Absolutely last-minute gift ideas

It’s Christmas day and you just found out that your aunt is coming to Christmas dinner at your mom’s, but you don’t have a gift for this unexpected guest. The stores are closed and it’s far too late to get anything shipped in time. What do you do?

First off, don’t panic. I’ve got some last-minute gift ideas to get you out of this jam.

Give a gift card

It’s an oldie, but a goodie. Gift cards make an easy last-minute gift. And now, thanks to the internet, you don’t even have to leave your home to give them. All you need is your loved one’s email address and you can have Amazon.com gift card sent to their inbox.

Print a photo

A framed photo of yourself can make a good last-minute gift, but how about a photo of some gorgeous diamond earrings? Of course, they’ll arrive after the holiday, but you still get credit for the gift.

This technique works really well on big gifts because of the surprise factor. After all, they didn’t expect that cape they’ve been drooling over to fit into a card. However, there’s no reason it can’t work on small gifts, too.

Do you already have the perfect gift?

While I don’t recommend regifting gifts you just received, you might already have the perfect gift in your home.

First off, head to the kitchen. Even if it’s too late to bake cookies, you probably have something that would make a great gift. Unopened bottles of wine or other special beverages can make a great gift, assuming that your loved one has similar tastes. Do they have a sweet tooth? Grab some candy.

Then check your bathroom. If you’re like me, you probably have a lot of unused lotions and soaps that you’ve collected. If you can find a nice container, you can make a spa gift basket. Add in some wine or chocolates while you’re at it and maybe a nice candle.

Of course, you don’t want to give just any old thing; as with any gift, consider their interests. An old used book might be of no interest to one person, or it might be the perfect gift for a collector. Likewise, a potted plant might be a great gift for one person, but a hassle for another. And if you have something that has great sentimental value to someone else, it might be the best gift you could give them.

Be prepared

As I mentioned in my post My gift shopping strategy, or why small gifts rock, it’s wise to keep some small “just in case” gifts around for unexpected quests. Even if you don’t have time to stock up this year, consider it for next year and you’ll be less likely to find yourself in a last minute gift giving jam.