The most wonderful time of the year is here, but let’s be honest: holiday shopping can be stressful! With Black Friday around the corner, these gift ideas will help you shop for everyone on your list—picky teens (no, not me!), amazing teachers, or loving parents and relatives—without breaking the bank too much.

One of my favorite parts of the holidays is giving back to the community, so I’ve also included ways to spread kindness and joy. I hope these ideas make your season a little brighter and your shopping a lot easier. Happy Holidays!

Gifts for Teens

Teens can be tough to shop for, but these gift ideas cover all budgets, from affordable finds to splurge-worthy picks.

Low-Cost/ Mid-Range:

• • Vanity Makeup Mirror  
  • Claw Clips
  • Makeup Bag
  • Affirmation Cards
  • Tote Bag
  • Mini Photo Printer
  • Candles
  • Silk Pillowcase
  • Lip Gloss
  • Detangler Brush 
  •  Makeup Headband & Spa Set
  • Journal 
  • Fuzzy socks 
  • Heatless Curls set 
  • Silk Pajama Set
  • Phone Case
  • Cozy Blanket
  • Albums

Higher Priced:

• • Sephora Perfume Sampler Set 
  • Customized Jewelry 
  • Clothing Sets 
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  • Wallet 
  • Makeup Essential Sets 

Gifts for Parents

Finding the perfect gift for parents or older relatives doesn’t have to be hard. These thoughtful ideas will show your appreciation to those who support us the most.

For Moms:

Low-Cost:

1. • Handwritten Letter 
   • “Mom, I Want to Hear Your Story” Book 
   • DIY Herb Garden Kit
   • Custom Phone Case
   • Weekly and Daily Wellness Planner 
   • Dr. Teal’s Sleep Spray 
   • Birth Month Flower Grow Kit
   • Luxury Hand Cream  

Mid-Range:

• • Yoga Mat & Accessories
  • Customized Recipe Book 
  • Luxury Hand Cream 
  • Subscription Boxes (tea,self-care) 
  • Silk Pajama Set
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  • Silk Scarf  

Higher Priced:

• • Heated Blanket
  • Massage Membership at Hand and Stone
  • Benevolence LA Plush Velvet Travel Jewelry Organizer Box
  • Kindle for Reading
  • G.P. Putnam’s Sons “I Really Needed This Today: Words to Live By” by Hoda Kotb

For Dads:

Low-Cost/ Mid-Range:

• • Personalized Keychain 
  • Custom Tumbler or Travel Mug
  • Comfortable Slippers 
  • Personalized Grill Apron 
  • Desk Organizer
  • Portable Charger 
  • Car Care Kit
  • Subscription Boxes (coffee, snacks, etc.)

Mid-Range/ Higher Priced:

• • Nike Slides 
  • Tool Organizer 
  • Cologne Sets 
  • Grillmaster’s Cookout Caddy (BBQ Tools)

Gifts for Other Relatives

Our extended family deserves a little holiday cheer too! Thoughtful gifts, big or small, can make their season brighter.

Low-Cost:

• • Personalized Calendar
  • Holiday-Scented Candle 
  • All Assorted | Luxury Gourmet Tea
  • Game Night Set 
  • Electric Handheld Whisk 
  • Cooking or Baking Set
  • Magazine Subscription

Mid-Range:

• • Cozy Throw Blanket 
  • Mini Projector 
  • Digital Picture Frame

Higher Priced:

• • Drink or Gourmet Food Basket 
  • Wireless Bluetooth Speaker 
  • Coffee Maker 
  • Premium Coffee Set

Gifts for Teachers & Mentors

Let’s celebrate those who inspire and guide us. A small gesture of appreciation can mean the world to them this holiday season.

Low-Cost/ Mid-Range:

• • Coffee Shop Gift Cards
  • Handmade Thank-You Cards  
  • David Bradley Chocolate Assortments
  • Stress Relief Candle
  • Aromatherapy Roll-Ons  
  • Custom Mugs  
  • Desk Calendars with Inspirational Messages
  • Low-Maintenance Desk Plants 

Giving Back

The holidays are a time to spread joy and kindness. Giving back to the community can be the most meaningful gift of all.

Donate & Sponsor:

• • Donate to local toy drives (e.g., Toys for Tots or school drives)
  • Sponsor a family in need through local organizations
  • Donate gently used clothes to local shelters or thrift stores

Volunteer:

• • Volunteer time at shelters, soup kitchens, or food banks  
  • Organize a community clean-up at a nearby park or neighborhood 
  • Bake or cook for others and share homemade treats with neighbors, elderly, or frontline workers 

Teach & Inspire:

• • Visit the younger grades in the Lower School and teach the importance of gratitude, explaining how Christmas is about more than just gifts

Purchase Gifts that Give Back:

• • Buy Gifts that Give Back: Brands like TOMS or Bombas donate with every purchase
  • Adopt a senior from a local nursing home for the holidays and send cards or small gifts to brighten their season

Happy Shopping!

I hope you enjoyed scrolling through and got some inspiration! Let’s spread joy with thoughtful gifts and little acts of kindness. Wishing you a season full of love and happiness!