If you have yet to secure the perfect Christmas present, there is still time to act – provided your desired item remains in stock. The frantic festive scramble can be avoided with some clever last-minute strategies for both gifting and home decoration.
Never Be Caught Empty-Handed Again
The peril of forgetting a gift was starkly illustrated for one writer a decade ago. After being told by her new husband that his large extended family were not exchanging presents, she arrived with only novelty bin bags and host wine. The acute embarrassment of receiving beautiful, thoughtful gifts from every family member prompted a lifelong resolution: always have a cache of last-minute gift ideas ready.
While the delivery window is narrowing rapidly, a well-considered guide can help you avoid similar awkwardness with that overlooked aunt, godchild, or partner. Ideas range from tickets to next year's major cultural events to monthly subscription services for gourmet items like olive oil, coffee, or brownies – gifts that will delight well into 2026. For those seeking a physical item, several retailers are accepting orders right up to the final deadline.
Creative and Homemade Festive Solutions
Building a stash of homemade presents is a failsafe strategy. One sister-in-law prepares tins of her famous brownies, while the writer makes a family "chocolate crunch" recipe, presented in brown paper and velvet ribbon. An artistic friend personalises tapered candles using simple cream candles and non-toxic acrylic paint, advising beginners to stick to dots or stripes for best results.
For those needing a last-minute decorative 'zhoosh' for the home, nostalgic and homemade touches are trending. Searches for "nostalgic Christmas decorations" have soared by 200% this year. Classic paper chains made from leftover wrapping paper or intricate paper snowflakes crafted with children can create instant festive charm. For an alternative to a traditional tree, bare winter branches in a tall vase adorned with glass birds and battery-powered lights offer an elegant solution.
Floral expert Nini Torres suggests creating fragrant garlands from oven-dried orange slices or constructing a centrepiece from clementines and rosemary for a natural, organic feel. A simple arrangement of pine stems with berries or ivy can also evoke Christmas instantly.
Last-Minute Hospitality and The Week's Top Picks
Unexpected guests need not cause stress. Chef Ben Slater recommends toasted crumpet wedges topped with creamy, smoked, and herby elements as a superb canapé alternative. Entertaining expert Lucy Mee suggests cocktail sausages with chilli jam or quick puff pastry squares with honey, charcuterie, and cheese. Pair these with chilled wine and a festive playlist, and you are prepared.
This week's curated selections include tested reviews of the best LED face masks, shopping secrets from perfumer Jo Malone, and a guide to the best flower delivery services. Furthermore, the Guardian's drinks writer has rigorously tested 40 varieties of the fashionable spirits tequila and mezcal to find the best options for festive tipples.
For those travelling this Christmas, upgrading comfort with a recommended travel pillow is advised. Finally, the publication is inviting readers to share the products that have helped them maintain good habits, from trusty water bottles to perfect walking shoes.
