As the holidays inch ever closer, you may soon find yourself in a situation that you need a quick and inexpensive gift for someone, like a neighbor, a teacher, a deliveryman, etc. It has happened to us all, so we polled the Vargas and Vargas Insurance staff to find out what their favorite ‘last minute’ holiday gift ideas are. Here are some of the ideas that we got.
Homemade treats – Who doesn’t love to receive something homemade for the holidays, especially if it’s edible? Make your signature cookies if you’re a baker, or just whip up some homemade hot chocolate mix if you’re in a pinch. You should be able to find a recipe online that will take advantage of all that you have in your pantry, and one batch of baked goods is enough for several small gifts, making this option a great time saver for gifts to coworkers or your children’s teachers.
Cooking equipment– Most people will be doing a lot of cooking during the coming holidays, so a small cooking related gift basket will be the perfect gift for some of the people on your list. Fill a small serving bowl or measuring cup with ingredients and tools. For a personal touch, include a favorite cookbook or a family recipe that you can share with the recipient.
Something from a local small business – There are so many great places in our area where you can get a small gift for someone. Whether it’s something from the Langwater Farmstand (they’re open until December 23rd), a treat from Hilliards Chocolates, a gift certificate to one of the dozens of amazing local restaurants, or a flower bouquet from Cedar Grove Gardens, just make sure to let your recipient know where the gift came from so that they can spread the word about the wonderful local products!
Pampering supplies – Men and women alike can occasionally use a break, and these relaxing gifts are sure to please even the pickiest of recipients. Lotions, soaps, candles, and scrubbing brushes are a great place to start. You can even make a great sugar or salt scrub from items that you probably have in your home right now. If you want to take this to the next level, go ahead and purchase a gift certificate to a local spa. You can use it as a gift during the holidays, but you can also be sure that it won’t go to waste if it isn’t given away!
Remember, too, that these small gifts can be combined to make bigger gifts. All you need is a pretty basket or container and a few small trinkets, and you have a more meaningful gift in seconds flat!
Do you have another favorite last minute holiday gift idea that you would like to share with other Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency clients? Just post it to our Facebook page! That is also where you can go to learn more about our office’s holiday hours. For your insurance needs, just call 617-298-0655 and speak to one of our agents! Happy holidays!
