This year we published our gift guide earlier than usual to spotlight many small makers and Black-owned businesses we love, giving those shops plenty of lead time. Big retailers seem to need more time than ever too, so planning ahead is helpful. We also included several tried-and-true items from larger companies that we’ve purchased and enjoyed, like a favorite tool or a family game.
There are gifts for grown-ups and kids along with many budget-friendly ideas under $20—and even under $10—perfect for teachers, neighbors, coworkers, or white elephant exchanges.
Gifts For Grown-Ups
Below are items we love: things we’ve personally bought and enjoyed, gifts we’re giving to friends and family, or items we’re hoping to see under the tree ourselves.
- A playful plant-lover’s doormat that always makes us laugh (about $52).
- A favorite “daughter” t-shirt that’s perfect for gifting to sisters or girlfriends (about $24).
- Mail-order plants make such a meaningful gift—pothos and ferns have brightened our home and lasted for months (from roughly $25).
- Black-and-white statement earrings from a small maker are a joyful and elevated present (around $45).
- A woven wave basket works as a large tray for magazines or as wall art—great for adding texture to a room (about $69).
- Custom address stamps are thoughtful and personal for a new home or duplex (starting near $94).
- Minimalist birthstone rings make sweet, delicate birthday gifts for kids and keep them close to the heart ($48).
- Playing Nice is a page-turning thriller about babies switched at birth—great for fans of suspense (around $25).
- A gray leather Apple Watch band—or other stylish designs—makes a refined tech accessory ($28).
- A favorite long-time necklace from a small shop is timeless and well-made (price varies; often on sale).
- A wooden wireless charging station, available in maple or walnut, combines function with lovely materials ($91).
- A unisex “head chef & sous chef” t-shirt set is a sweet gift for families who cook together ($48).
- The New Southern Style by Alyssa Rosenheck is a warm, inclusive home book filled with inspiration and recipes ($37).
- Brass geometric earrings from an independent maker are elegant and well-crafted ($35).
- Gourmet popcorn is an instant hit—buy one for someone you love and a second for your own movie night (from $20).
- A geode air-plant planter looks like a small sculpture and makes a striking shelf display ($30).
- A scratch-off travel map is a fun way to commemorate a road trip or travel memories ($30).
- Comfortable, washable, eco-friendly shoes are a reliable gift—practical and well-loved (around $95).
- An organic leafy green seed kit is perfect for the gardener or kitchen grower in your life ($35).
- A personalized recipe pie pan that features a loved one’s handwritten recipe makes a meaningful keepsake ($75).
Gifts For Kids
These are fun, creative options we own and love or plan to buy for our own children, cousins, and young friends.
- A rainbow sewing kit makes a delightful project for crafty kids and teaches useful skills ($25).
- Handmade dolls with thoughtful design and quality materials are special keepsakes (around $64).
- A dinosaur egg digging kit is perfect for little treasure hunters—buy a multi-pack to split between kids ($39 for a 12-pack).
- Vintage collectible cards bring nostalgic joy and can be a fun, affordable gift ($18).
- Women in Art and Women in Science books inspire curiosity and spotlight diverse role models ($16 each).
- A felt slingshot encourages active play and imaginative launches of soft felt balls—an energetic gift for kids ($20).
- Colorful kids’ headphones are durable and comfortable for remote learning or travel (two-pack options available, around $34).
- A dachshund felting kit is a creative project for children who love hands-on crafts ($17).
- Bike tire lights add safety and whimsy for evening rides—kids love the glow ($15).
- The Track series boxed set is excellent for readers around age 10, with relatable characters and thoughtful stories ($30 for four books).
- Printable paper dolls and finger puppets offer endless imaginative play and inclusive themes ($5).
- Child-safe nylon knives let kids practice kitchen skills safely and enjoy meals they helped prepare ($9 for a set).
- Qwixx is a compact dice game that’s fun for the whole family and reinforces simple math (under $8).
- Personalized “Where Are You” books let kids star in a Where’s-Waldo-style search and are great keepsakes ($30).
- A personalized baking set encourages shared experiences in the kitchen and makes delightful memories ($20).
- Custom holiday gift sacks with favorite themes—dinosaurs, space, or animals—make gift-opening even more special ($28).
- Worldly book boxes send books and cultural themes from different countries, great as a subscription or single gift (boxes starting near $39).
- A well-rated scavenger hunt game makes for an active and engaging group activity ($25).
- STEM-themed dresses celebrate kids who love science, bugs, space, construction, and more—fun and empowering apparel ($35).
- Blokus is a strategy board game the whole family can play together, and younger children can enjoy it too ($20).
Gifts Under $25
This list is a favorite because great finds at affordable prices still feel personal and special. Many options here are perfect as stocking stuffers, neighbor gifts, or white elephant picks.
- Handmade catchall bowls are versatile and beautiful for jewelry, keys, or small treasures ($23).
- Custom face socks—grandparents love these when grandkids make silly expressions ($13).
- Snowman bath bombs are a cheerful, inexpensive treat for kids, teachers, or neighbors (under $7).
- Lightweight tassel earrings are flattering and easy to wear ($24).
- Tortoise hoop earrings are minimal, well-made, and budget-friendly ($10).
- A state-shaped bottle opener feels personal and useful—a small gift with character ($12).
- Smooth metallic gel pens and lovely notebooks delight stationery lovers ($9 for a pen).
- A leather luggage tag looks polished for the traveler in your life ($10).
- Chunky Sweater candles from a small maker are hearty and fragrant—great as a small, thoughtful gift ($20).
- An animal-face coffee or tea cup brings a smile and pairs well with a favorite hot beverage ($15).
- A mini tube man is silly and fun, ideal for a playful white elephant gift ($13).
- A humorous “Team Trash” mug is a laugh-inducing pick you can fill with treats ($12).
- A “Never Forget Pluto” shirt delights science and space fans with retro humor ($19).
- The Stud Buddy is a handy stud finder that holds its position, making hanging items faster and easier ($10).
- A decorative plant mask or wall piece from a well-rated maker adds charm to any room ($17).
- A modern bike bell with a clear ring is a thoughtful, functional gift for cyclists ($20).
- Small circle earrings are delicate, minimal, and perfect for everyday wear ($16).
- A compact laser level is a must-have for easy, accurate picture hanging and small DIY projects ($15).
- A gold key bow wristlet keeps keys easy to find and frees up hands for quick errands ($8).
- Activated charcoal bags are excellent odor absorbers—small, practical stocking stuffers with a playful “coal” gag ($13).
To see last year’s lists, many of which are still relevant and linked, check our previous guides. We also have an extensive Black-owned business roundup with hundreds of recommended shops.
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