“Yankee swap gifts for about $100”
https://www.wsj.com/buyside/gifts/gift-guides/white-elephant-gift-ideas?page=1
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Shopping for holiday gifts in general can be hard enough, but a white elephant game, in which each person has the choice to either unwrap a new present or to steal another’s, presents its own challenges. You need something everyone will want — including, say, a co-worker you don’t know well or people you haven’t met yet, like your cousin’s new boyfriend — and you probably have to adhere to a price limit. To help you find a gift that’s guaranteed to get stolen, we asked experts to share their surefire picks.
Savvy charging station
ANKERMagGo Wireless Charging Station (3-in-1, Foldable Pad)
INIU Portable Charger
In the age of electronics, a charging station is something almost everyone could benefit from, says Jenny Dreizen, an etiquette expert and co-founder of Fresh Starts Registry. We’re fans of this foldable, UFO-like charging station from Anker that allows you to wirelessly charge an iPhone, Apple Watch and set of AirPods at once. Also consider a portable power bank, like this pocket-size option that comes in at a lower price point and can be used on the go.
Essential oil diffuser
VITRUVI Stone Ceramic Diffuser
$99 AT NORDSTROM
$123 Save $24
What better time than the holiday season to prioritize self-care? Leena Alsulaiman, a San Francisco-based personal stylist and creative consultant, says Vitruvi’s stone diffuser is a win for both design aficionados and wellness devotees. The diffuser can cover up to 500 square feet of space over the course of four or eight hour run times; “Plus, it could pass for a modern art piece,” she notes.
Lash and brow kit
GRANDE COSMETICSLash and Brow Vibes Mascara and Lash Serum Set
This lash and brow serum set is the perfect addition to a grab bag or white elephant gift, especially if you’re among beauty lovers, says New York City-based fashion stylist Gabriela Langone. The long-wearing serum and mascara are both travel size, making them ideal for those on the go for the holidays.
Colorful wine chiller
YETIRambler Wine Chiller
Gifts that upgrade everyday life are always a smart pick for white elephant presents. This Yeti wine chiller, which has double-walled vacuum insulation and is dishwasher safe, is great for those who love to take happy hour outdoors. It’s a favorite of Diane Gottsman, etiquette expert and owner of the Protocol School of Texas. The chiller comes in 12 colors and “is both useful and tasteful,” Gottsman says. She recommends pairing it with a bottle for a gift party guests will covet.
Inspirational book
BRIANNA WIESTThe Pivot Year
A motivational book will help a giftee set intentions for the new year. “The Pivot Year” by Brianna Wiest, a year-long guide to changing one’s life, is Gottsman’s pick: “There is something in it for anyone who picks it up,” she says. Within its pages, they’ll find 365 daily meditations to ponder throughout the year. For more ideas, see our guide to the best self-help books.
Extra hand for cooking
UNCOMMON GOODSAutomatic Pan Stirrer with Timer
When you’re cooking at home, sometimes you need an extra hand. With this automatic pan stirrer, you can focus on the next steps in your recipe while this handy gadget stirs your sauce, stew or risotto all on its own. It has three speeds and simplifies anything that needs continuous stirring — it does the work all on its own, without any hand holding, says Miami-based innovation and technology expert Steve Greenberg, host of the YouTube gadget game show “What the Heck Is That?” They’ll think of you whenever they eat their low-effort risotto or marinara. Check out these other great gifts for chefs.
Luxe laundry gear
CAPRI BLUEVolcano Dryer Ball Kit
Three certainties in life are death, taxes and laundry. So this set of high-quality, machine-wash accessories is something virtually everyone can use. It includes three reusable wool dryer balls and fragrance oil to soften fabrics, prevent wrinkles and make it all smell nice. Made with grapefruit and tangerine essential oils, Volcano is that rare fragrance everyone seems to love,” says Corpus Christi, Texas-based decorating and DIY expert Monica Benavidez.
Cutest waffle iron in the galaxy
STAR WARSThe Mandalorian Mini Waffle Maker
Everything is cuter when mini, and that certainly applies to waffles. A favorite of Sutrathada, this 4-inch waffle maker has nonstick plates that pop out a Baby Yoda design (or Grogu, for fans of The Mandalorian) in minutes. Best of all, notes New York City-based lifestyle expert Melanie Sutrathada, it takes up very limited counter space, so college students and apartment dwellers won’t mind if it’s the gift they go home with.
Drinking buddy
SOFA STUDMugworthy Sofa Stud
Some will find this cup holder gift purely comical but others will find it useful too, says Greenberg, who loves it as a gift for couch-potato types. It’s designed with a bottom “fin” that sticks between the sofa cushions and can hold their drink upright above the surface to prevent spills.
Tiny tracker
APPLEAirTag
At under 2 inches in diameter, this is one of the easiest gifts you’ll ever have to wrap. The recipient can attach one of these Apple AirTags to anything — even their pet’s collar — and start tracking it with the “Find My” app on their phone. People who tend to lose their keys, wallet or bag will especially appreciate it, says Kristen Gall, San Francisco-based president of Rakuten, who also uses them on luggage when she travels to alleviate lost bag stress. The tiny metal coin works by sending a Bluetooth signal that can be detected by devices with the “Find My” app; they send that information to iCloud, and then you can see the location of your missing item on a map.
Kitchen helper
HAMMACHER SCHLEMMERAutomatic Jar Opener
Chances are, they don’t already own this handy (literally) device that can come to the rescue the next time your recipient struggles to open a jar of dill pickles or strawberry jam. Greenberg is a fan because it’s easy to use; all they need to do is place it on the stubborn lid, and it will grip it tight while two curved “legs” hold the jar’s exterior in place. Once they press the button, a motor will spin and instantly untwist the lid.
Not your normal puzzle
FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT Double Sided Puzzle
PINTOO 3D Puzzle Vase
Many people found a new passion for puzzling at the height of the pandemic, and it’s safe to say that hobby hasn’t died down. Valerie Gordon of Valerie Confectionsin Glendale, Calif. suggests bringing an interesting puzzle to a gift exchange, like this double-sided option where one side features Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater house and the other shows an aerial blueprint of the Fallingwater house grounds. Even more funky, this 3D puzzlebecomes a vase you can actually use — fun and practical. It’s also available in seven designs. It’s also one of our favorites from the trending Google Holiday 100 list.
High quality hair towel
CROWN AFFAIRThe Towel
Eden Delaune, Fort Worth, Texas-based gift consultant and founder of luxury gift consulting service Bisette, recommends this hair towel from Crown Affair, which is made from a microfiber waffle knit fabric. It’s designed to protect your hair after washing and work on all hair types, from straight or wavy to curly or coiled, so pretty much anyone who ends up with it can enjoy it. Delaune likes it because it “helps cut down drying time and isn’t abrasive,” she says.
Oprah’s planner
OPRAH DAILYOprah’s The Life You Want Planner
We all know Oprah gives great advice, so why not try out one of her go-tos? Tami Claytor, a New York City-based image and etiquette consultant, says Oprah’s The Life You Want Planner makes a great holiday gift since “it’s a multi-functional item that combines different activities people engage in at the beginning of a new year,” like journaling and setting goals. The journal includes writing prompts, quotes and advice from Oprah herself to help you set weekly intentions, and it has a gorgeous linen hard cover. It also makes a great stocking stuffer.
Nourishing pout protector
LANEIGELip Sleeping Mask
Self-care accessories tend to be crowd pleasers, and this lip mask that recently went viral on TikTok is a favorite among teens and 20-somethings especially, says Gall. The colorful little tub of balm is formulated with antioxidants and vitamin C to hydrate lips when applied nightly. The Peppermint version feels festive, but it also comes in Berry, Vanilla, Mango and even Gummy Bear, all of which would make great stocking stuffers too. (For more stocking stuffer ideas, check out our roundup of unique ones for men and women that are fun and useful.)
Microwavable cookware
ANYDAYThe Medium Shallow Dish
Anyday’s Medium Shallow Dish is the perfect introduction to microwave cooking for someone who has mostly used the appliance to reheat leftovers or nuke popcorn. It can be used for pretty much any dish that cooks with water or steam, meaning everything from eggs to rice to fish to vegetables, and cooks much faster than traditional methods. The company’s website has plenty of recipes, so the gift-grabber will be ready to go from day one.
Belt bag
LULULEMONEverywhere Belt Bag
Abrams also says practical products with brand recognition make great white elephant gifts. She likes the Everywhere Belt Bag from beloved athleisure brand Lululemon, which is designed for people on the move in need of a versatile accessory to store their phone, keys and wallet. It has an adjustable strap and is made of water-repellant fabric, and it comes in 12 colors including Terra Orange, Grey Sage and Pink Pastel.
Gentle hand wash
HOMECOURTNeroli Leaf Hand Wash
Hand soap is a kitchen and bathroom essential that everyone uses, so why not offer a gift-worthy upgrade? Delaune likes the Homecourt Neroli Leaf Hand Wash, since it smells fresh and the bottle looks great next to any sink. “Such a routine task is really transformed when you have a luxe hand wash like this one,” she says. The soap features argan oil, Australian hibiscus flower extract and coconut-derived surfactants, offering a formula that moisturizes and hydrates your skin.
Attach anywhere mirror
HAMMACHER SCHLEMMERThe Attach Anywhere LED Mirror
The Attach Anywhere LED Mirror is a versatile bathroom accessory that can attach to any surface, and Claytor likes that it has two different options for power: USB and battery. “It’s accessible to people who may not be tech savvy or use USB ports,” she says, so it makes a great gift for anyone.
Gold measuring spoons
WILLIAMS SONOMAGold Measuring Spoons
Delaune recommends these gold measuring spoonsfrom Williams Sonoma to add a festive touch to a giftee’s kitchen. “Holiday baking feels that much more special when measuring with these,” she says. Plus, they’re beautiful enough to leave out on the kitchen counter. You can also buy their measuring cup counterpart, or make it a set and get both the cups and spoons.
Face mask minis
PETER THOMAS ROTH Masking Minis Kit
Claytor loves the skincare brand Peter Thomas Roth and has been recommending its Masking Minis kit to clients for years. She likes the gift set’s colorful packaging, which she says helps with presentation, an important aspect of any gift. It includes five of the brand’s best-selling masks that are designed to hydrate, exfoliate, soothe, refine and lift the skin.
Defrosting tray
HAMMACHER SCHLEMMERThe Faster Defrosting Tray
The first time Claytor saw a defrosting tray was at an “As Seen on TV” store decades ago, and has since named it as a great gift for home cooks. She likes this tray that is designed to safely thaw meat up to 50% faster than other methods. Plus, the reverse side of the tray works as a cutting board with a juice groove and rubber edges.
All-in-one exfoliator
HAMMACHER SCHLEMMERWaterproof Electronic Massaging Exfoliator
$30 AT HAMMACHER SCHLEMMER
$80 Save $50
Claytor also recommends this waterproof electronic massaging exfoliator brush, which she describes as an all-in-one product that replaces numerous bath and shower accouterments. The spinning head cleanses, exfoliates, refreshes and softens the skin for a head-to-toe spa experience, making it a versatile personal care product everyone at the gift exchange will fight for.
The ultimate charcuterie board
ROYALHOUSE Bamboo Cheese Board and Knife Set
Any avid host or meat and cheese lover can always use another chic serving piece, which is why Sutrathada suggests this cleverly designed, water-resistant, bamboo charcuterie board. It comes with two grooves for condiments and crackers and a set of four cheese knives — and if you want to step things up, pair it with some nice cheese and your favorite smoked meat to get them started.
Giftable greenery
COSTA FARMSMoney Tree
Plant parenting can be soothing and rewarding, so when in doubt, a pretty potted option is a smart pick, Sutrathada says. Whether you have a major green thumb or have never tried gardening, this money tree will look great on your windowsill. The 3- to 4-foot-tall plant comes in a ceramic planter pot that will go with just about any room.
Apothecary cloche
SKEEM DESIGN The Match Cloche
Anyone can appreciate the beauty of this vintage-style container that holds 120 matches. Made of handblown glass, it has a removable cork stopper and flint — they can keep it on a countertop alongside their favorite candles for an easy, and elegant, way to light them up.
Brass picture light
RAIFOOLLYMetal Art Light for Display
Originality is half the battle in white elephant exchanges. “We all have that friend who seems to have everything,” says Benevidez. “But do they have a rechargeable picture light? Probably not.” This 16-inch, battery-powered picture light instantly makes any art on your wall look gallery-worthy. It’s dimmable, so you can use it over a computer or mirror as well. Benevidez also recommends it for the hard-to-shop-for “home decor fanatic” in your life. “Trust me,“ she says, “because I am one.”
Quirky coffee mug
MODERN PAPERIE CO.Hold On Let Me Overthink This Coffee Mug
LUMSBURRY Build-On Brick Coffee Mug
“Traditionally, White Elephant gifts are quirky, funny gag gifts,” Claytor explains, “but they’ve evolved into items that people would actually enjoy and use.” To pay homage to traditional White Elephant gift exchanges, Claytor likes this quippy coffee mug, since mugs are a household essential that everyone uses. For something more creative, check out the Build-On Brick coffee mug, which comes with three packs of building bricks that can be connected to each side of the mug, including its handle, plus two toys and one minifigure. Choose from nine colors.
Luxury bathtub caddy
ROYAL CRAFT WOODLuxury Bathtub Caddy Tray
Not everyone takes baths, but this luxury bathtub caddy tray from Royal Craft Wood might change that. With slots for a phone, candle, wine glass, towel, soap and more, this adjustable tray is any bather’s dream. It expands from 29.5 inches to 43 inches, so it works for wide tubs, too. Plus, choose from seven colors including Natural (pictured), Black, Blue and Pink.
Touchscreen gloves
MOSHIDigits Winter Touchscreen Gloves
We highly recommend these touchscreen gloves for typing in cold weather, and at $30 a pair, they’re a great pick for a gift exchange. The gloves allow your recipients’ fingers’ electrical charge to pass through the material and activate their phone’s screen. Made of an acrylic/nylon/polyester blend with a soft microfiber lining, they’ll keep their hands warm while still allowing them to scroll and text with ease.
Luxe eye masks
GRACE & STELLAEnergy Drink Eye Masks, 24 Count
$24 AT GRACE & STELLA
$30 Save $6
Who wouldn’t want to receive an energizing boost to their skincare routine? These eye masks promise to reduce dark circles, cool eyes to reduce puffiness and moisturize to decrease the appearance of fine lines. This set comes with 24 pairs, so your giftee can enjoy them for months to come.
Tailgating table
CAMERONSAll-in-One Tailgating Table
Whether you’re exchanging gifts with football fans, campers, hikers or barbecue lovers, this all-in-one tailgating table is sure to impress. Claytor recommends the product since it’s “fun and functional and keeps everything organized.” It features an insulated cooler that will keep beverages ice cold, four cup holders and a mesh food basket for snacks. The table is also lightweight and collapsible, making it easy to bring along to any event.