It’s the most wonderful time of the year—Olio in Iowa’s 2020 Holiday Gift Guide! Over the next two weeks I’ll be sharing gift ideas for every type of traveler on your holiday list.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission (thank you!) when you shop at no added cost to you.
I usually compile gifts to help your favorite traveler traverse the globe. This year I’m excited to share options for those staying closer to home. I don’t know about you, but 2020 has given us lots of time to hunker down, get cozy at home and try out some new hobbies.
I hope that the gift ideas bring some light, happiness and enjoyment to being at home for anyone on your holiday list. From plants and candles to puzzles and cocktails, there’s sure to be something on this list that makes your favorite traveler smile.
I’ve done more puzzles this year than I probably have in the last decade. They’re the perfect stay-at-home activity—especially when it feels like all I do some days is stare at my computer. Not only are these puzzles from Whiled beautifully designed, but they’re also HARD! Give someone the gift of a challenge when you send one of these their way.
Perfect for: Anyone looking to spend less time looking at a screen
Whiled Puzzle, $37
I’m a notoriously slow coffee drinker. Especially when I’m working from home, it’s not unusual for me to make a mug of coffee then promptly forget about it. Know someone like me? An Ember mug would be the perfect present! This ceramic mug and its high-tech coaster keep your drink at the perfect toasty temperature for hours.
Perfect for: Your friend who needs to up their work-from-home game
Self-Heating Ceramic Mug, $129.95
After spending so much time cooking for ourselves, it’s only natural that you might hit a bit of a recipe rut. A subscription to The New York Times Cooking site is a great gift that’s both practical and inspiring. I love the range of recipes they offer, the organized Recipe Box feature and, more than anything else, the ability to read comments from other cooks and members.
Perfect for: The friend who has become an amateur chef during quarantine
The New York Times Cooking Subscription, $40/year
I know some people find candles impersonal, but I couldn’t disagree more! I love the idea of gifting a candle that means something special to your favorite person. Or picking an off-the-wall option for your office secret Santa.
Perfect for: Literally anyone on your list
Goober Candle, $24
Cancelled Plans Candle, $32
Curvy Nude Candle, $20
As a kid I loved making collages from old newspapers and magazines. As an adult who is spending a lot more time at home right now, the offline hobby is looking just as appealing again. This unique magazine is filled with fun patterns, inspiring images, illustrated alphabets and more to get your creative collages flowing.
Perfect for: Your artistic cousin — or anyone stuck in a creative rut
Collage Kit Magazine, $28
I know some people feel intimidated by houseplants, but I think they’re the perfect at-home pick-me-up. If you don’t have a favorite local plant shop (or aren’t shopping for someone local), The Nice Plant is an awesome Black-owned company that will send potted plants to anyone on your holiday list. You can even help someone get their hands dirty with their “Pot it Yourself” succulent box.
Perfect for: Your friend who could use a little relaxation
PIY “Pot It Yourself” Box, $49.99
I’ll be the first to admit that I’m not the greatest at-home mixologist. And with Herb & Lou’s Infused Cubes, I don’t have to be! These infused cubes come premixed with everything but the alcohol. Just pop them in the freeze, grab a frozen cube, drop one in your favorite alcohol or mixer, and give it a good stir! The Oliver, an unclassic negroni, is my personal favorite.
Perfect for: Anyone missing happy hour
After only a few weeks, I wish I would have bought myself a HappyLight years ago! This little lamp is just the boost of sunshine that I—or anyone else struggling with a seasonal dip—need to feel a little less down about how dark it is outside.
Perfect for: Anyone feeling gloomy about winter weather
HappyLight Full-Size, $59.99
Share Your Thoughts
I would love to hear from you! Who are you shopping for this holiday season? What are your favorite gift ideas to enjoy at home?
