The Savvy Shopper

Last-Minute Gifts for Joy that Lasts

‘Tis the season… to search for the perfect gifts. Family, friends, pets, teachers, colleagues, delivery drivers, and whoever else…

To help with the last-minute shoppers amongst us, here are some ideas that will please everyone on your list.

Chocolate

We all love some Twix, Caramilk, Coffee Crisp (#onlyincanada) … but when it comes to gifting, we’re talking the best chocolate. The kind that comes in a fancy box, and you know is made from the highest quality ingredients. Godiva and Harry & David are great places to get that kind of chocolate. The gift-giving kind of chocolate. With a variety of flavours, in dark or milk chocolate, and to fit every budget, you can’t go wrong with the gift of chocolate.

Sheet Masks

Selfcare has become almost synonymous with 2020 and holidays. And who doesn’t love to put on a sheet mask and relax for 20 minutes? Whether they have dry, oily or combination skin, whether they prefer lavender or vanilla, or whether they do it as an afternoon treat or before-bed ritual, Sephora, Shoppers Drug Mart Beauty and Well.ca have a variety of sheet masks to make everyone happy.

Tea

Is there anything more perfect than sipping on your favourite tea during a cold or rainy winter day? Regardless of where in Canada you are, there’s always a time for tea breaks. Herbal and matcha, black or green, chai or iced, everyone has a preference and there’s definitely something for everyone’s tea tastes at David’s Tea. But did you know you can also shop teas from Chapters-Indigo? Visit them for mugs and sample sets, or books about tea (for the true tea lover).

Headphones

Over-the-ear, in-ear, closed back, earbuds, noise-cancelling, oh my! Whichever you’re looking for, you don’t have to spend a lot to get a great pair of headphones these days, it’s really a question of preference. Luckily, Staples has a great variety for a range of budgets and Bose, on the higher end of price, is well known for their quality and craftsmanship.

Journals

The new year is fast approaching and taking pen to paper to plan, note, vent and boast is truly a great way to reflect and learn. If you want a customized option, The Happy Planner is endlessly personalize-able! If simple and streamlined is your niche, there’s also plenty of great options from both Chapters-Indigo and Staples.

Art Prints

Between Etsy and Society6, you can pretty much find art prints for anyone, in any size, at any budget. Trekkies or Star Wars fans? Check. Horoscope lovers? Check. Fashionistas? Check. Can’t find what you want? Get something custom. And with more and more of us looking to spruce up our WFH situations, this makes for a great gift.

Slippers and Socks

Speaking of WFH, slippers and socks have definitely had their day (or year) in the spotlight. Forget those heels, it’s all about the comfort. So why not get them the gift of comfort? They’ll be counting down the moments till they can put their feet up in a pair from Roots or UGG – both have a great selection!

Gift Cards

It’s the gift that keeps on giving, really. We can’t stress this enough; gift cards make a GREAT gift. The recipient can go ahead and get themselves something they want or need. The Rakuten Gift Card Shop works double-duty: they get the perfect present and you get Cash Back. Win-win. There are gift cards for grocery stores and malls across the country, as well as restaurants, pharmacies and more.

Need more inspiration for the perfect last-minute gift that won’t break the bank? Here are some other ideas your giftee will love.