There are two kinds of gift-givers in this world: those who adore combing through catalogues for the perfect present, and those whose stress levels rise at the mere sight of their Christmas tree‘s barren base. Regardless of which category you usually fall under, I’m here to make sure that, in 2025, you become (or remain) a calm, collected, and confident gifter.
As someone who prides myself on giving great presents, despite my loved ones being the type that ‘doesn’t want anything’ and thinks my ‘presence is present enough,’ I’ve picked up some top-notch tips to ace the season of giving. In particular, I’ve learned to know thy enemy; to buy something that will really be cherished, you need to get inside your giftee’s head.
The core theme of ‘personalisation’ is what serves as my own north star during the festive season, and thus, it’s also what I’ll be basing this whole guide on. Read on to find the best Shopping Editor-approved Christmas gifts to suit every kind of recipient, so you can spend more time focusing on celebrations and less time being shoulder-barged in packed shopping centres.
Who are you shopping for?
Best gifts for the classic host
When it comes to picking the best gifts for an entertainer, I always start by asking myself, “What could I give them to make their hosting experience feel even more special?” The most common answer? Something beautiful that they would want to show off to guests, such as a beautiful tablecloth, a statement glassware piece, or some brand-new cheese knives.
Stanley Rogers Pistol Grip Acacia 3-Piece Cheese Set$32.95 $19.77 from Harris Scarfe
La Fête Tablecloth
$250 from Bed Threads
Madame Pomponette
$129 from Maison Balzac
Jute Flower Placemat
$12.95 from Pillow Talk
Best gifts for the grill master
Shopping for someone who takes barbequing very seriously? Gifting one of these outdoor staples is the perfect way to thank your loved ones for consistently serving up the perfect summer snag.
Wiltshire Bar B Stainless Steel BBQ Tool Set Steel 20 Piece$99 $49.99, Harris Scarfe
Tefal Pizza Pronto Outdoor Gas Pizza Oven$699.95 $299.95 from Tefal
Citronella Candle Lavender
$49.95 from Bed Bath N’ Table
Personalised Cooler
$189 from Beysis
The best gifts for the charcuterie enthusiast
We all have that one friend, the type who’s always whipping up jaw-dropping charcuterie boards that look like works of art (but that they swear were thrown together in ‘no time at all’). This festive season, give them a gift that could take their platter-building hobby to the next level. These bowls, boards, and domes are the perfect gifts for any entertainer.
Cheese Board and Knife Set
$33.97 from Amazon
Capri 2.0 Mixed Mini Bowls
$89 from No.22
Anchor Hocking Cheese Dome 14cm$26.99 $17.99 from House
Salisbury & Co Seville 3 Section Serving Platter$49.95 $29.95 from Kitchen Warehouse
