Best Holiday Gifts to Have on Hand

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We’ve all been there. That moment you realize you need a last minute gift and don’t have time to shop. It might be that gift to the hostess of a holiday party, an unexpected addition to your family’s Christmas celebration or that friend that completely surprises you with a gift. Eliminate some of the stress of the season by purchasing a few thoughtful items that will make a great gift for just about anyone. And by picking items that you also love, if you don’t end up needing all of them, you can enjoy them yourself after the holidays are over. Here is a list of what I think are the best gifts to have on hand this holiday season!

Homemade Food Items

If you love to bake, pick some homemade treats that store well long term. Items like homemade fudge, chocolate dipped candy canes, seasoned nuts or biscotti all will taste delicious throughout the holidays.

They can just as easily be purchased at your local bakery or on etsy if you are short on time or if spending time in the kitchen isn’t your thing. Presentation is key so be sure to have a few ways to dress up your goodies such as cellophane bags or mini boxes.

A personal favorite is homemade caramels! They are a nice break from traditional chocolate. (Just be sure your recipient doesn’t have dentures.) I really love the sea salt caramels from this etsy shop.

Wine

Wine is the perfect holiday gift for any host and that hard to buy for person. Not sure if they like white or red wine? Give them both!

If you pick a standard red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Pinot Noir and standard white such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigrio, it is hard to go wrong! Choose a trusted brand like Wente that not only tastes great, but is a good value so you can afford to include two varieties.

Be sure to dress up the bottles of wine so your gift stands out. Pick up a gift wrap kit which includes high quality gift tags, ribbon, and accessories so you have options to tailor it to the recipient.

Special Savings:

Get 25% off of single vineyard or estate grown wines online from Wente through this exclusive offer! Simply enter 25TOAST at checkout!

Home State Love

Showing some love for your own homestate is currently all the rage. Find decor or accessory items which display some state pride and you have a great gift for any locals on your gift list like this maple cheese cutting board.

Alternatively, pick up some items from local artisans that are unique to show support to small businesses in your area such as honey, leather goods or home decor.

Staying Warm

If you live in a cold weather climate like I do, pick up a few items that both men and women would like to help them stay warm this holiday season.  Some ideas include a unisex scarf,  merino wool socks, warm gloves or hats.

Alpine Swiss Mens Plaid Scarf Soft Winter Scarves UnisexWomen Men Winter Thick Cable Knit Wrap Chunky Warm Scarf All ColorsPure Cashmere Unisex Scarf

You may have to buy a different set for each gender but by choosing a neutral color or pattern, you can have items on hand that anyone would like no matter their style.

Don’t forget to stock up on some Wente wine for your own personal use this holiday season and be sure to enter 25TOAST at checkout to get 25% off!

Which is your favorite holiday gift idea??