With the festive season fast approaching people across the world are busily trying to work out what Christmas gifts to purchase for the loved ones in their lives.
Whether you’re buying after shave for him, perfume for her, toys for the kids, woolly jumpers for grandparents or scented candles for a friend, Christmas can be a minefield when it comes to making the right decisions about presents.
The landscape has changed rapidly this century, with the internet opening up a wealth of possibilities in respect of buying gifts for other people.
However, while it’s made Christmas shopping more convenient it’s also turned the whole process into a head-scratcher, with millions of different items to choose from.
To take some of the stress out of buying Christmas presents this year, we’ve put together this handy guide to some of the items we think your nearest and dearest will love.
For children
We’ve all heard the phrase ‘Christmas is for kids’ and it’s fair to say that the festive period can be a magical time for youngsters.
Technology has become the go-to present category for many kids, with video games, mobile phones, laptops and headphones often high on their list of must-have items.
However, if you’re looking to buy more traditional types of toys the marketplace is awash with products to suit every level of budget.
For girls the Mattel Barbie Dreamplane Playset is likely to be a popular seller, while the Jakks Pacific Frozen 2 ‘Into the Unknown’ Elsa Doll will appeal to fans of the popular Disney film.
If you’re buying for boys, the LEGO Harry Potter Knight Bus is very well priced and will provide hours of fun for kids with inquisitive minds.
Whatever you decide to buy remember that the best kids stuff is the items you know they will play with again and again, so make sure you pay attention to what they ask Santa for! If you are interested more about getting stuff for kids, visit bestkidstuff.com.
For her
Buying gifts for the lady in your life is fraught with danger, and woe betide the person who hasn’t been listening in the run-up to Christmas.
Presents for females may often be something quite personal, with jewellery, perfume and lingerie undoubtedly amongst the three most popular categories.
If you’ve exhausted every avenue down those particular lines, technology such as the Fitbit Versa Smart Watch could be a lifesaver this Christmas.
It can store up to 300 songs, has 15 different exercise modes and has a limited-edition version that features a gorgeous lilac strap.
If that’s a little too pricy for your liking, the White Company’s cashmere bed socks are a great present for females of all ages.
Alternatively, consider presents like spa days, afternoon tea at a glamorous five-star hotel or a gift card for a local beauty salon. And never, ever, buy her a vacuum cleaner or iron for Christmas!
For him
According to legend, men are really easy to buy presents for at Christmas – socks, ties, underwear and after-shave – job done.
However, it’s not too difficult to think a little more creatively ahead of the festive period and come up with some extra special gifts that will brighten up his Christmas.
For instance, every man needs a quality pair of jeans in his wardrobe so push out the boat a bit and splash out on some Levi 502s.
If chinos are more his thing, GANT do a brilliant stylish range that will keep him looking smart throughout the year.
Many men have a favourite brand of trainers, so buying the latest release is another great way to put a smile on his face during the festivities.
And if you’d rather buy him something completely different, you can’t go wrong with driving days at a race track or on a rally stage.
For friends
Harper Lee’s famous ‘You can choose your friends, but you sho’ can’t choose your family’ quote from ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ often has particular resonance around Christmas time.
Friends are the people we turn to when things get tough on the family front or the ones who provide us with our most memorable moments socially.
Gifts like ornaments and scented candles are a staple for many people when they’re buying for friends, while items like the Lindt Selection Box will make your Christmas get together go down a storm.
Alternatively, you can get even more creative and buy tickets to see your friend’s favourite music act or book a night at a local comedy club.
A simple gesture like lunch at a country pub is another great idea that not only ticks the gift box but allows you to spend valuable time with your friend.
Whatever you decide to buy this Christmas remember that it’s the thought that counts and giving is way more important than receiving. Enjoy the holidays!