According to author Gary Chapman, gift-giving is so meaningful that it’s considered a love language. But if we’re being honest, not all gifts are good gifts. Some of them are met with a fake smile, a forced “Wow, I love this,” or a quick toss into the donation pile when no one’s looking. The good gifts, however? Give enough of them and you’ll build up quite the reputation. People will look forward to unwrapping your gifts or having you as their Secret Santa!
Want to up your gift-giving skills? We’ve put together a list of unusual gift ideas that go beyond candles and mugs, so you can give something your recipient will actually appreciate—and hopefully remember for years to come.
For the Foodie
Everyone has that one person in their friend group who’s always suggesting trendy cafes and restaurants to check out. New flavors, textures, pairings, and cuisines—that’s their jam. If your recipient happens to be a food aficionado, there are plenty of ways to get them in the kitchen or take them on a flavor journey.
- Global Snack Box Subscription: Companies like Bokksu, MexiCrate, and IndiFix are just a few subscription snack boxes that deliver snacks from specific cultures and countries.
- Hot Sauce Flight: If they like their food spicy, why not gift them a variety of unique hot sauces in different flavors and intensities?
- Ember Temperature Control Smart Mug: Hot drink fans will fall in love with this heated mug that lets you set a precise drinking temperature, especially if they’re a notoriously slow sipper.
- Fancy Tinned Fish: Tinned fish is making a comeback, and you can introduce your foodie friend to the joys of gourmet sardines, tuna, smoked salmon, and more.
- Personalized Dog Salt and Pepper Shakers: Etsy and Uncommon Goods offer the opportunity to customize salt and pepper shakers in the shape of specific dog breeds—perfect for foodies who also have dogs.
- Eat What You Watch Cookbook: This cookbook by Andrew Rea features recipes from 40+ classic and cult films for those who love to experiment in the kitchen and watch a film afterward.
For the DIY-er
For recipients who like to get hands-on, these DIY gifts allow them to do just that. Find quirky crafting and building kits that will immerse them for a while and let them express their creativity.
- Custom Embroidery Kits: Embroidery kits come in all sizes and prices (ranging from $10 to over $100). These kits include designs from landscapes to quotes and even personalized images.
- Miniature Terrarium Kits: Those who love nature will appreciate the chance to build their own little ecosystem with plants, rocks, and decorative moss. Some might even feature dinosaurs or other oddities!
- Grow-Your-Own-Mushroom Kit: Consider your recipient somewhat of a fun-gi? Grow-your-own-mushroom kits let you plant anything from shiitake to oyster and lion’s mane.
- DIY Miniature Dollhouse Kits: Dollhouses have gotten an upgrade since the 1990s. These whimsical kits come with a variety of realistic miniatures, LED lights, and tools to craft a masterpiece.
- Weird Candle Kit: Move over lavender and vanilla—we’re talking about candle kits that feature bizarre scents like fresh-cut grass, leftovers, and Heinz ketchup.
For the Couch Potato
In today’s busy world, most of us could easily spend an entire weekend doing absolutely nothing. So, why not help the couch potato in your life lounge around in style? These gifts will help them take relaxation to the next level.
- Human Dog Bed: Ever looked at a dog curled up in their bed and thought, “I wish that were me?” Well, now you can gift your recipient that exact experience with a human-sized dog bed.
- Cushion with Built-In Speakers: With this multi-functional essential, your gift recipient can rest their weary hand while listening to their favorite songs or watching a TV series.
- Cup Cozy Pillow: A must-have holder for beverages, food, phones, and remotes, so the couch stays clean and the recipient won’t have to move an inch.
- Boyfriend Pillow: Is your gift receiver in need of a cuddle buddy? The boyfriend pillow offers a shoulder to lean on (or cry on) 24/7.
- Wearable Blanket: Draping a blanket over your shoulders can be cozy, but a wearable blanket keeps you warm and snug while keeping your hands free for snacking and scrolling.
For the Class Clown
Those who like silly gifts that’ll brighten up their day will love the unpredictability of these options. This collection of funny gifts is sure to crack a smile, if not send them into a fit of laughter.
- Funny Toilet Paper: Forget magazines and books in the bathroom—get rolls of toilet paper with jokes, trivia, or hilarious short stories on them so they’re entertained even during their most private moments.
- Desktop Punching Bag: Work can be stressful, so a desktop punching bag might be just the thing to relieve tension during the typical 9-to-5 grind.
- Tiny Hands: A hilarious gag gift, doing activities with tiny hands can upgrade even the most mundane tasks.
- Creative Bookmark: Whether for textbooks or fiction novels, creative bookmarks like animal legs, cheese slices, bacon strips, or a note to keep prying eyes away can add a quirky, personal touch.
To make your shopping experience smooth and avoid any surprises, no matter what sort of unusual gift you’re purchasing, always use a trusted method of payment. When you’re confident in your transaction, you can focus on the fun of gifting and picking out something that truly suits your lucky recipient.
