Tips for Holiday Gifts

Nicole Sgarbossa

Even with our dwindling economy, the holidays are still a time of giving, overspending and taking part in the December 24th rush to get all those last minute presents. Rest easy folks, you’ve got a whole month until the big day, and because we’re so kind hearted here at Gloss, we are going to help in calming your Christmas shopping woes by giving you some gift ideas for those picky and pesky people on your list.

Your Mom

She gave birth to you, so the least you could do is get her something nice for Christmas. Maybe she’d like a gift certificate for a massage? Or take it back to when you would hand make all your gifts and go out and paint pottery to give to her. Why not adopt an animal or give to a charity in honour of her? Organizations like Toronto Wildlife Centre (www.torontowildlifecentre.com) allow you to donate money and adopt an animal at one of their shelters, and don’t worry they take care of it for you! They also send you a certificate to give to the recipient. How proud would she be to know instead of spending your money on another PJ set for her, you donated to a worthy cause!

Your Siblings

Why not get you sister or brother some classic books from your childhood? Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak, The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle and Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White would be nostalgic gifts for anyone. At www.amazon.ca you can find these and a whole lot of other great books, box sets, and CD’s.

Your Friends

Accessories are always a great option when buying for friends because you don’t need to know what size they wear to find the perfect gift. Maybe a handmade necklace or a great scarf; try www.etsy.com for creative, one-of-a-kind presents. Another idea for friends is tickets to an upcoming concert or show; that way you can give the gift of good times as well!

The Significant Other

Trying to find the perfect gift for your boyfriend or girlfriend is hard—  very hard like pull out your hair and scream at the top of your lungs hard. You want the gift to be a perfect reflection of your relationship and how you feel about the person. There are though, a few things you must take into consideration. First, how long you’ve been together, and second, what you want to tell the person with the gift you’re giving them. For those long term, serious relationship gift buyers, why not get your main squeeze the ever popular iphone (www.apple.ca)? A watch is always a great option? Try www.nixon.com for a great selection of trendy, yet affordable ones.

Is he or she a gaming fanatic? The new Wii Fit, or Rockband World Tour might tickle their fancy. Buyer beware: be prepared to wait in lines and fight off crowds in order to get some of the hot games and consoles this season.

If they’re into music, a vintage inspired record player would make them smile come Christmas morning. Most electronic stores now carry a selection of different ones.

Looking to impress your girlfriend? Everyone knows the way to a girl’s heart is with diamonds, or a really nice handbag. If you’re super keen and willing to fork out the cash, maybe a Tiffany’s necklace or a Marc Jacobs handbag? Though, since most people aren’t made of money, a great perfume, like Betsey Johnson, or Chloe might do the trick.

The best thing to keep in mind when buying a gift for your sweat heart is to give it lots of thought and keep it personal. Spending lots of money won’t make them love you more, so make sure it’s something that’ll put a smile on their face and not a hole in your pocket.

Still flustered? Stores like Urban Outfitters and Chapters are great places to pick up last minute, unique, ready to give gifts for anyone on your list. And if all else fails, just remember, the best gift you can give is your love. Happy Holidays!

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