🎁 It doesn’t feel like too long ago that we were revelling in the summer sun, but here we are, with not too different temperatures, but with Christmas right around the corner. The end of the year is always a whirlwind: the year’s hustle catches up to you, plans fall through, and suddenly you’ve missed the window to plan for the holidays and, most regrettably, you’re behind on your Christmas shopping. Worry no more: we’ve got you covered with quick purchase gift ideas that will be sure to please the precious people in your life.

✨ FOR YOUR HIGH MAINTENANCE FRIENDS AND FAMILY MEMBERS-

Last-minute brainstorming gift ideas for those whose value you want reflected in the value of their gift can be the most nerve wracking. When in doubt, opting for a high value and timeless purchase is always a reliable choice.

#1- ON A BUDGET: A good perfume never misses. If you know someone’s favorite scents, it’ll make for an easy and quick purchase. Breadfast has got you covered if you’re really pressed for time, offering plenty of branded perfume gift sets with instant same-day delivery.

PRICE: From EGP 1.3k to EGP 11k.

#2- SWEET SPOT: If you want to go truly luxe, nothing beats a sparkling jewelry piece. For the ladies, homegrown brand Jude Benhalim will be sure to please with their artistic designs and standout pieces.

Shiny gold or intricate metalwork isn’t everyone’s cup of tea — wearable tech is just as up to par and more suited to the athletic or more understated among us. Apple’s latest watch releases like the Series 11 or the SE 3 would make for an optimal gift.

PRICE: From EGP 2.6k to EGP 25k.

#3- ALL-IN: What’s more timeless than a good leather item? Effortlessly stylish and long-lasting, a leather bag or accessory is always a gift well-appreciated and worth the cost. Brands like Wafaa Wali and Nuniz boast stunning collections of unique genuine leather bags — for both men and women — and all kinds of leather accessories. A leather jacket is also hard to beat — picking out one from Joe’s Venture ’s singular collection would make for a truly irreplaceable gift.

PRICE: From EGP 500 to EGP 52k.

💆 FOR THE TIRED PEOPLE IN YOUR LIFE-

For the people in our lives that work a little too hard and don’t know how to rest. If your year-long attempts to get them to slow down have fallen flat, this might be the perfect time to introduce them to the art of self-care and pampering with a few well-chosen gifts.

#1- ON A BUDGET:A little bit of self care can be the perfect way to unwind. While high-end skincare and beauty products fill the stores, healing sometimes feels easier and simpler with all-natural products. Nefertari ’s collection of organic oils, soaps, creams, and bath salts are the perfect ingredients for a comforting at-home skincare and spa session. The handmade body care brand also offers a wide range of gift baskets with all the necessary products for quiet-time rituals. A more luxe homegrown brand is Clementine, with sleek packaging and guaranteed nourishment.

PRICE: From EGP 62 to EGP 3k.

#2- SWEET SPOT: Make their bed a sanctuary — good long-term rest means good sleep, and good sleep means a soft, comfy bed. A new set of bed sheets is a sure way to reset someone’s familiar sleeping space — an assortment of any kind from Lilly Home will work perfectly. The home accessories brand offers everything from pure cotton bed sheets and pyjama sets to fur blankets, knit throws, and linen and satin duvet covers.

PRICE: From EGP 2k to EGP 8.8k.

#3- ALL-IN: With tight schedules come tense muscles, and what’s a better mind-body reset than a spa and massage day? We’ve all blabbered on about wanting to go for a rejuvenating spa day or a pain-relieving massage session — now’s the time to make that dream a reality for that person in your life who really needs it. If you really want to make it a memorable gift and a worthwhile experience, splurge out for your loved one on a luxurious hammam treatment at the Nile Plaza’s Four Seasons or a healing massage at JW Marriott’s Mandara Spa.

PRICE: From EGP 3.6k to EGP 15.2k.

🛋️ FOR THE HOMEBODIES-

We’re all homebodies at heart — whether you choose to admit it or not — which is why a wholesome homey gift never disappoints. Whether someone’s a true home hermit or just a home decor enthusiast, here are a few quick and gratifying gift ideas.

#1- ON A BUDGET: One thing a homebody needs is a favorite mug — and maybe some over elaborate tableware. Winter is (tentatively) here, which calls for a new mug to put to use for morning coffees and a lot of hot cocoa, and a handmade mug from Ellie Home could do the trick. If you’re looking for a more sizable present, you can opt for their earthenware sets. If your giftee happens to be a coffee addict, a bag of specialty coffee roast would be a great addition to a thoughtful mug. Popular and loved specialty coffee roasters like Brown Nose, Dancing Goat, and Breadfast offer a variety of blends and flavors.

PRICE: From EGP 185 to EGP 2k.

#2- SWEET SPOT: Aromas and fragrances are a home’s signature touch. If your fellow homebody isn’t tapped into the world of scents yet, this is your chance to let them in. Palosanto offers incense sticks, natural candles, herb smudge sticks, and even kits and gift baskets. A good smell needs clean, fresh air, and Xiaomi’s Smart Air Purifier is the perfect gift for that, and a sure way to guarantee a complete olfactory experience of pleasure.

PRICE: Palosanto’s products range from EGP 200 to EGP 4k. Xiaomi’s Air Purifier goes for 21k.

#3- ALL-IN: A furnishing freshening up — It’s easy to get tired of your surroundings. A small addition to a space — a new stylish floor lamp, a whimsical pillow, an artistically patterned rug, or some fun wall art — can make a big difference. A rug from INCA & Co would make the perfect gift for someone wanting to cozy up their living space. Their rugs are a standout, coming tufted, kilim, and hand-knotted, but their out-of-the-box, chic lamps would also be perfect lighting remodels. Some funk home accessories from Whisper the Brand could also spruce their space up.

PRICE: From EGP 750 to EGP 23k.