The Wish List
50 gift ideas for everyone on your list
Hello, Gorgeous!
This year I had a gift guide conundrum. The original plan was to have multiple unique gift guides (147 thoughtful gift ideas for your favorite barista’s dog walker!). But then I started to be inundated with guides on such random minutiae that I decided to spare you that bit of holiday related suffering.
Instead, may I present one great big gift guide with something for everyone on your list — including you, because we both know you’re going to keep a few of these for yourself. Or you could just keep everything for yourself. I promise not to tell.
And in case you missed it, here was a fun list of beauty gifts
Under $25 (Little Treats)
Tocca Luxury Safety Matches
I honestly cannot believe how much everyone loves these extra-long luxe matches nestled in an exclusive Tocca box. A flicker of glamour at your fingertips — the perfect finishing touch to pair with a candle gift. ($12, tocca.com)
Albero d’Oro Marasca Cherries
These hand-picked Italian cherries are insanely delicious — my entire family has become obsessed. Perfect for cocktails (Old Fashioned, Manhattan, Spritz), desserts, or adding the juice to seltzer for an instant treat. ($9-$19, thecocktailcherry.com)
Manischewitz Chanukah House Cookie Kit
Celebrate Chanukah and create a new family tradition with this do-it-yourself decorating kit. Forget gingerbread — this one comes with 4 icing colors, sprinkles, mini beads, six-point star & menorah sugar decorations, and sanding sugar. ($13-$16, manischewitz.com)
Farberware Small Salad Spinner
Pair this with a subscription from a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) for the ultimate fresh produce gift combo. The pump design and built-in draining system means crisp, clean salad every time. ($23, amazon.com)
Streaming Subscription
Gift them their favorite streaming channel — Britbox for the anglophile, Paramount+ for the Yellowstone fan, or whatever they’re currently bingeing. Many services offer deals under $10/month, making this a gift that keeps giving all year. (Prices vary)
The Ultimate Pickle Lover’s Book
Know a pickle freak? This celebration of all-things briny features over 50 recipes — from Air-Fried Dill-Pickle Mozzarella Sticks to Pickle-Brined Chicken to TikTok-viral Chamoy Pickles and Dirty Pickletinis. Plus pickle history, trivia, puns galore, and tips for throwing your own pickle-themed party. A big dill, indeed. ($17, amazon.com)
Cotton Clara Mini Cross Stitch Kits
Therapy under $20. These adorable kits are designed and made in the UK, completely plastic-free, and come in gift-ready boxes. Perfect for the crafter on your list — or anyone who needs a screen break and some mindful stitching. (Under $20, cottonclara.com)
Create Your Own Book Club for Two
Pick the hottest thriller or romantasy each month, send them a copy, keep one for yourself, then schedule a Zoom or in-person date to dish. The gift that keeps the conversation going all year. (Cost varies by book choice)
$25-$50 (The Sweet Spot)
Daniel’s Truth Perfumed Hand Cream
True story: my mom went to the dentist and she and her dentist were so busy discussing the beautiful scent of this hand cream that mom forgot to panic. Comes in gorgeous scents including Signature Bombshell, Magnolia Hill, Sea Moss, Blue Sage Blossom, and more. ($34, danielstruthcus.com)
Slice Manual Box Cutter
This is a lifesaver for anyone with arthritic hands. The curved handle wraps comfortably around your hand to shield fingers and minimize wrist strain, while the finger-friendly blade keeps you safe. Works for lefties and righties. ($20, amazon.com)
Northern Pine Candle, Jackfir x Fontana Candle Co.
This limited-edition candle is hand-poured with beeswax and coconut oil, scented with pure essential oils including Himalayan Cedarwood, and Black Pine. MADE SAFE Certified, free from synthetic fragrances and paraffin. ($27, jackfir.com)
Mikasa Chroma Martini Glasses
These give total Mad Men vibes and look like miniature midcentury glass sculptures. The contemporary, bulky bowl with spray ombre fade effect will add an intriguing visual element to any dinner party. Stackable for storage, too. ($30, mikasa.com)
Rabbit Jelly Shots Mold
Speaking of Mad Men, can you picture a Draper-themed cocktail party? Create boozy or sweet shots which super cute for holiday entertaining. ($28, amazon.com)
Bean Box Perfectly Paired Coffee & Chocolate Sampler
Coffee plus chocolate — the ultimate crowd-pleaser pairing. A fail-safe gift for anyone on your list. ($42, amazon.com)
Disney | Dash Fresh Pop Popcorn Maker / My Mug Ice Cream Maker
Pop up to 16 cups of fresh popcorn using only hot air, or make customized ice cream in adorable character mugs. Available in Mickey & Minnie, Disney Princess, and Stitch designs. Perfect for Disney movie marathons. ($35-$50, bydash.com)
Luseta Rosemary Mint Travel Set
TSA-friendly carry-on sizes featuring shampoo, conditioner, hair mask, and heat protectant spray. The refreshing rosemary and mint revitalizes the scalp and strengthens strands. Great stocking stuffer for the traveler on your list. ($30, lusetabeauty.com)
Belkin 20K Power Bank
Up to 78 hours of additional phone battery life. Charge up to 3 devices at once, TSA airline compliant, and comes with overcharge protection. The practical gift everyone actually needs. ($35, amazon.com)
Dance With Me Dora / Explore & Play Rainforest Casita
The 12-inch Dora doll has become my favorite 2-year-old’s bestie — press the flowers on her shoes and watch Dora dance to bilingual songs. I love the Rainforest Casita even more than the Barbie playhouse — it’s a 3-feet-wide multi-level playset with sound effects, Spanish phrases, and a pop-out Swiper for surprise play. ($50 each, amazon.com)
Chicago Metallic 6-Piece Bakeware Set
Includes loaf pan, baking sheet, muffin pan, round cake pan, square pan, and 9x13 pan — everything a baker needs to tackle almost every task. Heavy-weight aluminized steel with dual-layer nonstick finish. A great gift for a beginner baker or one who’s Marie Kondo’d her kitchen. ($48, walmart.com)
Ponyflo Ponytail Baseball Cap
Finally, a hat that works with a ponytail or curly hair. No more squishing through a tiny hole. ($30, amazon.com)
Conversations on Faith by Martin Scorsese & Antonio Spadaro
Scorsese talks movies, faith, and growing up Italian Catholic with a Jesuit priest. For the cinephile who loves a deep conversation. ($29, amazon.com)
Dog Only Knows: The Dog Portraits of Alison Friend
Old Masters technique meets ridiculous dogs: a Chihuahua in a turtleneck smoking a cigarette, a border collie with a Rubik’s cube. You know exactly who needs this. ($27, amazon.com)
Dorie’s Anytime Cakes by Dorie Greenspan
The James Beard-winning dessert maven delivers no-fuss cakes like toasted almond and zucchini-chevre. Dorie really knows what’s delish! ($35, amazon.com)
Ticketmaster Gift Card
The gift of live music, comedy, theater, or sports. E-gift cards deliver instantly or schedule for a special date. ($25-$1,000, ticketmaster.com/giftcards)
StubHub eGift Card
Another way to gift concerts, Broadway, and games. Available at Amazon, Target, and Best Buy. ($25-$500)
Maison Ostrow Hanukkah Latkes Cart
Chef Olivia Ostrow’s kosher-French restaurant in Miami offers tableside latkes with over-the-top toppings: caviar, smoked salmon, fresh truffle, duck confit, pastrami, and more. Available December 14–22, dine-in or to-go. A quirky, elevated Chanukah experience for Miami locals. ($45, maisonostrow.com)
$50-$100 (Splurge-Worthy)
GUND Animated Plushies
Babies, kids, and adults are obsessed with Clappy, a previous iteration of these toys — even our favorite therapy dog loves them. The Disney Peek-a-Boo Winnie the Pooh ($56) plays peek-a-boo and counts to three, while Peeki the Puppy ($40) sings and uses its floppy ears to play hide and seek. Interactive, screen-free play that delivers real value. (Both are on amazon.com)
Star of the Show: My Life on Stage by Dolly Parton & Tom Rolland
A coffee table book as big as her hair and twice as fabulous. Photos, memorabilia, and Dolly’s signature warmth on every page. ($55, amazon.com)
Nordic Ware Brilliance Bundt Pan
You could literally plop a cake mix cake in here and it would come out spectacular. ($71, macys.com)
Sunday Club Newspaper Games Subscription
Bringing back the joy of putting pencil to paper! Each issue features 8 pages of crosswords, mazes, Sudoku puzzles, and more. Gift a single issue or go all in with their subscription program that includes chic totes and pencils. ($7-$96, sundayclub.com)
Chef’n SweetSpot Fondue Set
An adjustable tea light candle-powered fondue pot with ceramic bowl, perfect for chocolate and cheese. Easy to use, dishwasher safe, ideal for entertaining. Hygge vibes for holiday gatherings. ($70, amazon.com)
Fabrizia Limoncello Gift Box
My ex and I used to have long philosophical discussions about lemon vs. chocolate. This company would make even him a lemon believer. Made with real Amalfi lemons, each gift box includes a scrumptious assortment of treats. ($70, fabrizialimoncello.com)
Mikasa Madison Pastel Bone China Dinnerware Set
A lightweight, chip-resistant 12-piece set in three beautiful colors allows your food to take center stage. Elevate everyday dining or holiday tablescapes. ($80, mikasa.com)
Made In Half Sheet Pan
Simple, no-frills bakeware that should be a staple in every kitchen and doubles for your cheese or charcuterie ($29, madeincookware.com)
Peace Lily Plant
It literally removes toxins from the air, and it’s a great peacemaking gift for someone ready to let a family feud go. Let the plant do the talking. ($24, amazon.com)
TIJN Blue Light Glasses
For the perpetually on deadline who are perpetually in front of screens. 99.9% blue and UV light blocking to reduce eye strain and improve focus. They come in prescription strength too — making this an extra thoughtful gift. (Prices vary, tijneyewear.com)
Hulken Rolling Tote Bag
I love this company so much people think I work for them. This foldable bag on wheels will change your life — durable, water-resistant, with 360-degree spinner wheels. Perfect for groceries, laundry, farmers markets, or hauling anything too heavy to carry. And laundry. ALL the laundry. New colors and an updated medium size just dropped. ($99-$125, hulken.com)
Hoboken Farms Pasta Sauce
This cult-favorite sauce company just dropped Butter & Calabrian Chili flavor which blends sweet tomatoes, golden butter, caramelized onions, and warm Calabrian chili. Pair a jar with a handwritten note promising to come over and cook a pasta dinner for two any night. Now THAT’s a gift. ($9-$11, hobokenfarms.com)
MoMA Membership
Make this the year of Art Bathing. A membership gift offers a year of unlimited admission, free films, and store discounts. Use code GIVE20 for 20% off through December 31. (starting at $75, membership.moma.org)
Brooklyn Museum Membership
If you’re planning to see the Monet in Venice exhibit, you might want to consider a membership which includes unlimited access including special exhibitions, plus discounts on dining and shopping. At the $300 Enthusiast level, they get free admission to 40+ museums nationwide. (starting at $80, brooklynmuseum.org)
The Met Membership
Unlimited admission, member-only events, and behind-the-scenes access to one of the world’s great museums. Code GIVE20 saves 20% through year-end. (starting at $90, metmuseum.org)
Over $100 (Go Big or Go Home)
RUX Packing System Mesh Bundle
Three sizes, one unified system. The complete Mesh Packing System includes a 20L Bag, 10L Cube, and 2L Pocket — modular organizers with airflow and visibility for every size of gear. PFAS-free, lightweight, adventure versatile. For the organized traveler or gym person on your list. ($130+, rux.life)
Sonder Los Angeles Walnut Wood Cutting Board
Made in USA, this large thick edge grain walnut board features non-slip feet and a juice groove. Gift box included. A beautiful, functional kitchen centerpiece. They also have several gorgeous variations and wood finishes to choose from ($120, amazon.com)
muk Curl Stick
For the woman who has everything, give her the gift of curls of all sizes in minutes. Three interchangeable barrels (conical, straight, wedge), titanium coating, negative ion technology for frizz-free shine, and five temperature settings for every hair type. Comes with a heat-resistant styling glove. ($200, mukhair.com)
Euhomy Pearl L1 Pro Nugget Ice Maker
Are you obsessed with that soft, chewable nugget ice from Sonic or Chick-fil-A? (I am not. Chewing ice freaks me out). That said, this countertop machine produces cocktail party worthy ice in just 7-10 minutes with smart app control. Up to 33 lbs daily output, real-time alerts, compact and stylish. Game-changer for ice enthusiasts. ($195, amazon.com)
Truuce Bedding Starter Bundle
A complete duvet and sheet system — flat sheet, fitted sheet, pillowcases, duvet top, pillow shams, and storage band. Everything you need to fall in love with Truuce, all-in-one so no one has to figure out the pieces. ($200+, truuce.com)
Lotus Professional Series The Power Spin Blender
I love this brand so much I wrote an entire ode to it on The Hot Sheet. This blender makes me feel extra fancy drinking smoothies — and it makes great soup too! 2.4 peak HP motor, 4 preset modes (Smoothie, Ice Crush, Puree, Soup), and a 64 oz. Tritan jar. Professional performance at your fingertips. ($600, williams-sonoma.com)
iPad Mini
Perfect for reading, sketching, or editing videos in a rush. My sister’s Instagram reels have never looked better. ($399 – limited time deal, bestbuy.com)
Prada Re-Nylon Bag
For when you really want to go big. Recycled nylon, iconic design, investment piece. The bag that says ‘I’ve arrived’ (sustainably). ($1,500+, prada.com)
One More Thing...
Support a Cause You Believe In
End-of-year donations count, even small ones. I’m co-founder of the RWR Network, a 501(c)(3) working with Holocaust survivors and creating resources for trauma survivors. But whatever cause moves you — give a little if you can.
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Meanwhile, it looks like tomorrow, December 12, 2025, will be the final Hello Gorgeous! post for the year (unless I pop in to wish you a Happy New Year!, but don’t bet on it). After tomorrow’s post, I’ll see you in early January!
What’s on your wish list? Let’s meet in the comments to discuss!
Rachel, Your beauty concierge 💋
Quick note: I included some affiliate links which means I might earn a small commission on sales made through these links, but I also throw in stuff I love just because. Prices are current at publish time.
Quick note: I included some affiliate links which means I might earn a small commission on sales made through these links, but I also throw in stuff I love just because. Prices are current at publish time.
Some great ideas here, truly! Cotton Clara looks darling. I have a lot of tabs open righ now. :)
So many great suggestions and thanks so much for including TIJN, Rachel!!