Halloween has come and gone, and despite another holiday around the bend, everyone is getting excited for Christmas.

Christmas, and most of the winter holidays, are times when we exchange gifts, spend time with family, and reflect on religious teachings or simply enjoy time off from school or work. With the dawning of Christmas lights, the signature Starbucks cups, and people busting out the carols, it has come to my attention that we are about to enter the crunch time for gift buying. So as my gift to my readers, I would like to provide some types to be considerate of your loved ones but also not wait until the last minute.

Gift Cards

Gift cards have become a staple in all forms of gift giving in the past ten years. It is simple, effective, and you don’t really need to put much thought into it. All you really need to do is know the basic interests that you are gifting this too, get a nice card or a pouch for it and think of a good amount to place on the card. And even if you don’t know the interest well enough, there are gift cards out there that can be used for anything, so there is truly no limit to what you can do with it.

Despite usefulness, there are some risks. Some will think that gift cards are too basic for a gift or even worse not thoughtful enough. The gift is good in a pitch but unless you plan on pricing it for $50 or more, a gift card won’t give the wow factor as most gifts would.

Jewelry

Jewelry is typically a gift associated with love interests and couples, but I am of the mindset that anyone can give anyone jewelry as long as they are close enough to them. People you have been close with for at least five years or more works for the best and luckily there are is array of options to choose from. Charm jewelry is coming back in style and would have been excellent for anyone who likes to collect. Earrings and some necklaces can be affordable.

Be careful with people who have metal allergies and try not to go too over budget. It is understandable to not want to look cheap, but make sure the person is worthy of the extreme budget.

Clothes

Clothes are mainly appreciated after you reach college age when your budget is tight and you need to figure out whether to eat or buy a new coat. It is a gift of appreciation that is newly formed when before as children we scoff at getting socks in our Christmas stocking. Clothing is a convenient gift that typically comes from family but friends and significant others can get as well. Just make sure you know the sizing for the person you are purchasing for and their style of clothes to leave them with a smile on their face instead of a groan.

Handcrafted Creations

Handcraft creations typically would be items made in school by children or someone who has a hobby they enjoy. These gifts are fine except sometimes they look cheap or it is something that they may not want. The wonderful thing about it is that it is a gift from the heart. You put effort, time and love into the gift, and usually, people will be able to see that, whether it be an ugly scarf or macoroni art.

Electronics

No matter your age, everyone likes electronics. Whether it be a watch, video games, a music player or a television, you can find something for anyone of any age. The down side is the pricing. Similar to jewelry, I would prefer to buy something pricy for someone I have known for longer than five years or I am in a serious relationship with them. The reason for this is because electronics of good or better quality tend to get up there in prices eventually. But other than that, it is something thoughtful and will typically last for a long time.

There are a plethora of different gifts to give this holiday season, but these are the basics to get the idea ball rolling. Be creative this holiday, and let the people you love know that you treasure them.