Every year, I like to purchase one gift that will be fun for the whole family. Usually it's a board game of some sort. We like to try it out right away on Christmas day for some extra quality family time!
However, there are sooo many different things out there that would make fantastic gifts for families.
This gift guide has fun, frugal gift ideas for families that any family would love. Happy gifting!
Does your family really love s'mores? This tabletop s'mores maker might be so fun for everyone. Experiment with different combinations inside on cozy winter days.
If your family loves a movie night with popcorn, here's a highly rated popcorn maker. Add some popcorn kernels and seasonings, and you've got a great family gift!
Take family movie night to another level with a portable projector! Be sure to clip the coupon. I've heard that the ones with built in apps like Netflix, Prime, etc, are key!
This could be such a fun family gift idea! Have fun as a family ripping down the toboggan hill with this inflatable, lightweight tube. Currently on sale!
I love the idea of matching monogram mugs for each member of the family! You could even stick some hot chocolate or a gift card inside each mug. Here is a slightly less expensive option from Indigo.ca.
This is a beautiful puzzle! It's the Northern Lights for me! This particular puzzle would be good for a family with older kids. There are lots of puzzle options available though.
If you are a family who really appreciates traditions and preserving memories, this is a gorgeous keepsake book to help you. This will be a family treasure for years and generations to come.
Have you heard of Solo smokeless firepits? Well, Those are great but not cheap! I have found a Tabletop Fire Pit with great ratings that is a fraction of the cost. Use this at home for cozy evenings, make some smores or bring it camping!
Another great puzzle from Galison, but this one has 500 pieces so perfect for a family with younger children or one that enjoys doing a puzzle during the entire duration of the holidays.
See who really knows the family best as you answer fun questions about each other while sparking interesting conversations and compete and perform silly challenges together.
My parents discovered this game while they were camping this summer. My dad loves wood working, so he promptly crafted this game in his shop. Fortunately, you can actually purchase this game too! We had so much fun playing it this year and enjoyed the friendly competition.
How FUN is it to all have matching pajamas for the holidays? In this post, I have a huge assortment of matching family Christmas pajamas from Canadian retailers.
For the adventurous family that wants a different way to do/decide family activities! There are 50 Scratch-Off Adventures and Family Night Games for Kids & Adults inside this unique gift!
These are so neat! They're board games stored in a nice "book" to put on a bookshelf! There are all sorts of different games available. Find Battleship, Mystery Date, Taboo, Clue, Monopoly, Scrabble, Candy Land and more! Every year you could add a new one to the collection.
15 Inexpensive Gift Basket Ideas That Are Easy to Put Together
Gift baskets are one of my favourite ways to turn a few simple things into a thoughtful gift. Pick a theme, choose a handful of items the person will enjoy, and tuck everything into something that makes it feel special.
And that “something” doesn’t have to be an expensive basket!
A mug, mixing bowl, reusable tote or even a plain paper gift bag can work beautifully. You don’t need a mountain of products or fancy wrapping to make a gift feel personal.
Whether you’re shopping for Christmas, a birthday, a teacher or a thank you gift, these inexpensive gift basket ideas will give you plenty of inspiration.
Before you start shopping, set a budget for the whole gift, including the container and wrapping. Those little extras can add up quickly!
Here are a few ways to keep things affordable:
Choose a small container. A large basket can tempt you to buy more just to fill it.
Start with one main item. Build around a book, mug, baking tool or favourite treat.
Add two or three useful extras. You don’t need to include everything suggested below.
Shop your supplies first. You may already have ribbon, tissue paper or a suitable container.
Skip the filler purchases. Something they’ll actually use is more thoughtful than extra stuff added for volume.
If you’re splitting a multipack between several gifts, keep any ingredient lists, expiry dates or instructions with the items that need them.
1. Movie Night Gift Basket
Give them everything they need for a cozy night on the couch: popcorn, a popcorn seasoning, a favourite candy and a pair of comfy socks.
You could add a handwritten list of movie suggestions or a note that says, “You pick the movie!”
Package it in: A reusable popcorn bowl. There’s no need to add a DVD or pay for a streaming subscription. Snacks and a little time to relax make a lovely gift.
Choose a polish colour you think they’d wear, or stick with a subtle shade if you’re unsure. This is an easy gift to personalize for a teen, friend or someone who enjoys doing their nails.
Package it in: A small cosmetic pouch they can use afterward.
Cookie cutters or sprinkles also make fun additions, especially if you’re giving this at Christmas.
Package it in: An oven mitt, loaf pan or small mixing bowl. Choose one useful container rather than buying a separate basket.
4. Hot Chocolate Gift Basket
Pair hot chocolate mix with mini marshmallows and a little chocolate treat. Add a mug if your budget allows.
For a family gift, include enough cocoa for everyone and a note suggesting a hot chocolate night after a walk to see Christmas lights.
Package it in: A small basket or gift bag. For an individual gift, tuck the treats inside the mug.
5. Sports Fan Snack Basket
Choose a few snacks your sports fan enjoys, such as popcorn, pretzels, sunflower seeds or jerky.
If you find an affordable keychain or another small item featuring their favourite team, add it as the finishing touch. You can also keep it simple and use tissue paper in the team’s colours.
Package it in: A reusable snack container with a tag that says, “Game night essentials.”
6. Pasta Night Gift Basket
Give someone an easy dinner with a package of pasta, a jar of sauce and a favourite seasoning.
A pasta server or a small package of breadsticks makes a nice extra, but the meal itself can be the gift.
Package it in: A gift bag or a colander, if you find one that fits your budget. Choose shelf-stable ingredients so the gift is easy to store.
7. Book Lover Gift Basket
Start with a book you think they’ll enjoy, then add tea, a bookmark or a small chocolate bar.
A second-hand book in lovely condition can make this especially affordable. You could even include a note explaining why you picked that particular story.
Package it in: A paper gift bag or reusable tote. No blanket, reading light or gift card required!
8. Coffee Break Gift Basket
Pair a small bag of coffee with cookies, biscotti or a chocolate treat. If they use a particular coffee machine, make sure any pods you include will work with it.
For someone who already has plenty of mugs, skip buying another and spend that part of your budget on their favourite coffee instead.
Package it in: A kraft gift bag with a “Take a coffee break” tag.
9. Tea and a Quiet Moment Gift Basket
Choose a favourite tea, a small jar of honey and a few shortbread cookies.
This makes a sweet gift for someone who enjoys a slower start to the morning or a quiet cup of tea in the evening.
Package it in: A small box lined with tissue paper. Add a handwritten note for a personal touch.
10. Breakfast Gift Basket
Put together pancake mix, a small bottle of syrup and coffee or tea. A jar of jam is another lovely option.
This is a nice gift for a couple, family or anyone who would appreciate an easy weekend breakfast.
Package it in: A small basket or gift bag lined with a tea towel they can keep.
11. Cozy Night In Gift Basket
Combine warm socks, a favourite snack and a puzzle book or magazine.
You don’t need to add slippers, a blanket and a candle to make this feel complete. A few things chosen around how they actually like to relax will do the trick.
Package it in: A simple gift box with a tag that says, “Your plans for tonight.”
Pick seeds that suit their space. Herbs can be a lovely choice for someone with a sunny windowsill or a small patio garden.
Package it in: A plant pot they can use when it’s time to get growing.
13. Puzzle and Games Gift Basket
Pair a deck of cards, small puzzle or puzzle book with a couple of favourite snacks.
Choose something suited to the recipient. Crosswords for one person, a card game for another, or a family puzzle they can work on together.
Package it in: A small box with a note that says, “For your next screen-free evening.”
14. Artist’s Gift Basket
Gather a sketchbook, pencils and a good eraser for someone who likes to draw. For a child, washable markers and an activity pad could be a better fit.
A few supplies they’ll enjoy using are enough. There’s no need to buy an enormous art set.
Package it in: A pencil case or reusable storage pouch.
15. Favourite Things Gift Basket
Sometimes the easiest theme is simply the person you’re buying for.
Combine their favourite chocolate bar, tea, snack and one small thing connected to a hobby. The items don’t need to match perfectly to show that you’ve paid attention.
Package it in: A gift bag with a note that says, “A few of your favourite things.”
A Thoughtful Gift Doesn’t Need to Be a Big One
The best inexpensive gift basket ideas start with what the person enjoys. A reader might love a book and tea. A busy friend might appreciate a ready to make pasta dinner. A teen might be thrilled with favourite snacks and cozy socks.
Choose a theme, stick to your budget and let a few useful things be enough. You don’t have to fill a giant basket to give a thoughtful gift!
What would you love to find in a gift basket? Share your favourite inexpensive gift basket ideas in the comments!
Heading to a holiday dinner, festive get-together or a friend’s home? A little hostess gift is a thoughtful way to say, “Thanks for having me!”
But you don’t need to spend a lot or arrive with an elaborate gift basket. Something useful, delicious or chosen with your host in mind can be just as lovely.
These inexpensive hostess gift ideas are easy to put together and include everything from cozy little treats to practical kitchen favourites. Add a ribbon and a handwritten note, and you’re ready to go!
A small potted plant makes a lovely gift without needing much wrapping. Dress up the pot with kraft paper or tuck it into an inexpensive decorative planter.
Choose something that’s easy to care for, or go with a small artificial plant if your host prefers greenery that requires absolutely no attention. No judgment here!
2. Some scented hand soap.
Hand soap is one of those everyday essentials that can feel like a treat when it’s a little nicer than the usual bottle.
Choose a scent you know your host enjoys, like this Mrs. Meyer’s peppermint hand soap, or opt for a fragrance-free version. Tie a ribbon around the bottle and you’ve got a useful little gift.
3. Scented candles.
For someone who enjoys candles, a softly scented candle makes a cozy gift they can enjoy after the guests have gone home.
You can also buy a set of candles and divide it into several gifts. Just compare the cost per candle to make sure the set is actually a good deal!
4. Decorative towels.
A useful gift can still be pretty! Choose a kitchen towel or a hand towel in a neutral colour, a cheerful pattern or a festive design that suits your host.
Fold it neatly and tie it with ribbon. You could also tuck in a wooden spoon or choose a dishcloth set with a mango wood board if it fits your budget.
5. A book they'll enjoy.
If your host loves to read, a thoughtfully chosen book makes a lovely thank you gift. Think a novel in their favourite genre, a cookbook or a book about a hobby they enjoy.
Look for discounted options at places like Book Outlet, and include a little note explaining why you picked it for them.
6. Tea or coffee.
A bag of their favourite coffee or a box of tea is a simple gift they can enjoy long after the gathering.
You don’t need to add a mug unless you know they’d appreciate one. The tea or coffee is a perfectly lovely gift on its own!
7. Cozy socks.
After cooking, cleaning and hosting, slipping into a pair of cozy socks sounds pretty good to me!
Choose a soft pair of socks in a colour or pattern your host would enjoy. Add a tag that says, “For putting your feet up after everyone goes home.”
8. A Small Coffee Shop gift card.
A small gift card to their favourite coffee shop is an easy way to treat your host to a little break.
Tuck it inside a handwritten card with a note like, “Your next coffee is on me. Thanks for having us!” There’s no need to spend extra on a holder or mug.
9. A notebook and pen
This is a gift I would be very happy to receive! A nice notebook and a pen are useful for grocery lists, reminders and all those thoughts that pop up at inconvenient times.
Choose one notebook and a pen, or divide a notebook set and a pack of pens into several small gifts. Tie them together for an easy finishing touch.
10. Hand lotion
A small tube of hand cream makes a thoughtful little gift, especially during the colder months.
A hand cream gift set can be divided among several recipients if the tubes are individually sealed. Choose fragrance-free if you’re unsure what scents your host likes.
11. Cute Apron
If your host enjoys cooking or baking, a new apron could be a fun and useful gift.
Look for a washable style with pockets and a pattern that suits them. A set of aprons may also be an affordable way to put together gifts for a few people.
12. Chocolate
A little box of chocolates or a favourite chocolate bar can make a lovely hostess gift. It doesn’t have to be fancy. Choosing something you know they love makes it personal.
Keep any allergies or dietary preferences in mind, and add a note saying it’s a treat for them to enjoy later.
13. A Jar of Jam, Honey or Maple Syrup
A small jar of jam, honey or maple syrup is a delicious gift that doesn’t add more clutter to the house.
Choose a flavour your host would enjoy and tie a ribbon around the jar. A tag that says, “A little something for tomorrow’s breakfast” makes it feel extra thoughtful.
14. A Treat for the Next Morning
If your host has spent the evening feeding everyone else, bring something they can enjoy the next day.
A few muffins, cinnamon buns or a small loaf of banana bread make a thoughtful gift. Package them so they’re easy to set aside, and let your host know there’s no need to serve them that evening.
15. A Favourite Spice Blend
For someone who enjoys cooking, a seasoning blend can be a useful little gift. Think cinnamon sugar for a baker, a barbecue rub for a grilling enthusiast or a seasoning you know they already love.
Include a quick suggestion for how to use it, especially if it’s one of your own favourites.
16. Homemade Cookies
A small batch of homemade cookies is a budget-friendly way to say thank you.
Package them in a simple bag or box with a ribbon, and include an ingredient list if needed. These are a gift for your host, so make it clear they can save them for later rather than adding them to the party menu.
Keep It Thoughtful, and Within Your Budget
The best hostess gift doesn’t have to be the fanciest one. A favourite treat, a useful little item or something chosen just for them is a lovely way to show your appreciation.
Keep the wrapping simple, add a personal note and spend an amount that feels comfortable for you. Being invited over shouldn’t mean stretching your budget!
What’s your favourite inexpensive hostess gift to give or receive? Let me know in the comments!
The holidays are here, and if you’re looking for thoughtful gifts that feel special and support Canadian businesses, you’re in the right place. I’ve rounded up some of my favourite Canadian finds that make gifting easy, meaningful, and totally festive!
Whether you’re shopping for family, friends, teachers, or that one person who’s impossible to buy for, these picks celebrate cozy Canadian living while keeping your budget happy. So grab a peppermint mocha, throw on your coziest sweater, and let’s find some amazing homegrown gifts.
This t-shirt is made by LouGiftz on Etsy! If you're shopping for someone with a sense of humour, might I suggest you take a look through the whole shop? There's some funny stuff! There's a big selection of sweatshirts, t-shirts, candles and mugs.
This would be such a fun gift for Christmas morning! Keep the kids occupied for a while creating things with the glitter dough from Little Larch. The one pictured, is the Mermaid version, but they have a lot of different ones available without glitter too. They are created with plant based ingredients and scented with essential oils.
These are a fun idea! Wildflower seed bombs by FuschiaDesignsShop on Etsy. Along with seed bombs, Jennifer also sells seed packages, flower seeds, herb seeds and vegetable seeds.
You may have seen them on Dragon's Den, but Mint is taking the cleaning scene by storm. Shop their Dragon's Den bundle or other bundles for easy gifting. They are make in Canada using natural ingredients.
I recently came across Villager Puzzles on Instagram and knew I had to include them in this year's gift guide! They are a woman-owned Canadian company based on Vancouver Island. They also support women artists. Take a look at all the beautiful puzzles. Any one of them would make a great gift!
Know someone that loves hot honey? Then they'll probably love this Chipotle infused maple syrup from Wabanaki. They've got other flavours too. Like bourbon, whiskey, elderberry, rum, cedar and more.
This is actually a local to me artist! I love the vibrancy of her art and seeing familiar looking landscapes. You can preorder a 2027 calendar featuring a collection of her favourite paintings from this past year.
Scrunchies make a fabulous gift! These organic waffle cotton ones from LOLScrunchCo look so cozy and comfortable. If you take a look around the shop, you'll see there is an endless selection of scrunchies to choose from.
By now you must have heard about how great shower steamers are? These ones from Nature Bee are made in Canada and use all natural ingredients! They have three scents to choose from or can be purchased in a variety pack.
Attitude is a Canadian brand that sell all sorts of home cleaning products as well as personal care products. Their products are EWG Verified. They have a selection of holiday scented hand soaps that I think would make wonderful gifts.
I have never seen these before but it's a really fun idea for the person who loves cocktails! These cocktail bombs from Poseidn make it so easy to make a delicious cocktail. Simply drop the bomb into 1.5oz of vodka, stir, then add 6.5 oz of water, then enjoy with ice!
The seed packets from To & From Gift Co. are stunning! I think any of them would make a great gift, but the edible flowers seed packet is especially fun. Free shipping on orders of $50 or more within Canada.
Perfect for the friend that has been saying they want to try their hand at sourdough! This organic dehydrated sourdough starter is made by TorontoSourdoughMama.
I love the idea of this solid perfume from 828 Aroma! Perfect for the frequent traveler. They even have a quiz to help find a signature scent. Great if you know your gift recipient really well. (Or you need a gift for yourself! ;))
Oh my gosh, how cute are these dumpling candles from Artket Goods? These are available scented or unscented and with or without the steamer basket. They've got other fun candles and drinkware too if you don't think dumplings are cute. Lol.
Fresh Suds Soapery hand-make vegan, palm-free bar soap with 42%+ olive oil in every bar. Everything seems to be getting smaller these days, so they made their bars bigger and kept the price the same! Love that!
I'm loving these beanie hats from Newbornlander! They're handmade in Canada and there are all sorts of patterns available. They range in size from 0-6 months to adult.
You can't tell me this doesn't sound delicious?! The dark chocolate & sea salt caught my eye, but Klondike Kettle Corn makes a ton of other delicious popcorn flavours and popcorn seasonings! These are made in Whitehorse, Yukon. Check it out!
Who doesn't know a candy lover? These ones from Squish are vegan so your vegan friends can enjoy it too! Grab a bag of Squish vegan candy and your recipient will love you forever.
For the person who loves their morning coffee, Smart Sip makes a fun, useful gift! This woman-owned business in British Columbia makes powdered creamers, with flavours like Vanilla Ice Cream and Caramel Cloud. Each serving contains 3g of fibre and zero sugar. Pair a bag with a cute mug for a thoughtful gift they can enjoy long after Christmas.
Petit Lem makes super cozy pajamas and their holiday styles are out now on Well.ca! They also have other holiday wear, not just pajamas. They pride themselves on using organic cotton and recycled polyester.
And that’s a wrap on this year’s Canadian gift guide! It was a lot of fun creating this! I hope you found a few ideas that will make your gift giving a little more meaningful. Every time you shop Canadian, you’re not just giving a great gift, you’re supporting local makers and small businesses across the country. Here’s to cozy moments, thoughtful giving, and keeping it Canadian.
35 Affordable Christmas Gifts for Teachers, Neighbours and Friends
Looking for a thoughtful Christmas gift for a teacher, neighbour or friend without spending a fortune?
I love having a few little gifts ready for the people who make life a bit brighter throughout the year. But when you have several people on your list, even small purchases can add up quickly!
The good news is that a thoughtful gift doesn’t have to be expensive. A favourite treat, something useful or a simple homemade gift can be a lovely way to say, “I appreciate you.”
I’ve rounded up 35 affordable Christmas gift ideas for teachers, neighbours and friends, including cozy finds, yummy treats, practical gifts and a few things you can make yourself.
Maldon Sea Salt is one of those little luxuries a food lover might not buy for themselves. It’s delicious sprinkled on everything from roasted vegetables to chocolate chip cookies.
Make it a gift: Pair it with a favourite recipe or a batch of homemade cookies.
2. Mini Silicone Spatulas
It might sound like a funny gift, but mini silicone spatulas are so handy for getting the last bit out of jars and containers!
Make it a gift: Tie one to a jar of jam, peanut butter or even a favourite baking mix.
3. Assorted Chocolate Marshmallows
These Assorted Chocolate Marshmallows sound like such a delicious Christmas treat. Consumable gifts are always a nice option when you’re unsure what someone needs.
Make it a gift: Add a few tea bags or hot chocolate packs and a handwritten note.
Make it a gift: If you're making the homemade version, package it in a small tin or a clear treat bag tied with ribbon.
5. Initial Necklace
A simple initial necklace makes a pretty, personal gift for a friend, especially if you know their jewellery style.
Make it a gift: Add it to a small jewellery pouch with a thoughtful note.
6. Suncatcher Crystal
A suncatcher crystal can add little rainbows to a sunny window. This set comes with several, so you could split it up if you have a few people to buy for.
Make it a gift: Package each one individually with a note explaining where to hang it.
7. Small Wood Cutting Board
A small wooden cutting board is a fun gift for someone who loves putting together snack boards or entertaining.
Make it a gift: Tie on a small package of crackers or a jar of jam.
8. Winter Headband
A cozy winter headband is a practical little gift for chilly Canadian days. Choose a neutral colour if you’re unsure of their favourite.
Make it a gift: Add a pair of cozy socks for an extra warm combination.
9. Bubble Bath
Know someone who loves a relaxing bath? A bottle of bubble bath could be a lovely little treat.
Make it a gift: Pair it with a soft washcloth and a note encouraging them to take some time for themselves.
10. Entertaining Cookbook
The Brilliant Bites cookbook would be a fun pick for someone who enjoys making appetizers and having friends over.
Make it a gift: Add a note saying you’d love to be their official recipe taste tester.
11. Cozy Throw Blanket
I would be very happy to receive a soft, cozy throw blanket! Watch for a sale to make this one easier on the budget.
Make it a gift: Roll it up, tie it with ribbon and tuck in a packet of hot chocolate.
12. Weekly Desk Pad
A weekly desk pad is a useful gift for someone who likes to keep their plans and to-do lists in one place.
Make it a gift: Pair it with a nice pen and a handwritten note.
Make it a gift: Add a popcorn bowl from the dollar store or a favourite box of movie candy.
14. Wristlet Clutch
A wristlet clutch is handy for the person who likes to carry just their phone, ID and a few essentials.
Make it a gift: Tuck a little note or a small coffee gift card inside.
15. Candle Set
A candle setcan be a budget friendly way to buy for several people. If the candles are individually packaged, you may be able to split up the set.
Make it a gift: Tie a ribbon around each candle and add a small gift tag. Choose a mild scent, or an unscented candle, if you’re unsure what the recipient likes.
16. Flavoured Popcorn
Have you seen this Candy Pop Popcorn?? They look so tasty and like a real treat! One of these would make an easy gift for a neighbour or family friend.
Make it a gift: Pair it with a fun drink and a tag that says, “Have a cozy night in!”
17. Shower Steamers
Shower steamers are a fun little treat for someone who enjoys a relaxing shower. No bathtub required!
Make it a gift: Tuck a few into a small gift bag with a soft washcloth.
18. Faux Leather Tote
A faux leather tote is a practical gift for someone who carries a little bit of everything. Actually, this might be one I want to keep for myself!
Make it a gift: Tuck a favourite snack or a handwritten card inside.
19. A Pretty Tea Towel
A pretty tea towel makes a useful little gift for someone who enjoys spending time in the kitchen. Choose a floral, a simple stripe, a festive print or a design that reminds you of them!
Make it a gift: Wrap it around a box of shortbread or tie on a wooden spoon with ribbon.
20. Warm Fuzzy Socks
A pair of warm fuzzy socks is always a welcome sight in the winter. Give me these and a good book, please!
Make it a gift: Add a hot chocolate packet or tuck the socks inside a mug or pair with a good book from the bargain section.
21. Beeswax Food Wraps
Beeswax food wraps are a reusable option for covering certain foods and dishes. They’re a nice pick for someone who enjoys practical kitchen items.
Make it a gift: I actually think these would be nice on their own wrapped up!
22. Swedish Dishcloths
I love Swedish dishcloths! They’re practical, come in so many pretty designs and make a useful little gift.
Make it a gift: Tie one around a bottle of dish soap.
23. A Jar of Fruit Butter
A jar of fruit butter or a special jam is an easy gift for someone who enjoys trying new foods. Check out this seasonal spread from Well.ca.
Make it a gift: Pair it with crackers, a small loaf of bread or a wooden spreader.
Make it a gift: Add a handwritten label and a favourite cookie recipe. Plan ahead so the vanilla has time to steep before gifting.
27. Hand Lotion
A hand lotion gift set can be especially useful during the colder months when hands tend to get dry.
Make it a gift: If the set contains individually packaged lotions, split them up and add each one to a small gift bag. Unscented is a good choice if you don’t know someone’s preferences.
Make it a gift: Package it in a clean jar with a label, directions and a ribbon.
32. Dairy-Free Christmas Treats
Moo Free festive chocolates are a fun option if you’re shopping for someone who avoids dairy. Check the current ingredient label to make sure they suit your recipient’s needs.
Make it a gift: Add them to a small treat bag with another favourite snack.
33. Funny Teacher Candle
If you know a teacher with a good sense of humour, a funny teacher candle could be a cute way to say thank you.
Make it a gift: Include a handwritten note from your child. Those personal words can make the gift extra special!
34. Candle Warmer Lamp
A candle warmer lamp would make a cozy gift for a friend who enjoys candles. This one may be more of a splurge, so keep an eye out for a sale.
Make it a gift: Pair it with a candle that fits the warmer, if your budget allows.
35. A Fun Card Game
Taco Puck Maple Syrup Canoe is a Canadian twist on the popular Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza game. It’s a fun gift for a friend or neighbour who enjoys a family game night.
Make it a gift: Add a bag of popcorn for a ready to go game night.
Thoughtful Gifts Don’t Have to Cost a Lot
Whether you choose a favourite treat, a practical little find or something homemade, the best gifts are the ones that show you were thinking of someone.
And remember: a heartfelt handwritten note is a great gift on its own, too. There’s no need to stretch your budget to show your appreciation.
Which of these gift ideas would you be happy to receive? I think I’d pick the fuzzy socks and peppermint bark!
15+ Christmas Gifts That Look Expensive But Aren’t
You know those gifts that make you think, “Ooh, where did you find this?” That’s what we’re going for here. Something lovely to unwrap that doesn’t leave you quietly regretting your credit card bill in January.
And no, it doesn’t have to be a designer find or a huge gift basket. Sometimes a beautiful mug, a soft blanket or a small box of really good chocolates is just right.
If you’re looking for Christmas gifts that look expensive but aren’t, these ideas will help you find something special while sticking to your budget.
A cozy throw feels like a treat, especially for someone who’s always cold. Look for an interesting knit, subtle herringbone pattern or soft fringe to give it a more expensive look.
Cream, oatmeal, forest green and rich burgundy are lovely options. Choose a colour that suits their home, fold it neatly and finish with ribbon. No giant gift basket required.
For the person who takes their morning coffee seriously, a beautiful mug makes an everyday routine feel a little nicer.
Look for a substantial handle, an interesting glaze or a simple ribbed finish. You can gift it on its own or tuck in a few individually wrapped chocolates.
A small travel jewellery case is a pretty and useful gift for someone who travels, spends weekends away or needs somewhere to keep their earrings organized.
Look for separate compartments, a secure closure and space for necklaces. A compact case in their favourite colour feels thoughtful without needing anything added to it.
Amber glass, frosted jars and understated ceramic pots are good styles to look for. Choose a scent you know they enjoy, or consider an unscented candle if you’re unsure.
The jar should be pretty, but the person receiving it should actually want to burn the candle! I'd take a look at the candles at Homesense, the Yankee Candles and the Better Homes & Gardens line from Walmart.
5. A Wooden Serving Board
A small wooden serving board makes a lovely gift for someone who enjoys hosting or simply takes their cheese and crackers seriously. 😀
Look for attractive wood grain and a shape that’s easy to store. A smaller, well finished board can feel more special than a huge set full of extras they won’t use.
For someone who loves edible gifts, you could add their favourite crackers.
6. A Silk Pillowcase
A silk pillowcase has that little luxury feeling without requiring a whole new bedding set.
Choose one that fits their pillow and works with their bedding. Cream, blush or champagne are pretty options if you know they like neutrals.
Simple hoops or small studs can make a lovely gift for someone whose jewellery style you know well.
Look for a secure fastening and clear information about the materials, especially if they have sensitive ears. A small pair they’ll wear regularly is a better buy than a dramatic set that stays in the box.
8. A Matching Hand Soap and Lotion Set
A coordinating soap and lotion pair can make a kitchen or bathroom counter feel a little more put together.
Look for attractive bottles, a scent they enjoy and products they’ll actually use. You can also put together your own pair rather than paying extra for a gift set. I'd look in Winners, Marshall's or Homesense for a nice pair!
Tie the bottles together with ribbon and you’re done.
9. A Soft Scarf
A soft scarf in a classic plaid or solid colour is both practical and lovely to unwrap.
Pay attention to the fabric and care instructions. Something comfortable against the skin and easy to wash will get much more use than something that only looks nice.
Fold it in tissue paper for an easy gift that doesn’t need much wrapping.
10. A Set of Pretty Drinking Glasses
Ribbed tumblers, colourful glassware or a pair of simple stemless glasses can feel like a special addition to someone’s cupboard.
Choose the style around what they enjoy drinking, whether that’s sparkling water, iced coffee or a weekend cocktail.
Check the capacity and care instructions, too. Pretty glasses are even better when they’re practical.
A small ceramic dish gives rings, earrings, keys or loose change somewhere to land.
Look for a simple shape, an interesting glaze or a design that suits the recipient. This is a nice option for someone who prefers smaller gifts or doesn’t have much space.
It’s useful without becoming another big thing to find a home for.
12. A Hardcover Notebook and a Nice Pen
For a list maker, journal keeper or person who loves fresh stationery, a beautiful notebook can be a very satisfying gift.
Look for a sturdy cover, paper that feels nice to write on and a binding that opens comfortably. Add one good pen rather than a big pack of supplies.
A note inside the cover makes it personal.
13. A Box of Good Chocolates
You don’t have to buy the biggest box in the store to give a lovely chocolate gift.
A smaller selection of flavours they enjoy can feel more thoughtful than a giant assortment bought just for its size. Look for attractive packaging and check for any dietary restrictions before choosing.
This is also a good option for the person who doesn’t want more stuff.
14. A Pair of Cozy Socks
A pair of soft, cozy socks is a little luxury they can enjoy all winter. Look for a cable knit texture, a pretty pattern or a plush lining that makes them feel extra special.
Choose a colour they’ll love and tie the pair with ribbon for a simple gift that’s ready to tuck under the tree.
15. A Small Plant in a Beautiful Pot
For someone who you know enjoys plants, a small plant in a carefully chosen pot makes a lovely gift.
Choose something suited to the light in their home and their interest in caring for it. If they have pets, check that the plant is appropriate for their household.
A simple ceramic pot can make even a small plant feel special.
16. A Glass Teapot with Infuser
A glass teapot makes an everyday cup of tea feel a little more special. Its simple, elegant design looks lovely on the table, especially when you can watch the tea steep.
Look for one with a removable infuser and an easy to hold handle. Gift it on its own or add a small package of their favourite loose-leaf tea.
17. A Pretty Edition of a Book
A beautiful edition of a book feels like a special find, especially with decorative sprayed edges or a gorgeous cover. It’s a lovely gift for someone who enjoys reading and displaying their favourites.
Browse Book Outlet for a great selection of sprayed-edge books that are greatly discounted. Choose a story they already love or something from their favourite genre for a thoughtful gift they’ll want to keep.
18. A Classic Tote Bag
A simple tote with a textured finish, tassel detail and subtle gold accents looks polished without needing a designer label. This one includes a matching wristlet, making it feel like an extra special gift.
It’s a great choice for someone who likes having room for their everyday essentials, plus the little extras that always seem to come along.
A Few Easy Ways to Make an Affordable Gift Feel Special
You don’t need to spend another $15 wrapping a $15 gift. A few simple touches are enough:
Choose one nice item. You don’t have to keep adding things until the gift looks bigger.
Use what you have. Plain paper, saved ribbon and a handwritten tag can look beautiful together.
Think about their taste. Their favourite colour or chocolate flavour matters more than a fashionable label.
Include a personal note. Tell them why you chose it, especially if it reminded you of something they love.
A thoughtful Christmas gift doesn’t need a big price tag. Choose something they’ll enjoy, keep your budget in mind and let that be enough.
What’s are Christmas gifts that look expensive, but aren't that you’ve given that went over really well?
