It’s every girl’s biggest holiday nightmare: What to get your parents for Christmas. You burned through all your good ideas years ago (monogramed golf balls for mom! That set for fancy finishing salts for dad!). And if you ask them what they want? You’re hit with the unbearable: “I don’t want anything for Christmas.” Sigh.  Here are five gifts that your parents will love (despite claiming they want nothing) because they deserve to have an extra-special Christmas.

Personal keepsake

At the end of the day, the best gift you could give your parents is something that reminds them of all the love and appreciation you have for them. Something personal and that will draw at their heartstrings (perhaps cause some happy tears?), like art of your childhood home, pet or family portrait is exactly what they need—and Etsy has loads of personalized gift items to offer. A personalized ornament, like this embroidered home ornament, fits the bill perfectly.

Caffeine 

Your parents likely drink some sort of caffeine to make them functioning humans during the day, so why not restock their addiction? Whether it’s an assorted coffee box, eclectic mugs (you could always print your face on it!), a Starbucks gift card or their favorite tea or energy drinks, they’re sure to appreciate the thoughtfulness and the fact that it’s one item crossed off the grocery list. If your family doesn’t drink any sort of caffeine, you can also opt buy them loads of their favorite snacks and sweets in a personalized gift basket.

An experience to remember

Oftentimes, when your family says they don’t want anything, it is more likely that they mean they don’t want any stuff. Instead, they might want a physical experience doing something they love with the kid they love. Not only would it make their day, but it would be an amaze bonding experience for your fam. Think about what your parents like to do and how you can make it into an experience they’ll never forget. Maybe it’s a golfing trip, or a spa day or tickets to your local musical or sewing lessons—pick an activity that fits their vibe (relaxing or upbeat) that won’t break the bank.

Something for the whole fam

Similar to an experience, what parents want more than a trinket or *another* candle is to spend time with their kids. Finding a gift that will be enjoyable for everyone will make your parents over the moon that you are all spending quality family time together during the holidays. Whether it’s puzzles, board games (be prepared for some friendly rivalry) or paint by numbers, your parents will appreciate the time spent together.

A niche interest or hobby

You know them better than most, and to an extent, maybe more than they know themselves—so think of their everyday hobbies or niche interests (or even fave restaurants or coffee shops). Maybe you opt to buy your dad customized golf balls for his next golf outing, or your mom a printed scarf from her fave local boutique. (Protip: Uncommon Goods is a great website to find unique and specific gifts for your fam, so don’t be afraid to get creative.)

Tag us on IG @girlslifemag telling us what you’re gifting your fam this holiday szn!

For more holiday content, check out these articles:
🎀Beaded bows are the cutest holiday DIY
🍪Five delish gingerbread recipes to make this season
🎁Unique ways to make your gifts extra merry

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