A holiday gift guide

Are you looking for something to get your loved ones this holiday season? Are you struggling to find something to ask for? Gift-giving is hard, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some ideas.

For your father

It is notoriously hard to buy dads gifts. They typically provide a lot and don't ask for much in return. When all else fails, buy your dad a nice version of something he already uses — a fountain pen, a drill or a durable pair of socks — because he doesn't buy nice things for himself anyway. Some unique gift ideas for dads include:

1. A monthly artisanal hot sauce subscription: Feeling the burn? Hot sauce is a great way to add some spice to your dad's life.

2. A day at the golf course: If your dad is a big fan of golf, like mine is, some quality bonding-time at the golf course is a great gift.

3. A personalized apron: Does your dad love to grill? Make him the conversation of the next family cookout with a personalized apron. Include a funny inside joke or a quote he loves, maybe an embroidered picture of the family dog.

4. A pair of tickets to see his favorite sports team: Even if they aren't courtside, your dad would probably love to see his favorite sports team with his favorite people. Let him unleash his inner fangirl.

5. A portable charger with no cords: Ever heard of airport dads? If your dad is a man on the go, a great way to put his mind at ease is a no-nonsense portable charger.

For your mother

Moms take care of us and make us feel loved. Show your mom some TLC in return by gifting her something that makes her feel like a queen. When we're talking about women, a little self-care goes a long way.

1. A fuzzy robe: On chilly winter mornings, your mom will appreciate wrapping up in a nice cozy robe. So warm, it feels like a hug!

2. A spa day or massage: Does your mom seem tense recently? Get her some much-needed relaxation with a gift card to your local spa. Let her get her nails done or spend some time in the sauna. She'll appreciate it.

3. A hand-knit pair of mittens or a scarf: Winter accessories are always appreciated, but they're even more sentimental if you've made them yourself.

4. A pair of tickets to the ballet or theater: Make your mom feel like she's attending a winter gala! Get all dressed up and go see your city's winter ballet, musical or play.

5. A luxurious pair of silk pajamas: Let her sleep peacefully and stylishly! This is a glorious payback for all those nights you kept her up as a baby.

For your brother

Where would we be without our brothers? I know I can always count on mine for a fist bump and life advice — and isn't that what they're there for? Return the favor with a gift he'll love (and another fist bump if you're up for it).

1. A forklift certification t-shirt: For some reason, almost every boy I know is forklift certified ... maybe they'd appreciate displaying their incredible accomplishment across their chest in the form of a stylish t-shirt. 

2. A wall flag: Every guy needs this classic staple dude dorm decor, but it's up to you to determine the design. Does he want a funny meme or a stylish tapestry? One thing's for certain, Sundays are for The Observer.

3. A Lego set regarding their interest: This gift is appropriate for guys of any age. The love of Lego runs deep. Lean on your connection and pick out a set tailored just for him. Build it with him! He'll love it. 

4. A game to play: Whether the game is played on the quad (and involves spiking and a ball) or on a video console, brothers love some friendly competition. This is also a great way to connect over the winter break.

5. Carabiners and keychains: This is a perfect gift if your brother is into rock climbing, but he will still appreciate a carabiner if he isn't. They can double as keychains and are a handy tool for any outdoorsy guy.

For your sister

As a sister myself, I know we're pretty cool. Just like brothers, we're there to lend a helping hand, but we often do it in style. Show her how much you appreciate her and gift your sister something as cool, niche and esoteric as she is.

1. A funky collection of claw clips: If she has hair that's long enough to be pinned up, I guarantee she'd love a unique claw clip. Patterns are cool, but some of them come in the shape of animals and fruit. Show her how well you know her and get something that reflects her colorful personality.

2. A pack of tarot cards: Has she been texting you too much for guy advice? Outsource the “dump him” advice through the use of tarot cards. (Trust me, it'll make her get off of TikTok.)

3. A pair of concert tickets: If her favorite artist is on tour, you should get her a ticket to see them live!

4. A magazine subscription: Regardless of if she's a Cosmo fan or a National Geographic stan, get your girl something to read. Plus, they look great on a coffee table.

5. A heated stuffed animal: As weird as this is, yes, these exist. Pick her favorite animal and let her cuddle up next to something warm and cozy. (She probably misses your hugs.)

For your friends

If you're looking for a gender-neutral gift or something that everybody loves, you can never go wrong with these choices.

1. A puzzle or card game to do together: A cozy indoor activity is a great excuse to spend time together. If you gift a puzzle or a fun deck of cards, it's an invitation to play together!

2. A framed picture: You could take this in a silly direction (think: printed portrait of Danny DeVito) or you could make it as sentimental as possible (think: picture of the two of you abroad). A framed picture is a great reminder of how much you love this person and also happens to be great decor.

3. Flowers: You can never go wrong with fresh flowers. If you want to personalize it, pick out some flowers in their favorite color from a local grocery store and make your own bouquet.

4. A mug: Who doesn't love a fancy drinking vessel? Get it in their favorite color or with a motivational quote.

5. A bottle of fancy hand soap: Some fancy hand soap goes a long way for dry, chapped winter hands. It will make anybody feel luxurious and cared for. Plus, they'll think of you every time they're at the sink.

For your favorite college student

To parents and alumni, if you're still at a loss for what to get your college student, look no further.

1. Notre Dame/SMC/HCC gear: You can never go wrong with this one. Hockey jerseys, sweatshirts, pennants, you name it, anything goes.

2. A cordless vacuum cleaner: Let your college student clean up their own messes, but that doesn't mean you don't have to help them. 

3. A coffee maker and coffee grounds: Skip the Starbucks gift card and get them some coffee to make in the comfort of their dorm. 

4. Noise-canceling headphones: I live and die by these. When the reading rooms of the library aren't so silent, your college student will be quietly thanking you.

5. Books and bookends: Let those too-expensive college textbooks sit on their bookshelf in style. Plus, you can give them something to read over break.