It's the most wonderful time of the year. Even when the inevitable happens and you are trying to buy a gift for someone you know very little about. Maybe a secret santa did this to you or maybe it's just a new friendship that you did not know was at the gift giving stage yet. Whatever the reason, you had absolutely no intention of buying this person a Christmas gift. Now you have to figure out what to get them and if it is the case of a friend who was unexpectedly nice, you have all of about a week to find them something before "it's still shipping" is no longer a believable excuse. You don't want to get things that are too generic and show that you know nothing about them but really you know nothing about them. To avoid the awkwardness of being labeled the bad gift giver, here are gift ideas to trick people into thinking you know more about them than you do; you know, just what the holidays are all about.
1. Scratch off map.
It’s aesthetically pleasing and makes it look like you remember that they like to travel when it's actually just a safe guess.(Urban Outfitters, $25).
2. A mug.
Holiday, TV show-related or with a funny saying are always safe and show that you know something about their likes and interests. (Etsy, $18)
3. Socks.
Either fuzzy or funny, otherwise it’s weird. (The Sock Drawer, $7.50).
4. Fuzzy blanket.
“I have way too many comfy blankets,” said no one ever.
5. Anything from Francesca’s that is not necessary yet very cute.
No one knows they need an iPhone USB fan so it's definitely a surprise.
6. Stemless wine glasses.
I’m not even confident enough to assume that you like to drink but here are stemless wineglasses that can be regular cups if you don't drink.
7. Wall decorations.
Nothing says caring like a wall decoration that says something inspiring yet slightly cheesy.
8. Candles.
If you want to get fancy you can make it more personalized. You can get them a candle inspired by their favorite TV show or book. Then again, if you have made it to number eight on this list, you probably don't know their favorite show. Just go with a vanilla candle; always safe.
9. Sunglasses.
Sunglasses are a safe way to say, "look these are trendy and very you" when what you're really thinking, “I know you well enough to know you don’t like it when the sun blinds you. Merry Christmas.”
10. Banana phone
11. When all else fails, just bake.
Or just buy any kind of food really. If they are not happy about getting food you should probably reevaluate if you even want them as an acquaintance.
