Don’t you hate the dread that comes every holiday season when you know you have to buy gifts for people you don’t want to spend money on? Whether it’s your unappreciative boss or the frenemy that never goes away, we have a roundup of inexpensive gifts that aren’t totally lame (even if your gift recipient deserves it). And who knows? Maybe your thoughtful gift will change your relationship with them for the better!
1. Infuser water bottle
If your gift recipient is into health or eco gadgets, an infuser water bottle is the perfect inexpensive gift. Leak-free and BPA-free, this 27-ounce reusable water bottle will let her create her own naturally flavored water. (Amazon, $13)
2. San Miguel Odele sea grass and lotus reed diffuser
Show you’ve gone the extra mile in bypassing the standard aromatic candle gift, and hand your frenemy this beautiful but cheap reed diffuser. The crisp scent of sea grass and lotus reed is sure to help you both take a deep breath and relax. (Kohl’s, $9)
3. Upcycled sari jewelry roll
Does your boss or “too close” co-worker do a lot of traveling, then loudly brag and wear the jewelry she finds? This jewelry storage bag will make her day. Beautifully handmade from upcycled saris and designed specifically for jewelry, it has pockets for small items and rolls right up for easy transport. (Uncommon Goods, $15)
4. Salted caramel dark chocolate bark
Dark chocolate can change relationships for the better (or so we prefer to believe!), especially when it is combined with buttery caramel and a hint of sea salt. This salted caramel chocolate bark is a World Market exclusive and is available for a song. (World Market, $10)
5. Animal-print scarf
For the gift recipient who lives for fashionable scarves, this animal-print scarf is a stylish accessory that will liven up any of her many ensembles. (Pier 1, $8)
6. Collected quotations journal
Ideal for the “wise in her own eyes” frenemy or relative, this quotations journal will hopefully help direct her unsolicited counsel from her mouth to her pen. She can write down her witticisms or collect other quotes she lives by, as well as read excerpts from iconic authors, actors and historical figures. (ModCloth, $15)
7. Grumpy Cat: A Grumpy Book
If you’re happy and you know it… get away from me! Having a bad day? Good! Perhaps Grumpy Cat can say what you feel, or maybe this bad-attitude cat will make your gift recipient a happier person to be around. We certainly laugh at Grumpy Cat’s unabashed grumpiness! This Grumpy Cat book features photos, activities, games and more cranky feline fun. (Amazon, $9)
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