Holiday Gift Guide 2017: Gifts for Family & Friends

Thank you to everyone who asked about our annual gift guide — it’s finally here! We gathered everything into one big post packed with thoughtful ideas: gifts for grown-ups, picks for kids (including many items our own children already love), and a bonus roundup of favorite finds under $20. Whether you’re shopping for someone who appreciates design, a practical friend, or a kid who wants to play for hours, this guide has options to inspire holiday shopping. Read on for curated, stylish, and useful gift ideas to suit a range of tastes and budgets.

Holiday Gifts For Grown Ups

  • 1. Gorgeous pillow covers in timeless fabrics and colors — perfect for updating a favorite chair or sofa without a full redecoration.
  • 2. A planter phone dock — a clever, attractive desk accessory that keeps a plant and your phone in one tidy spot.
  • 3. A classic reversible tote that includes a free wristlet — three looks for the price of one and great for everyday use.
  • 4. A beautiful coffee table book filled with inspiring photography — a luxe gift that’s enjoyable to browse.
  • 5. A minimalist teak wall shelf — elegant, functional, and easy to integrate into nearly any room.
  • 6. Striped pajamas with a matching eye mask — cozy, stylish sleepwear that’s a treat to receive.
  • 7. An inlay frame — a splurge-worthy decorative piece that elevates a favorite photo or print.
  • 8. Voice-controlled smart plugs — practical tech gifts that simplify daily routines for gadget lovers.

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  • 9. A reliable cordless vacuum — a perennial favorite for its convenience and performance.
  • 10. A fancy cheese board — elegant and chic, perfect for entertaining or gifting to a friend who loves to host.
  • 11. A vintage-inspired alarm clock in a deep green hue — charming and full of personality.
  • 12. A pressure washer — surprisingly satisfying and extremely useful for outdoor cleanup.
  • 13. A smart speaker that also functions as an intercom — versatile and easy to use around the house.
  • 14. A duffel with leather straps — a handsome, practical travel companion that looks as good as it performs.
  • 15. Quirky novelty socks (we’re big fans of the pizza pair) — playful gifts that spark joy.
  • 16. A heavy-duty toolbox — keeps tools organized and portable for the DIYer in your life.
  • 17. A well-designed laptop bag recommended by many readers — practical, professional, and comfortable to carry.
  • 18. A faux leopard throw — luxe, warm, and perfect for cozying up on the sofa.

Take a breath — now on to gifts for the kids!

Holiday Gifts For Kiddos

  • 1. A beautifully illustrated book of animal stories — the pages are frame-worthy and delightful for storytime.
  • 2. A personalized wooden bowling set — a thoughtful, heirloom-quality toy that adds charm to play.
  • 3. Iron-on patches for clothing — inexpensive, creative stocking stuffers with a hands-on activity built in.
  • 4. More patches in playful designs like watermelon — kids love customizing their clothes and accessories.
  • 5. Bug-themed patches — adorable for shirts, jackets, or even doll clothes.
  • 6. An emoji coding robot — a great introduction to basic coding concepts and an engaging toy for curious kids.
  • 7. A wooden shopping cart — surprisingly popular with children and encourages imaginative play.
  • 8. A vintage-style play food set — perfect for pretend picnics with stuffed animals and friends.
  • 9. A classic game like Jenga — fun for a wide range of ages and great for family game night.

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  • 10. A set of beautifully illustrated children’s books — timeless reads and often available at discounted prices this season.
  • 11. Hand-painted peg sets — artisanal toys that capture a child’s imagination and can become keepsakes.
  • 12. A giant wooden block set — classic, open-ended play that encourages creativity and construction.
  • 13. Temporary tattoos — fun stocking stuffers with an activity built in.
  • 14. Child-friendly craft scissors — perfect for little artists and makers.
  • 15. An invention-themed sketchbook for budding creators — prompts and space to dream up wild ideas.
  • 16. Blankie-style tail blankets — cozy companions kids take everywhere.
  • 17. Playful winter hats like a llama design — great for cold-weather fun and excellent stocking stuffers.
  • 18. A wooden marble run — an engaging joint gift that fosters shared play and problem-solving.
  • 19. A dinosaur fleece hat — ideal for the little paleontologist in your life.

Now for one of my favorite sections: thoughtful gifts that cost less than $20. Small, inexpensive items can be surprisingly meaningful when chosen with care.

Holiday Gifts Under $20

  • 1. A monogram mug — a sweet little gift that pairs perfectly with hot chocolate mix or cookies.
  • 2. A “Besties” keepsake book — beautiful and sentimental; tuck small notes inside for a personal touch.
  • 3. A compact, colorful purse under $10 — affordable, practical, and available in many colors.
  • 4. A humorous fitness-themed t-shirt — when a shirt makes you laugh, it’s an easy winner.
  • 5. A $15 dog-shaped planter — add a small succulent for a whimsical present.
  • 6. Cubic zirconia earrings under $5 — chic and affordable jewelry options make great stocking stuffers.
  • 7. Tiny gold hoops for just a few dollars — a simple, elegant accessory many will enjoy.
  • 8. Brass monogram ornaments — feel personalized without a big price tag.
  • 9. Felted monogram ornaments — affordable and lovely for tree décor or thoughtful gifts.

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  • 10. A small brass figurine said to bring good luck — a charming mantel accent and story-worthy gift.
  • 11. Irregular bud vases in pretty colors — pop in a single bloom for a simple, elegant present.
  • 12. A graphic pillow favored by bloggers — versatile, stylish, and budget-friendly.
  • 13. Affordable art prints and small original paintings — an accessible way to gift art that feels personal.
  • 14. A whimsical house-shaped tissue holder — practical with a playful twist.
  • 15. A dog-breed pillow with free monogramming — personalized, cozy, and surprisingly affordable.
  • 16. Velvet slippers at an attractive price point — comfortable and a little indulgent.
  • 17. Monogram wall hooks — a personalized, useful gift for entryways and kids’ rooms.
  • 18. Pom-pom winter hats — flattering and fun, often under $8.
  • 19. A beautifully designed butterfly-print piece — delicate and unexpectedly modern when chosen with care.

There are plenty of sales happening this season across many retailers, so it’s a great time to check for discounts on items you already love. We hope this guide sparks gift ideas for everyone on your list, from the design-minded grown-up to the kid who loves hands-on play. If you want to share what you’re giving (or hoping to receive), find us on Instagram or Facebook and tell us about your picks. Enjoy the season — I’m off to have a sensible lunch of holiday cookies and apple cider. Tis the season!

Psst — we’ll be back with photos of our house decorated for the holidays later this week.

*This post originally included product recommendations and reflects personal favorites.*