It’s hard to believe we have come to the end of 2021 already. In some ways, it felt like the second longest year ever (next to 2020, of course). Yet, in some ways, it flew by. No matter what holiday you celebrate, many of us are seeing family and friends who we haven’t seen or haven’t spent much time with in nearly two years. And you don’t want to show up empty handed!

WARNING: Based on all retail industry forecasts, the current global supply chain shortage has impacted inventory for a lot of companies, including toy and apparel. So if there is something you promised to that special person, you better get going and get it. Fast.

And if you’re still struggling with gift ideas, here’s a list of some creative and affordable goodies for everyone on your list. These thoughtful and unique gifts are sure to leave everyone in your gift-giving path smiling!

Day 1: Focus on the little ones

‍Looking for something that’s both fun and educational at the same time? How about bringing the famous tyrannosaurus rex to life for your little one! From Discovery Kids, the realistic details and exciting sound and movement effects make this a great toy for boys or girls six and above. The natural rock and fossil-themed remote control puts them in charge of the roaring and chomping action (and keeps them out of your hair).

Day 2: What’s going to make the hubby happy this holiday?

‍For the guy who orders the hottest wings on game day, try this “activity” gift set from Uncommon Goods, a Make Your Own Hot Sauce Kit.  A great gift for those who love climbing the Scoville scale. Includes instructions, ingredients, six bottles, and labels for their creative sauce names. This hot sauce making kit is made in Portland, Oregon. 

Day 3: For the techy teen

Let’s face it. Kids are hard to impress these days. But, I think this gift might do the trick. If your teen is watching endless streaming shows, the KODAK Luma 150 Ultra Mini Pocket Pico Projector is the perfect gift, and will take them from Smartphone to the big screen instantly! This amazing pocket projector produces bright, vivid video and imaging up to 150”. They can watch movies, view pictures or give presentations anywhere a wall is available! For at home, or travel. (Now they will really never leave their rooms, except to show off to their friends!)

Day 4:  For Mom, because you adore her

‍Treat mom like the queen that she is with something beautiful and sparkly. I am never let down by Kendra Scott. This year, what’s on trend is layering. But here’s one better…never untangle again with this trio of minimalist chains. Featuring a herringbone, roll bar, and classic icon pendant, the Davis Gold Chain Triple Strand Necklace in Navy Abalone makes layering a cinch. Available in Navy, Black Pyrite, Purple Mica and Iridescent Opalite. Kendra Scott is known as a woman-owned, philanthropic company. In addition, some items from Kendra Scott give 20 percent back to the Mary Kay Ash Foundation to support its two-fold mission of finding cures for cancers affecting women and ending gender-based violence against women and girls. 

Day 5: For Dad, who always made you the apple of his eye

‍Get Dad on trend this season, too, with the U.S. Polo Assn. Signature Vest, available in blue or black. Featuring the signature double horseman logo, this vest will keep Dad warm all season long when layered over a sweater or sweatshirt.  Plus it has pockets and is machine washable. 

Day 6: For the auntie who is like a second mom

‍She’s always been there for you. Kind of like a mom, but cooler. Don’t leave your beloved aunt off your list – let her know you care and appreciate all she has done for you over the years. This auntie-themed sterling silver or 14k gold filled necklace from Etsy offers not only wearable beauty, but sweet sentiment. It even comes gift-wrapped! 

Day 7: No doubt your bestie needs a special gift this season

‍How about something especially thoughtful and pretty for your bestie, yet doesn’t break the bank? Just like you, she needs to relax more. So, why not help her along that path with Tea Drops’ Mindset Experience With Meditative Stories gift box. It’s tea — only easier. L.A.-based Tea Drops makes organic whole-leaf teas pressed into fun shapes such as hearts, flowers and stars. And they’re bagless, which the company says means 15% less waste than traditional tea bags. Just drop one in a cup of hot water, and you’re good to go. Or, as the website puts it: “They melt in water — like a bath bomb, except it’s tea!” Flavors include seasonal delights like chocolate gingerbread and pumpkin spice, in addition to traditional favorites such as Earl Grey and matcha green tea. 

Day 8: For your friend at work, or your neighbor

‍Here’s a wonderful “go-to” holiday gift for anyone you want to feel special and appreciated: the Hollen Glass Candle from Anthropologie. A beautiful candle, featuring an enticing holiday-inspired aroma. Comes in three different sizes and scents, at three different reasonable prices! Such as, Brown Sugar Wassail: Fresh harvest apple, zesty citrus orange, ground cinnamon, and a dash of golden clove swirls with apple cider and bursts of brown sugar; or Fresh Balsam & Cedarwood: An enticing blend of freshly cut evergreen, effervescent citrus, sparkling white cranberry, and sugared plums over a smooth base of cinnamon.

Day 9: For the pups

‍Your dogs are an important part of the family. Don’t leave them out for the holidays- Wrap up this cute Company of Dogs HuggleHounds HuggleFleece Nordic Bone Dog Toy for Fido and let him be part of the holiday fun! Dense, high-pile synthetic lamb's wool is naturally hypoallergenic and resists moisture, stains and bacteria. Plus, it has an invincible squeaker! 

Day 10: For the kitty cat that rules the house

‍Check out the Frisco Holiday Gift Box Cardboard Cat House Cat Toy to make your furry feline feel extra special for the holiday season. Give your cat the perfect home within their home as a gift for the holidays. This holiday gift box cardboard house is just the thing for naps at night or as a chill hangout spot during the day. The flooring has a corrugated surface, ideal for letting them scratch their itch—pun intended—so that they can really sink their claws into developing better habits. 

Day 11: For anyone on your list

Literally anyone you know will love cuddling up in the Nantucket Whaler Snuggler Blanket. This super soft, ring-spun French terry throw blanket is pre-washed to make it look and feel like your favorite sweatshirt, with the bonus that it won’t shrink when it needs to be cleaned. It’ll also look beautiful draped over the sofa when they are not using it to keep warm. Nantucket Whaler is a classic American lifestyle brand inspired by exploration and island history dating back to 1837. Every piece of Nantucket Whaler apparel is well-crafted and beautifully executed to withstand the ever-changing elements. Durability, comfort and a hint of nautical styling are at the heart of their products. Approximately 70" long x 50" wide. 

Day 12: For yourself, because you worked hard this year, and YOU deserve it!

Have you seen this blow dryer and styler set from Dyson? Seriously, have you seen it?! If you haven’t yet, you’re welcome. Not for the faint of heart when it comes to spending, but surely for the woman who wants great hair in as little time as possible, the Dyson Air Wrap comes in a variety of sets, some are special editions for the holidays. Sets include the incredibly speedy Dyson dryer and various stylers, like brushes that smooth and shine like you’ve never seen before. It’s like a blow dry bar in your own bathroom. Plus you can watch hundreds of demo videos on the Air Wrap on YouTube, if you’re bored. From Dyson. Starting at $499.

No doubt there’s some options here that will impress your variety of gift recipients. But, let’s not forget the holidays are about giving, and “gifts” do not always have to be something purchased. Gifts can be from the heart: a gift of time, something hand-made, recycled or even just a hug and a kind word. It’s the thought behind any gift that truly counts.  Wishing you all the joy of the holiday season- Cheers!