17 grab-and-go gifts for last minute shoppers

Gifts for the Guys:

(1) For your green thumb father: Terrariums are relatively low-maintenance, but a really interesting gift for those who love all things green. You can find some fun options at Exceptional Terrariums in Atherton Mill and Market (prices vary).

(2) For your bearded uncle: Bearded Buddha specializes in all natural and organic beard oils that nurture the facial hair a man works so hard to keep. You can check out options on the website and choose local pick-up when you check out. $20 per oil.

(3) For your sister’s boyfriend: Brewpublik will deliver a grouping of ale right to his doorstep and you can easily send a gift card so they can do the choosing. I’m doing this one for my sister’s beau — fingers crossed he’s not reading this story. Prices start at $10, and don’t forget to Google coupon codes.

(4) For the man who loves NC barbeque: While you’re at it, snag the beer map, too from Edia Maps. These maps make great gifts and could potentially start plans for a road trip in your near future. $19.99 per map.

(5) For the true Panthers fan: Dab On ‘Em is the new fan trend with the Panthers, and now you can let even the outsiders know what you’re doing when you strike the pose. You can buy these tees online for just $22; contact them to see if local pick-up is an option.

(6) For the man who treats his dogs like (or better than) other humans: Now his pup won’t have to bend down to eat his kibble. These local, handmade dog bowl stands can be found at BLVD in South End. Prices vary, starting at $35.

Presents for the ladies:

(1) For the one who burns a different candle in every room: The new kids on the candle block in Charlotte, réinventé, only has a few scents, but they are heavenly. Pros: their scents are very simple, neutral and aren’t overpowering. Cons: none. Candles are $15-25 with gift packages around $35. Contact [email protected] to ask about local pick-up.

(2) For your teenage niece who is going to do big things: Get her into coding and do it through Tech Talent South. Coding is a pivotal role in startups, building a brand or business and honestly is just a very lucrative skill to have. Invest in her future and get her into a coding class, so she’s ahead of the game! This is a hefty gift, but one that’s worthwhile. Prices vary, but there’s also a free kids coding course.

(3) For the $10 gift exchange with the girls at work: This tiny trinket dish is handmade and only $10. It gives you a little dose of inspiration and even has a touch of sparkle. Made by Haleigh at Vidalia Vogue; you can contact her for local pick-up.

(4) For the ultimate relaxer: Sometimes a warm or cool compress is all you need. Add in the slight weight of this rice pouch and the sweet fact that they’re handmade by AO in Charlotte, and your gift is bound to be one that’s heavily used. These pouches are $9 and can be found at BLVD in South End (I bought three, so supplies are dwindling).

(5) For the cubicle queen: These magnetic clothes pins are too cute and a great price for your office bestie. She can hang notes, photos, and prints and easily switch them in and out. Priced at under $10; there’s a huge selection at BLVD.

(6) For the one who can’t keep a plant alive: Succulents may be for her. These cute polka dotted planters are local to Asheville, but can be found at West Elm at the Metropolitan. Prices vary (but are super affordable; succulent plants are sold separately).

(7) For the aromatherapy obsessed: Aromatherapy is a wonderful way to release tension or aid in a bunch of different wellness needs. Lightbeings Living makes great stocking stuffer roll-on sticks that start at $18 for 10 mL. You can find these roll-on sticks and their candles at VTG CLT Pop on Stonewall through December 20.

And a little something for the kids:

(1) For the avid reader: ABC Charlotte and 123 Charlotte are children’s books written by Charlotte residents, Christina Berkau Pope and Thomas Berkau. Give this Charlotte-themed book to a little one to jumpstart their love for our city early. You can pick up these books at West Elm in the Metropolitan for $18.

(2) For the future world traveler: These sweet little plush dolls are inspired by Russian nesting dolls, but are a lot easier to cuddle. Susan assured me that if you live in Charlotte and choose shipping, they arrive fast, but you can also pick them up at BLVD, Ruby’s of NoDa and Sanctuary of Davidson. Doll sets, build-your-own dolls and pirates are custom made, so they take a few days. Prices start at $16.

(3) For the grandfathered-in Panthers fan: We say start them young, so grab this cute onesie and have your 18-month-old repping your team from the womb. Onesies are $18 and are for sale at BLVD in South End.

(4) For the imaginative one: Dunlap Love makes imaginative plush stuffed animals that all have a fun story to go along with them. The proceeds of the sales go to helping the Dunlap Love family bring home their new adopted daughter. So while your niece or nephew gets a fun new present, you know you’ve helped a family build their own. Dunlap Love’s Etsy is down for the rest of the year, but you can find the animals at the VTG CLT Pop-Up through December 20.