A Gift Guide for the Hard-to-Shop-For

Unexpected ideas that feel personal, fun, and maybe just a little extra.

We all have that person on our list. The one who already owns the nice things, buys what they need when they need it, and somehow makes gift shopping feel impossible every single year.

Here’s the secret: When someone is hard to shop for, the answer is almost never something neutral or practical. They’ve already bought that themselves. The very best gifts for the “has everything” person are unexpected—a little brighter, a little more fun, and often wonderfully specific to who they are. Think bold colors, playful textures, and things they wouldn’t splurge on for themselves. When in doubt, lean into something super specific they love. Those are the gifts that feel personal, thoughtful, and memorable!

A Gift Guide for the Hard-to-Shop-For

1. Beaded bag – SO fun!

2. Traveling sweater – perfect for planes, road trips, and chilly evenings

3. Needlepoint pillow – the texture of the season!

4. Leather handbag – practical, yes, but still a special upgrade

5. Scarf set - the fun colors make it more of a treat she wouldn’t buy herself!

6. Adorable frame + pic of you two – Sentimental in the best way

7. Diamond huggie hoop earrings – effortless enough for everyday, special enough to feel meaningful

8. Pretty pie dish + bake a homemade dessert in it

9. Gold metallic bag – perfect for nights out, holidays, or adding a little shine to everyday errands

10. Watercolor playing cards – A small but delightful upgrade to a household staple

11. Multiple Bottle Wine Tote – Add a few bottles of wine!

12. Beautiful pillowcase – A simple, personalized luxury

13. Luxe blanket – Go for the fun colors. Always a win!

Experience Gifts for the Person Who Already Has Everything

Sometimes the best gift isn’t a thing at all. Experiences create memories, last longer than objects, and feel deeply personal—especially for someone who already owns plenty.

1. Concert or Theater Tickets – Something to look forward to, and a memory made long after the holidays.

2. Cooking or Baking Class – Fun, hands-on, and perfect for someone who loves trying new things.

3. Wine or Cocktail Tasting – A relaxed, social experience!

4. Spa Day or Massage – Rest is the best gift (especially for someone who rarely slows down).

5. Weekend Getaway (Even Just One Night) – A change of scenery can feel incredibly refreshing.

6. Pottery, Art, or Creative Workshop – Encourages play and creativity—no pressure, just fun.

7. Subscription to Something They Love – Flowers, books, coffee, puzzles—a gift that keeps showing up.

8. Private Lesson or Coaching Session – From tennis to photography to golf—perfect for niche interests.

9. A Planned Day Together – Sometimes the most meaningful gift is simply time together—thoughtfully planned and fully present.

Have fun with it!

When someone is hard to shop for, don’t play it safe. They’ve already covered the basics. Instead, go for the unexpected—the brighter color, the playful detail, the thing that feels just a little extra.

The best gifts are often the ones they wouldn’t buy themselves, but once they have them, they wonder how they lived without them. And that’s exactly what makes them special!