We all know those people who are just a challenge to find holiday gifts — they either insist they don’t want or need anything, or perhaps they simply have very discerning tastes. Either way, if you want to treat them to a little something around the holidays (or whenever) it can be difficult to pick out something that they’ll love and actually use. So here are some of the best holiday gifts for the challenging people on your list.
Best Holiday 2023 Gifts For The Challenging
Media Subscriptions
While not a physical gift, a year of Max, Netflix, or Paramount+ (or the streamer of their choice) might be extremely appreciated. Things like Audible subscriptions if they enjoy audiobooks, Spotify, or newspaper or digital magazine subscriptions (or even paper editions if they are old school) can be great options as well.
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Couch Trays
This is such a simple thing that could easily be paired with the aforementioned subscription options, since having a convenient tray like this one from Amazon that fits over the arm of your couch definitely elevates a movie night. It even comes in multiple colors!
Makeup Brushes or Travel Kits
These can come at nearly any price point, but a little set of makeup brushes (with decent tweezers) or similar travel-size kits can be a great gift if your recipient is a road warrior, or even just has a big trip coming up! This rose gold set from Amazon is under $10 and makes an excellent stocking stuffer.
Jewelry Cleaner
They’ll be surprised at how much more sparkle their favorite pieces will have after a spin in a sonic jewelry cleaner. You can also clean eyeglasses in this one from Magnasonic.
Nightstand Carafe
This might be the most elegant way to keep a glass of water near the bed (or anywhere else). We love the deep cobalt blue shade of this carafe and glass set from Maison Balzac.
High Quality Audio
Even if your giftee has airpods or nice headphones already, a backup pair is always handy. Beats come in plenty of colors (we like the rose gold) and they might be more comfortable than earbuds.
Fancy Playing Cards or Board Games
Does your recipient love any card games or board games? A beautifully designed deck of cards like the Madrid playing cards from Jonathan Adler wouldn’t go amiss. Or if they are obsessed with Wordle, get them the board game version!
If none of the above fit the bill, consider upgrading something your friend or family member uses everyday, like a nicer version of their ordinary go-to item. Get them something that’s useful but unexpectedly luxurious. Or maybe something they wouldn’t splurge on themselves but end up being surprised at how much they love it.
Shop The Best Holiday Gifts For The Challenging
Pictured above from left to right:
Subscriptions to Max, Netflix, Paramount+ or Audible
SINWANT Bamboo Sofa Clip on Side Table for Wide Couches Arm, Foldable Couch Tray, $32.99
Makeup Brushes BS-MALL, $9.99
Magnasonic Professional Ultrasonic Jewelry Cleaner with Digital Timer, $39.99
Maison Balzac J’ai Soif Carafe & Glasss | Indigo, $59
Beats Solo³ Bluetooth Wireless On-Ear Headphones, $99.99
Johnathan Adler Madrid Lacquer Card Set, $98
Wordle The Party Games, $18.59
What are your favorite items to give, and what are some of the most affordable or useful (but luxurious or surprising) gifts that you’ve gotten over the years? Let us know in the comments or share in our Growing Younger Facebook group!
–Jacqueline Zenn
You may also like to read Sweater Season: The Knits That Look Chic Right Now and Holiday 2023 Gift Guide: What To Give The New Mom In Your Life
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