Have you ever had this happen? A friend, acquaintance, or plus-one arrives at your home with (surprise!) a lovely gift. I am not referring to a hostess gift for an event, but during an unplanned, last minute visit throughout the holiday season. Ack! I’ve had this happen more times than I can count. After the first few times of suffering from intense embarrassment, I wised up and gathered a stash of last minute gifts to stow under the tree. Here are some of my favorite go-to options:
- Coffee from a local roaster and a cute mug
- Red Stewart plaid winter scarf
- Specialty tea and a lovely tea cup and saucer (can be thrifted)
- Local candy or treats (I always order some Candy Kitchen fudge)
- Cocoa mix, marshmallows, and candy cane stir sticks
- A selection of local jams, jellies, or honey
Since I also love to bake, when I put together my annual neighbors’ baskets together (cookies, chocolate dipped pretzels, teas, etc.) I make a few extra, as well.
Not only do these gifts have basically universal appeal, if not gifted, they either can be held until next year (mugs, etc.) or placed straight in the cupboard for my use during the year (except the fudge, which is so very yummy, I simply have to share, lest I eat it all!).
All these gifts live under my tree (festively wrapped, but without any name tags) so they can be gifted whenever I get “that knock” on the door.
Do you have suggestions for last minute gifts for surprise visitors? Please share your ideas in the comments!
If you enjoyed this “Last Minute Gifts for Surprise Visitors” post, visit Holiday Style or even more inspiration. And, while you’re here, please take some time to enter my current style giveaways.
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