Our favourite universally-pleasing-yet-suitably-generic finds.
Remember when you were little, and the holidays were all about receiving awesome presents from your family members, and all you had to do was say “thank you” and maybe pose for a photo with Santa? Well, the tables have turned now that you’re adulting, and your December to-do list likely includes buying gifts for a handful of people in your life that you appreciate very much, but hardly know at all. This is the time of year to give tokens of appreciation to people such as your business associates, children’s caregivers and teachers, not to mention that neighbour who helpfully signs for Amazon deliveries when you’re not home. No matter your budget, it is possible to find an appealing gift for all of these lovely folks on your list. Here’s how.
Oh, Snap
Who can resist the throwback appeal of an instant camera? This stylish collab between Michael Kors and FujiFilm is a delightful gift, whether the recipient will be taking #ootd pics or baby portraits in the near future.
Michael Kors x FujiFilm Instax Camera, $178 at michaelkors.ca.
Festive Fizz
Champagne is never a bad idea, especially when it features playful packaging, like this limited-edition Moët & Chandon Rosé.
Moët & Chandon Rosé Impérial champagne, $82 at liquor stores.
Clean Sweep
This pretty-yet-practical gift set from Rocky Mountain Soap Co. is perfect for White Elephant parties and Secret Santa exchanges. We also admire the Banff-based company’s commitment to natural ingredients and small-batch manufacturing.
Rocky Mountain Soap Co. Refresh Gift Set, $40.45 at rockymountainsoap.com.
Essential Pick
Saje’s essential oil diffusers are popular for offices and at home, and we love that part of the proceeds from the sales of this colourful one, designed by artist Heather Day, supports a non-profit that runs art programming for kids in need.
Saje Aromaart High Tide diffuser, $85 at saje.com.
Fine Lines
This elegant, striped cashmere throw works in any décor setting. Consider it a perfectly tasteful gift for your picky boss or father-in-law who has everything.
Cashmere throw, $160 at HomeSense.
Water Works
S’well stainless steel bottles are great for taking both cold and hot drinks on-the-go, and their limited-edition Liberty-floral collab might just be the perfect teacher’s gift. Because no one really needs another box of drugstore chocolates.
Liberty London Fabrics x S’well collaboration bottle, $54 at Starbucks.
Sleep Style
This limited-edition pyjama from Hudson’s Bay and the Drake General Store would work well as a Secret Santa present, or something cozy for that cousin or niece you love but don’t know all that well.
Canadian Olympic Team Collection x Drake General Store Unisex Canada One-Piece Pyjama, $60 at Hudson’s Bay.
Power Plant
Elegant handmade ceramics are always sure to please. Plus, this planter can always hold pens or other desk instruments if the recipient doesn’t have much of a green thumb.
