The Ultimate Gift Giving Guide

2020 has been an extremely unstable year. Everything that was usually a constant in our lives such as school, sports, etc have been drastically changed. However, the holiday spirit of giving is a tradition we need to preserve and continue, especially this year. 

1. What to get friends

Whether you’re participating in a secret snowflake or just spreading the giving spirit, a handwritten card or note is always an amazing addition to any present. A heartfelt card is usually the best part of any gift, unless it’s a new car! 

Safe gift choices include simple jewelry, a phone case, or self care products like face masks or body lotion. Some affordable stores include Bath & Body Works, Francesca’s (I highly recommend their letter necklaces), Pura Vida, and Tilly’s. 

2. What to get siblings

Getting a gift for siblings is much more personal. A gift you can make for almost any sibling is what I call, “sibling cards.” Every year, I trace a regular playing card over sturdy paper, cut a few shapes out, and write a favor on each card; such as, ‘I will do your dishes for a week.’ I also include more fun ones such as a sibling movie night where they get to pick the movie and snacks. My brother, Luke, runs out of cards by the end of the year and is always excited to receive a new batch.

3. What to get parents

All my parents really want from me is a homemade card, but sometimes it is fun to go above and beyond. Safe choices for moms include candles, fuzzy socks, and blankets. Good ideas for dads are grill sets, caps (patagonia has cool ones), and shower gel. 

4. What to get grandparents

The best gift to give grandparents is framed photos of them with you and your family. Add a card, and you’ve got yourself a perfect gift! If you want to add something else, I recommend slippers, day planners, or if your grandparents are obsessed with pickleball, new rackets.  

5. What to get extended family members

All my fashionista cousins want is clothes, clothes, and more clothes! If that’s the case for you as well, great stores for any gender are Pacsun, Tilly’s, and American Eagle. Other options include Brandy Melville, Rock N Rags, and Madewell. Oakland Native, Courtney Smith, started an athletic apparel brand– Courtsmith— which sells cool t-shirts, hoodies, pants, and more (I highly recommend this brand). 

Some good gifts for aunts and uncles are framed photos, coasters, and travel mugs. 

6. What to get yourself!

In the midst of all the Black Friday shopping, deal chasing, and gift wrapping, remember to “have yourself a merry little Christmas” (Michael Bublé) or Hanukkah or other winter holiday! Kick up your feet, grab some popcorn, and watch a holiday movie or two or three…