the ultimate gift guide

gift giving is my love language — it’s honestly my favorite part of the holiday season. nothing makes me happier than finding the perfect gift for someone. it feels even better when it’s something from a small business, a cool thrifted find, or a gift i made myself.

if you don’t love picking out gifts, or it stresses you out, i’m here to help.

this is my ultimate gift guide — ideas for anyone in your life. a mix of diy and crafty projects, thrift and vintage finds, and thoughtful items from small businesses and etsy shops.

we’re starting with some handmade gift ideas because, in my opinion, the most meaningful gifts are the ones you make yourself.

handmade gift ideas

  • ceramics
    • photo holder
    • match box
    • candle holder
    • mug
    • pot & plant
    • wine stopper
    • trinket dishes
    • magnets
  • knitwear
    • socks
    • scarf
    • mittens
    • hat
  • blankets
    • chunky knit
    • tie
  • personalized book
    • scrapbook
    • journal
    • photo album
    • coffee table book
  • shrinky dink photos or note keychain
  • personalized deck of card
  • embroidered ornaments
  • cook/bake something
    • coffee syrups
    • baked goods
    • soups
  • recipe cards — your favorite recipes or family recipes
  • hand-painted holiday cards

next, there’s something really special about finding a cool and unique gift from the thrift store or a vintage shop. secondhand pieces always feel personal and intentional.

thrifted/vintage ideas

  • vase with flowers
  • small frames — add photos and a magnet to back to make fridge magnets
  • mugs with favorite coffee or tea
  • glassware with favorite drink or bottle of wine
  • book
    • blind date with a book — surprise book package, could add a bookmark, favorite snacks, tea, etc.
    • notes/annotated — add a personalized note about why you love the book, or read through and annotate it
  • board games
  • puzzles
  • cookbooks
  • clothing (tip: look through their depop likes to find things they’ve been eyeing)
    • tee
    • jacket
    • sweater
  • framed photo or note — thrift a cool frame and add a photo, personalized note, or art
  • photo album — add photos and notes
  • home decor basket — include decor pieces, candles, mugs, glasses, etc.

and lastly, try to support small businesses when you can! shopping small is such a thoughtful way to give during the holidays.

small business gift ideas

etsy gifts

and of course, i have to plug my own small business as well. we have lots of great handmade and sustainably made gift options available on our site and etsy shop. perfect for anyone who loves something unique and meaningful.

no rain gifts

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