Every holiday season, we find ourselves frantically searching for the perfect gifts for our loved ones. There’s nothing more satisfying than finding a gift you know the receiver will love. But what about someone you don’t know very well, like your brother’s new girlfriend or a coworker you picked in the office Secret Santa? 

Instead of resorting to the classic gift card or generic gift basket, check out the list below for more meaningful gift ideas that could work for basically anyone on your list. 

1
Nespresso Vertuo Machine

We can pretty much guarantee everyone on your list would be obsessed with this gift. Because who doesn’t love coffee? Of course, this item does come with a heftier price tag, but luckily Nespresso is always offering some really good sales, especially when the holidays are approaching. Make a note in your calendar for Black Friday, and you’ll nab the perfect gift for any coffee lover (so, basically anyone) in your life. 

2
Appointed Planner

With the approach of the new year, everyone could use a new planner. And Appointed makes the most thoughtfully designed planners and notebooks, with lots of room for organization and productivity. It’ll be a big step up from the hundreds of planners crowding Marshalls and TJ Maxx this time of year so that your gift receiver can organize their life in style. 

3
Succulents

Succulents show that you trust this person to be a plant parent, without actually burdening them with too much responsibility! T h e s e guys don’t need much TLC to stay alive — sun and an occasional watering every month will do the trick. This is an affordable gift option, as you can find cute succulents at your local Costco or Walmart, but it still shows you put some thought into it. 

4
Anthropologie Cheese Board

Everybody loves a good charcuterie board! Just think of it covered in brie, gouda and gorgonzola. What else could you want in life? Plus, Anthropologie’s distinctive, classy cheese boards are adaptable, so if the gift receiver is not into hosting, the board could always be repurposed as something else — like an entryway décor piece or a jewelry holder. 

5
Portable Charger

Seriously, everyone needs a portable charger in their lives. And if they already have one, let’s be honest, they could probably use another one. If you need to get a gift for someone and you don’t have not a single inkling in the world what this person would like, go with the portable charger. It’s the perfect choice for that awkward Secret Santa in the office. 

6
Crate and Barrel Marble Wine Cooler

This white marble piece chills wine at the table, immediately leveling up any dinner party or at-home date night. Plus, as a bonus, it can also be used as a vase for flowers or a pot for potted plants. With all that white marble, it looks and feels expensive; however, it’s actually pretty affordable. But let me tell you, with all the marble, it is heavy! We do not recommend packaging this piece in a gift bag; wrapping paper is the only option. Still, this wine cooler is versatile, classy, and the perfect holiday gift for just about anyone! 

7
Voluspa Candle

Candles are a wonderful thing. They smell nice, they’re aesthetically pleasing, and they make great holiday gifts. When you’re giving a gift to someone you don’t know very well, pick a candle that has a neutral scent that anyone would like. For example, go for the lavender scent over the holiday-inspired snickerdoodle option. Specialty scents could be too overpowering, and some people just don’t like snickerdoodles, as hard as that might be to imagine. Voluspa has a great range of scents, including many universally popular options. Plus, their candles come in beautiful jars that make them great for décor. 

8
Puzzle

Sure, not everyone is into puzzles, but if worst comes to worst, the receiver could always regift it. For most people, though, a puzzle could be great for a lazy Sunday afternoon. Err on the side of caution, and get one that’s good for beginners and features a universally likeable design, such as a visually appealing landscape. 

9
Ember Travel Mug

It’s a good bet there will come a time in every person’s life when they need a gold ole’ travel mug. That’s where you come in! The Ember travel mug does more than simply keep hot beverages hot; this battery-powered travel mug is temperature-controlled, meaning you can decide how warm you want your drink. It’s quite the luxe option compared to the $5 Target versions and is sure to revolutionize the way your gift receiver enjoys their morning coffee. 

10
Alcohol

As a last resort, go for alcohol. It’s not as thoughtful but guaranteed to be appreciated by anyone on the receiving end. Basically, it’s hard to go wrong with a bottle of delicious wine or liquor — really whatever your heart desires. Plus, you don’t have to spend a lot of money to get something that looks impressive. Head to your local liquor store and pick a bottle with some aesthetically pleasing packaging for the best wow factor. 

It can be frustrating to make a gift seem special when you have absolutely no idea what the receiver would want. But you don’t have to tear your hair out trying to find the perfect gift because we’re going to let you in on a little secret: the trick to buying something that works for anyone is to find gifts that are purposeful, versatile and a little basic. Now, with this list in hand, go forth and complete your holiday gift shopping with confidence! 

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