The Gentrys love to gift. Birthdays and holidays are special times to show our loved ones how much we appreciate them as unique, individual people.

But sometimes you encounter a gifting blindspot: a person you know well who seems impossible to buy for. Hopefully this holiday gift guide will help with that.

And pro tip: It’s common to hear a gifter say they don’t want to settle for a candle, a bag of coffee or soap. These are actually great gifts because they’re useful luxuries — you literally use them up. There are so many options and varieties out there in 2025 that they can be personal, thoughtful gifts. And if the recipient doesn’t love it, they’re easy to regift.

… Just 2 cents from a couple of gifters. Enjoy!

Some affiliate links below — I may earn a small commission.

For the World's Best Mom

1. Pacman Handheld Video Game

I know my own mom would love this because she loves Pac-Man. You could also bring her some nachos and turn up the Roxette.

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2. God of the Woods by Liz Moore

Critically acclaimed and highly engaging, this is a recommendation straight from my wife.

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3. Cute Screen-Free Digital Camera

This digital camera is a throwback to pre-smartphone America, when we didn't immediately know the quality of the photo. Roll the dice. Maybe they have a dice pattern?

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For the Bromance

1. Stanley Beer Stein

You know it's solid because it's a Stanley. You know it's cool because it's all black.

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2. ThermoPro TempSpike Wireless Meat Thermometer

The only thing that would make this better is if it had an indicator for how many beers are left in the fridge.

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3. Carhartt Toiletry Bag

I'm kind of a picky packer, and a good, sturdy toiletry bag is worth its weight in Ziplocks.

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For the Party Planner

1. Tipsy Land Board Game

They fixed Candy Land! Just kidding — Candy Land is iconic. But this one looks pretty fun, too.

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2. Party Poopers Cute and Clever Serveware

Bring some humor to your charcuterie board. There's so many snacks that these would look funny sticking out of. Olives are definitely a good start.

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3. Festive Candle by Homesick

White Elephant smells like a party. Combine this with some simmering mulled wine for maximum effect.

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For the Rocker in Training

1. Dickies Eisenhower Jacket

Some silhouettes are just effortlessly cool, and this jacket from Dickies is begging for a buttload of patches.

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2. Some Very Important Vinyl

Set 'em up right by supplying the very foundations of an excellent record collection. Start with Black Sabbath!

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3. Victrola Turntable

Even if their parents have a bangin' sound system, you know how crucial it is to have some one-on-one time with your music. Prepare a little speech about maintenance and care so they can treasure this one for years.

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For the Chef of the Group

1. Chitarra Cutter Italian Guitar

How impressed will you be when your friend makes fresh pasta for everyone? And, if you think about it, any enthusiastic cook will want to give this a try, from the super-precise chef to the ones who know it all goes to the same place.

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2. Shake and Pop Campfire Popcorn Popper

Cooking something over a fire is always a thrill. We love a campfire snack gadget, and this one's a classic.

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3. Caviar Server from Williams-Sonoma

Wouldn't hurt to combine this super sophisticated caviar bowl with a tin or two of the good stuff. You don't want to be all, "I brought the holder… Point me to the sturgeon eggs!" Do the heavy lifting too.

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For the Dad of the Year

1. Rayna Yang Whimsical Yet Challenging Jigsaw Puzzle

Your dad loves to walk the dog, but he also loves to describe everyone at the dog park.

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2. Beach Tent

As much grief as you give him about always being so prepared, you gotta admit that these can be a real lifesaver.

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3. Retro Headphones and Cassette Player

Yes, new headphone devices have way better sound. But who doesn't want to listen to a tape with these bad boys? And your dad is totally mature enough to own them without pulling off the squishy parts and destroying them. Not that we ever did that, Dad.

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For the Budding Baller

1. Official Caitlin Clark Willson Basketball

Caitlin Clark has released signature basketballs in a few designs and colors. Support women's sports by crushing the competition CC-style.

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2. Nike A'Ones by A'ja Wilson

A'ja's the best player in the world and her shoes come in a ton of cool, meaningful colorways.

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3. Rechargeable Electric Air Pump

It's a quick, convenient solution for a flat basketball. There's probably an argument for getting things done the old fashioned way, but save that one for drills.

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For the Lover of Snacks

1. Traveling Sauce Holder by Saucemoto

Also a great gift for anyone who loves to keep a clean car — if they allow food and drink in their vehicle.

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2. International Snack Sampler

These snack gift boxes can be purchased individually or as part of a monthly subscription, which is also a cool gift that makes an impact all year.

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3. Liquid IV

The holidays are a blessing and a curse for the snacker. Make sure they stay hydrated. A family size bottle of Tums wouldn't be a bad idea, either.

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For the Plant Parent

1. Pottery Kit

You had to know I'd include a few DIY projects, right? These pottery kits come with different color palettes and finishes so you can design your own pots.

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2. Insect Hotel

What a cool idea! Attach one of these to a tree in your yard to attract native pollinators.

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3. High-Quality Gardening Gloves

A good pair of gloves makes a major difference. These are even touchscreen-friendly. They'd be handy for fishing too, but they're gonna get pretty smelly in that pursuit.

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For the Trivia Team

1. Murder on the Grill Mystery Game

Show me a trivia enthusiast who doesn't also think they could solve crimes, and I'll show you a fibber.

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2. Jeopardy Puzzle Book

I think this one is pretty self-explanatory. Gotta keep sharp.

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3. Food for Thought by Alton Brown

If your trivia buddies aren't already fans of Alton, they'll be bingeing Good Eats and Cutthroat Kitchen before you know it.

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4. The Fube Stress Relief Fidget Toy

It has to be better than shredding napkins or peeling off labels while you wait for the results/score tabulation/fries for the table.

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