So it's exactly a fortnight until Christmas Day and for many, this will still leave plenty of time to get their shopping done, if you haven't finished it already. Hands up, how many of us are Christmas Eve shoppers? So I thought that I would put together a gift guide with last minute gift ideas for the hard to buy for or those who already have everything they could possibly want, when it comes to things like books, beauty and winter bits and bobs. And two weeks should be plenty of time for your items to be delivered, as well.
I've already shared my supporting Scottish businesses, the best bookish gifts and books to gift, the best beauty gift sets and my favourite candles to gift guides, if you're looking for more inspiration. But here are the best last minute gift ideas for hard to buy for relatives, friends, colleagues and loved ones;
Tech
Rhinoshield x Hello Kitty and Friends SolidSuit Case (£39.99)
We could all probably do with replacing our phone case, particularly if you've had the same one on for a while or it's starting to show its age. Or maybe someone's just got the new iPhone 14. Since I finally upgraded to an iPhone 13 Mini, I wanted to get a case that really protected it but still looked cute and that's when I discovered Rhinoshield. With 360 degrees of impact protection, MAGSAFE options, great grip and endless customisation options, there's almost too much to choose from. They also have cases AirPods and the Apple Watch. I opted for the SolidSuit Hello Kitty and Friends case and I could not be happier. Rhinoshield have also given me a code to share which will take 10% off your order. Simply use the code ellis.
Lexon Lilac Mino+ Mini Speaker (£30)
When I tell you that this small but mighty speaker is the best one that I have ever tried, I am not exaggerating. It is teeny tiny but has fantastic sound quality. It's also water resistant, so there's no worries about using it to belt along to your favourite songs in the shower. And because it's so small you can take it with you anywhere you need to, from a day trip to a picnic, on holiday or just from room to room. I'm so tempted to pick it up in this lovely lilac shade now too.
Home
Hollie Graphik Late Night Talking Print (from £9)
We all have a favourite singer or band and Hollie Graphik caters to many of my favourites, that I know many others will share too. I personally love this Harry Styles print, since I've not been able to stop playing Harry's House pretty much all year. But there are prints for fans of The 1975, Arctic Monkeys, Paolo Nutini, The Killers and so many more. And what I love about Hollie's prints is the fact that you can choose which colourway suits your home or the giftee best, making them perfect for everyone and every interior style.
NEOM Perfect Night's Sleep Pod Starter Pack (£95)
If your mum, best friend or beloved family member has always wanted a diffuser or struggles to nod off to sleep at night, let me introduce you to the perfect gift for them. You can buy the Wellbeing Pod on its own or with different essential oil blends but I've got a feeling that the Perfect Night's Sleep will be universally loved. It just creates such a relaxing and calming atmosphere, especially when used just before bed.
Razzl Dazzl Hair Pink Silk Pillowcase (£55)
Now, technically this is both a home and beauty-related gift that is perfect for that person who is tricky to buy for. If you or they haven't already made the transition to silk pillowcases, now is the time to do exactly that. Not only are they better for your hair and prevent frizz and breakage. But they also stop your skincare from ending up on your pillow instead of your face. I don't think I'd go back to a cotton pillowcase anytime soon after using a silk one.
Skinnydip Staying In Is The New Going Out Cushion (£30)
Never has a slogan summed me up more perfectly and I feel like many of us will be the same after the past few years and even now with the cold, wet, wintry days and nights. I also absolutely adore the emerald green velvet and pom pom trimmed design. It adds a fun and quirky touch to any couch, bed or reading nook.
Experiences
Virgin Experience Days The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience for Two in Manchester (£102.99)
If you saw my Supporting Scottish Businesses gift guide, you will know that I think gifting an experience can be one of the best ideas, as then you get to create memories. They're also one of the best last minute gifts you can send because most of the time they come in voucher form, with many available to print directly from your computer. And this year Very.co.uk have got you covered with their Virgin Experience Days options. From fast and furious car experiences that I'm sure most of the men in our lives would go crazy for. To spa days, afternoon teas, stadium trips and even flying lessons, there is something for everyone.
I thought that The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience would be such a great idea for families, groups of friends or even team bonding experiences with your team at work. Who else would love to run around and attempt to collect as many crystals as they can?
Virgin Experience Days The View from The Shard and a Three Course Dinner with Cocktail at Fortnum & Mason, Royal Exchange for Two (£124.99)
Another experience that I would love to receive and go on would be this one. Including a three course meal and cocktail, while taking in the sprawling views of the capital below from The Shard, how lovely would this be to treat your partner or significant other to? It's certainly got me dreaming of a trip down to London soon.
Lifestyle
Papier Joy Gratitude Journal (£26)
You might have seen in previous years that I've shared some good things during the lockdowns. I also keep an online diary using the Day One app and I made a strict rule with myself to only document the good things that happen each day. It can be so easy to focus on what's went wrong or what's going on in the world more generally, without being appreciative for the good things, however big or small. Which is why this Gratitude Journal from Papier would make such a lovely gift for a whole host of people. They do lots of different designs but I really like this minimalist forest green and lavender option.
LEGO Succulents (£44.99)
If you or the person that you're buying for loves to keep their hands busy or is trying to take more of a break from their many screens, why not enjoy a spot of time building a LEGO set. And not your typical LEGO set either. I mean, how beautiful is this succulents one? For many this will allow them to have some plants in their home without the fear of killing them, which is an instant win in my books. And the festive period truly is such a nice time to just relax and chill out, without being glued to our laptops or phones. Which is why I think many would love to receive this set.
Food & drink
Cocoba Hot Chocolate Bombes with Popping Candy Pack of 3 (£10)
Gifting hot chocolate at Christmastime just feels meant to be and I'm really on board with the recent chocolate bombes idea. Basically all you need to do is add one of these to a mug of hot milk and watch as it melts into the most delicious hot chocolate. These ones also have the added bonus of containing popping candy, which is another plus. Just think of how envious everyone else will be when someone unwraps them on Christmas morning.
NIO Cocktails Christmas Cocktail Gift Box (£39)
If the person that you're buying for loves a good cocktail, this gift box from NIO is ideal. Not only are they super easy to wrap because the drinks basically come in little sleeves but there's a fantastically festive selection of drinks to work your way through. There's a Spiced Negroni (very much the drink of the moment), a Winter Sidecar, a Christmas Margarita, an Apple Rum Punch, a Christmas in Manhattan and a Snow Daiquiri.
So those are just some last minute gift ideas for hard to buy for friends, family, loved ones and colleagues.
Do you have anyone who is tricky to buy for at Christmas? If so, have any of my picks helped? And which one is your favourite?
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