Thoughtful Gifts Ideas 2024

Five Gift Ideas with a Personal Touch: My Top Picks This Holiday Season

To me, the holiday season is about spending quality time with our loved ones. For those who’s love language is gift gifting, the holiday season is all about finding meaningful gifts that bring joy to the people you care about.

This year, I’ve rounded up some of my favorite gift ideas, each with a personal story or reason why I think they’re special. Whether you’re shopping for a close friend, a family member, or even yourself, these thoughtfully curated gifts are sure to make an impression.

  1. Handmade Suncatchers from ASCEND

  • Shop ASCEND’s Suncatchers

    I’ve been a fan of ASCEND'’s handmade suncatchers for years. These beautiful, handcrafted pieces make for a deeply meaningful gift, especially for someone who may have recently lost a loved one or simply needs a little extra light in their life. ASCEND selects each crystal and energy infuses them, adding an extra layer of thoughtfulness. You can also leave a note with your order, and they’ll handwrite it for you.

    I recently gifted suncatchers to some of my close friends—one to a friend mourning the loss of a loved one and others to girlfriends who needed a little reminder of how much they mean to me. They were a hit!

    Why it stands out:

    • Handcrafted and Personal: Each piece is lovingly made and energy-infused.

    • Versatile: Perfect for hanging in a window, a car, or even as a unique holiday ornament.

    • Gift-Ready: Comes in a cute branded bag and you can personalize a handwritten note.

    • Limited Edition: Since these suncatchers are handmade, they are each unique & they have limited inventory.

    2. Luxurious Lip Balms

    YSL Rouge Volupté Shine Lip Balm
    IT Cosmetics Je Ne Sais Quoi Lip Balm

    I’ve always thought lip balms are underrated as gifts—they’re practical yet indulgent and often something people don’t buy for themselves. This year, I’m recommending two favorites that are perfect for anyone on your list.

  • YSL Rouge Volupté Shine Lip Balm: While I haven’t personally used this, my friend swears by it. She has perpetually dry lips, and this luxurious balm is the only thing that keeps them soft and hydrated. Plus, it’s beautifully packaged and adds a subtle tint for a touch of glamour.

  • IT Cosmetics Je Ne Sais Quoi Lip Balm: This one has a personal connection—my mom absolutely loves it! I bought her two for the holidays because of its unique pH-reactive formula that adds a custom tint and its SPF protection. It’s a small but meaningful gift she’ll actually use.

    Why it stands out:

    • YSL: Luxurious hydration with a pop of color—perfect for those who love a little luxury.

    • IT Cosmetics: Affordable, practical, and protective, with a fun custom color element.

    3. Mammut Taiss Pro HS Pants

    Shop Mammut Taiss Pro HS Pants

    OK, I’ll be honest. This product isn’t necessarily a unique or thoughtful gift, but this is a gift I gave myself and had to share. These Mammut winter adventure pants are a bit of a splurge, but they’re truly an investment piece. Whether hiking in snowy conditions or just enjoying a crisp winter walk, these pants are designed to last a lifetime.

    I’ve been searching for high-quality gear that can keep up with my active lifestyle, and these pants deliver. From their waterproof and windproof design to the thoughtful features like side zippers and adjustable cuffs, they’re perfect for anyone who loves outdoor adventures.

    Why it stands out:

    • Durability: Built to handle tough winter conditions.

    • Functionality: Practical features make them versatile for any winter activity.

    • Sustainability: Mammut prioritizes eco-friendly materials and processes.

    4. Brightland Olive Oils and Vinegars

    Shop Brightland Holiday Gift Kit

    Last year, I received a Brightland Olive Oil and Vinegar set as a gift, and I loved it. This year, I’m paying it forward by gifting their Holiday Gift Kit. It’s currently on sale for $89, with free shipping included—a fantastic deal for such high-quality products.

    The kit includes one of their signature olive oils and an artisan vinegar, beautifully packaged and ready for gifting. It’s a thoughtful choice for foodies or anyone who appreciates premium ingredients.

    Why it stands out:

    • Flavorful and High-Quality: Brightland’s products are cold-pressed and full of vibrant flavor.

    • Versatile: Perfect for salads, marinades, or even cocktails.

    • Gift-Ready: Comes in a gorgeous gift box that makes presentation a breeze.

    5. Customized Pendant

    Shop Birthdate Pendants

    A unique and personal gift idea is the customized birthday pendant from Birthdate Co. These pendants are designed with the recipient's zodiac sign or birth chart details, making them a deeply meaningful and thoughtful way to celebrate someone special.

    I own one of these pendants myself, and I can’t recommend them enough. The level of customization is incredible—they include personalized details based on your birthdate, from astrological symbols to your initials. The new and improved version is even more stunning, with an elevated design that feels luxurious and intentional.

    What I love most is that each pendant is handmade in the USA, adding a layer of craftsmanship and quality that’s hard to find in mass-produced jewelry. It’s the perfect gift for anyone who loves astrology, meaningful jewelry, or simply something unique.

    Why it stands out:

    • Personalized and Meaningful: Each pendant is custom-made to reflect the recipient’s astrological details.

    • High-Quality Craftsmanship: Handmade in the USA with a focus on detail and durability.

    • Gift-Ready: Comes beautifully packaged, making it a wonderful present for birthdays or the holidays.

    Each of these gifts has a personal touch, and I hope they inspire you to find something meaningful for your loved ones (or yourself) this holiday season. Let me know if you try any of these or have your own go-to recommendations—I’d love to hear what’s on your gifting list this year!