It’s crunch time. There’s only two shopping days left until Christmas. Thankfully, I crossed the last person off my list on Saturday but I totally understand the final day rush – I’ve definitely been there before.

When it comes to last minute gift shopping, there is always the temptation to just grab a gift card and call it a day. Especially when most of the stores are seriously picked over.

Now I am a big proponent of the gift card BUT I think you can make a simple gift card truly unique with a little extra step. Instead of just throwing it in an envelope, think about a fun, little gift to accompany it that shows you really put some thought into it. Is your sister an aspiring artist? Get her that gift card for supplies but wrap it up with a calendar full of prints from her favorite painter. For an extra $10 you’ve given a gift that she’ll remember every time she forgets what day it is.

Here’s some more of my favorite last minute ideas.

 for mom…. Your mom loves to spend time with you. If it’s possible (i.e. – if you all will be in the same place sometime soon), get your Mom a gift card for dinner and a movie (or just dinner or just a movie). Then wrap it up with a framed picture of your family, yourself, you and your pup, you and your man, etc. The frame will get prime position in the house immediately and you’ll have a night out with your mom that she’ll love.
Featured: Jonathan Adler Frame

for the beauty queen… What girl doesn’t love a little pampering? With New Year’s coming up, grab the beauty gal in your life a gift card for a blow-out, a cut or highlights. Then box it up with a travel set of shampoo and conditioner. I know I hate spending money on nice products but I love getting them and I’d bet that there’s a few of you out there that share the same sentiment. Getting a little gift set like this is something you might not buy yourself but would love to receive. They’ll remember the thoughtful gift every time they look at their new ‘do.
Featured: Living Proof Travel Set

for the sports nut… Whether this gift is for your guy or a sports loving girl, they’ll be extra excited to get something beyond the standard logo apparel. Grab a State Traditions hat for their favorite team (or anything else team related – a hat, t-shirt, Tervis Tumblers) and wrap it up with tickets from an upcoming game (hint: check out StubHub or eBay). They’ll love the gear and will immediately start the countdown to game day.
Featured: Sports Traditions Hats

for the television junkie… Here’s another one that works for guys or gals. This time of year is perfect for a good TV binge. Spend a couple lazy days watching seasons of Breaking Bad, Homeland or my personal favorite, Game of Thrones. If you know a TV lover, snag them the gift that keeps giving with a 3 or 6-month subscription to Netflix. Then wrap it up with a pair of cozy pajamas or lounge wear. I love this tank top from Etsy with the family names from Game of Thrones on it (I know, I’m a nerd). You guys can spend time together mealing on popcorn and watching endless episodes of LOST or finding out what Orange is the New Black is all about.
Featured: Game of Throne Houses Tank from SoEffingCute and American Eagle Shorts

for the shopaholic… Maybe it’s your little sister, maybe it’s your mom, maybe it’s your best friend or your wife but everyone knows a shopaholic. Give the gift she really wants: a shopping spree. She can cash in on all the post-Christmas sales and pick out something she’s had her eye on. But don’t just run in and grab the mall gift card. Swing by Macy’s or Nordstrom’s and pick up a cute wallet to wrap it up in. She’ll be thrilled to open the wallet and on cloud nine when she sees the gift card peaking out inside. She’ll think of you whenever she pulls the wallet out of her purse (which if she really loves to shop, is probably quite often!).
Featured: Kate Spade Polka Dot Wallet

for the workaholic… Here’s another gender neutral gift (whether the guys will admit it or not). The end of the year can be a seriously stressful time with work and family obligations. Workaholics (and anyone that’s a little over stressed), will throw their arms around you in happiness when they open up a gift packed with spa essentials along with a gift card to enjoy a day of pampering. When you swing in to pick up the gift card, pick up a little spa kit or relaxing candle to package it up with. Include a list of the spa’s offerings (you can just as easily print it off the internet if you forget to grab one) so they can start planning their day. Give them the chance to choose a hot stone massage or a pedicure, a facial or a body wrap. They’ll be thanking you as the stress melts away. Featured: L’Occitane Spa Set