My Ultimate Christmas Gift Guide 2025!
I live for gifting season. I’m that person who starts my Christmas list (for other people’s presents!) in June. I keep a running note on my phone all year with “Ooo they’d love that” ideas. I’ve been known to finish my shopping before the John Lewis ad drops (don’t hate me, I promise I still panic-wrap like the rest of you).
And honestly, 2025 has been a tough year. I wanted to make my gift guide feel even more special so you can bring lots of joy to your loved ones. Because what’s better than finding the perfect present for someone you adore? (Or yourself. Self-gifting is important!).
From thoughtful small treats to absolute showstoppers, I have rounded up the most amazing gifts for every budget, every personality, and every amazing person in your world. So, settle in, light something cosy and let’s make this the year you’re smugly sipping bubbles on Christmas Eve because your shopping is DONE and you absolutely smashed it.
Secret Santa Gifts
Every year, I love telling you about my favourite twist on Secret Santa – White Elephant. The concept is similar: everyone buys a gift (under £10), you gather your friends or family, toss all of the presents into a pile, and take turns opening and deciding whether you want to steal someone else’s gift or stick with the mysterious contents of an unopened present.
Just remember, in White Elephant, one person's rubbish is another person's treasure. Prepare for the unexpected – you might walk away with a thousand tealights (thanks, David… we’re still finding them), a Fray Bentos pie that you can hide under your best friend’s pillow and see how long it takes them to find it (three days! So much for Princess and the Pie), or a winning scratch card. All in the name of festive fun, right?
This list is perfect for White Elephant or your classic office Secret Santa – especially when you really don’t know what to get Kevin from IT.
Scratch Cards | £10
Because nothing says festive thrill like the chance to become a millionaire while still in your pyjamas.
Local coffee shop voucher | £10
I love doing this for my friends. It means you can support local whilst also giving the gift of caffeine. This will be SO appreciated when waiting for January payday!
Mini versions of Glossier’s iconic scents – an amazing way to try them out before committing to the full size.
Fast, fun, and surprisingly competitive. I guarantee this will keep everyone entertained on Boxing Day!
Spotify Playlist (AKA the modern mixtape)
Ok, here’s a freebie which says I really care about you. Forget burned CDs, make them a Spotify playlist, and call it your digital love letter.
Honestly, amazing for someone who has everything. Would it be weird if I gifted one of these to myself? Just imagine it on the dashboard.
Is this the cosiest way to say, “I adore you… and here’s my face on your legs.”
Does this really need explaining? Cheeky little plant to make your friends giggle.
I feel like anyone would love unwrapping this as part of White Elephant. It’s just so silly and feel like this could be passed between a friendship group forever.
So iconic, immortalise your friendship on a tee worthy of a world tour. Also, you could so do one of these with your mate’s favourite pet! I want one for Snoop, Diddy, and Kimmy now!
Homeware Gift Ideas
Our next category is homeware. You know how passionate I am about making my own home beautiful, and I love to share that joy with my friends. This is perfect for a friend that has just moved house, and you get them something they’ll love for a lifetime.
Because chopping onions is cuter with confetti involved. I love that this is made with recycled materials – guaranteed to spark joy daily.
These frosted acrylic salt and pepper mills are so chic. They’re stylish but practical enough to use every day.
Ok, you’ve seen these before, right? They come in lots of unique designs and animals. So perfect for someone who just loves their dog!
Designed for wine… used by me for Champagne. They make every sip feel like a moment which is exactly what you want at Christmas.
A piece that will last you a lifetime. Plus who doesn’t want cosy Autumn vibes all year around?
The pan to end all pans. Non-stick, non-stress and professional level cooking. I absolutely love these.
There’s something nostalgic about Dan Jamieson’s work to me. Functional art = yes, please. And really, you can never have too many plates? Especially when they’re as great as this.
I absolutely adore the Lucy Mahon prints in our home. People always compliment them. Her style is so unique. I’ve gifted many of her pieces to friends who have adored them.
A plug in light that looks like it has been professionally installed. Warm, golden, art-deco energy!
This cushion was my ultimate “treat yourself” purchase. I love it so much that I bought two! It is plush, luxurious, and so stylish. Expensive but will last an absolute lifetime if you take care of it. (And don’t have a Diddy dog to tear them apart!!)
Coffee Table Books
Coffee table books are honestly one of my favourite gifts to give and receive. They bring personality into a home, spark conversation, and make even the most casual Sunday coffee moment feel luxurious. I rotate mine throughout the year, it’s like redecorating without having to pick up a paintbrush. These are the ones I’m loving for 2025:
David Yarrow - Americas Africa Antarctica Arctic Asia Europe | £85
Iconic wildlife photographer, David Yarrow, who I was lucky enough to work with last year in Africa. This beautiful book contains so many amazing shots and some of his books, you will even spot my work. So perfect for the animal lover in your life.
A celebration of pure artistry. Filled with never-before-seen imagery and archival pieces, perfect for Bowie fans and anyone who loves unapologetic self-
A nostalgic trip through bold fonts, glossy hair, and the era of “cool kids only.” So sentimental for an 80s/90s kid!
My lovely Dom! His book is for the foodie who has tried every TikTok recipe and now wants something beautiful and useful. Creative kitchen inspo at its finest.
Fashion, culture, and trainer obsession all in one. A slam-dunk gift for the street-style lover or self-proclaimed trainer connoisseur. Theo, stop reading this, please!
Dreamy slopes, cosy chalets, roaring fires. This book will have you Googling “Christmas ski trip ideas”!
Summery escapism of my favourite place in the world, in printed form. Think terracotta tiles, boho linens, and sunshine-soaked glamour. Perfect for someone who is missing the summer.
Ultra-niche, hilariously brilliant, and chic in its own weird way. Photos of carpets from Wetherspoons pubs. The ultimate quirky coffee-table conversation starter.
Get me Demarchelier. For the fashion lover. Glossy, glamorous, timeless imagery from one of the greats, it feels like holding Vogue history in your hands
Naomi Campbell in all her iconic glory. Fierce and fabulous. This book belongs in every fashion-lover’s home.
Velvet Smoke
Obviously, I had to include a little Velvet Smoke love. If you didn’t know, my friend Lia and I founded this brand. These are the pieces I gift most, for anyone who appreciates a little luxury, a little cheekiness, and a lot of style.
The icon that is. This sell-out candle has quick become a cult favourite thanks to its incredible scent of Damson rose, Tobacco, Saffron, Amyris & Black pepper. Filthy Rose draws inspiration from the debaucherous 70s disco scene to create a scent that epitomises sexy, smokey dance floors. She also comes in a luxury bath soak for those of you like me who would always choose a tub over a shower!
This is the perfect candle for those friends who complain about missing the summer months because she is that. Baked kiss is the scent of summer that we all crave for in the frosty winter months. Sun-drenched salty skin, creamy suntan lotion, and a bonfire under the stars. Combining the scent of Coconut milk, Smoke, Sea salt, Tobacco, Tuberose, Ylang Ylang, and Sandalwood.
Strike a match, make it sexy. Our new luxury embossed matchbox sleeves add extra filth to any coffee table. A great gift for the person you have no idea what to get.
It must be clear by now that Lia and I make things that we love right!? These designs are for those who love a glass of cold champs and a cosy but chic hoodie.
Because margaritas taste better with a stylish rim. Simple, fun, and very giftable.
Iconic, bold, and hilarious. A statement piece that makes any shelf feel like a set from a 70s movie.
Candles
I love candles all year round. But there’s something so magical about candles at Christmas. I have put together a list, some limited-edition Christmas, and others ultimate favourites that anyone would love in their home.
But before I get on to that I’ve got an absolute treat for you. My wonderful friend, Alice Du Parque’s has put together a mega gift guide specifically for perfume lovers. Because no one knows fragrance like Alice. Read the joy here.
I love this candle every year. Warm, spicy, and subtly festive. Perfect for making your home smell like a Christmas market without leaving your sofa. Be quick, this one will absolutely sell out!
Pine-scented magic. Bring the smell of a perfectly decorated tree into your home without worrying about needles in the carpet.
Floral, complex, and utterly chic. Like having strawberries and cream in a magnificent rose garden. Diptyque just always get it right.
Fresh, Mediterranean vibes. Makes you feel like you’re on a sunlit terrace rather than mid-December in the drizzle.
Dark, moody, and luxe. I absolutely love this in the beauty room!
One from my own brand. You’ve heard me describe this so many times, but it truly smells like indulgence and sophistication wrapped into one.
Honestly, how beautiful are these. Absolutely love the sentiment for a friend who needs a little zen in their life.
I heart Oliver Bonas at Christmas. Festive patterns, cheerful vibes and affordable.
Smells like a French bakery – ideal for brunch lovers or anyone who wants Paris on their coffee table. OR if you’re like me and can’t eat gluten but LOVE the smell of croissants.
Why does this feel so trendy?! Unexpected and utterly stylish. Also great for that quirky friend that you have no idea what to get.
Bath Essentials
Because let’s be honest, the ultimate gift is the gift of a proper soak.
Rich, indulgent and scented like pure luxury. One of my all-time favourite products. Sweet vanilla notes with golden honey. So good.
Exfoliation, hydration, and aromatherapy all in one. Feels like a spa treatment at home.
Because sometimes a tub needs to be decadent. Deep, sultry rose with hints of smokiness for a luxurious soak.
Iconic, classic, and perfect for those who like their bath simple but insanely relaxing.
Sweet almond indulgence that softens and hydrates.
Another favourite of mine. Energising, uplifting and smells like motivation in a bottle?! Perfect for a pre-Christmas pep-up.
Honestly, what’s not to love about Elemis. This is so silky and smells incredible.
Relaxation in a jar. Magnesium meets bliss, perfect for a winter evening wind-down or a post-Christmas dinner soak.
Luxurious, sensory, and indulgent. This baby also looks stunning in your bathroom cabinet.
Sicilian fig-inspired indulgence (yum!), fruity, floral and a little unexpected. Also, 10/10 for packaging.
Beauty Gifts £20 and Under
If you’ve got a smaller budget this year. Do not worry, these gifts can still make an enormous impact without breaking the bank. They’re also perfect for stocking fillers, or just simply treating someone you adore.
Created by my wonderful friend, Chad, who is a celebrity hairdresser and really knows hair! This is hair accessory magic. Not only because it’s elegant and sparkly – but it will also hold up any hair type all day long, including my thick locks!
It might seem basic, but these are the best for storing makeup and skincare. Travel-ready and gift-ready. And soooorrrryyy, but check out the limited edition metallic ones!! I need them all.
Another friend who just KNOWS hair. This is such a great present – because no one likes rogue flyaways. Sleek, smooth, and totally Instagram-worthy.
A little luxury in a cracker. Imagine having these at Friendsmas instead of traditional crackers.
Hydration, shimmer, and ultimate glow. Your skin’s new best friend.
Classic skincare in miniature, perfect for winter survival and skin TLC.
Cult lip shades in a gift-ready set. Charlotte knows what she’s doing when it comes to makeup. Honestly, I can’t imagine a friend that wouldn’t love these!
Ok, it might seem random but do not underestimate the power of a good flannel. Luxurious, soft, and it feels like a treat for everyday skincare routines.
Fun, festive and perfect for those little at-home mani sessions.
I have been absolutely loving Spacemasks at the moment. You put them on and they warm up giving instant relaxation and aromatherapy. The perfect gift for the friend who never relaxes enough.
Mini but mighty, perfect for on-the-go beauty or a first-time try for a friend.
Beauty Gifts £50 and Under
Gifts that feel indulgent, without the full luxury price tag (we’re getting there soon!). Perfect for friends, family, or your “treat yourself” moments.
Sometimes I just don’t want heat on my hair. I have tried so many of these and these works! Glamorous waves without damage.
Iconic formula meets sustainable packaging. Classic and wearable. This can be loved for life! And it can also be personalised.
You know how I feel about the Eight Hour formula. I can not live without it! Cult skincare in a travel-friendly set!
Danessa is the most wonderful woman, and her products are exceptional. This is the most gorgeous kit. Multi-use magic!
I really don’t think you can go wrong with a lovely hand wash and lotion set. It is the ultimate everyday indulgence. The kind of gift people never know they needed.
I love Sculpted by Aimee for their focus on skincare-meets-makeup brilliance. And, IMO, this cushion foundation is the best base launch of the year. Your friend will look so effortless everyday with this.
How wonderful is this? Glow-on-the-go! Another travel-sized hero. Perfect for giving some new products a go or for that friend who is always travelling for work. Also great for anyone who loves a mini skirt like me. Mix Skin Dew in with your body moisturiser and thank me later.
Gifting Chanel is for your besties. This iconic bronzing cream will go down a storm.
Drama for the lashes. One of my favourite mascaras paired with one of my favourite lip products. Luxe, bold, and perfect for beauty obsessives.
I love these because they really last forever. Plus, more multi-tasking magic. Soft colour for lips and cheeks in one easy set.
Perfect for that “I have it together” friend. Skincare simplified but still feels like a proper gift.
I’m sorry, but how beautiful is this collection by Lis? I ADORE it. And as for the glosses?Glitter, glam, and all the sparkle you could want. Festive perfection in a set!
Beauty Gifts £100 and Under
Ok, now we’re getting to the BIG gifts. These are indulgent and guaranteed to make the recipient feel celebrated and special.
Absolutely legendary powders and highlighters. Gives skin a soft-focus, ethereal glow. I also adore their limited edition packaging.
I feel like this would be so wonderful for the mother figure in your life. Skincare for that “I want results” person. This is truly science-meets-luxury in a gift set.
Who doesn’t like a bit of Charlotte Tilbury? Particularly when it comes in a sparkly pink palette of joy. Everything you need for red-carpet-ready glamour in one.
ICONIC cleansing trio. You know how I feel about Elemis cleansers. Hero products in travel-friendly mini sizes. And that new black cherry scent is delicious.
I’ve tried a lot of sleep masks and this is the best. Not only is it comfortable with complete blackout but it also protects your lashes whilst you sleep. Perfect for that friend who loves an LVL or a good nights sleep!
Hydration, glow, and indulgence in a petite but luxurious set. This is such a great price on Tatcha – I guarantee this one will disappear soon so be quick!
This smells unreal. Sun-kissed luxury in a bottle. Perfect for legs, décolletage or just anywhere you want to smother yourself in it!
So many amazing hero products in here. You know I love Sunday Riley. Their CEO serum is a forever fave. This is skincare that feels as good as it looks.
I’ve owned one of these for years. When I was suffering with pain from endo, this helped me so much. It is perfect for stress relief, posture, and pain relief. Do yourself a favour… buy one for you too!
So many of my beauty editor friends recommended this supplement. It helps you rest easy at night and wake up with energy.
Mega Beauty Presents
Ok time for the BIG one. These are THE show-stopping gifts, the kind that would make anyone squeal with excitement. Perfect for someone who loves beauty, tech, and a little indulgence.
GHD - Deluxe Helios Hair Dryer & Chronos Straightener Gift Set | £398 (Worth £578)
Who doesn’t love a bit of GHD. Professional-level styling at home that looks chic AF. Sleek, fast, and just the best.
I’ve been using this beauty for a while now and the difference I have seen is quite remarkable. It’s skincare meets tech. It helps lift, tone, and brighten skin for a serious glow-up moment at home. Beauty bonus, if you use code LISAPOTTER you get 10% off.
This is my all-time fave LED mask! It’s so effective. I love how many different settings it has. From the classic red LED to orange for brightness and blue for calming. It’s super light and completely silent. Spa vibes without leaving the bathroom (or whilst cleaning the house, reading a book, etc.) Um yes, please.
The ultimate beauty lovers gift has to be a Beauty Advent Calendar. These babies are jam-packed with soooo much joy. And there are more to choose from than ever. Check out the full lineup here.
What an unbelievable gift this is! Not only is this a divine fragrance, it’s also a piece that would look magnificent in any home. Just wow!
Everything a beauty lover (or even a makeup artist friend!) could need. Professional brushes that feel impressive and practical all at once.
I’ve used this mirror for years. It’s just so great! It brightens your face perfectly for makeup application. You can also connect it to your phone to take the perfect selfie. It even comes with a magnifying mirror.
Obsessed to say the least! The Gloss Bomb is my favourite lip gloss so to have a whole wardrobe of them is the dream!!
Danessa, Danessa, Danessa. Girl, you’ve done it again. This is the most sensational palette. It’s bold, versatile and creatively inspiring, and its multi-use palette for eyes, lips, and cheeks. Obsessed.
Sleek, understated and chic. But what else would we expect from VB?! A gorgeous set that would be used day in and day out.
The Best Pet Pressies
Because fur babies deserve presents too – and honestly, seeing them get excited is way cuter than most humans.
My dogs love being washed with this. I never thought I’d see the day! It keeps them fluffy, shiny, and smelling amazing. Grooming made effortless.
For pups who love the outdoors. Keeps them warm, dry, and slightly smug. Snoopy loves his, particularly as he’s getting older and feels the cold more.
Absolutely love these washable dog beds. Washable is an essential but the dogs actually sleep on these over the sofa! Therefore, it’s a success in my mind.
Delicious, wholesome, and guaranteed tail wags. Perfect stocking filler for your baby.
Cosy, soft, and ideal for curling up. Also amazing for protecting your furniture!
Interactive play for your kitty. Honestly, hours of entertainment (for them, and you secretly).
This is so cute. A custom decoration for your festive fur family member. Cute and keepsake-worthy. Perfect for that friend who is just obsessed with their pet.
Keeps claws away from your sofa and gives your cat the ultimate playground.
Post-walk drying, made adorable. Who doesn’t want a mini bathrobe-wearing pup?
Comfort on the move. Perfect for road trips, weekends away, or even airport lounges.
Plant Lovers
Who doesn’t love plants?! This is for that green-thumbed friend who absolutely loves gardening or has a home stuffed full of house plants.
Cute, cheerful, and practical. It makes watering your greenery feel a little more like a ritual.
Anything David Attenborough themed is a yes from me. I’m wearing David Attenborough socks as I write this (yes, really). Tiny pots, big personality. Perfect for your desk jungle.
Let your friend choose their own botanical bits at my all-time favourite garden centre.
For the organised plant parent. Stylish, practical, and ready for soil, water, and whatever else gardening throws at you.
Don’t sleep on gardening gloves. They’re so great for pruning a cactus or anything in your garden. Essential for protecting your hands.
Timeless and versatile. A pot that makes plants look even better than they already do.
Precision meets design. A tool any gardener would love to receive.
Ok this might feel weird in winter but trust me, sun protection ALL year-round people. Perfect for outdoor gardeners!
Gifts For the Person Who Has Everything
These are for that impossible-to-buy-for friend. Fun, thoughtful, and often unexpectedly brilliant.
Omg, I tried this recently and it makes your washing smell unbelievable! Because even mundane tasks can feel like a treat with the right scent and packaging.
For that friend you know well, or maybe a little something for yourself! Beautiful, comfortable, and perfectly unwrappable under the tree.
This is incredible. Vintage vibes meet creative photography. A dream gift for hobbyists or design lovers – or just that friend who always has their camera out!
Art Gallery Membership
If you are in London, think V&A, Tate, or Royal Academy. This is such a great gift for someone who doesn’t need anything extra in their house. Experience over objects. A gift that keeps giving all year round.
One gift, twelve moments of delight. The gift that truly keeps on giving and the gift I most enjoy gifting myself weekly.
Perfect for music lovers. Stylish, powerful, and makes any space instantly cooler.
Karen’s silk pjs are my faves. They are so cosy, and ideal for someone who wants comfort without compromising style.
More experiences over things. A ticket to a show creates memories, not clutter.
I would LOVE to find this under my tree (hint, hint, Theo!). This is just so amazing – just because!
Playful, chic, and useful – a gift that’s fun but practical too. She’s expensive but will last that bougee friend a lifetime.
This is genius. It’s basically a tool to keep your sparkling wine sparkly for up to 4 weeks!! You know I LOVE a Champs. But if I just fancy a glass or two, it’s such a waste, well not any more!
Best Christmas Wapping Paper
A great gift deserves to look beautiful. It’s the first thing someone sees, and it can make even a small present feel extra special. Here are my favourite ideas for 2025, from sustainable to statement-making. Oh, and if you need any wrapping tips, here’s some from the wrapping queen, Dawny.
Brown Paper & Newspaper
This is something I’ve done for years. Classic, versatile and endlessly chic. Bonus points for tying it with colourful ribbons or twine. You can also doodle or write cute messages on it.
Quirky, playful, and perfect for the friend who loves all things food and design.
We all have that friend who never wants to rip the wrapping paper. Why not try this beautiful, reusable and environmentally conscious option.
Make a statement with a pop of colour and sparkle. Ideal for the friend who loves a little drama under the tree. Plus, it’s sustainable!
Tiny, thoughtful, and personalised touches make the gift unforgettable. Perfect for someone who appreciates the tiny details.
Phew… let’s wrap this up shall we! And there we have it – my Ultimate Gift Guide for 2025! Whether you are tackling Secret Santa, spoiling your bestie, or sneaking a little treat for yourself, I hope this list has given you ideas that are fun and thoughtful.
The best part? Wrapping, giving and watching someone’s face light up is honestly half the joy. So, take your time, add personal touches, sneak in a cheeky ribbon or sprig of holly and enjoy the magic of gifting.
Here’s to stress-free shopping, perfectly wrapped presents, and a festive season that’s exactly how you want it. Happy gifting and remember you do not have to wait for December to feel festive. Start sprinkling that magic now!
Love,
Lisa xx
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