We all have someone on our holiday shopping list that seemingly has “everything”, or “doesn’t need a thing”, or some that are just difficult to buy for. You’re challenged to find something to please them, never mind finding that elusive item that will really “WOW” them! Where do you start? 

I like to think beyond traditional gift ideas. Consider WHO you are buying for… What does this person do for fun? How do they like to spend their time? What is important to them in life? These answers can provide you with ideas for creative and unique gifts!

Here are some things to consider:

Nostalgic items – If the person you’re buying for has ever reminisced about a favorite doll or toy they treasured as a child? Imagine your best friend opening a package on Christmas morning to find her favorite CRISSY Doll , complete with her original 1970’s dress and hair and even a vinyl carry box!

Or, something related to their favorite TV shows of yesteryear… the new I LOVE LUCY SANTA DOLL is popular for this holiday season!



A lot of people fondly recall their first car. What if you found one of the same model and year in die cast?

How about items Mom used to have in the kitchen when you were growing up? Many kitchenware items that were common in their day evoke warm feelings of a simpler time. They are readily found on eBay and they can be wonderfully decorative in today’s homes. You could even put together a gift basket of vintage kitchenware, including things like table linens, sifters and utensils, etc.


Gift Baskets of various items can be assembled to fit a theme, and building a gift basket yourself shows a great deal of thoughtfulness. You have the opportunity to add personal touches, including items especially tailored to the recipient. Does the person you’re buying for have a passion for spicy food, love BBQ, or enjoy creating new dishes using fresh herbs?

How about a gift basket specially created for someone who is dieting? There are lots of low-fat and healthy foods such as snack bars and diet drinks that could be put together to make it easy for such a person to stick to it and also provide encouragement. You could even add things like a low-fat cookbook or food scale!


Similar to gift baskets, a group of related small gifts can have an impact when given together. My mother has two miniature Terrier dogs that she adores. Her Christmas gift of last year included a doormat, a tote bag, and a couple of throw pillows, all featuring adorable Terriers in pairs!

The gift of experiences is another of my favorite things to give to others. Tickets to concerts and plays are great, but how about tickets for a day cruise, a historic house tour, a dog show or rodeo, or even a cooking class? If the recipient has children, offer to babysit too!

Personalized items are always a thoughtful option too. One year my husband and I received a blanket throw with our names embroidered on it. It’s something I will always cherish. Lots of items from t-shirts to Christmas ornaments to name jewelry can be specially ordered with your loved one’s name.

There is so much out there — items old and new — that can be given to show someone that you really put care into giving something that they may have never even thought to buy for themselves! With a little creativity and eBay, you’re sure to enjoy a holiday season packed with wonderful surprises!