The time really seems to fly by leading up to the holidays, so before you stress yourself out about leaving some of your gift selection until the last minute, just take a deep breath. Feeling better? Good, because we’re here to help you out!

We’ve come up with ten last-minute gift ideas that you can put together right at home or with just a quick trip to the store, all to help you make sure everyone on your holiday gift-giving list is covered with something super special and totally awesome (just like them!). Once you’ve got everyone else taken care of, be sure to relax! You’re going to need to save up your energy for opening up YOUR gifts!

Skip this Ad

Next

ADVERTISEMENT

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

Burn A One-Of-A-Kind Mix

Playlists are fun to put together, so making a custom mix should be a blast. The songs you pick can be attached to special memories or help convey something you have trouble expressing yourself. Plus, who doesn't like being introduced to a new song or two?

Source: Shutterstock.com

Bake Some Delicious Treats

An easy-to-make homemade treat, like cookies, can be made last minute and wrapped up as a nice gift. Really down to the wire? Get pre-made dough at the grocery store to save you some time. Cookies are a delicious gift to get at the holidays - in fact, they're great all year long!

Source: Shutterstock.com

Create A Personalized Cookbook

You probably can name your special person's favorite food(s), so why not find a bunch of recipes and compile them into a one-of-a-kind cookbook filled with new ideas about how to whip up dishes full of a flavor you know they love? I mean, a whole cookbook filled with apple recipes? I'd love it! When you gift it, tell them to pick which one they're most excited about and offer to plan a dinner for the two of you to kick off 2013.

Source: Shutterstock.com

Share Your Favorite Book

Head to your bookshelf and find that old copy you've read through 38 times and give it to someone special. You would be sharing something important to you, and there's something about a beat-up copy with notes in the margins and dog-eared pages that feels really personal.

Source: Shutterstock.com

Just Let Them Keep It

We all seem to have a piece of clothing that our friend really loves borrowing. If it's not something that has any super sentimental value to you (and of course is in a respectable condition, aka not so worn in that it's full of stains or holes!), why not just offer it up as a gift? It'll save your friend from having to ask about borrowing it all the time, and it sends a message that your friend's happiness is worth more than your material possessions, which is pretty sweet.

Source: Shutterstock.com

Make Them Really Think About Your Memories

There's a lot of websites, like Puzzle-Maker.com where you can make custom word searches and crossword puzzles that are special to the two of you. Yeah, the actual puzzle will be fun to do, but also the little trip down memory lane looking at each of the clues will be its own little gift.

Source: Shutterstock.com

Print Up Some Memories

Most of my photos exist only online, so actually getting them printed up is something I wish I did more, but tends to get forgotten once things get busy (which feels like always!). Find a local photo center where you can print up copies of favorite photos from a trip or event you attended together, or even just you guys hanging out. Even if you don't have time to get a frame, just gifting those printed photos shows you made some extra effort to do something thoughtful and showcase those special memories.

Source: Shutterstock.com

Offer A Big-Time Favor

Okay, so I don't mean just hand over an IOU note like the one pictured. What I mean is give the gift of "I owe you a favor you really want done." Now, this shouldn't feel like a throwaway gift to this person, but rather it should be something that you'll really have to invest in — like undertaking a total reorganization of your BFF's closet, for example.

Source: Shutterstock.com

Write A Heartfelt Note

Receiving a really personal note is the best, and I've kept notes for years and years that make me laugh or feel really good about myself when I take another read. It's not just dashing "Happy Holidays!" on a piece of paper — really think about what the person means to you and then let them know! It's truly a priceless gift.

Source: Shutterstock.com

Get A Little Artistic

Sometimes how creative you are may even surprise yourself. My boyfriend wasn't an art student or anything, but he drew me a picture of us once that I still have hanging in my room. We shared some great DIY craft gifts to get your creativity moving, but even something like a hand drawn picture of the two of you, a silly short story about you guys or an original song are all creative things that could make really special gifts.

Source: Shutterstock.com

What are some other last minute gift ideas that you have? Have you ever put together a really awesome last minute gift for somebody? Tell us about it in the comments!

Have a little extra time? Check out these 20 awesome DIY gifts!

And don’t forget to follow us on Twitter!

This could go VERY wrong | Source: Shutterstock

Get ready to write some thank you notes, girl–because there’s a whole lot of SOMETHING for you under that tree (we’re just not sure what it all is, yet!)

Read on for tips on how to open Christmas presents without being a jerk!

Sequins are most definitely one of the best ways to show off your holiday spirit, but how do you put together a sequin outfit without looking like a giant ball of glitter? Fashion vlogger Nikki Phillipi takes you through three different adorable holiday looks for you to try this winter. This year even your annoying aunt will be praising your shimmery fashions.

Will you be trying any of these looks? Which was your favorite? Tell us in the comments! 

This post was sponsored by Macy’s Style Lab.

“Love Is All Around” gets stuck in my head often. | Source: WENN/Z.TOMASZEWSKI

I am sad to report that I have yet to see any Love Actually moments. I am still holding out for a romantic one, but I have now expanded the list to include other notable moments that I will settle for.

In case anyone else wants to play along, here are ten things from Love Actually that I feel I need to be a part of my Christmas this year:

1. A public singing of “All I Want For Christmas Is You”: Living in NYC, I’m actually really surprised this one has not happened in the streets. Come on, people!

2. A modern Nativity play. I had the coveted role of “Innkeeper” in my church Nativity play as a child, and I am very intrigued by the version with lobsters in the movie. I would like to see a similar one performed in its entirety.

3. A romantic airport chase: This one is pretty improbable with modern airport security, but maybe I could see this moment happen on a small-scale in the lobby waiting to check-in. A little less dramatic and urgent, but it will do.

4. A meticulous store gift wrapper: I’d wait in a crowded line all day to watch someone wrap a gift with the same hilarious detail as Rowan Atkinson’s character.

5. Hear Christmas songs by older musicians: I gave my boyfriend the Bob Dylan Christmas album a few years back, so if all else fails, I can cue up a few of those tracks

6. A workplace love story unfolding: Maybe I will camp out at my Starbucks and see if the two people behind the counter realize their holiday love for one another. That may mean I have to buy a lot of lattes though.

7. The return of a friend from overseas: In a little bit of a swap from the American women that come back to London in the movie, I would like if my friend brought some British guys.

8. A winter wedding: I think the wedding between Juliet and Peter (Ed. note: Whoops – I mistakenly had written Mark previously!) may have been more in November, but I am still going to count it. The fact that I don’t know anyone getting married also raises some concerns about being able to see this.

9. Be reminded of the meaning of love by a wise child: So precious.

10. A cue card love declaration: I would make an excellent disposed cue card holder for the person spilling their emotional guts. Preferably though, this person would not be revealing feelings to somebody who is married to their friend because I’m not sure I want that potential drama to hold over into 2013.

Sigh, even just a celebrity sighting of Colin Firth or Keira Knightley would be acceptable at this point. Universe, let’s make my Christmas dreams happen!

Do you like the movie Love Actually? What scenes from the movie would you like to see happen in real life? Have you ever seen a super romantic real-life holiday moment? Tell us in the comments!

8 Love Lessons We’ve Learned From Zooey Deschanel

Follow Us On Twitter!

If you’re ready to get into the full holiday spirit, I would definitely recommend trying these looks out. But the best thing about them isn’t just their Christmas cheer… it’s the fact that these outfits can be worn at any time of the year (I rhymed! Total accident). Try ‘em out for some cute new looks that will most definitely get you noticed. If you want to buy the items pictured in these sets (and why wouldn’t you?!), just click on the image for more info. Here are 10 adorable Christmas outfits:

A snowflake

Take some glittery inspiration from a snowflake – a sparkly gray skirt paired with dotted gray tights and a white sweater is a super cute combo. Add some glittery sneakers, a pretty blue coat, snowflake gloves and a snowflake necklace, and you’re basically indistinguishable.

Mrs. Claus

You don’t need to look like a cuddly grandma to channel Mrs. Claus. Just pair a simple red dress with a white cardigan, some sparkly flats, a green beanie and a pair of hipster glasses for effect. Cookie earrings and cookie scented body wash complete the look.

Cindy Lou Who

Head-to-toe pink can be a little intense, so instead of a pink dress, like a comfy pink sweater with skinny jeans. Pair it with a red bow headband to get Cindy Lou Who’s innocent look and Converses – this is basically the comfiest outfit ever.

Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer

Why would you want to look like a reindeer? Um, because this outfit is really cute, that’s why. Brown jeans and a muted top give you a reindeer look while bright red nail polish is similar to Rudolph’s nose. To make this look even more obvious, wear this too-cute-for-words reindeer hat.

Candy Cane

Who says white pants can’t be worn after Labor Day? Definitely not true. Pair these jeans with a loose red sweater and black boots for a very festive look. And if you smell like candy cane scented body wash and lip gloss, we’re pretty sure everyone will get the hint.

Andes Mints

You know these yummy chocolate mints that appear every Christmas but then seem to disappear the rest of the year? Yeah, you can dress like them. This outfit is cute, girly and funky – it’s basically perfect for a first date (and he’ll never guess you’re outfit inspiration).

Frosty the Snowman

I think this is my favorite look. It’s so simple, but so cute. Add a black beanie and red scarf to your white sweater and jeans. For a super cute touch, pair this with snowman earrings and a snowman mug.

Buddy The Elf

Yellow tights are an awesome pop of bright color during a dreary winter day, so don’t be afraid of them. If you want to get seriously funky, you can add this fun Christmas hat into the mix.

Charlie Brown

I bet you never thought you’d get outfit ideas from Charlie Brown, huh? Well, I have to say that he gives some pretty good ones in the Christmas movie. Wear a red coat over your orange tee and jeans, and add in a few touches of brown with your shoes and hat.

New Year’s Eve Ball

And finally, get into the spirit of New Year’s Eve by decking out in as many gold sparkles as possible. This dress is perfect for the occasion with black tights and a little clutch. Get a super dramatic look with fake eyelashes and heels.

Which of these outfits would you wear? What’s your favorite? What kind of outfit ideas do you want to see next? Tell us in the comments!

5 super cute ways to wear $20 black dress

Don’t forget to follow us on Twitter

Other stuff you’ll love:

7 seriously crazy Taylor Swift girlfriend moves in 2012 [The Frisky]

17 last minute $1 store gifts for everyone [College Candy]

Check out these Disney princess superheros [HuffPost Teen]

99 “that sh*t cray” moments of 2012 [Global Grind]

The 54 best animated GIFs of the year [Buzzfeed]

How your weight affects your date [Your Tango]

10 charitable things to do this holiday season [HerCampus]

Awesome news: Rebel Wilson signs on for Pitch Perfect 2 [Crushable]

Who is Selena Gomez’s new mystery man? [Teen]

22 adorable pieces of video game merchanside [Smosh]

Learn how to make the cutest winter gloves ever

Don’t forget to follow us on Twitter

The Christmas Tree Vibrator probs isn’t what you were thinking. | Source: Shutterstock

Slate’s The Vault blog tipped us off to the existence of the “Christmas Tree Vibrator” (indeed, that exact word order), for which a patent was filed by Leo R. Smith back in 1947. So why would you want one of these, you ask?

Well, apparently the idea was that you’d attach this device to your tree and the vibrations would boost the overall “wow-factor” of a Christmas tree, both in terms of sights and sounds. The vibrating would making all the shiny doodads decorating it shine even more and as those decorations moved, it’d also provide an enjoyable natural soundtrack. Hmmm… If you’re intrigued, have a look at the patent and invention drawings.

At least for me, the sight and sound of my Christmas tree rank a distant second and third when it comes to my Christmas tree enjoyment, because obviously the number one important thing is the amount of presents under it (Right? Right?). You could give me a sad Charlie Brown tree and if there are presents, I’ll think it’s a million bucks. I’m kidding – I think a beautifully decorated Christmas tree is lovely, but I think I’d have to see the invention in action to become a real believer in the magic of the Christmas Tree Vibrator.

If I had to guess, back in 1947 when Leo filed the patent it didn’t cross his mind that the name “Christmas Tree Vibrator” might cause some people years later to do a double take and ask, “I’m sorry – a what?” Nope, the man probably just wanted to make your Christmas brighter with a shaking tree, and now here we are in 2012 with many people probably thinking that with that name, his product could be a sex toy.

What if these had really caught on and “Tree Vibrators” had become a totally common turn of phrase by now? I guess we’ll never know, but this little bit of trivia I learned today has reminded me that history is truly full of fascinating (and random) things.

Did you immediately think “sex toy” when you heard the term “Christmas Tree Vibrator?” Do you really think a vibrating Christmas tree would be any better than a stationary Christmas tree? Let us know in the comments!

Alicia Silverstone Is Promoting An Eco-Friendly Vibrator – Wait, What?!

And don’t forget to follow us on Twitter!

Santa bugging you? Here’s the perfect comeback! | Source: Shutterstock

Case in point? This weekend was SantaCon in New York City, where I live. If you don’t know what SantaCon is, consider yourself lucky, because it’s basically thousands of impossibly drunk college kids roaming around the streets in Santa outfits trying to hit on everyone and/or causing fights. Some people think it’s just a funny Christmas outing, but it’s sadly really more like a very festive douchebag convention.

Anyway, my best friend and I were out in the city for dinner on Saturday night, and not realizing how drunky these Santas were, thought it would be fun to have our picture taken with two of them. They were nice enough, but then kept asking us to meet them later/doing the Ho-Ho-Ho laugh/generally being dudes. Finally, I turned around, cut their “funny Christmas” schtick short with a bit of side-eye and just said, “Jingle, Jingle!”

I have no idea what inspired my new funny Christmas saying, but it’s really wonderful if you think about it. I mean, you can be totally snide and dismissive if you say it in the right tone, but nobody can ever say you said anything mean–because you didn’t!

If you want to borrow “jingle, jingle!” as your new funny Christmas go-to, go right on ahead. Think of it as an early gift from the real (and thankfully not wasted!) Santa.

What’s your favorite funny Christmas saying or song? Do they have SantaCon in your town? Are you annoyed by the holidays sometimes? Tell us in the comments!

10 Things You Need To Do Before Christmas!

Follow Us On Twitter!

While I’ve enjoy some of the new Christmas movies that have come out in the last few years, I have to say that when it comes to this film genre, oldies win. In my mind, no Christmas movie will ever compare to A Christmas Story - there’s just no contest. But as much as I want to watch all of my old faves on repeat, I know I’ll never have the time. Feel the same way? If you want to get into the holiday spirit without having to sit in front of a TV for two hours, check out these clips from old Christmas movies. Who knows, they might even inspire you to put together a family movie night!

A Charlie Brown Christmas

What would a holiday be without a Charlie Brown movie accompanying it? I’ve been watching this movie at least once every December since I was a baby – and I’m sure some of you have done the same.

A Christmas Story

By far one of the best scenes of the movie. Remember when you were a kid and you were terrified of having this happen to you? When I think about how afraid of this I was, I’m always wondering why I would stick my tongue to a pole in the first place.

The Muppets Christmas Carol

The Muppets are good no matter what they’re doing. This has to be one of the best takes on A Christmas Carol ever.

Miracle On 34th Street

Try to find a Christmas movie that will make you feel as good as this one does. You can’t! I promise.

The Santa Clause

How can this movie ever get old? In my opinion, it’s Tim Allen’s best movie ever. I mean, imagine if your dad was Santa? Also, I still want to know how to make that hot chocolate the elf made him.

Rudolph The Red Nose Reindeer

I almost stopped writing this just so I could watch this entire movie. I can’t help it. I want to move to Christmas Town and get life advice from Frosty.

It’s A Wonderful Life

I know this isn’t technically a Christmas movie, but it basically is, right? Do yourself a favor and watch this if you never have. It’s seriously one of the best movies ever.

The Nightmare Before Christmas

I love this movie because it combines Halloween and Christmas, two of the best holidays ever. How can you go wrong? You can’t!

A Christmas Carol

This classic Christmas story never gets old… and we should never stop watching it. There’s a reason it’s been around for so long!

Home Alone

When I was a kid, Macaulay Culkin’s character in this movie was a pretty big inspiration to me. He kicked some serious butt! I know TV kind of plays it out, but who can let a Christmas go by without watching this?

A Garfield Christmas Special

This is a pretty old-school cartoon, but it’s also one of the best, best Christmas specials ever. Every time I watch it I feel all warm and happy inside.

How The Grinch Stole Christmas

I know we all spent a lot of time watching the Jim Carrey version of this movie, but no remake could ever live up to this cartoon. It’s pretty much perfect.

Elf

While Elf may not be as old as some of the other movies on this list, let’s all agree that it was an instant classic and will go down in the history books as one. Will Ferrel made us all want to be an elf.

Love Actually

This is another newer, but still awesome, holiday movie that you shouldn’t miss. Besides the fact that it has some of the best British stars ever and cute love stories, it also has accents. A win all around!

Mean Girls

Definitely not a Christmas movie, but… this is amazing.

Which of these movies is your favorite? What did I miss? What are you going to watch this year? Tell me in the comments!

10 things you have to do before Christmas or your holiday will suck

Don’t forget to follow us on Twitter