And just like that, the holiday season is upon us. The coming months will have calendars filled with parties, gift swaps, and dinners. There’s lots of joy to be had, but with that certainly comes a price tag. Getting the perfect gift for everyone on your list can rack up quite the bill. Good news is– it doesn’t have to.
At the end of the day, it’s the thought that counts. A great gift is one that shows you put in time, effort, and care, and you can’t put a price on that. We’ve been hard at work rounding up the best, most thoughtful and affordable gifts you can give this holiday season. Below, snag our favorites for $25 or less.
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A Fancy Olive Oil
From pastas to salads to vanilla ice cream, Graza’s Drizzle is the most delicious finishing touch to all of their favorite eats. It’s made from 100% pure Picual olives, a variety native to Spain with a bold, nutty flavor. Pair with other condiments and bites, or gift on its own– this bottle is sure to impress your favorite foodie.
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A Woody Candle
There’s a reason candles make the cut for just about every gifting occasion. They’re the perfect balance of practical and fun. They make any room smell amazing and add a nice decorative touch. With notes of Sandalwood, Cardamom, and Cedarwood, this candle has a rich, smoky scent that’s well-suited for cozy winter days. Plus, at just $22, it’s hard to say no.
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A Sweet, Flavorful Vinegar
Brightland is another food-lovers favorite, and this collab with Oishii is nothing short of gift-worthy. You’ve probably heard of Oishii – the brand known for selling the $20 a box, perfectly-farmed Omakase Berry– or at least seen the brand on your Instagram feed. This LUSH vinegar pairs the sweetness of the berries with the brightness of vinegar for a unique kitchen addition anyone with an adventurous palette will appreciate.
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A Nourishing Hair Oil
For the one who counts their mane as their best accessory, give them something to keep it in prime condition. This luxurious hair oil from Gisou is enriched with Mirsalehi Honey– the brand’s hero ingredient– to help keep locks soft, shiny, and healthy. It doesn’t hurt that it will make their hair smell wonderful too.
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A Puzzle They Can Solve Quickly
Any of Areaware’s quirky home goods would make amazing holiday gifts, but for a budget-friendly option, these mini puzzles are particularly fun. Each puzzle can be completed in twenty minutes or less, so they won’t have to leave it halfway-done on their coffee table for months. Anyone else been there? The puzzles come in all sorts of fun designs, like a pinata and slice of pizza, and Areaware is constantly dropping new ones, too.
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A Game To Spice Up Game Night
Truth or dare gets a grown up upgrade with this new game. SAY IT DO IT was created during the pandemic as a way to help people connect after months of social isolation, which left many people feeling off, socially and beyond. With 52 questions that’ll get them to open up and have fun, this game is perfect for those who love exploring the beauty of human connection.
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A Better-For-Your-Body Bubble Bath
This 2-in-1 body wash and bubble bath is pH-balanced and loaded with nourishing vitamins that clean skin without stripping it. It’s from sexual wellness brand maude, so it’s designed to be used safely anywhere on the body, even intimate areas. It comes in three delicious scent combinations, and an unscented version for those who prefer fragrance-free. If you know they love bathtime and take pride in their self-care routine, this is a must.
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A Cool Pair of Socks
As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized 1. the power of great socks and 2. how annoying socks are to buy. All of a sudden mine disappear, shrink, and get riddled with holes. That’s why socks make a great gift. But, don’t just go for the value pack, get a pair (or a few) that feel kind of special, like these high socks from Doublesoul. They’re the kind that you’ll be excited to have peeking out of your sneakers.
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A Headband Made for Spa Days
Made of a soft, waffled cotton, this headband is designed to keep hair out of your face in spa-like style. It’s a wonderful accessory for the friend with a 10-step skin routine, the partner who loves a self-care day, and anyone with a passion for making life’s mundane moments feel a lot more indulgent.
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A Box of Mini Plants
Whether they have a green thumb or you want to give a subtle hint that their space needs some nature, plants are the ultimate gift. They brighten up any room and last way longer than flowers. This box comes with three mini plants that they can perch on their desk, leave on their bedside table, or line up along their windowsill. It’s a mystery box, so everyone will receive something just a touch different, making it all the more exciting.