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These Tried & True Gift Ideas Will Actually Impress People Who Are Hard to Shop For—Trust Us

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Some people can be impossible to shop for, so finding the perfect gift for them can be a real challenge (especially when you waited ’til the last minute, but we’ve got you covered). Whether they already have it all or they’re Fort Knox and refuse to divulge any information, not even the slightest hint of what they want, some friends and family make us second-guess ourselves like crazy, with thoughts like, “But will they even like this?” and “Will she use this?” or “Do they already have this?” passing through our minds. But it’s time to forget all that and have a little fun finding a unique gift for that special person — whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or just-because gift.

Best Gifts for People Hard to Shop for at a Glance

Best Overall: Waterford Lismore Essence 4×6 Horizontal Frame, $180
Best for The One Who Is Always Cold: Society6 Throw Blanket, $60+
Best for Busy Families: Gobble Meal Delivery Subscription, $68+
Best for Moms on the Go:
lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag, $38
Best For Pet Parents:
West & Willow Custom Embroidered Hat, $65
Best for Fashionistas:Brooks Ghost Max 2 Running Shoes, $150
Best for Coffee Fanatics: Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, $300
Best for Athletes: Therabody Theragun Mini, $195
Best for Cooks:
Our Place Cast Iron Always Pan, $155
Best for College Students:
Dagne Dover Dakota Backpack, $195
Best for Wine Lovers:Pali Wine Co. Wine Membership, $140-$190
Best for Teachers: JJ’s Flower Shop Bouquet, prices vary

We scoped out the latest-and-greatest gifts from our favorite of-the-moment brands like, and pulled the items they likely wouldn’t purchase for themselves but would actually use. From internet-famous cookware that looks as good as it cooks, to Jennifer Garner-approved sneakers that fulfill fashion and function needs, we’ve got goodies for every picky person out there. And we even found gifts that you can send instantly, like a gift card to Masterclass, for all you procrastinators out there.

From stylish and fun to practical and functional, here are the best gifts guaranteed to impress all the impossible-to-shop-for people in your life.

Our mission at SheKnows is to empower and inspire women, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Waterford and Society6 areSheKnows sponsors, however, all products in this article were independently selected by our editors. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale. 

best overall

Waterford Lismore Essence 4×6 Horizontal Frame

The ultimate gift is creating core memories. The second best is a high-quality frame to commemorate those good times. This horizontal frame from Waterford does just that. It’s crafted from fine luxury crystal, with diamond and wedge cuts adorned along the border. They’ll surely keep the frame and the memory from the photo in it forever.

Best for the one who is always cold

Society6 Throw Blanket

Cozy season is upon us, and no one can deny that a throw blanket is a great gift for anyone who loves a snuggle session. (So basically everyone.) Society6 is stocked with dozens of sherpa fleece designs, like this go-with-everything green floral beauty, from independent artists. Browse all kinds of patterns, colors, and images to find one that best matches their personality and decor.

The Best Meal Delivery for Busy Families

Gobble Meal Delivery Service

Busy families know all too well how hectic back-to-school season is. And holiday season. And, well, every other time of year too. There’s enough on any family’s plate (pun very much intended!) without needing to worry about what’s for dinner. That’s where Gobble comes in. The service delivers pre-made meals with fresh ingredients to ensure that dinner is ready in just 15 minutes, no grocery shopping or sink full of dishes necessary.

Best for Moms on the Go

Everywhere Belt Bag

Give the gift of free hands and arms with this lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag. This fan-favorite belt bag can hold your phone, wallet and keys, so you can explore comfortably. Whether you’re gifting this to a hiker or someone who loves to travel, they’ll get tons of use out of this weather-repellent bag. Plus, it comes in some many different color combinations and patterns.

Best for Wine Lovers

Pali Wine Co. Wine Subscription

$140+

Whether you’re shopping for a vino enthusiast or a casual, occasional sipper, a subscription to Pali Wine Co. would surely be a knockout gift. The family-owned winery is based in California’s Central Coast and offers a variety of small batch wines that’ll surely start conversations. Choose from one of four subscriptions, including one for red drinkers, another featuring natural wines, or a variety box for someone who is game to try anything.

Best for Teachers

JJ’s Flower Shop Delivery

$122+

Gone are the days of gifting someone a dozen sad roses from the grocery store. JJ’s Flower Shop delivers modern, textural fresh and dried flower arrangements. They’re beyond pretty and will surely be appreciated by grandparents, bosses, teachers, or truly anyone—especially if you opt for a subscription.

Bookshop.org Gift Card

No need to worry whether or not they already have the new Sally Rooney book. Instead, anyone (and we mean anyone) would appreciate a gift card to Bookshop.org, which raises money for small bookshops around the country. Going this route not only allows them to choose a book or two that’s been on their wish list, but also support a beloved bookstore without having to leave home.

Best For Pet Parents

West & Willow Customized Pet Dad Hat

$100 $75

Proud pet parents will delight in showing off their furry loved one on a customized hat. Simply upload a photo of their darling little one, then choose between three illustration styles and six color options. It ships in one to two weeks, and then be prepared for squeals of shock when they open it.

Geometry Kitchen Tea Towels

My kitchen would be a much drearier (and dirtier) place if it weren’t for my ever-expanding collection of Geometry tea towels. Nab a set of two for any hard to buy for friend or family member. Not only are they absorbent and fast drying, but their cheerful prints—which come in plenty of holiday-specific designs—make drying dishes not a total drag.

KEEP Intelligent Storage Box

Whether you’ve been prescribed a controlled substance or you just suspect your toddler’s gummy multivitamins are a bit too tasty, it just makes sense to store your medication and supplements in a box that locks. KEEP ups the ante by offering a container that’s not only secure, but also a smart gadget. Pair it with KEEP’s companion app, then start tracking your dosages and getting daily reminders of when you and all your family members are due to take your meds. If anyone tries to get into your KEEP Intelligent Storage box, the app will let you know. Genius.

On Repeat Custom Throw Blanket

This throw blanket is such an easy gift to give. It ships quickly, has a simple personalized touch, and looks quite similar to a very expensive designer blanket that costs upwards of $1,300. So, if you ask me, this is a total steal. 

Best for College Students

Dakota Medium Neoprene Backpack

Whether they’re still in college or commuting to the office, a Dagne Dover backpack is super helpful to carry all of their necessities during the winter time. Because who really wants to wrestle with throwing a tote bag over a thick, heavy coat? 

Hydro Flask Cruiser Insulated Tumbler With Handle

2024 has been the year of the emotional support water bottle, so if they don’t have one already, get them this new sleek one by HydroFlask. They come in so many vibrant colors that look much chicer than other options on the market.

Dr. Jart+ Korean Face Mask 10 Pack Gift Set

If you know a skincare junkie, this is the perfect gift set from them. The Dr. Jart+ Korean Face Mask 10 Pack Gift Set includes four face masks that are good for all skin types, helping to hydrate, soothe irritation, and reduce redness. Who doesn’t want a glowy gift? Considering the masks bought separately would be a $112 value, this kit is so worth it.

AEMBR Luxury Votive Trio Gift Set

If you don’t turn to AEMBR for all of your candle needs (and yes, they are needs!), this mini set will change your mind. This trio gift set—or, um, keep for yourself set—allows you to select your three favorite scents from the brand’s Core Collection, which will arrive in a ready-to-give gift box.

Philips Sonicare Electric Toothbrush

I’m a firm believe that an electric toothbrush is a must-have for all. They can be pricey though, so some may not want to throw down the dollars. Treat them to this top-notch stainless steel toothbrush that’s not only a game-changer for dental hygiene, but also looks lovely on a bathroom vanity.

Martha Stewart x Marley Spoon Meal Kits

$10.99/Serving

Make meal planning simple for them with this delicious meal delivery service. You can gift them some boxes to get them started with incredible recipes inspired by Martha Stewart to create memories and meals they’ll never forget.

Best for Athletes

Therabody Theragun Mini

If your friend seems like they’re in perpetual need of a massage, gift them their own personal masseuse. This tiny but mighty Theragun massage gun works out muscle knots with its three speeds and three attachments, and is petite enough to stuff in a suitcase or gym bag. Their aches and pains will melt away in no time.

Honey-Can-Do Double Siver Cereal Dispenser

$30.15

This cereal dispenser not only makes mornings a breeze, it also looks stunning on your counter (or in the pantry). So many shoppers rave about this handy dispenser so much that it’s been a viral TikTok sensation for months! The Double Siver Cereal Dispenser stores your favorite cereal in easy-to-use dispensers that dish out the perfect serving size when you turn the nozzle. It’s so handy that kids can even help themselves in the morning. It also comes with a removable tray that catches crumbs and any accidental spills.

All Dark 16-Piece Assortment

Just one look at these gorgeous chocolates from Gearharts Fine Chocolates, and your recipient will be more than impressed. This 16-piece dark chocolate set includes unique and divine flavors like earl grey, maple pecan, and pistachio toffee orange. Gift these to your best friend, in-law, or favorite co-worker and you’ll make their day. 

Best for Cooks

Cast Iron Always Pan

Everyone wants to get their hands on the Our Place Always pan, but did you know it also comes in a cast iron version? This multi-tasking kitchen pan does the work of eight pieces of cookware, and comes in a bunch of gorgeous colors, so it’ll save cabinet space and elevate their kitchen decor at the same time.

Best for Coffee Fanatics

Breville Bambino Espresso Machine

Any coffee lover will jump for joy when you gift them with this pristine and petite Breville espresso machine. Along with crafting cafe-quality espresso, it also comes with a milk steaming wand so that your giftee can concoct the perfect morning drink or afternoon pick-me-up at home. Coming in just under $300, it’s a quality gift that’ll last for years to come—more than long enough for them to learn how to make heart latte art to thank you.

Best for Fashionistas

Brooks Ghost Max 2 Running Shoes

Brooks sneakers look equally as cool on hiking trails as they do in line for brunch — it’s no wonder Jennifer Garner has been spotted rocking shoes from the brand. These chunkyBrooks sneakers would be a fabulous gift for your fashionista friend who loves to get their steps in.

Nintendo Switch

Your teen — or, let’s be honest, your partner — would love getting a Nintendo Switch under the tree this holiday season. With a Switch, they can play at home or on the go, which is especially great for long car rides or keeping busy during a sibling’s all-day soccer tournament.

Super Mario Bros. Wonder

And, of course, they will need a game to play on it. You can gift them a digital or physical copy of the latest Super Mario Bros. Wonder game, where, for the first time, Mario and Luigi leave the Mushroom Kingdom for some new adventures that’ll be a sure-fire hit for whomever you’re gifting it to.

Dyson V8 Cordless Vacuum

The best family present? A Dyson vacuum, of course! Your fam will get so much use of it, and it’ll make your home look brand new every time it’s used.

MasterClass Gift Card

$10/month

If your gift recipient is obsessed with Ina Garten and Martha Stewart as much as we are, then all you need to get her is a gift card from MasterClass so they can take Gordon Ramsay’s classes or world-renowned pastry chef Dominique Ansel’s baking class. Or, they can brush up on their interior design skills with Kelly Wearstler or learn to French tuck with Queer Eye’s Tan France.

Jot Ultra Coffee

Busy people run on coffee and don’t have time to waste, so gift them some delicious java that’ll make them feel like a barista at home. Jot is a concentrated liquid coffee that they can use to make cold brew, espressos, and more in just seconds. Simply add a tablespoon (there’s one included) of the liquid coffee to water or your milk of choice—and presto! Gourmet coffee that tastes like the $7 latte they’d buy at the local coffee shop.

Blink Mini Camera

A little separation anxiety from your pet is normal. This camera will help put anxious pet owner’s minds at ease, because they can check up on Fido or Fluffy at any time from an app on their smartphone.

Ember Temperature Control Smart Mug

$90 $130 31% off

If the person you’re shopping for always lets their beverage get cold, this is the mug they need. It’s app-controlled and allows the user to keep their beverage from 120 to 145 degrees all day long. Yes, we’re serious. Instead of getting them yet another coffee mug for their collection, get the mug to end all mugs.

Dash Mini Maker

Quite possibly the most popular TikTok-famous product, this Dash waffle maker is a must. With this mini waffle maker, you can treat yourself to gourmet waffles (or paninis!) whenever you want. Not to mention, it’ll look really cute on a kitchen countertop.

Before you go, check out these chic cookware brands that give Le Creuset a run for its money:

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