As we enter perhaps the most joy-filled part of the year, we also enter what is for many people, an extremely stressful time. The holiday season is almost synonymous with gifts, for Christmas, Hanukkah, and more. For many people, figuring out gift ideas is one of their main sources of anxiety. If you come from a big family, have a large friend group, or even have a Secret Santa set up, it can be hard to think about what you want to give the people you love. Luckily, I’ve done some of the heavy lifting for you. Here is a list of some great (affordable) items for anyone you may be looking to gift this season. And yes, some links are included just to make your life a little easier.

For adult women:

• Favorite scent from Bath and Body Works
  • This beloved store (conveniently located at the Kenwood mall or Waterstone Center) carries a variety of lotions, body washes, hand sanitizers, and even candles, so there is a lot to choose from. Not to mention that there are always several deals and promotions going on around the holidays, so you are sure to get the most bang for your buck.
• Michelle Obama’s new book, The Light We Carry
  • If the women in your life are anything like mine, they will absolutely adore this book. It’s Michelle Obama’s follow-up to her autobiography, Becoming, and gives guidance on how to stay hopeful during dark times.
  • Link to book
• Silk sleep mask
  • If the women in your life always seem to be tired, a silk sleep mask is the perfect gift. Not only do they help limit light—which leads to better sleep—they also prevent wrinkles, and help keep skin moist at night.
  • Link to silk sleep mask

For adult men:

• Coffee
  • Is the man in your life a coffee enthusiast? If so, a fun coffee experience is the perfect gift. There are several unique coffee shops and brands around Cincinnati to choose from. Whether you decide to gift a tasting session, a bag of grounds, or even a gift card, you can not go wrong with coffee.
• Gloves
  • During the cold winter months, one of the most important things we can do is stay warm. That task is made easier with a warm pair of gloves. If the man in your life is shoveling the driveway, putting up holiday lights, or even just going on a walk, a new pair of gloves is the right way to go.
  • Link to gloves
• Tie
  • As simple as it may sound, a tie can make or break an outfit. A new tie has the power to spruce up anyone’s closet, so even though it may seem like an easy option, it’s still a great one.

Teen girls:

• Heatless curler
  • Have someone in your life who loves to have their hair done up, but hates putting in the work? This heatless curling headband is the perfect gift. Perfect, salon-style curls can be created overnight with this comfortable heatless headband.
  • Link to curling headband
• Lanyard wallet
  • This wallet is the perfect idea for anyone who drives. With a clear front pocket to store a driver’s license, as well as plenty of room to keep cash, cards, and more, you can not go wrong with this cute wallet lanyard that comes in a variety of cute colors and patterns. (Wallet and lanyard sold separately)
  • Link to wallet
• pH matching lip gloss/blush
  • If you are anything like me and spend a fair amount of time on TikTok, you are sure to have seen this lip gloss/blush which has ingredients that react with your body’s pH to create your perfect shade! Turns out, it also makes the perfect gift.
  • Link to lip gloss/blush

Teen guys:

• Charging port
  • This 3-in-1 charging port charges an iPhone, AirPods, and Apple watch all at once. This easy-to-use product is perfect for anyone who gets tired of having to constantly figure out which cord goes to which device and who wants something that will keep their space organized.
  • Link to charging station
• Mini hoop
  • This basketball mini hoop is great for anyone who may have some steam to blow off or even just for someone who wants to practice their basketball skills. This hoop can hang on the back of any door, and it sure to be a big score. 
  • Link to mini hoop
• Customized water bottle
  • If you have someone in your life who is super active, but does not seem to have a good, reliable water bottle, here you go.! This reusable water bottle is not only sustainable, but can be customized to fit the needs of the person you are gifting.
  • Link to custom water bottle

For anyone:

• Board games
  • You truly can never go wrong with a good board game. It is the perfect gift for people of all ages, and playing it with friends will never grow old! I have linked some of my favorites below.
  • Link to Clue
  • Link to Monopoly
  • Link to Pictionary
• Essential oil diffusers
  • If you know anyone who needs a little zen in their life, an oil diffuser is the right way to go. With a variety of different oils to choose from, everyone can find something that makes them feel a little more calm. 
  • Link to diffuser
• Cozy cabin socks
  • Though it seems easy and simple, cabin socks are one of the best gifts you can give. There are so many different colors and patterns, but all options will make sure to keep their wearers warm and cozy. 
  • Link to cabin socks