Holidays & Entertaining Gift Guide 2022: 101+ Best Gift Ideas 10 Gifts Perfect for That Person You Don't Know Very Well Shop our list of universally adored gift ideas. By Katie Holdefehr Katie Holdefehr Instagram Website Katie Holdefehr is the associate editorial director at RealSimple.com, where she oversees all content being published on site. She was previously the senior home editor at the brand, covering everything home related, from decor and houseplants, to cleaning and organizing. She has more than 10 years of experience in print and digital media. Real Simple's Editorial Guidelines and Lisa Milbrand Lisa Milbrand Lisa Milbrand has more than 20 years of experience as a lifestyle writer and editor, writing thousands of articles on topics that help people live better and healthier lives for Real Simple, Parents, and dozens of other top publications. Real Simple's Editorial Guidelines Updated on May 25, 2022 10:49AM EDT Share Tweet Pin Email We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products—learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Photo: worldmarket.com Whether you're shopping for a coworker, a distant cousin, or a neighbor, picking out a gift for someone who you don't know well is a tricky challenge. After all, you don't want to accidentally present a vegetarian with a salami bouquet (although all the meat-eaters on your list would likely love it). The secret to getting a gift that's crowd-pleasing is picking out presents that are neutral and useful, yet still fun, like the gift ideas below. And since you're likely shopping for someone who you're not particularly close with, we've kept the price points reasonable, with most picks under $25. Here are the best gift ideas for someone who you don't know very well. Get ready to impress Greg from accounting with your incredible gift-giving skills. The Best White Elephant Gift Ideas 01 of 10 A Pretty, Multipurpose Pot Blue Ribbon General Store $16, blueribbongeneralstore.com This cheerful plant pot will put a smile on their face, whether they use it for their favorite plant baby or as a container for pens and pencils, paper clips, or other small items. 02 of 10 A Game to Help Break the Ice Uncommon Goods $20, uncommongoods.com A few rounds of What Have You Done? may just help you take them off of your "don't know you very well" list permanently. It features intriguing questions like "Have you ever experienced something supernatural that you can't explain?" and blue and red cards that players hold up to indicate whether they've had that happen or not. Then, the fun begins—as people start to share their experiences. 03 of 10 A Moment of Zen World Market $8, worldmarket.com Who doesn't need a little peace in their lives right about now? This mini-sized zen garden can promote a feeling of bliss—and is perfectly sized to keep it close at hand for when they're feeling stressed. 04 of 10 A Personalized Cord Organizer Etsy $4, Sinevir.etsy.com You don't have to know someone very well to get them a gift that feels custom—order these stylish cord organizers for all of your coworkers, with each person's initials stamped in gold. 05 of 10 A Take-It-Everywhere Speaker Target.com $20, target.com You don't have to know their favorite band to get them this portable Bluetooth speaker. Now they can listen to whatever they like, wherever they go. The speaker comes with a USB cable for charging. 06 of 10 A Crowd-Pleasing Tea World Market $8, worldmarket.com Anyone (even a devoted coffee drinker) would enjoy this blend of black and oolong tea from Harney & Sons. Plus, the elegant tin makes for a gift-worthy presentation—all you need to do is add a bow. 07 of 10 Easy Herb Planter (No Green Thumb Required) $24, uncommongoods.com They won't need a garden or a green thumb to grow basil or mint—these hydroponic planters take the guesswork out of growing herbs indoors. Just steer clear of cilantro, as it can be a polarizing flavor. 08 of 10 Eco-Friendly Reusable Straws Food52 $25, food52.com As more towns and cities ban plastic straws, these reusable silicone alternatives make a useful present. The best part: each straw can be folded and stored in its own portable carry case. 09 of 10 A Creative Buddha Board (for Kids and Adults) Amazon $18, amazon.com Buddha boards are a modern, relaxing take on the classic Etch A Sketch. Kids and grown-ups alike will enjoy drawing their own creations, then watching them slowly disappear into the screen. It's surprisingly meditative. 10 of 10 A Pretty Umbrella Rifle Paper Co. $38, riflepaperco.com Help them make rainy days more fun with this charming umbrella—the duck head handle adds a little extra whimsy. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit