting, or yoga. If your loved one is in Utah we love Harmon’s food classes, and if your loved one is close to the Salt Lake area, we have gifted a couple of different classes to Caputos - 5 star reviews!
Memberships: What does this person love to do with their time? Think gyms, yoga, aquarium passes, pool memberships, etc.
3. Subscriptions That Make Life Easier
Subscriptions are the gifts that keep on giving, and they’re super convenient:
Groceries: try Misfits Market or Thrive Market.
Streaming Services: Netflix, Spotify, or Audible — take your pick.
Meal Kits: Perfect for busy friends who want to save time cooking.
4. Pre-Loved Finds
Vintage is trendy, unique, and often more affordable. Thrifting is also super fun!
Thrift Stores: Every year for my siblings gift exchange we have a certain theme. Last year for my brother chose to do a “thrifted” theme, it was my favorite one yet. The shopping was really fun and I loved all the creative gifts everyone gave. You can find so many fun and unique clothes, books, and home decor.
Family Heirlooms: Pass along something meaningful from your own collection.
5. Shop Local
Support small businesses in your area for gifts that feel extra special:
Artisan Goods: Handmade candles, jewelry, or gourmet foods.
Gift Cards: Let them choose their favorite treat or service.
Landed shoes: best shoes for your feet and more sustainable made.
6. Plant-Based Gifts
Plants are gifts that keep on growing:
Potted Plants: Choose low-maintenance options like succulents or herbs. Shop small businesses for extra points!
Seed Kits: Encourage gardening with kits for flowers, vegetables, or microgreens.
7. Useful Everyday Items
Practical gifts are always a win. Look for things they’ll actually use:
Travel Mugs: Opt for insulated, stainless steel, leak-proof options.
Reusable Shopping Bags: make it personal by looking for ones they would like
Kitchen Gadgets: A fun spatula, unique spice blend, or a quality knife.
8. Cash or Gift Cards
Who doesn’t need extra cash? Never feel bad about giving money - let your loved ones use it how they really want (or need)! If you want to make it feel more personalized, you can always go with a gift card to a place they love.
Wrapping It Up — Literally
Make your gift wrapping as eco-friendly as your gift:
Use fabric wraps, like Furoshiki cloths.
Repurpose Amazon brown paper stuffing, fabric, or paper bags.
Decorate with natural elements like dried flowers or twine.
Use gift bags for speed and reusability.
Add a festive touch with ribbon or a handwritten note.
The best gifts are the ones that feel personal, so keep it simple and have fun. Happy gifting!
