Big news — we finished the makeover at the Children’s Hospital and can’t wait to share the photos (hopefully Monday). In the meantime, we put together one big, practical gift guide since so many of you requested it. Last year we split our picks across several posts for lads, ladies, and kiddos; this year everything’s been combined into a single roundup with plenty of budget-friendly options (lots under $15 and many under $30).
Below are items we like for kids, along with a few baby things now that we have one on the way.
1. I love browsing Etsy for unique, homemade gifts that are less likely to be duplicates at family gatherings — like a charming handcrafted whale puzzle for about $25.
2. We loved the Sleep Sheep when Clara was little — it clips to a car seat and helps keep a baby sleeping when you’re out at restaurants or visiting friends and family.
3. Kids who enjoy imaginative play would adore a small wooden vegetable garden for dollhouses (around $15). It’s interactive: you “plant” the carrots and pull them up again to “harvest.”
4. An eco-friendly beehive toy (about $23) helps little ones practice fine motor skills by pinching bees and placing them into honeycomb slots. It’s adorable and hands-on.
5. There are picture books that never fail to crack us up — a $9 humor-filled book about crayons with personalities is one of those repeat favorites.
6. Shark-themed bath towels are always a hit with kids who love sea creatures — silly and practical for bath time.
7. Handmade stuffed animals, like a sweet little mouse doll (around $35), make cozy, special gifts — and yes, adults sometimes want one too.
8. Magnetic wooden dress-up sets (roughly $15) are great for preschoolers. The magnetic pieces are easy to swap, encouraging imaginative play without the frustration of tiny tabs.
9. Small tactile toys like a wiggling worm (around $7) are adorable stocking-stuffer options for babies on the way — you decide whether you want to get an early present!
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Next up: gift ideas that work well for moms, sisters, friends, or any ladies on your list.
1. Festive “cheers” glasses make pretty little gifts filled with candy, hot cocoa mix, or a small bottle of wine.
2. Ceramic house ornaments are sweet and thoughtful stocking additions — especially if you’re shopping clearance finds.
3. Personalized jewelry from small sellers (for example, a custom necklace shaped like a favorite state or animal) feels meaningful and unique.
4. A clean-lined necklace with a slightly longer chain and mixed metals is an elegant, versatile gift.
5. A cozy heart sweatshirt on sale for about $15 is an easy, universally wearable present for many ages.
6. A metallic-gleam pillow (often found on sale) suits someone who loves home decor or follows popular interior designers.
7. A small colorful clutch is perfect for corralling makeup and other essentials in a larger bag.
8. Lightweight humor tees with design jokes (like Photoshop puns) are fun gifts for friends with creative careers or a playful sense of humor.
9. Art prints that encourage being present — modestly priced wall pieces — make sweet reminders to enjoy the moment.
10. Leather studded gloves in neutral tones are stylish and practical for colder months.
11. A simple outlet-timer gadget (around $9) that cuts power after a set interval is a smart, inexpensive gift for anyone who likes tech that saves energy and prevents overcharging.
12. Colorful tights or patterned stockings make great little stocking stuffers and are often on sale for under $10.
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Finally, John assembled a “Dude Guide O’ Gifts” — his picks are below.
1. A magazine subscription like Mental Floss (roughly $24) is perfect for trivia lovers who enjoy bite-sized facts and curious reads.
2. A new phone case is a practical, affordable upgrade — wood-look cases and other unique styles can be a nice middle ground instead of gifting a new device.
3. Power tools can be dreamy for DIY fans — cordless circular saws remove the hassle of cords and are a real time-saver for home projects.
4. A compelling book that pulls you in can be a great gift for anyone who likes to get lost in a good read.
5. Graphic tees and colorful art prints from independent designers are affordable and fun — many start at low price points and make unique gifts.
6. Playful novelty shirts from small shops pair thick glasses with a mustache motif for an intentionally ironic, hip look.
7. Quirky socks are a lighthearted gift that almost anyone can appreciate.
8. A comfortable throw blanket labeled for “Old Town” or similar styles (around $19) is a gender-neutral cozy present with a subtle pattern upgrade.
9. A bright, portable work light (about $20) is a practical gift for garages and workshops — good lighting always improves a workspace.
10. Board games and party games encourage family time and social gatherings — titles like Telestrations are great for families, while adult games can be a hit with friends.
11. Subscription boxes tailored to hobbies (running, cycling, etc.) are gifts that keep giving throughout the year and can be curated for nearly any interest.
Did anything above stand out to you? Do you have relatives who are especially hard to shop for? Are you digging out last year’s gift wrap and ribbons to get everything ready for the season? We’re all about getting a few good things wrapped early.
Note: some items referenced were available from independent sellers and small shops; prices and availability may vary.