This year we published our gift guide earlier than usual to give small makers and Black-owned businesses plenty of time to prepare. We want to spotlight the independent shops we love and help shoppers plan ahead—especially since many retailers are taking longer to restock. We also included a few reliable favorites from larger brands that we’ve bought, used, and truly recommend, from tools to family games.

There are gift ideas for adults and kids, plus plenty of budget-friendly options under $25—many under $20 and even under $10—that make perfect teacher gifts, neighbor presents, coworker treats, or white elephant swaps.

Gifts For Grown-Ups

Below are items we love—things we’ve bought and enjoyed ourselves or gifts we’re planning to give this season. Prices noted where available.

1. This plant-lover’s doormat that makes us laugh (around $52)
2. A favorite daughter t-shirt that would be perfect for sisters or daughters ($24)
3. Mail-order plants like a pothos and a fern—easy to care for and still thriving months later (from $25)
4. Black & white handcrafted earrings we adore (about $45)
5. A woven wave basket that doubles as a magazine tray or wall art ($69)
6. Custom address stamps—such a special, personalized gift (from $94)
7. Minimalist birthstone rings, delicate and sweet—great for birthdays ($48)
8. “Playing Nice,” a highly entertaining thriller (paperback price around $25)
9. Gray leather Apple Watch band (also available in other designs) ($28)
10. A favorite necklace we reach for often—well made and timeless (example price $184)
11. A beautifully made wireless charging station in maple or walnut ($91)
12. A unisex head chef & sous chef t-shirt set, perfect for cooks with little helpers ($48)
13. “The New Southern Style” by Alyssa Rosenheck—lovely, inclusive home inspiration ($37)
14. Brass geometric earrings purchased this summer and still a favorite ($35)
15. Gourmet popcorn that makes an excellent gift—and you’ll want to keep some for yourself (from $20)
16. A geode air-plant planter that looks like a tiny sculpture on the shelf ($30)
17. A scratch-off travel map that was a hit after a family road trip ($30)
18. Comfortable, washable, eco-friendly shoes that are a household favorite (about $95)
19. An organic leafy green seed kit for gardeners ($35)
20. A personalized recipe pie pan that features your loved one’s handwritten recipe—such a keepsake ($75)

Gifts For Kids

These picks are playful, creative, and mostly things we own or plan to give. They work well for a variety of ages and interests.

1. A rainbow sewing kit for imaginative kids who enjoy hands-on projects ($25)
2. Handmade dolls with beautiful craftsmanship and glowing reviews ($64)
3. A dinosaur egg digging kit—great for budding paleontologists (12-pack about $39)
4. Vintage collectible cards for a nostalgic treat ($18)
5. “Women In Art” and “Women in Science” books—both full of inspiring stories ($16 each)
6. A felt slingshot for launching soft felt balls—equal parts silly and fun ($20)
7. Colorful kids’ headphones that are comfortable and durable—perfect for at-home learning ($34 for two)
8. A dachshund felting kit for crafty kids who love projects ($17)
9. Bike tire lights that make dusk rides safer and more fun ($15)
10. The Track book series boxed set—great for older kids who enjoy character-driven adventures ($30 for four)
11. Printable paper dolls and finger puppets with inclusive options like female firefighters and astronauts (about $5)
12. Child-safe nylon knives to help kids learn kitchen skills—encourages healthy eating habits ($9 for three)
13. The Qwixx dice game—simple, fast, and fun for adults and kids (under $8)
14. Personalized “Where Are You” books that insert a child’s name and likeness into a seek-and-find adventure (around $30)
15. A personalized baking set that pairs well with time spent baking together ($20)
16. Personalized holiday gift sacks with dinosaur and other designs—great for little fans ($28)
17. A worldly book box subscription that sends themed boxes celebrating countries and cultures (boxes available starting around $39)
18. A well-rated scavenger hunt game—good for parties or family play ($25)
19. STEM-themed dresses featuring science, space, bugs, or dinosaurs—fun and educational clothing for curious kids (about $35)
20. Blokus, a family-friendly strategy game that our whole household enjoys ($20)

Gifts Under $25

This is my favorite section—small gifts that still feel thoughtful. Many of these are ideal for stocking stuffers, neighbors, or office gift exchanges.

1. Handmade catchall bowls that look lovely on a counter or dresser ($23)
2. Custom face socks portraying goofy family photos—always a hit with grandparents ($13)
3. Snowman bath bombs—small, cheerful gifts under $7 each
4. Lightweight tassel earrings that are flattering and comfortable ($24)
5. Tortoise hoop earrings that are inexpensive, well made, and stylish ($10)
6. A state-shaped bottle opener—practical and personal ($12)
7. Smooth metallic gel pens for stationery lovers, paired nicely with a notebook ($9)
8. A posh leather luggage tag that looks sharp without breaking the bank ($10)
9. A Chunky Sweater candle made by a small team of brothers—pleasant scent and a meaningful story ($20)
10. Animal-face coffee or tea cups—charming gifts when paired with tea or cocoa ($15)
11. A playful mini tube man that’s perfect for a white elephant or gag gift ($13)
12. A humorous “Team Trash” mug for the friend with a cheeky sense of humor ($12)
13. A “Never Forget Pluto” shirt for the space-savvy or nerdy friend ($19)
14. The Stud Buddy—an easy-to-use stud finder that holds itself on the wall when it locates a stud ($10)
15. A handcrafted plant mask and similar botanical ceramics from small studios (about $17)
16. A modern bike bell with a bright, clear ring—great for everyday cyclists ($20)
17. Delicate small circle earrings that are minimal and wearable ($16)
18. A compact laser level that sticks to the wall and projects a straight line for easy hanging ($15)
19. A gold key bow wristlet that helps you find keys quickly and can loop around a wrist ($8)
20. Charcoal odor-absorbing bags that last for years—funny to give with a “I got you coal” joke ($13)

For more ideas from previous years, check our past gift guides and a curated roundup of highly recommended Black-owned businesses and independent shops.

*This post may include product mentions and examples; purchases made by readers are independent choices and prices can vary over time.