Whether you love the process of buying gifts because it presents you with a challenge to find just the right thing for he right person, or you hate it because it seems impossible to find the right thing for the right person, below are some top tips that will make your life easier and help you to find unique gifts that hit the right spot, whether you’re buying for your grandma or your spouse.
1. Dive Into Online Marketplaces (aka Digital Wonderland)
Gone are the days of mass-produced mugs and generic keychains. The magic of online marketplaces like Etsy, eBay, and even niche platforms like Uncommon Goods lies in their sheer variety. Looking for a hand-painted cactus vase? They’ve got it. Custom-made socks with your pet’s face? Done. They really are like your local city marketplace, only digital and much more diverse!
Pro tip: Type the weirdest thing you can think of into the search bar and see what pops up. It’s like digital roulette, and chances are, you’ll stumble upon something perfect for that impossible-to-shop-for friend who already owns everything. Bonus points if it’s something so unique it makes them go, “Wait, where did you even find this?”
2. Think Personal—But Not Creepy Personal
Customization is king in the world of unique gifting. Slap someone’s name, initials, or even an inside joke on an item, and voilà! Instant thoughtfulness. Online shops like Not On The High Street or Zazzle can personalize anything from leather journals to phone cases.
Just don’t go overboard. Nobody wants their name engraved on a toilet plunger, no matter how practical it might be. Stay classy, folks.
3. Stalk Their Social Media (For Research, Not Restraining Orders)
Before you start spiraling into the “what if they hate it” vortex, do some casual scrolling through their social media accounts. People love to drop hints about what they’re into. Your cousin’s Instagram stories are 90% latte art? Boom, get her a DIY coffee art kit. Or why not grab her Santa’s Favorites Gift Pack from Two Rivers Coffee Company? This festive sampler of flavored coffee and hot cocoa is sure to add some holiday magic to her mornings. Your brother won’t stop posting about his new dog? Hello, custom dog bandana.
Just don’t be too obvious about it. “Hey, I saw you liked 17 cat videos in the last hour, so I got you this litter box subscription” might not land as well as you think.
4. Subscription Boxes: The Gift That Keeps on Giving
Who doesn’t love getting a surprise in the mail? From monthly book clubs to gourmet snack deliveries and even niche things like socks or candles, subscription boxes are perfect for spreading joy well beyond the holidays.
Think about what they’re into—or what they should be into. If they’ve been eating instant ramen since college, a meal kit subscription could be a subtle nudge toward adulthood. And if they’re already an adult (but a stressed one), opt for a wine or spa kit subscription. Win-win.
5. Go Vintage or Pre-Loved
Vintage finds are not just gifts—they’re stories wrapped in nostalgia. Whether it’s a first-edition book, a retro vinyl record, or a cool leather jacket with “mystery past owner” vibes, pre-loved items add a layer of charm that you just can’t get from something shiny and new.
Hit up online thrift stores like Poshmark or Depop for clothes, or go treasure hunting on platforms like Chairish for home décor. It’s eco-friendly and thoughtful. Who’s the best gift-giver now? (Spoiler: It’s you.)
6. Experiences You Can Book Online (For the Person Who Hates “Stuff”)
Not everyone wants another thing to clutter their shelves, and that’s where experience gifts shine. Book a cooking class, a virtual wine tasting, or tickets to a murder mystery dinner (because why not?).
For extra points, check out Airbnb Experiences for quirky options like “Make Cheese with a Goat Farmer” or “Learn Salsa from a Pro Dancer.” They’re unique, memorable, and bonus: you don’t even need to wrap anything.
7. When in Doubt, Go Weird
Sometimes, the best gifts are the ones that make people laugh—or scratch their heads. Consider something completely offbeat, like a potato with their face printed on it (yes, that exists) or a set of socks that looks like sushi.
It’s the perfect way to show you care enough to get them something they’d never, ever buy for themselves. And honestly, isn’t that the whole point?
8. Support Small Businesses and Artisans
Big-box stores are fine for basics, but if you really want to wow someone, look for gifts from independent artists or small businesses. Not only will you get something one-of-a-kind, but you’ll also support someone’s passion project. It’s a win for everyone involved.
Websites like Society6 or even Instagram shops are great places to discover talented creators. Imagine gifting a handmade ceramic mug with a sassy quote—and knowing you helped an artist pay their rent. Feels good, doesn’t it?
9. Last-Minute Panic? Digital Gifts to the Rescue
If time has officially run out, don’t sweat it. Digital gifts like e-books, online classes, or even a streaming subscription are lifesavers. They’re instant, thoughtful, and totally customisable.
And no, this is not a cop-out. Who wouldn’t appreciate the gift of learning how to bake sourdough bread or mastering the ukulele? (Answer: No one. Everyone loves bread and tiny guitars.)
Give them a gift they’ll love!
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