Whether it’s a busy schedule that’s gotten the best of us, or indecision we’re facing, many of us have been guilty of last-minute gift shopping before. It’s rarely a matter of thoughtlessness — in fact, the more effort or deliberation we put into gift-giving, the more likely we are to put it off! If your pile of gifts is looking woefully empty this year, here are some ways you can still put together thoughtful gifts at the last minute, depending on why you’ve found yourself in this position.
Here’s Why You’re a Last-Minute Gifter
You want to get the perfect gift
Been dwelling on gift ideas for a while? When the act of gift-giving is important to you, or when you’re getting gifts for someone you treasure, you may get stuck trying the find the perfect gift.
Try this
If you’re struggling to decide on a gift that perfectly reflects your recipient’s personality, try a gift that represents you instead. Gifts like these can reveal new parts of ourselves or our lives to our loved ones and help them feel closer to us. Are scents or candles a big part of your self-care routine? Share your ritual with a loved one through a scented candle. A throw is versatile option too — it works great whether you enjoy home décor, or cosy movie nights.
You dread shopping, or you’ve been too busy
Maybe you aren’t a fan of crowds, or maybe you’re a pragmatic shopper who prefers to go into a store with a specific product in mind. In such cases, having to browse and compare a seemingly endless array of options can be overwhelming. During hectic periods in our lives, allocating time for gift shopping can also be an affair that we approach with dread.
Try this
Turn to the trusty gift card. When you’re overwhelmed, getting gifts in a rush may not be the best course of action. Your recipient will also appreciate the gift of choice, especially when it comes to bedding. Our physical gift cards come with swatches of our Bamboo Sateen and French Linen fabrics, so they can get a feel of the materials and colours before making a decision.
You don’t have gifts as a love language
Perhaps giving or receiving gifts isn’t how you express or experience care or affection in your relationships. If receiving gifts isn’t one of your love languages, gifts may be the last thing on your mind, even during the holiday season!
Try this
Luckily, physical or material gifts aren’t the only way speak your recipient’s love language. Even if they welcome gifts, they may prefer heartfelt letters if they cherish Words of Affirmation or doing a fun activity together if they have Quality Time as a love language. We’ve got plenty more ideas on how to give gifts according to love languages.
You don’t know your recipient well enough
Be it a workplace Secret Santa pick, a new acquaintance you want to get closer to, or someone you are grateful for, your recipient may not be someone you know well — but to whom you want to give something thoughtful.
Try this
Go for high quality everyday items. These are things that you know they will need, made just a tad more indulgent. Think soft, fluffy towels, or beautifully scented laundry wash. Each time they enjoy these little luxuries, they’ll be reminded of you.
Shop gift edits
Need more gift inspiration? Browse our gift collections, where we've put together three selections of our top Sunday picks for the different relationships and occasions in our lives. Order by 18 Dec, 11:59pm to enjoy standard shipping and get your gifts in time.
Shop more gifts in store
Our stores will be open all through Christmas for your last-minute shopping needs.
Discover our handpicked favourites from fellow homegrown brands and
enjoy our complimentary furoshiki gift-wrapping services when you make a purchase.
Highlights from our Raffles City flagship store
Creature Comforts
Make at-home moments a little more luxurious with home fragrances from Artisan of Sense and colourful drinkware from Gentle Objects
Fashion and Beauty
Spoil your loved ones with au naturale beauty products from Slowhouse or timeless clothing designs from Esse