Buying gifts for different people can be stressful and picking something they will like can seem impossible. The State News has compiled a list of general, popular gift options to give everyone on your list something special this holiday season.
Jewelry — Whether your budget is under $25 or above $50, you can buy your mom a special accessory that will make her think of you when she looks at it. A recent trend is the Alex and Ani bracelets, which are about $30 each. Every bracelet has a charm attached with either a gemstone or phrase to fit her personality.
Candles, lotion or perfume — if you’re having a hard time picking a gift for any female, you can’t go wrong with stuff that smells good. Many department stores carry gift sets with perfume and lotion around this time of year. Bath & Body Works also offers great deals, including buy three bath items, get two free.
Tech items — Is mom buying him an iPad and he needs a case for it? Does he need a new Kindle? If your dad is into tech accessories or wants the latest technological item, collaborate with a sibling to give him a more expensive gift on his wish list.
Tickets to a sporting event — The MSU vs. U-M basketball game in East Lansing is Feb. 2. If your dad is a sports fan, treat him to a day of hanging out with you and watching the Spartans take on the Wolverines.
DIY gifts — For the crafty girlfriend, make your boyfriend something handmade. Tie blankets or a piece of art for his place are gifts made to fit his personality and taste.
Clothes he would never buy himself — Most guys don’t enjoy shopping and would rather spend money on anything else before clothes. Buy your boyfriend a nice sweater, a pair of jeans or that new pair of shoes he has been eyeing.
Jewelry — Depending on the budget set between you and your girlfriend, earrings are usually less expensive than a necklace, bracelet or ring. But if your budget is a little higher, monogram and name necklaces are trendy this year. A ring with her birthstone is also a thoughtful gift she would enjoy.
Victoria’s Secret yoga pants or sweatshirt — Lots of girls love yoga pants, so giving your girlfriend another pair won’t be a mistake. If your budget is a little higher than the approximate $35 for a pair of yoga pants, buy a matching T-shirt or sweatshirt so she can have a complete outfit for those cozy evening dates.
Sports team apparel — An MSU sweatshirt, Detroit Lions hat or Detroit Red Wings gloves are inexpensive gifts to give a brother who is also a big sports fan.
Video games — If your brother has a gaming console or is getting a new Xbox or Playstation from your parents, give him a new game to play. “Far Cry 4,” “Halo: The Master Chief Collection” and “Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare” have all been released recently and would make a great gift for any gamer in your family.
Sister date — Spend quality time with your sister by taking her out to dinner, a movie or — if you’re also a female — treat the both of you to a manicure. Another great option is hitting up the theater; “The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies,” “Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb” and “Horrible Bosses 2” are all coming out soon. “Mockingjay Part 1,” the third movie in the popular “Hunger Games” trilogy, will also still be in theaters around the holidays.
Scarves — During the winter, scarves are a girl’s favorite accessory. Buy your sister one in her favorite color or pattern. There are even scarves with a Spartan design on them, if your sister is a Spartan too. Most scarves are inexpensive so feel free to add in a matching hat to go with it.
Gift cards — If your significant other’s parents go out to dinner often or are avid coffee drinkers, treat them with a gift card to one of their favorite restaurants. Alcohol — A present for your significant other’s parents does not have to be huge, just enough to show you care about them during the gift-giving season. If you are of age, a nice bottle of wine or a pack of their favorite beer is a perfect gift for them to enjoy.
