Last-Minute Gifts That Don’t Feel Last Minute

The easiest way to spot a last-minute present? A generic gift with no personal connection to the recipient that could have been picked up in bulk for anyone on your list. Though there’s limited time left to shop for the holidays, this incredibly personalized gift will still arrive on your doorstep in time. Take a quick survey about the person you’re buying for (their birth name, their birthdate, and a few interests), and the jeweler will return a list of bracelets with meaningful charms based on your answers (their astrological sign, birth stone, and more).

To buy: From $16, alexandani.com.

To receive on time:
One-day shipping: December 21, 2 p.m. EST (to receive on December 22), or December 22, 2 p.m. EST (to receive on December 23).

If you already have a Prime membership, chances are you relied on the online retail giant all holiday season. You likely ordered and received the presents (well, most of them!) within two days and enjoyed other perks of membership (music and video streaming, unlimited photo storage, free kindle e-books, access to exclusive sales, and more) while prepping your home for the holidays. All you have to do is buy and print the gift voucher—or have it sent straight to your recipient's inbox. How's that for truly last minute gifting?

To buy: $33 for three months; $99 for 12 months, amazon.com.

To receive on time:
Order right up to the very last minute—you can print or email this gift.

It can be difficult to find a monogrammed gift at the last minute. Many personalized items require extra production time. The easiest way to get around that dilemma is by choosing a gift that comes already personalized based on the first letter of her name. This colorful pouch (cream, salmon, purple, yellow, or taupe—color is based on the letter you select) is perfectly sized for coins or daily beauty essentials. Each brass zipper is complete with a whimsical pom-pom and a colorful letter. A cotton lining means even delicates, like jewelry, won’t get scuffed or scratched in transit.

To buy: $38, anthropologie.com.

To receive on time:
Order and choose standard shipping by December 21, 11:59 p.m. EST.
Order and choose express shipping by December 22, 1 p.m. EST.

If your college-aged kid never fails to come home with his clothes stuffed into his laundry bag, the trunk of his car, or, worse, a big black garbage bag, this makes the perfect addition to his pile of presents. Sure, it might not have been on the list he passed off to Santa, but it’s one of those items he won’t know how he lived without. The faux brown leather straps add a stylish contrast to the black polyester fabric and a removable shoulder straps means easy transport (no matter how much laundry he brings home!). Also available in navy.

To buy: $85, bloomingdales.com.

To receive on time:
Order and choose standard or premium delivery by December 21, 5 p.m. EST.
Order and choose express delivery by December 22, 12 p.m. EST.

When you’re at the mall the day before Christmas or Hanukkah, it can be easy to reach for the first thing you see… and then quickly say good riddance to the crowds. Usually that item turns out to be a standard black scarf or a pair of mittens. Sure, anything warm and fuzzy will be appreciated during the chilly season, but you could go the extra mile with this sophisticated version instead. This large black scarf features graphic butterflies in gorgeous jewel tones (green blue, gray), which means she can keep this one on long after she’s arrived at the office.

To buy: $69, coach.com.

To receive on time:
Order by December 22 by 12 p.m. EST.

If he loves to spend his free time out on the links, give something meant for the course. Golf clubs, though, can be way out of the normal gifting price range—and highly personal. Skip the ball finder gadgets, too, which can also be very pricey (and often go unused) this year. Instead, treat him to a few essentials that he can keep all in one place. This personalized golfer’s tool belt includes a six-ounce stainless steel flask, four tees, two ball markers, and a monogrammed divot tool. A leather strap makes it easy to attach to his belt or golf bag.

To buy: $69, markandgraham.com.

To receive on time: 
Order and choose rush UPS by December 22, 6 p.m. PST.

When the temperatures drop, there’s nothing quite like staying inside and wrapping yourself up in a cozy blanket. This pretty pick is ultra-soft and features stylish details, like plush faux fur pom-poms. The neutral colors (the blanket is available in gray alloy and beige oatmeal) complement nearly any décor palette, so it’ll look great draped over his or her armchair when they’re not all snuggled up. For a little extra oomph to your gift, you can pair the functional piece of home décor with a lightly scented candle—we love the idea of one that smells like a fireplace or evergreen to keep with the wintry theme.

To buy: $79, nordstrom.com.

To receive on time:
Order and choose two-business-day shipping by December 21, 12 p.m. EST.
Order and choose free standard shipping by December 22, 12 p.m. EST.
Order and choose $10 rush shipping by December 23, 12 p.m. EST.

Need a crowd-pleaser present? A trendy tote is pretty no-fail. Sized right for tween and teen sleepovers—or to use as a gym bag or as an “office on the go” for adults—this sporty-sleek satchel designed by two fashion-industry pros has a modern nylon exterior with a soft and cushy down-like filling, similar to the ubiquitous puffy coat. A trio of pockets makes it ultra-functional: one on the outside, a zipped one on the inside, and an additional interior pocket that can hold a water bottle. And with adjustable handles, it’s a versatile bag too—it can be carried or worn on a shoulder. Choose from two chic solids (silver or black) or three fun prints (gray camo, red plaid, or leopard).

To buy: $158 (for 20 percent off through 12/31/16, use code ROYLNROCKS; 22 inches long by 12 inches high by 10 inches wide), thinkroyln.com

To receive on time: 
Order and choose two-day shipping by December 21, 5 PM EST
Order and choose one-day shipping by December 22, 5 PM EST

Chances are you crossed your niece and nephew off of your list long ago—babies and toddlers are among the easiest to shop for (they’re so darn cute)! But if you are still searching for something just right, or you're looking for an add-on, we think you need to add this to your shopping cart right away. The six-ounce trophy-shaped sippy cup reminds the littlest one on your list that they are number one in your eyes every single day. Parents will not only love the photo op, but they’ll also appreciate that the spill-proof cup is made of BPA-free, phthalate-free plastic.

To buy: $13, papersource.com.

To receive on time:
Order and choose next-day shipping by December 22, 1 p.m. CST

Even the best of friends can be tough to shop for. And we know that the suggestion to just get her some jewelry really isn’t all that helpful. You still need to have a solid grasp on her personal style to pick out something you can be confident she will love. Instead of guessing this year, try this subscription service. When she redeems the gift card, she’ll be prompted to fill out a survey about her personal style and can even add specific items to a wish list. Then her personal stylist will select three pieces to send each month (some are surprises, others straight from her list). 


To buy: $19 per month for three pieces of jewelry, rocksbox.com.

To receive on time: 
Order right up to the very last minute—you can print or email this gift. 

This sophisticated bowl is far from your standard dinnerware. The gorgeous copper or brass stands out among other dishes on the table, but won’t clash with whatever is already on hand. Choose the right finish, and then select a size: small, medium, large, or even extra-large. The extra-large version is more of a splurge, but would work well on the counter for fruit or pastries. The tiniest of the bunch would also look right at home on her dresser as a spot for baubles, coins, and other little goodies.

To buy: From $50, food52.com.

To receive on time:
Order and choose overnight shipping by December 22, 12pm EST

So you searched high and low for the classic Nintendo NES, but simply couldn’t make it happen in time for Christmas (don't worry, you’re not alone). Instead of springing for an expensive game console like the Xbox, set your sights on something a little different—download codes for the system they already own. Chances are, your nephew will be thrilled to download a new game. Just don’t say we didn’t warn you when he runs down the stairs to download that new game and misses the dessert buffet. Hundred of games are available.

To buy: From $5, microsoftstore.com.

To receive on time:
Order right up to the very last minute—you can print or email this gift.

You’re so consumed with shopping and prepping the dish you’ve promised to bring that you totally forgot to get the holiday hostess a little something to say thank you? We’ve all been there. Rather than dash out the door for a bottle of wine (they’ll get plenty of those!) or arrive with a sheepish grin and an “I owe you,” place a quick order for a little holiday décor. This pretty fir and golden cedar wreath will look great on her door well beyond the holiday season. Shimmering ornaments and a gold bow add an extra-festive touch that’s great for New Year’s Eve, too. 


To buy: $45, 1800flowers.com.

To receive on time: 
Order and choose the next-day shipping upgrade by December 23, 1 PM (recipient's time zone)

Though an endless shopping list can make it feel like the holidays are all about the presents, the season is really about spending time with family. Give one of your family members or friends a gift that helps them get a little more familiar with their personal history. The kit contains a small test tube that they’ll spit into (we know, it sounds gross—but it’s really quite sanitary) and send back to the company. Six to eight weeks later, they’ll receive a detailed report that includes accurate information about their ethnicity. The database can also help them track down or connect with other relatives. 


To buy: $99, ancestry.com.

To receive on time: 
Order and choose expedited shipping by December 21

Skip the standard pair of gloves (she probably already has a good staple set) in favor of one that's unlike any she's ever seen before. Pretty much anyone can appreciate the cheeky messages on each palm of these adorable mittens. One says “hi y’all,” and the other says “bye, y’all,” which means she can speak her mind without ever even opening her mouth. The warm wool mittens are available in two colors: red and green or navy and pink. No struggling with sizes required—one size fits nearly anyone.

To buy: $45, draperjames.com.

To receive on time:
Order by December 22 (free shipping).

For the guy who is well dressed, but hasn’t yet mastered the art of accessorizing, a watch makes a great addition to his wardrobe. And, no, watches don’t have to be expensive or hard to pick out. This navy Timex is a great starter watch that will, er, stand the test of time. The watch’s neutral color complements nearly any outfit choice and the retro look makes it feel appropriate for a variety of dress codes (from ad agency conference room to outdoor barbecue). A resin case ensures it won’t break during more rugged activities, while a light-up face means he’ll know exactly what time it is no matter the environment.

To buy: $55, mrporter.com.

To receive on time:
Order and choose next business day shipping by December 22.

A guide to the game that had everyone buzzing this year would make a great gift for just about any tech lover on your list—yes, people of all ages have been enthralled with Pokemon Go. You could slip this comprehensive guide in a stocking. Or, if you’re looking for a grab bag gift (we know how hard it can be to find something just right for a white elephant exchange), pop this book in your shopping cart. The colorful handbook contains stats on each Pokemon (height and weight), possible moves, information about what they evolve into, and more.

To buy: $7, amazon.com.

To receive on time:
Order and choose free Prime two-day shipping by December 22.
Order and choose one-day shipping (select cities) by December 23.
Order and choose same-day delivery (select cities) by December 24, 9:30 a.m. local time.
Order and choose two-hour delivery (select cities): December 24, 9:45 p.m. local time.

For the Instagram enthusiast on your list (you know, the constant poster or the incessant scroller), a singular picture frame simply won’t do. This attractive grid, which is made out of wood and glass, showcases 16 of their very best snapshots. While you’re waiting for the frame to arrive, browse their feed and print out the most-liked photos. Spend a few minutes filling the frame with the print outs before wrapping it for a gift that will really wow. The gallery-style frame is available in three colors—white, walnut, or natural—but we suggest the walnut for a rustic chic look.

To buy: $30, amazon.com.

To receive on time:
Order and choose free Prime two-day shipping by December 22.
Order and choose one-day shipping (select cities) by December 23.
Order and choose same-day delivery (select cities) by December 24, 9:30 a.m. local time.
Order and choose two-hour delivery (select cities): December 24, 9:45 p.m. local time.

You can’t go wrong with a sampling of delicious eats, especially when the selection of food is one you can’t easily find in stores. Rather than buy a bunch of goodies and try to arrange them in a gift basket yourself (trust us, it’s way harder than it looks!), let the pros do the curating for you. The foodies at Mouth have chosen five delicious varieties of jerky—some spicy, some Asian-flavored, some peppery—for you to send right to your friend’s doorstep. Included is black pepper beef jerky, filet mignon chipotle adobo jerky, honey bourbon brisket beef jerky, turkey jerky, and even teriyaki king salmon jerky.

To buy: $59.50 each, mouth.com.

To receive on time:
Order right up to the very last minute—you can print or email this gift.