Ah, the holidays—snow falling, lights twinkling, credit cards crying. We all want to give gifts that’ll be cherished, not shoved into the dreaded “attic of forgotten tchotchkes.” But let’s face it: finding the perfect gift for every quirky family member is like nailing Jell-O to a wall. Do you go with safe and simple (blue)? Or do you embrace the bold and unexpected (bodacious)? Let’s figure it out!

The Teenage Goth Who Lives in a Perpetual Halloween You’ve got a goth-loving teen in the family. They wear black, accessorize with skull rings, and exude “don’t talk to me” vibes—but you’re determined to crack the code.

Skip the generic scented candle (nothing screams “I don’t understand you” like a lavender votive). Instead, consider gifts that match their vibe but secretly promote self-care. A set of moody black bath bombs with names like “Midnight Mist” or “Raven’s Soak”? Perfect. Or, how about some essential oils in “dark” scents—think patchouli, cedarwood, or frankincense? Bonus: their room will smell less like teenage despair and more like a gothic spa.

Uncle Chester, the Plaid Aficionado

Ah, Uncle Chester. Reliable as a Swiss watch and as predictable as your mom’s holiday fruitcake. He’s got a plaid shirt for every day of the week (and maybe one for leap years), and his idea of excitement is trying a new brand of decaf coffee.

This year, let’s spice things up! How about gifting him a set of natural soaps in earthy scents like sandalwood or eucalyptus? They’ll pair well with his lumberjack aesthetic while subtly nudging him toward improved hygiene. Or, if he’s the type to sip his coffee while contemplating the universe, why not throw in a yoga mat? Chester could use some zen—or at least a break from his plaid monotony.

The Re-Gift King (or Queen)

We all have that family member who treats gift exchanges like a regifting roulette. You gave them a fancy cheese board last year, and this year it’s under your tree with the price tag still attached.

This time, make regifting a challenge. Choose something so specific they can’t pass it off—like supplements for New Year’s health goals. Bonus points if you throw in hangover strips for a cheeky touch! Not only will they have to keep it, but they might also actually use it after New Year’s Eve gets a little too festive.

The Zen-Seeker

Every family has that one relative who swears by crystals, herbal teas, and the “healing energy” of moonlight. They’re basically walking Pinterest boards.

For them, think gifts that promote relaxation and mindfulness. A yoga mat (obviously), an aromatherapy set, or a subscription box of exotic herbal teas or mushroom infused coffee are all winners. Want to go bodacious? How about an electronic jump rope? It’s a fun twist on fitness that says, “Namaste, but also, let’s burn some calories.”

Aunt Carol, the Name-Forgetter

Great Aunt Carol doesn’t remember your name, let alone what you like. You’ve gotten her generic scarves for years, and she’s gifted you…whatever was on sale at the drugstore. It’s time to shake things up.

Consider a gift that says, “I thought of you,” but also subtly screams, “Let’s do better next year.” A luxurious set of bath bombs or an indulgent body butter is just the ticket. It’s personal enough to show you care and practical enough that she’ll actually use it. (And if she re-gifts it? At least someone will smell fabulous.)

The Wildcards: Blue or Bodacious?

For everyone else—the friends, coworkers, neighbors, and that one cousin who shows up uninvited—there’s always the battle of practicality versus pizzazz.

• Blue Option: Go classic with a high-quality natural soap, a gentle essential oil blend, or a cozy scarf. These are gifts that scream, “I care, but I don’t want to take risks.”
• Bodacious Option: Lean into the fun with a quirky yoga mat design, a colorful set of bath bombs, or even a futuristic gift like an electronic jump rope (because nothing says “festive” like jumping in style).

Holiday Shopping with a Purpose

Let’s be real: the holidays are chaotic enough without stressing over the perfect gift. But if you aim for thoughtful, health-conscious presents, you’re not just giving a gift—you’re offering a little slice of self-care for the new year. And isn’t that what we all want as we say goodbye to 2024?

So, whether you go “blue” with safe classics or “bodacious” with bold surprises, remember this: it’s the thought that counts (and the bath bombs that fizz). Happy shopping—and may your gifts avoid the attic of doom!