Every year it happens. You’re scrolling, wrapping, organizing, checking lists twice . . . and suddenly you realize, there’s still someone you haven’t figured out a gift for. As a matter of fact, there may be more than one person that you now have to come up with last minute gifts for.
Maybe it’s your partner who “doesn’t need anything.” A sibling who already has everything. A grown child who says, “Really, don’t worry about me.” A parent who values meaning over things. Or, let’s be honest, yourself, because you’re usually last on the list.
Here’s the good news: Some of the most powerful gifts cannot be bought, cannot be wrapped, and cannot be returned, because they cost nothing but love, time, and intention. And often? They’re remembered far longer than anything with a receipt. Here are some ideas you might like to use this holiday season, or any time.
1. A Handwritten Letter (Yes, the Old-Fashioned Kind)
Let’s start with the classic, because classics exist for a reason. With today’s technology, we are all so accustomed to receiving texts, DMs and/or emails, but a handwritten letter shares your heartfelt testaments that will truly make the recipients feel appreciated. Thoughts to share as last minute gifts for your loved ones include:
- What you admire about them.
- What you remember about them.
- What you’re grateful to them for.
- What you’ve never quite said out loud to them.
This is especially meaningful for parents, partners, adult children, and siblings. You don’t need fancy stationery or perfect wording. You just need honesty. And if you’re worried it sounds awkward? Write anyway. No one has ever said, “I wish this heartfelt letter had been shorter.”
2. A Year-in-Review Memory List
This one is super simple, and incredibly touching. Create a list entitled: “Things I Loved About This Year with You.” This is, of course, is very personal but a few suggestions to remind them of are:
- Small moments
- Inside jokes
- Quiet victories
- Times they showed up
- Moments that made you laugh
This works beautifully for partners, close friends, siblings and adult children.
3. A Skill Swap Coupon (Underrated and Brilliant)
This is where we get practical and personal.
Offer something you already know how to do, or can help with, in a thoughtful way. For parents and grandparents especially, this kind of gift feels like gold.
Examples:
- One afternoon of tech help (no sighing allowed)
- Closet clean-out assistance
- Resume review
- Cooking a favorite meal together
- Babysitting or pet-sitting
- Teaching something you’re good at
You can write it as a “coupon” or simply as a promise.
4. A “When You Need It” Note Collection
This one is deeply emotional and incredibly easy.
Write a series of short notes labeled:
- “Open when you’re overwhelmed.”
- “Open when you doubt yourself.”
- “Open when you need a laugh.”
- “Open when you miss me.”
- “Open when you need encouragement.”
Put them in an envelope, jar, or small box. Warning: This gift may cause unexpected tears. Yours included.
5. A Gratitude Message (But Make It Specific)
Instead of a generic “I’m grateful for you,” go deeper. Try:
- “I’m grateful for the way you…”
- “One thing you don’t realize you do that matters is…”
- “You make my life better by…”
Specific gratitude lands harder, in the best way. This message will also be appreciated by caregivers and people who rarely hear appreciation.
6. A Time Coupon (Because Time Is the Real Luxury)
Not “sometime soon.” Not “we should do this.” (how many times have we heard or said these words and planned nothing afterwards?) Actual, intentional time is what’s needed here. What do you think about:
- A monthly coffee date
- A long walk together
- A phone call with no multitasking
- A shared activity you both enjoy
Put it in writing, name it, honor it. And remember, time says: You matter enough to slow down for.
7. A Recorded Message or Voice Note
In a world of texts and emojis, a voice carries something special. Think about recording:
- A message of love
- A memory
- Encouragement
- A story you’ve never told
And yes, even if you hate your voice . . . your loved ones won’t.
8. A Memory You Create Together
Instead of giving something, do something. Here are just a few ideas:
- Cook a family recipe together.
- Go through old photos.
- Take a walk and share stories.
- Create a tradition, even a small one.
Always keep in mind that memories don’t require planning, just presence.
9. A Letter to Yourself (Don’t Skip This One)
This may be the most important gift on the list. I initially thought it sounded quite weird, but this last minute gift was definitely my favorite! Though we rarely think about it, we all have so much to thank ourselves for. My messages were self-thanks acknowledging:
- Something I survived.
- Something I learned.
- Something I’m proud of.
- Something I’m releasing.
Seal it. Date it. Read it later. You deserve to be included in the circle of care.
Why These Gifts Matter More Than Things
It’s a no-brainer when you think about the importance of the last minute gifts mentioned in this blog. Things fade, words linger, time deepens, presence heals. These gifts say something no store can sell.
- They say I see you.
- They say I value you.
- The say you matter to me.
So, if you’re feeling behind, underprepared, or overwhelmed, take a breath. You already have everything you need. And sometimes, the most meaningful gifts come not from our wallets . . . but from our hearts.
BTW ladies, I’ve printed these suggestions and plan to use them all year. I’m excited about expressing these feelings to the special people in my life . . . especially me!
Until next time, keep . . .
