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I never thought I’d ever crave a pair of Converse in my wardrobe again but it’s true what they say—what goes around comes around. And suddenly everyone and their mother is wearing platform, high top Converse. I’m dying to get my hands on the white pair and these are at the top of my Christmas list this holiday season!
Nike Air Forces are the ultimate college shoe and shockingly enough, I don’t already have a pair. There are a few different versions out there and I’m loving all of the leather versions, platform soles, and even the hightops. I know I already have high top Converse on my list, but a pair of tall Nikes to go with my comfy joggers and edgier outfits is sounding very appealing all of a sudden.
Prada recently released their Nylon Re-Edition 2000 Shoulder Bag and it is the cutest bag ever. However, I certainly can’t justify spending $1,200 on a trendy bag nor would anyone ever purchase one for me, lol. Therefore a look-alike is on my wishlist this holiday season. I’ve found tons of bags similar in style from places like SheIn, Boohoo, and Pretty Little Thing that will serve the same purpose for a fraction of the cost. My favorite is the Amazon one!
Hair accessories are always a good Christmas gift idea, especially if you need something small to complete a gift basket or to fill a stocking. I’ll be asking for a few claw clips this holiday season so I can rock Jennifer Anniston’s most popular hairstyle from the 90s. Nothing beats the twist back look with a few strands framing the face!
This was on my holiday wishlist until Connor’s parents surprised me with one “just because”. I have an Amazon Alexa Echo Show at school and it sits in my bedroom. I seriously use it for everything and would be lost without it! I’ve been wanting something to listen to music on and ask questions for my living room/desk area and Amazon just came out with these small plug-in devices that respond to commands and act as a mini speaker. This hooks up to my larger Alexa so I’m able to have her in two places at once without having to buy a whole new device.
Onto the actual gift ideas and not my own wishlist, lol. One of the questions I get most often across my platforms is what I wear on my nails. I bought myself this at-home gel polish machine for my birthday and it is the best. My nails last anywhere from 10-20 days (depending on if I start picking them off) and they don’t chip which is the best part. It’s super easy to use and pays for itself within the first two uses since nail salons charge upwards of $40 for a gel manicure. You can also add additional polishes and gems for extra gift ideas.
A new planner is something I ask for every holiday season. I swear by Happy planners from the brand Create 365. I’ve been using their planners since my junior year of high school and will never go back! I typically get the size large, horizontal layout. I’ve already purchased the one I will be using in 2021—this specific one (the one with the heart cover) comes undated so you can begin it any month you desire. The cover isn’t the cutest but I prefer the inside to be neutral colors and this one checked that box. Linking a few other ones I like in different styles for you to shop as well.
If you’re getting your girl a planner, I highly recommend getting her a few accessories to go with, especially if she’s trying to get organized in the new year. Tombow calligraphy pens, washi tape, and Create 365 sticker sets are all things I use daily when planning. Grab a few small things to fill out your planner purchase.
So many people love the Dyson Airwrap for giving themself an at-home blowout and while I would love one myself, I can’t justify spending $550 on a hairdryer. And I’m sure many of you can’t either. The Revlon One-Step Hairdryer is an awesome alternative. These are only $40 and go on sale every holiday! You can dry your hair while styling it super quickly using this bad boy. It works best on hair that’s a little thicker, however, I have pretty thin hair and it still gets the job done.
Ring lights aren’t just for content creators. Although, if you do have a girl in your life who is super into blogging, YouTube, or Tik Tok I highly recommend gifting them a ring light or some other type of artificial lighting. I also have these umbrella lights and box lights but the ring light is hands down my favorite. I use this daily when taking my outfit of the day photos in my bedroom, a mini one is great for taking selfies and doing your makeup too!
At the end of my junior year, Connor’s mom gifted me a small gold ‘M’ necklace to symbolize being a baseball manager, my name, and their last name. It’s one of my favorite pieces of jewelry and I wear it daily. It’s from The Silver Heron, a small local store here in Maryland. Here is their Instagram @thesilverheron if you’re interested in checking them out. However, any type of initial necklace will do. I’ve had a few that I’ve cycled through over the years and always love how timeless they are!
If you don’t have a Hydro Flask by now, what are you waiting for?! Every girl needs one. These will keep your water ice cold all day long and they come in tons of colors. I know a water bottle may not seem like the most exciting gift, but it’s something practical that she will use almost daily.
White booties are another staple piece in my closet. I’ve got a few different pairs and I reach for them constantly for sorority functions, going out, and everyday wear. The Chinese Laundry pair is definitely my favorite despite them being a bit pricier.
My mom gifted me a Mantra Band a few years ago and it’s hands down my most worn piece of jewelry. Mine is gold and says “Dream, Believe, Achieve” because that’s the kind of mindset I have. This is a classic piece of jewelry that’s still rather thoughtful as you can choose a mantra that you feel suits your girl best.
Keurigs are an awesome idea for the coffee lover. There are tons of different models out there but the solo cup seems to be the most popular, especially amongst college students. I’m not a coffee drinker myself but my roommate last year and my current roommate both had this model and use it daily. If you have a soon to be college student in your life, I highly recommend gifting them something like a Keurig that they can use now and bring to their dorm/appartment in a few months.
Fake lashes are something I wear on a weekly basis but absolutely hate purchasing for myself. I always feel guilty spending money on makeup despite wearing it every day which is why I love receiving Ulta gift cards and things like lash sets around the holidays. I swear by the Ardel Demi Whispies #105. I wear these lashes for every photoshoot but love getting the holiday variety packs to try out new styles too.
Moving onto a few tech-related gift ideas. Airpods are an absolute must-have at this age. I seriously do not know how I would survive college without my Airpods. Wireless headphones make life so much easier and are a necessity when studying in public spaces or while editing. I know for a fact my roommates don’t want to hear my voice replaying over and over each morning, lol. I don’t have the wireless charging case and if I’m being honest, I don’t really feel it’s worth the price difference.
I mentioned my Alexa earlier in this post and it’s one of the best gift ideas. Connor’s fam gifted me mine a few years ago and I use it daily. I have the Echo Show 2 which has a rather large screen and it sits on my nightstand. However, there are several different versions that may work better for you. I gave my parents one last year after they swore they would never use it and I catch them talking to her daily! It’s so convenient— especially for listening to music, setting alarms, and calling people!
Apple watches are so popular amongst college kids right now! They sync up to your phone and allow you to track your steps, receive messages, and get notifications. If I’m being honest, I go through phases where I wear mine daily and then forget about it for a few weeks. But, that’s mostly because I dress nice every day and love my gold jewelry. My roommates and mom all swear by theirs and wear them 24/7. I highly recommend it if you’re trying to get in shape or if you’re headed to college soon! You definitely don’t need to pay extra money for the GPS + Cellular and although there’s a Series 6 out by now, the 3 does everything you could ever want.
If the female in your life is creative, has an iPad, wants to up their YouTube game, or is interested in pursuing an arts degree in college I highly recommend gifting them a Procreate subscription. Procreate is a digital painting app that allows you to doodle and create sketches. Fashion Design majors use this religiously at Kent and I know so many YouTubers who swear by this for creating their thumbnails. It works best with an Apple Pencil and an iPad which are obviously investments but worth it in the long run.
The amount of comments I get on my customized computer skin from Case App is unreal. I created a custom picture collage laptop skin and matching phone case a year and a half ago featuring some of my favorite photos and I love them. This is a super sweet gift idea for your best friend, sister, or girlfriend. Points for sentimental value too! I know there are a few different websites that allow you to create these but CaseApp is where I made mine. It’s just a skin which means it’s a sticker so I recommend buying a clear case from Amazon and sticking the skin over top of the clear case so that your computer is still protected
I collaborated with Ugg back in August and I got two pairs of slippers from them. The Fluffitas are my absolute favorite shoes and I wear them daily around my sorority house. They have super thick soles so they can be worn out of the house while running errands too which is a lifesaver. Ugg has so many adorable slipper styles worth checking out and although they are an investment, they will last you years. There are so many other awesome slippers out there if you’re just looking for something cheap!
You can’t go wrong with Christmas PJs. I mean come on, who doesn’t love curling up in something fun and festive?! Old Navy is always my go-to spot for jammies. They sell separates, fuzzy socks, and matching sets (my personal preference). However, I’ll link a few other favorites from various retailers so you can get some variety. A pair of these would go perfectly with new slippers if you’re looking to group a gift together.
I have been needing a new cardholder for months now and have yet to get my hands on one. Although I would love a nice “big girl” wallet, a small cardholder is what I prefer throughout my college days because I can hook it to my car keys and lanyard. This is so helpful, especially because I need my Student ID on me at all times. Kate Spade has my favorite ones but there are plenty of affordable options out there. This would be the perfect smaller gift idea paired with a college lanyard for your soon to be high school graduate!
I don’t know why but something about hot rollers seems so appealing to me these days. I’ve been seeing so many Tik Tokers rolling their hair for the perfect at-home blowout and it looks amazing every time! I’d recommend double-checking with your girl prior to purchasing this one to make sure it’s something she’ll actually use since it is such a unique idea! I’ve used the velcro rollers from the Dry Bar and they are awesome (although not heated)!
Teeth whitener is another one of those things that every girl wants but doesn’t want to pay for themself. I used the Smile Brilliant teeth-whitening system over three years ago and my teeth are still as white as ever. That was a professional kit however, many people are fine using the Crest whitening strips as well. This is an awesome idea for anyone who is a heavy coffee or red wine drinker since those stain your teeth so easily.
Self-tanner also falls under that category and is a must if you want a summer glow in the winter without risking skin cancer from the tanning beds. There are all sorts of self-tanners out there. I recommend Jergens Wet Glow for self-tanning beginners. Tanologist if you’re looking for a natural, everyday glow, and either Mystic Tan or Loving Tan if you’re wanting a bold, bronze tan for a special occasion. Don’t forget a mitt and some face drops to finish off this gift.
I can’t think of a single girl who’d ever complain about receiving a weighted or heated blanket for the holidays. Bonus points if the blanket does both, lol! Make sure you do a little research before buying a weighted blanket; there are specific weights you are supposed to buy depending on how much the person weighs.
My sister’s boyfriend always buys me something within the $20 price range for Christmas and many years ago he bought me my first ever clothing rack. And although it was just a cheap little thing off of Amazon, it’s one of my favorite gifts I’ve ever gotten. I keep my clothing rack in our guest room and it’s how I keep track of new clothing, what needs to be photographed, etc. I highly recommend a single rod rack for the fashion lover in your life so she can display her new, trendy items!
I listen to music every day on Spotify and yet I’m still too cheap to buy myself Spotify Premium. It’s only a few dollars a month if you’re a student and an awesome gift idea. I don’t know anybody who would complain about having ads removed from their Monday morning jam session! Some people prefer streaming through Apple music which is a subscription service as well. Such an underrated gift idea!
Every holiday season Ulta and Sephora come out with the cutest holiday gift sets and every single year they do one featuring the Buxom Full-On Lipglosses. These are my absolute favorite glosses ever. They are minty, opaque, and last for ages. I know for a fact I will be getting my roommate one of these sets for Christmas since she’s obsessed too!
My friend Sam actually recommended this gift idea to me when fixing my pepper spray one night. He mentioned that his sister has one that she keeps on her keys in case of emergencies and suggested I get one just to be safe. This is an awesome stocking stuffer idea. You never know what kind of sticky situation you may be in!
I’ve got 101 belts in my closet by now. There is no closet essential I swear by more than a belt. Belts can completely transform an outfit in no time and the best part is, they can be so inexpensive. My favorites are from SheIn and Romwe but of course, there are plenty of nicer options out there from designers like Tory Burch and Gucci if you’re looking for a professional one that will last a lifetime.
Little stick-on phone wallets are a must for many teens. This is a super inexpensive gift idea yet something so practical. These simply stick onto the back of your phone case and provide easy access to your student ID and credit cards. Such a perfect idea if your girl doesn’t like the fuss of carrying a wallet/purse everywhere!
I’m not a perfume wearer myself but I know most ladies are. A new perfume is such a luxury and something most ladies look forward to receiving a refill around the holidays. If you know her favorite, pick her up a new bottle. If you’re unsure of a scent, pick up one of the sampler sets from Sephora so she can test a bunch of new ones. Then for her birthday, you can buy her the full size of her favorite!
Everyone loves a little self-care action around Christmas time. Face masks are always a sweet treat to unwind from the week. Peter Thomas Roth and Laneige have my favorites! This is a great gift to add to a gift basket/stocking.
Beanies are always appreciated once it gets chilly. Whether you’re grabbing a cute puff ball beanie or something edgy from Carhart, she’s sure to appreciate this one.
I love receiving activewear for Christmas and I know so many females who would agree, While there are hundreds of brands out there—Fabletics, Ellie Activewear, 90 Degree By Reflex, Yogalicious, and more. Lululemon seems to be the most desired of the bunch. I can’t blame them; Lululemon leggings last years and are among the highest quality. The Wunder Under and Aligns are their two most popular styles; do a little reading and find out which style would suit your girl best!
I love wearing a watch. And while yes, some days do call for my Apple watch, most days call for my gold Fossil watch that I received many Christmases ago from my mom. My sister’s been wearing a silver one from them since her freshman year of high school and swears by it! Watches are definitely an investment but they really are a timeless essential in so many female’s wardrobes. DKNY, Michael Kors, and Daniel Wellington are other brands worth checking out.
Eyeshadow palettes are always an exciting gift to receive. I used to get the new Urban Decay Naked palette every year for Christmas but in recent years I’ve loved Too Faced, Morphe, and Violet Voss. If you’re unsure as to which palette she may enjoy, play it safe and give her a gift card to Sephora or Ulta to choose one for herself. In my experience, buying neutrals is always a safe bet!
If you’re a boy who’s reading this, trying to find last-minute ideas for your girlfriend, presets are an awesome idea! If you don’t know what a Preset is, it’s a filter that can be used to edit photos. Most girls use a preset to edit their Instagram photos (it’s how she makes your skin look tanner, and your teeth whiter lol)! Find out what her favorite kind are and buy her the latest pack! You typically buy these from a website and just download them to your phone. Tezza, Aspyn Ovard, and Cardigansandlattes have some of my favorites.
Similar to Spotify/Apple Music, a subscription to a streaming service like Netflix, Hulu, or Disney Plus is so underrated. This is something you can use almost daily and it’s something you can watch together! Hulu comes free with a student Spotify subscription so perhaps you could double up in this area! Que the movie marathon now….
Now that we’re dabbling into more “girlfriend” gift ideas, I do just want to mention that all of these gift ideas came directly from my guy friends. These were all items that they’ve gifted significant others in the past OR items that you ladies said stood out from your boyfriends!
Thoughtful jewelry was the number one most said answer from both the ladies and the gents. Which, was no surprise to me. Most guys said they purchased a piece of jewelry that had some sort of sentimental value—either a birthstone, anniversary date, or initial on it to represent their relationship.
If you’re wanting something a bit more generic that she’s sure to wear forever, I always recommend something from Kendra Scott. They have so many beautiful pieces! I’ve given and received jewelry from them countless times and wear them almost daily. Don’t forget to do some research beforehand to see if she prefers silver or gold!
Rings were another very popular answer. Which, I realize is very similar to “thoughtful jewelry”, lol. However, most people responded by saying their ring was more than “just a ring”, it was either a promise ring, something engraved, or it was an engagement ring—which, I realize isn’t just any gift.
My twin sister has a few Pandora rings from her boyfriend and has worn them daily over the last four years. As far as favorite gifts go— this answer won by a landslide amongst you all! My everyday gold rings are from Ana Luisa.
To no surprise, many guys said a bottle of wine + lingerie was one of their favorite gifts to give. Depending on where you buy from, this can be a rather inexpensive, yet exciting gift idea. Obviously, make sure you are in the stage of your relationship where buying your significant other lingerie is acceptable. Even some of the ladies I spoke with for my moms/mother in law gift guide said this was a gift they would still love to receive. Plus, it’s sort of a gift for both parties too so double win here.
You can never go wrong with a framed photo, whether it’s of you and your best friend, sister, or girlfriend. Frames can be found literally anywhere and photos can be printed at your local CVS or Walmart for super cheap. This is such an easy idea that’s still super sweet!
There are so many cool ways to display photos of you and your significant other—keychains rock because she can carry it everywhere! I’ve seen so many cool ones on Tik Tok recently and linked some that I think she’ll love.
Aside from jewelry, most females responded saying their favorite gift from a significant other was something homemade; whether it be a box of memories (old receipts, movie stubs, corsages, etc), a photo album with handwritten captions, or a sweet love letter. I know it may seem cheesy, but gifts from the heart always mean more than something store-bought.
When asking guys about gifts they’ve given significant others, all but one said they usually give one store-bought gift and one homemade/couple-ish gift like the ones we just discussed.
Give your girl some time to relax and pamper herself! A gift certificate to the local nail salon for a manicure/pedicure is one of my favorite gifts to receive. The baseball coaches always gave me one of these at the end of the season and it was such a treat for me since I’m not usually someone who pays to get their nails done.
If you and your significant other are long-distance “open when” letters are an awesome idea for the holidays. There are tons of ideas for these on Pinterest that you can check out here. Like I mentioned earlier, love letters were a huge hit, and being reminded you’re loved when you’re sad, reaching an exciting milestone, or feeling alone is always appreciated. You can even find a cute box to put the letters in from the dollar section of Target.
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It was no surprise to me that most guys answered their preferred gift as some sort of experience. I expected these to be high up on the list and totally understand why they are, especially when given by a significant other. There’s no better gift than one you can do together. Concert tickets were highly requested, especially something outdoors and during the summertime. I know concert season is looking a little different this year due to COVID but I figured I’d still throw this idea on here.
Sporting event tickets also ranked high on the list. Whether it be MLB, NFL, or NHL games every single boy I talked with said they would love nothing more than to attend a game. I can’t blame them, these make for the most fun experiences together! This gift idea would pair perfectly with a new sports jersey, sweatshirt, or even a hat from their favorite team.
Some of you said a weekend getaway together was your favorite thing to give your significant other and then there was Sam. Sam was quick to say that one of his favorite gifts to receive is a plane ticket voucher to go on different mission trips. If your man is passionate about helping others and feels called to participate in a mission trip, this is a fantastic idea. Or, if you want to visit somewhere tropical to get some relaxation time in, that works too—lol!
My sister and her boyfriend, Colton are big skiers. It’s their “thing” and so every birthday and holiday they give each other something ski related. If your man is into snowboarding and/or skiing perhaps a ski pass is something worth checking out. They can be rather pricey and one of those tedious things to purchase for yourself which is what makes it such a good gift idea. Bonus points if you’re like Madison and get yourself a pass to tag along!
After their first year of buying each other passes, the two of them started buying each other something ski related each holiday. Over the years they’ve purchased each other new skis, snow boots, helmets, jackets, and so much more. I talked with Colton and he gave me the scoop on all of his favorite ski accessories—linking as much as possible below for you to shop.
I don’t know what it is about college-aged boys/twenty-somethings but suddenly golf is the next best thing. And while I know most girls have no desire to participate in a day of 18 holes, while we’re on the topic of fun, experience gifts I figured I’d throw in the classic Top Golf date. This is something super fun for you two to do together. Not only will he enjoy it but it makes for a unique date night.
It took me by no surprise when several of the guys said a PS5 is on the top of their wishlist this year. Of course, the latest Play Station costs an arm and a leg but perhaps if you’re shopping for your son or your price range is a bit higher than this is just the gift idea you’re looking for! You’ll win girlfriend of the year with this purchase, trust me. Make sure they are Play Station boys and not X Box ones—I assure you there is a very big difference,
Of course, videogames always rank pretty high on the list. It feels like all my friends do is eat, school, baseball, videogames, repeat LOL. Connor has assured me that Call of Duty is back in business and that “Fortnite is for losers”. But, depending on the age you’re shopping for/what gaming system they use this answer may be very different. So, perhaps just ask them what game they have their eye on this year.
Ugg slippers are all the rage amongst the guys—they were big when I was in high school and they are just as big across my college campus. I’ve linked the most common favorites amongst guys. Although this gift is on the pricier side, Uggs are so worth the investment and are incredibly practical. I highly recommend purchasing from Ugg or Nordstrom as they run awesome sales around Black Friday.
You can’t go wrong with a nice pair of sunnies. Sunglasses are one of those items that most guys hate picking out for themselves. See if they prefer something trendier like a pair of Ray-Bans or something a bit sportier. Again, I recommend checking out Nordstrom for gifts like this one so you can score an awesome deal!
It may seem simple, but most guys are… you can’t go wrong with a little booze. Grab them a Yeti to keep their beer can cold, a shot glass or even a coozie to go with!
Connor was very adamant about me putting beer bong on the list of gift ideas. This is a very inexpensive gift that pairs well with a handle of their favorite alcohol or even a case of beer—much appreciated by any college student, of course.
Chubbies started off as a swimwear brand but have since expanded offering sweatshirts, polos, and shorts too. However, more times than not if a guy refers to Chubbies they’re talking about their 5-inch inseam swim trunks. I know it may seem like a strange fit to give around Christmas but these are so popular amongst college kids. Plus, what boy do you know that goes out and buys themself a new bathing suit?! Exactly… trust me, he won’t care that it’s thirty degrees out when he receives these. The more obnoxious the print, the better.
Most boys don’t upgrade their wallets often so this is the perfect gift idea. My dad used the same leather wallet he received as a gift until it quite literally fell apart. There are so many different styles out there at various price points. You’re sure to find one that works for your man! Bonus point if you get it embossed with his initials!
Connor helped me brainstorm tons of ideas for this blog post and the next few “game” ideas were some of his best/most creative if you ask me. Corn hole boards are an awesome Christmas gift idea. Nobody wants to purchase corn hole boards for themselves and yet every house needs a set at this age. Grab the bean bags as a smaller, side gift too! Many colleges/professional sports teams sell their own custom boards; this is an awesome route to go for the sports lover!
Ping pong table was another popular answer. Whether the boy in your life is thirteen or twenty-three, ping pong truly never gets old. I play with my friends all the time despite being absolutely terrible at it. I highly recommend checking out Target or Dicks for a gift like this one as they will both be running Black Friday specials on tables and their accessories (net, paddles, balls, etc).
If you didn’t paint your guy an infamous Tik-Tok beer pong table over quarantine, now is the time. This can double as your handmade gift and your “big” gift and I can guarantee it’s something he’ll keep forever. There are plenty of tutorials on how to paint these across YouTube and Tik Tok. Just don’t forget to seal your table so it doesn’t get ruined when wet!
Guys love getting yard games for holidays no matter their age. Can Jam is another game that’s super popular where I’m from. I’m not sure if it’s big everywhere but it’s a big beach favorite by us! I literally ~suck~ at this one but it’s a hit. Spikeball is also a fan fav and can keep a group of guys entertained for hours.
I know boys aren’t always the easiest to shop for especially when it comes to clothing but I’ve been doing my fair share of stalking over the last few weeks and have taken note of how many guys wear Timberlands. It doesn’t really matter whether you’re sporty or a hick, these shoes are among the most popular. Pricey but a closet staple aka something he’ll wear for years.
There are few “nice ” things a guy needs in their closet and a belt is definitely one of them. Weddings, funerals, game days, and formals tend to creep up before you know it and a dress belt is something every guy should have on hand for the occasion. Double-check their waist size before purchasing!
Similar to a nice dress belt, a tie is something they may put to good use, especially if they are working a “big boy” job that requires them to dress up. I know my high school football team had to wear a tie each game day so this is a good idea for younger boys as well! I always love something striped but there are dozens of ties out there. I’ve gotten my sister’s boyfriend a few over the years and Kohls + Vineyard Vines are always my go-to places to purchase.
There’s nothing better than a new basketball hoop, or so I’ve been told. Look into getting one for outside or the kind that hooks onto a door frame if they’re living in an apartment or dorm!
Even if they won’t admit it, every guy loves jamming out to their favorite tunes while driving. If they don’t already have a dongle/aux cord for their car, perhaps this would be a gift worth checking out!
I mentioned this one in my girl’s gift guide as well but it’s seriously such an awesome gift idea! They sync up to your phone and allow you to track your steps, receive messages, and get notifications. I highly recommend one if you’re trying to get in shape or if the boy you’re shopping for is an athlete. You definitely don’t need to pay extra money for the GPS + Cellular and although there’s a Series 6 out by now, the 3 does everything you could ever want.
Airpods are another classic gift idea. I use them all the time and don’t know many guys who don’t have a pair. Whether they’re walking to class, at the gym, or getting ready for a game, these are something that they’ll get tons of use out of. I don’t have the wireless charging case and if I’m being honest, I don’t really feel it’s worth the price difference.
As I mentioned, golfing is the latest and greatest activity for guys of all ages. If yours happens to be into golfing, perhaps get them a few accessories for their next round. Extra balls, tees, gloves, club covers, or even new golf shoes are all awesome ideas. It would even be a cute idea to buy a basket and fill it with a bunch of these ideas.
Every single guy I spoke with had team gear on their Christmas wishlists this year. Whether it be a jersey for their favorite player (the most popular request), a new hat, a hoodie, or even a pair of pajama pants every boy said they would be excited to receive something to support their favorite sports team. Some boys prefer college sports over professional so do a little digging before making your order. If they are a college fan, I highly recommend checking out that school’s bookstore for all the best deals.
A lot of guys have been working out from home instead of hitting the gym due to COVID; if that’s the case, perhaps some workout bands would be a good idea for them. Connor swears by these and is a huge fan of bodyweight workouts.
Pullup bars are a classic, especially if the boy you’re shopping for is in middle/high school and is just getting into lifting/exercising. One that fits right into the door frame is all you need and is something they’ll keep forever! Connor still uses his daily when working out.
Similar to makeup for girls, protein powder is one of those things that a lot of guys use every single day but hate purchasing for themselves. Find out which protein powder and supplements they like and then stock up on their favorites!
There’s no denying the attractiveness of a man who has a way with music! A guitar is such a fun idea for anyone looking to pursue music or who is looking to take it a bit more seriously. I honestly know nothing about guitars so I’m just linking a few popular ones I found on Amazon.
Every guy needs a speaker in their life! It may not be something they reach for on an everyday basis but I promise they will find a use for it when the time is right. We use ours when driving in the old car, on family vacation, or when headed out on a hike. So many guys like bringing their to the gym or even to a pregame. I did a bit of research on speakers and the Beats Pill, though older, still seems to be a classic. I’m linking a few other cheaper alternatives that’ll get the job done too.
Another yard game and one that’s super fun regardless of your age. A bad mitton net, rackets, and birdies are the perfect combo for a warm summer night. This is another item I’d recommend checking Dicks or Amazon for.
Doesn’t matter what your guy is into, chances are he appreciates a good hat. Whether it’s a baseball hat, beanie, visor, or bucket hat you can truly never go wrong with this gift idea. I gave Connor a Tommy Bahama visor a few Christmases ago and he still wears it all the time. I love it because it’s a bit nicer so he can wear it out to dinner/golfing but he also sports it at the beach!
If you’re wanting to hint at your man to *please* shave off that terrible mustache of his, perhaps a shaving kit is the gift idea you’re looking for, lol. I always hear bloggers rave about the Kiehl’s and Art of Shaving kits for their husbands so naturally, I’m passing that information along to you.
I added a weighted blanket to my girl’s gift guide but it’s a pretty universal gift idea so I’m adding it to the guy’s gift guide as well. Guys tend to weigh a significant amount more than girls so make sure you’re doing a bit of research before placing your order—the heavier you are the heavier the weighted blanket you purchase will be. The best naps are ones taken with a weighted blanket—trust me!
If you’re doing long distance, I highly recommend getting an Alexa; preferably one of the larger ones that have a screen so you can use them to call one another. College campuses and apartment complexes oftentimes have weaker reception and I’ve found that the Alexa video option is much more stable than your phone’s WiFi. My sister and her boyfriend use their devices to call each other all the time and swear by them. Plus, they are good for other things like setting alarms, listening to music, and asking questions.
I know fishing isn’t super popular in every state but there are few boys I know who would turn down an afternoon spent fishing. I personally love to go as long as I don’t have to take the fish off the hook, LOL! If this is a hobby he’s wanting to pursue a fishing rod is an awesome idea. Again, this is a topic I truthfully don’t have a whole lot of knowledge about so I linked some of the highest rated options for you to check out.
Similar to golf, there are tons of little add ons that go along with fishing. Items like fishing line, hooks, a tackle box, fake bait, bobbers, and more are all items you can purchase in addition to a rod to complete your holiday shopping.
Gino recommended posters and I thought this was an awesome idea. I know this may seem like a strange gift idea but what boy’s room have you walked into that didn’t have a few on the walls? None! Most guys prefer something sports-related but perhaps they’d like a beach scene, something from their favorite movie, a band, or even a giant picture of the two of you!
Back to golfing…. as you can tell this was a very highly recommended theme for me to cover in today’s blog post. So many boys I talked with said they love getting clothes for Christmas simply because they hate shopping for themselves. Things like polos, gold pants, khaki shorts, and zip-ups are all awesome ideas. I always recommend grabbing one from their college—who doesn’t love sporting their school?! I found a bunch of things I liked that are on sale for you to check out.
Socks are one of those things I get every year for Christmas and it’s one of those things that, oddly enough, I look forward to every single year. Boys are the exact same way. Get them a nice pair of dress socks, or even something sporty that they can wear on an everyday basis to class. It’s a basic idea but one they’ll actually use!
I randomly came up with this idea when going to close my eyes at night, lol. I have been working on this series for weeks and have quite literally tried to write down everything and anything that comes to mind. I love playing darts at parties and figured this was something worth adding to the list. It’s a fun addition to the game room!
For Connor’s high school graduation I picked out a nice watch from Fossil to give him. It had a navy face and a leather band and he still wears it to this day (I linked the exact one)! I chose Fossil because that’s where all of my personal favorites have come from so I figured it was a safe bet. Plus, they are pretty middle of the range price-wise. There are dozens of nice options out there and if he’s someone who gets dressed up often, this is an idea you should definitely consider!
If your man is on the road traveling often, a duffel bag is a really good idea. Boys tend to like something super simple with minimal pockets because unlike females they like things pretty plain jane and easy to find. We got my dad a new one for Christmas last year that’s super nice. I’ll link it below along with a few other nice ones.
According to Connor, no guy will ever be disappointed to receive a new football or basketball. When I asked him “isn’t that kind of lame since obviously every guy already has these?” he simply replied, “it never hurts to have another”. If you’re shopping for a younger brother or one of your significant other’s siblings this is a safe bet!
My roommate’s boyfriend Seth is obsessed with poker right now. He and his friends get together once a week and have a game night together and apparently, this is very common at certain schools. If it is, some poker chips and a deck of cards is a unique idea. Maybe even throw in some quarters or single bills for him to bet with!
There are many boys who, at this stage of life, are infatuated with stocks. I know, because I have tons of friends who check the stock market more than their gosh darn texts. If your guy falls under this category, he may just simply want money to invest in his favorite company. And to be honest, how can you be mad about that?!
Weights are a great idea if your boyfriend is into lifting or wanting to start. A lot of guys like to have an at-home gym with weights, a bench press, and more in their basement or backyard. Grab them a few new additions to help up their game!
What boy do you know that doesn’t wear running sneakers on a daily basis? I personally don’t know any. None of the guys I talked with had any specific recommendations (so helpful, right?!). In fact, most of them said they wear a pair their mom got them or that they were given by their sports program. I laughed at this answer and rounded up the most common styles I see them wearing.
I’ve seen this idea a few times on Pinterest and thought it was so cute. If you are someone who travels often (either on your own or with your significant other) I recommend choosing a small item and buying one of it every time you go somewhere new. I see this most often done with shot glasses but other ideas are postcards, keychains, magnets, and bottle openers. Add the items to a box as the year progresses and at the end of the year, give them the box. They will be reminded of all the awesome places you’ve gone together and will be flooded with good memories. This is such a cute idea if you ask me!
This holiday season I asked you guys who you needed help shopping for. Some of the most popular answers were moms and mother in laws. I want my gift guides to be as authentic and helpful as possible for you. So, I took it upon myself to sit down and ask my mom and other mother-like figures in my life what they would like to receive this holiday season/some of their favorite gifts they’ve received in the past.
I’ve generated a list of the top 25 most popular answers amongst them and threw in a few favorites that I’ve given in the past. As always, everything (that I could find) is linked in order from least expensive to most expensive (left to right) to make things as convenient as possible for you!
(click on the photo to open the link!)
So many moms said that some of their favorite gifts were pieces of jewelry. It seems to be the most common gift to receive around the holidays, especially from sons/husbands. Kendra Scott is by far my favorite jewelry retailer. They have so many gorgeous pieces and I’ve given both my mom and Connor’s mom necklaces from them in previous years. I’ve also received a few of them for holidays over the years and wear mine constantly. Here are a few favorite pieces from them.
Last Christmas I created a custom photo book through Shutterfly to give to Connor’s parents. It was full of photos of us as a family over the last few years. It showcased Connor and I’s baseball seasons, proms, graduations, family vacations, and other exciting milestones we shared together. It turned out so cute and was such a special gift to give them. Mrs. Manion said Shutterfly books are definitely the most thoughtful gift that she receives and she gives them to her in-laws often—they are always a hit! Click here to view all the options.
Personalized wine glasses seem to be a never-fail amongst the ladies. Grab a Tumblr, Swell, or Yeti and have a vinyl decal with their initials put on. It shows that you put a little extra thought in. And while this is definitely a basic gift, it’s a very practical one.
Almost every woman I asked said they wouldn’t be mad about receiving some sort of alcohol, lol. A bottle of wine was the most popular answer. So many places like Zazzle offer custom labels too which is a fun way to personalize your gift. A wine subscription is another cool idea so they can think of you each month.
While Barefoot Dreams blankets are definitely on the pricier side, they seem to be everyone’s favorites these days. I hear tons of bloggers rave about their stuff and if you’ve ever felt one of their blankets you know why. These always go on sale at Nordstrom around Black Friday time so keep checking these links.
This is another super easy gift idea that’s relatively inexpensive yet still very thoughtful. If you’re needing a small gift idea for someone like your boyfriend/girlfriend’s mom this is an awesome idea! I made Connor’s mom one of these with tons of photos of us together. She loved it and uses it all the time for her morning coffee. (Make sure they are a coffee drinker before doing this one!).
Many of the moms I talked with said that their in-laws always appreciate an updated, framed family photo/canvas around the holidays. Grandparents love displaying their families around their houses so you can never go wrong with this idea.
My mom makes a calendar for both of my grandmas every holiday season and it’s one of the gifts they cherish the most. It’s just your typical twelve-month calendar but there are always pictures of me and my sister from the corresponding month collaged along one half. The perfect, practical gift idea for them to hang in their kitchen or office area.
My mom’s company sells tons of these around this time of year. These Hunter & Honey wreaths are perfect for just married families or new homeowners. She customizes the wooden sign to read whatever you’d like. Many people get their last name and established date, and others ask for something generic like “happy holidays”. You can click here to shop.
Doormats don’t have to be boring—she also gets lots of orders for these. There’s nothing women love more than something personalized for their home. Most people order with their last name and established date. You can click here to shop.
Air fryers are the most underrated kitchen appliance. I have one in my college apartment and I use it almost daily. You can cook everything in it from steaks (the best!) to frozen chicken tenders/pizza rolls lol. Everything cooks in under 15 minutes and you can even use it as a toaster oven to heat up leftovers. I would be so lost without my air fryer. Linking the one I have down below along with a few others.
I don’t know too many women who style their hair in the mornings with a curling iron or straighter but I do know most at least blow dry it. The Revlon one step hairdryer is amazing! This tool dries your hair as you brush through it giving you salon-like volume. I love mine and use it all the time.
Candles were another popular answer amongst the ladies. Obviously, everyone has a different preference when it comes to smell, but oftentimes you can play it safe with any of the holiday favorites from Bath and Bodyworks. I always love the Fresh Balsam one!
Moms love curling up with a good book by the Christmas tree. Again, everyone has different reading preferences but it never hurts to give someone your favorite book. This way you two can talk about it together once they are finished. I love anything Nicholas Sparks or Patricia Cornwell. Here are a few of my latest reads I’ve loved.
Slippers are always a good gift idea and they come in a wide variety of price ranges and styles. Whether you’re looking for a cute, inexpensive pair or something your mom can wear for ages, I’ve got you covered. Here are a few favorites. (My mom swears by the Sorel’s!)
I know gift cards seem boring but they were one of the first ideas moms gave me when I asked for their help. Almost everyone said that they love being able to pick out their own stuff and getting to go shopping away from their kids is always a special treat. Sephora, Ulta, TJ Maxx, and Amazon were the most requested places to receive a gift card too.
Scarves are perfect around the holiday time and a rather painless thing to shop for. Whether you’re grabbing them a fluffy, winter scarf, a warm flannel, or a silky professional scarf there are endless styles. Bonus points for this gift idea if you picked one up while traveling somewhere special!
I’ve never met a throw blanket I didn’t like! Holiday throws are the absolute best. Something neutral and cozy is always best so that it pairs with their living space. So many of these options will go on sale around the holidays!
I was shocked at how many women swear by their robe and more times than not they said theirs was a gift. For this gift idea, I would recommend trying to get a feel for what kind they may want. Some women prefer something thin and silky while others want one that’s plush, and warm to wear around the house. My roommates all had robes and wore them constantly around the dorm so this is a good teen idea too!
You can never go wrong with a nice purse for your mama. Find out which style she’s been eyeing recently! I love Kate Spade purses and they always go on major sale around the holidays. My mom swears by her Long Champ and Travelon for practical reasons and traveling… duh.
If you’ve lost a loved one recently, I highly recommend this gift idea. This is another one that my mom’s company makes. Basically, people send her photos of their loved one’s handwriting and she is able to transform it into a digital file and print this onto a pillowcase. When my aunt passed a few years ago, my mom took her signature and made it into pillows for all of us nieces, aunts, and kids and it was such a special gift idea. 10/10 recommend. Click here to shop.
Although a vacuum may seem like a silly gift idea, it’s one that most people would (oddly enough) be excited to receive. Roomba vacuum machines do the work for you. They are on the pricier side but every blogger I follow swears by them to make chore day a bit more manageable.
It’s time to ditch the old coffee pot. Swap out your old school machine for something updated like a Keurig! They’ve made these machines so sleek and slim so they take up hardly any counter space. Plus, you can score these for half off at Target and Walmart around Black Friday.
There’s nothing better than a gift from the heart. Print out some of your favorite photos with your mom and make a scrapbook of all your favorite moments together. My mom used to be super big into scrapbooking and has given both of my grandma’s several scrapbooks over the years. They are an emotional hit every time!
Last but not least, a massage! Sometimes the best gift you can give is one where your mom is able to get away for a bit (funny but true) and just relax on her own. Find a local salon/spa around you and book her an appointment. She’s sure to appreciate this one.
Men are hands down the hardest people to shop for during the holidays. Luckily this holiday season I’ve got you covered with ideas for every man in your life: dad, father-in-law, and grandpa! He’s sure to love one of these 25 gift ideas. As always, everything (that I could find) is linked in order from least expensive to most expensive (left to right) to make your holiday shopping as convenient as possible!
(click on the photo to open the link!)
I know what you’re thinking, a smoker?! If your dad is big into cooking and is in charge of cooking the meat, I highly recommend checking out a smoker for him. My uncle has one of these and cooks the best wings, roasts, and even Thanksgiving turkeys in it. They are obviously an investment but they are a super useful idea.
The number one most popular answer I got when asking dads their favorite gift, was alcohol, lol. I know it seems boring but they are never disappointed by a bottle of their favorite scotch or even a case of beer. A flask, shot glasses, or even a Yeti can coozie are all great gifts to tack onto this classic gift idea.
My dad carried the same pocket knife every day for nearly 15 years. He too received it as a gift and carried it quite literally everywhere. Pocket knives are so useful and can be used for everything from slicing boxes to emergency situations. There are so many different variations out there depending on what you’re looking for. You can get these engraved too for extra thought!
Most of the men in my life participate in some sort of golf; honestly, even most of my 20-something guy friends do too! Most men also hate shopping for themselves so picking them up some new golf polos or even a few pair of nice pants is an awesome idea. My dad is always a fan of Under Armor!
Speaking of golf, there are dozens of accessories out there that go along with the game. Tees, balls, and even these cute club covers that are customizable. A picture of you and your dad/grandpa would be so thoughtful! (Old people love that kind of thing, lol).
As strange as it sounds, most men take great pride in what they drive and love keeping their cars clean. So many car washes have monthly memberships or coupon book deals. These are an easy gift idea that’s still super useful!
I swear slippers have been in every gift guide I’ve shared and it’s because they really are such an awesome, universal gift idea. I mean, who doesn’t love a good pair of slippers?! I’ve given several pairs of slippers to my dad and grandpa over the years and these are truly a never-fail idea. There are dozens of different styles out there all available at various price points.
Most men probably aren’t going to be huge Airpod/Bluetooth headphone wearers but a pair of real headphones is definitely an idea worth sharing, especially if your man is one who is always on the go/traveling. Most headphones nowadays are noise-canceling making them perfect for airplanes, zoom calls, and watching tv late at night.
My dad’s last wallet was a gift and he carried it until it quite literally fell apart. A new wallet is a great gift idea because it’s something he’ll use for years to come. Fossil has some of my favorite leather wallets but Nordstrom had some cute options as well. Keep an eye out; both of these retailers tend to run huge sales around Black Friday time.
This is another idea I’ve incorporated into every gift guide because it’s such a good one! I got my dad an Alexa last year and although he swore he would never use it, I hear him talking to it almost daily. Bonus points if you get the outlet plugs too that connect to your main device. We have these in our living room so you can turn the lights on and off by simply saying “Alexa turn off the lights”. They are lifesavers!
If your dad is handy like mine, perhaps some new tools are a good idea. I can think of a few different times we gave him drills, tool chests, and other essentials in past years. Most men who are handy probably have a “wishlist” for their tool collection. Ask them what’s on it and choose a few to gift him. Or, if he doesn’t have any tools yet but is wanting some, get him a toolbox with all of the “beginner” must-haves.
This seemed like an idea worth putting on here. I don’t know anyone who’d be upset about getting a massager! These are such a fun gift idea that can be used by the whole fam!
I know so many men love whiskey so why not get him some new glasses for his nightly drink? There are dozens of styles out there and you can even get them personalized for him! The stones that you freeze and then use as ice cubes are another great idea to pair with the glasses. Connor’s dad told me these are a “must”.
My dad is a big griller, especially in the summertime. New grilling “accessories” would be an awesome idea. Things like tongs, spatulas, and scrapers are all items worth looking into. We’ve also ordered my dad new grill covers in the past (since these get gross super quickly) and he always appreciates those as well. Even a personalized apron is a fun idea!
I feel like every household has them…. yard games! What’s a summer bbq without them? Whether it be corn hole, bocce, Can Jam, or spikeball these are all great ideas to gift your dad. It never hurts to have a few lying around, especially when hosting backyard events like graduation parties and birthdays.
Coolers in general are a great gift idea but I wanted to specifically highlight the Yeti coolers. I have read dozens of reviews on these bad boys and although they are expensive, everyone raves about these. They keep your stuff cold for hours on end and are extremely durable. Consider investing in a shoulder size for things like baseball games and beach days or the large size for family vacations!
If your man is someone who gets dressed up regularly or is still heading into the office, perhaps cufflinks are a good idea. There are so many different styles out there that cater to every budget. I prefer gold but that’s just personal preference!
My dad has a bottle opener collection and it’s a tradition for him to buy a new one when we go on a family vacation, travel somewhere new, or even for people to give him as Christmas gifts. If your dad, grandpa, or father in law has a collection like my dad’s, buying him a new addition to it is a super thoughtful idea! These things can easily work as “gag” gifts too.
I wish we were one of those families that had a hammock in our backyard! They are so fun to relax on or even take an afternoon nap with. Obviosuly, this isn’t the most practical gift idea in the dead of winter but it’s still a neat idea. My sister has a portable Eno hammock that you can hang up anywhere; those are a great option for someone super outdoorsy who loves to hike/get out in nature regularly!
Lawn chairs, although may seem like a boring gift idea, are a very practical + functional gift. Chances are your dad hasn’t updated his lawn chair in the last decade and there are tons of new styles that are far more comfortable these days. If he’s always coming to support you in your sporting events, the least you could do is upgrade his seating situation! 😉
Most men in my life wear a necklace of some sort on an everyday basis. Whether they be a grandpa, dad, or even teen/twenty-something. These make a fantastic gift because 9 times out of 10 it’s something that he’s going to wear daily for years to come. There are all kinds of options out there: chains, saints, crosses, and more!
Chances are your father in law isn’t the biggest technological genius in the world. Perhaps a wireless charging stand is just what he needs in his life! These make charging your devices so easy—simply set your phone down when it’s in need of a charge, and pick it up when it’s ready! This gift idea is dummy-proof!
I’ve always wanted to be a family with a projector! This is such a unique gift idea. If you want to display football games, movies, and more on a big screen without shelling out hundreds of dollars for a TV, a projector is the way to go (assuming you have a blank wall or large enough sheet). This is the perfect family-friendly gift idea!
You can’t go wrong with a new razor/shaving kit. There are dozens on the market but Kiehls seems to have the best reviews. A pair of clippers is another great idea, especially since many people are still giving themselves at-home haircuts due to COVID! My mom trims my dad’s hair every few weeks and he swears he’ll never go back to the barber again!
Last but not least, a Ring doorbell! If you don’t know what Ring is, it is a doorbell that is video-equipped so you can keep an eye on your property. Many people have these to keep an eye on their packages and children as they go to and from school. These are especially popular in certain neighborhoods and are awesome for safety & security purposes! There are a few different versions of them out, so do a little reading before making your final purchase.