11 Experience Gifts That Anyone Can Enjoy

For the one that plans like it's a full-time job: 2025 17-Month Monogram Planner

Is there ever a better gift than something that'll help them keep their life in order? 2025, we're coming for you.

For the cozy-chic gal: UGG Classic Mini Boots

These mini UGG boots are so on-trend right now, any cool fashion gal will adore them as a gift.

Bring street style to their closet: The Oversized Brigitte Satchel by Melie Bianco

This bag fits everything your giftee could possibly need in the day-to-day – and then some.

For the skincare-obsessed: NuFACE Mini+ Gift Set

This slightly-bougie skincare device tones and lifts your face while targeting signs of aging, like fine lines and wrinkles. It'll be such a luxe upgrade to your giftee's current routine!

For the girl on the go: New Balance 530 Sneakers

These fashion-forward sneakers work well across a variety of outfits and occasions, like hitting the gym, going on a hot girl walk, or running weekend errands. The cool girl in your life will love pairing them with her favorite matching workout set and a sleek trench coat when it's cold out.

Being trendy is too easy: Cherry Lips Bag Charm

Bag charms are all the rage right now, so help them hop on the trend with this adorably eye-catching keychain.

To wear with her cowgirl boots: Worn/West Let's Go For a Walk Trucker Hat

Trucker hats are the perfect head gear for a casual-get up. Styles that make a statement like this one are perfect for the Western fashion lover!

Seasonal scent for their space: Icon Woody Fresh Balsam & Cedarwood Glass Candle

Anthropologie's candle selection is bomb – you're bound to find a scent your giftee will approve of. We recommend this seasonal woody scent encased in a festive, tree-dotted glass!

Unique lighter that looks like decor: Nomatiq Flume Electric Lighter

Pick up this electric lighter to coordinate with any candle gift. We promise they've never owned a lighter like this!

Okay, she's a bookworm: I-SEA Aviator Readers

Whether she's working through her current TBR list or starting off the workweek, these chic readers will help her see clearly. You can snag 'em in a handful of colors and different strengths based on her vision.

Straight to the point for the shoe lover: Maeve Pointed-Toe Moto Mary Jane Flats

All the cool girls are rocking pointed flats for winter. Bonus points for this pair being metallic!

1. A candle to help your fave homebody wind down after a long day out & about: Homecourt Balsam Fireplace Candle
2. A cute little self-care set for the best girls' night in: Pinch Provisions Super Spa Set
3. For the homebody who always has their nose in a book: Where is the Bookstore Embroidered Hat
4. For your bestie who'd just rather do her nails herself: Le Mini Macaron Nail Lacquer Trio Set
   
5. For the one who values comfort above literally everything else: Seavees Apres Puff Slipper in Space Silver
6. For the cat-lover who just loves cuddles: Cat Lady Socks
7. For the queen of kitschy decor: Ginger Ceramic Stoneware Sugar Pot
8. For the at-home bartender: How to Make a Name-tini Book
9. For the one with big ideas & even bigger to-do lists: Papier Scribble & Scrawl
10. For the one who just loves a lil soak: Stresscare Trio
11. For the gal who absolutely adores a sweet treat: Coop's Original Hot Fudge & Salted Caramel Sauce
12. For the friend who totally loves a cute hobby: Piecework Mini Zodiac Puzzle
13. For the at-home gym buff: CocoaVia Cardio Health Cocoa Powder Stick Packs
14. For the gal who loves a little lippie: Hydrashine Lipstick Balm Trio
15. For the one who always has the best playlists: Burga AirPods Pro Case
16. For your bestie who adds a little extra oomph to her outfit: We Dream in Colour Gold Bird Earrings
17. For the friend that's just a little easily overwhelmed: Ban.do Oversized Feel Better De-Stress Ball
18. For that person who always puts a smile on your face: FP Movement Smiling Buti Ankle Socks

Dive Into Our Cute & Cozy Stocking Stuffers Here!

A candle to help your fave homebody wind down after a long day out & about: Homecourt Balsam Fireplace Candle

I am in love with Homecourt’s seasonal fragrance, Balsam Fireplace. It mimics the scent of a crackling fire (think fresh evergreen, warm spice, and salty amber) and I can't get enough of it, from the candle to thehand wash. Each candle burns for 60 hours, giving you plenty of winter nights by the fire.

A cute little self-care set for the best girls' night in: Pinch Provisions Super Spa Set

Enjoy self care nights on the regular with these eight spa essentials, from a silky sleep mask and gua sha tool to an exfoliating mitt, hair clip, shower steamer, and scalp massager. Scrunchie included!

For the homebody who always has their nose in a book: Where is the Bookstore Embroidered Hat

We found the perfect gift for the book lover/homebody/Francophile crossover (pretty much our entire staff). And it's stocking stuffer friendly!

For your bestie who'd just rather do her nails herself: Le Mini Macaron Nail Lacquer Trio Set

Manis and nail art at home are prettier with a pop of color. Here are three shimmering shades to drop into your favorite homebody's stocking.

For the one who values comfort above literally everything else: Seavees Apres Puff Slipper in Space Silver

Cozy, cozy! These Après Puff Slip-Ons are not only so cute, but also so incredibly comfortable. Perfect for the WFHer or even someone who enjoys the comfort of the great outdoors (they're that durable), these fleece lined slippers are the best gift for just about every woman on your list.

For the cat-lover who just loves cuddles: Cat Lady Socks

So fun and playful, these mesh socks are a great way to flex your cat lady pride.

For the queen of kitschy decor: Ginger Ceramic Stoneware Sugar Pot

Sugar cubes in a ceramic gingerbread house make the holidays and your morning coffee routine a little brighter.

For the at-home bartender: How to Make a Name-tini Book

Cocktails at home, but make it personalized! OMG, how cute is this book with a signature drink for them! You get to personalize it based on their drink preferences and customize the cover. It includes a total of 29 recipes to ring in the new year.

For the one with big ideas & even bigger to-do lists: Papier Scribble & Scrawl

For the homebody who is always in their heads, this book is great for jotting down to-dos, thoughts, ideas, inspirations and more. You can personalize the cover with their name, a fun title, an alter ego or a special quote too.

For the one who just loves a lil soak: Stresscare Trio

These transdermal bath soaks give your homebody buddy up to 5 days of the stress-reducing magnesium, boron, and Omega 3s to reduce anxiety, aches, and stress.

For the gal who absolutely adores a sweet treat: Coop's Original Hot Fudge & Salted Caramel Sauce

These award-winning toppers, from a women-owned company, make your desserts a little extra. (A little naked scoop once in a while is just as good too!)

For the friend who totally loves a cute hobby: Piecework Mini Zodiac Puzzle

Homebodies who love to puzzle will enjoy this mini stocking-size one inspired their zodiac sign!

For the at-home gym buff: CocoaVia Cardio Health Cocoa Powder Stick Packs

Hot chocolate, but make it healthy! These packets contain cocoa flavanols, which support heart health, and are perfect for adding to your yogurt, favorite drink, or even oatmeal. A heart-healthy stocking stuffer to show you love them....aww.

For the gal who loves a little lippie: Hydrashine Lipstick Balm Trio

This kit from Colleen Rothschild Beauty offers a range of buildable hues from barely there for staying in to bold for going out. Get a dewy, glossy finish inspired by your favorite travel destination, like Sipping Sangria red.

For the one who always has the best playlists: Burga AirPods Pro Case

Choose from more than 300+ unique designs and a matching set of cases for all your tech. Whether they're free spirits or v demure, there's a pattern for everyone.

For your bestie who adds a little extra oomph to her outfit: We Dream in Colour Gold Bird Earrings

Give your homebody a reason to dress up with these beautifully detailed brass birds, perfect for Zoom calls!

For the friend that's just a little easily overwhelmed: Ban.do Oversized Feel Better De-Stress Ball

Figure out your next life move with this squishy dice for stressful days.

For that person who always puts a smile on your face: FP Movement Smiling Buti Ankle Socks

Whether they're working out or Netflix marathoning, these performance-ready socks are fun and happy-inducing. One percent of FP Movement net proceeds benefit its non-profit partner Girls Inc.

1. Talking About Money Can Expose Hidden Feelings

It's impossible to know how someone feels every second of the day, but we probably all think we have a good understanding of the people we're close to. But people are capable of hiding how they feel about something or burying their discomfort until certain situations 'expose' them. Why does it seem like money has a way of doing this?

Both Irwin and Dunlap agree that "money is taboo," leading people to avoid conversations about it. "Data tells us that we are more likely to talk about any other taboo topic—sex, politics, religion, even death—before we’ll talk about money," says Dunlap. West agrees and says, "Money is like that one friend who’s incredibly helpful but totally untrustworthy—everyone likes what they bring to the table, but no one wants to talk about them directly." Did you think of someone specific? It's okay because I did too!

The problem is that money can make "hidden insecurities come out, old sibling rivalries rear their heads," and more, according to West. "Even something like 'who paid for what' can suddenly become a life-or death conversation," she says. It's strange because Irwin says a Wells Fargo study shows that "many Americans across all ages are worried about money," proving we're all thinking about it, despite our avoidance issues.

2. And Money Can Also Create Unease In Conversations

"When we don’t have open conversations about money, we’re left to navigate it on our own, which can keep us feeling underpaid, overworked, or unsure about our financial situation," Dunlap points out. She feels "discussing money requires a huge amount of vulnerability" which "isn't easy for everyone." You may have seen how other topics are swept under the rug by family members or friends based on reasons they're not ready to talk about.

Though Irwin believes saying something like saying, "'Here's what's keeping me up at night' or 'here's what my goals are' could strengthen connections," Dunlap knows that "shame, comparison, or fear of judgement" can cause people to remain tight-lipped about their finances.

If you've experienced a weird moment because of money or had to be the unfortunate witness of an awkward conversation, my apologies. It's not fun no matter who's involved because, unfortunately, "money carries layers of emotions, like pride and insecurity, that turn simple conversations into potential minefields," says West.

Dunlap says there's a silver lining if people are willing to be open, however. "The key is respecting each person’s comfort level, and encouraging openness if they're willing to meet you there. It’s not going to be perfect at first, but by starting to share more about your own financial experiences, you can start to break the cycle of shame and fear around money. You might be surprised at how quickly others are willing to open up too."

3. Making Assumptions About Other’s Money Status And Financial Situation Can Lead To Disrespecting Boundaries

No one's saying you should never lend friends money, but being mindful about the decision is worth noting. West feels "it's complicated" while Dunlap believes the issue "can be tricky." There's a chance a low-key loan becomes an expectation that you should dish out money every time someone needs help, even if you're trying to maintain your own bills. "Lending money to a friend is like sharing your Netflix password—simple in theory, but one wrong move, and things get weird," West forewarns.

Dunlap also says, "When you lend money to someone close to you, there's always the chance that you won’t get it back. You want to be mentally prepared for that! Otherwise, it can strain your finances and your relationship. The emotional toll can be just as heavy, as unpaid loans can lead to resentment or awkwardness." It's not unusual to hear about certain friends being unreliable in more ways than one after you've let them borrow something. Unfortunately, Irwin indicates this happens because some people "don't expect to give something back that they've borrowed."

Because of this, Dunlap thinks "it's best to avoid loans if possible." Should you decide to move forward with helping out a friend who's in a bind, make sure you're both in agreement about repayment and what to expect moving forward. West says "having clear terms" or "gifting a small amount if you can afford it" is like "buying their friendship insurance." The latter is something Dunlap agrees with because it "helps prevent resentment if they can't pay you back as planned." Plus, she feels it also "keeps the loan within an amount you're okay with potentially losing."

4. Lending Money Is A Slippery Slope That Can Lead To Distrust And Resentment

It's amazing how money can lead to a friendship breakup if boundaries aren't created or respected. "Money is a sneaky little devil who can push everyone’s buttons. It can cause resentment if one person feels taken advantage of or someone’s 'casual loan' becomes an epic saga of unpaid IOUs," West says. Not only that, but Dunlap knows "money can strain relationships between friends and family by highlighting differences in how we value it, expect to use it, or feel about sharing it."

Friends and family members shouldn't take each other's kindness for granted, but human nature is fickle at times. That's not an indicator that someone you love is a "bad" person, but they may feel like you owe them your time and money. However, Irwin says this isn't "de facto that that person is entitled." Still, Dunlap is more than aware how this can play out. "For example, it can lead to resentment if one person is always the one picking up the tab, while another might feel uncomfortable or indebted because they’ve been helped financially," she says.

On the other hand, it can show up a little differently in families. She adds, "Issues like unequal inheritance or constant requests for financial help can lead to deep emotional tension. Money can also become a tool for power imbalances, where one person feels in control and the other feels dependent, and that can mess with trust and respect."

When certain negative patterns show up in relationships, it can make people decide to take a step back from being available. "And once distrust settles in, it’s hard to shake; nobody wants to be 'that friend' who’s forever dodging a Venmo request or getting side-eye from relatives at every family BBQ," West points out. How many times have you built up a wall with the people you love because of repeated unreliability or the expectation that you're supposed to help them whenever they ask? If you didn't hesitate to think of a moment, you're living proof that distrust can affect even the closest relationships.

Dunlap says, "When money becomes a main factor in a relationship, it can overshadow the connection, making it difficult to maintain genuine trust and understanding. You can avoid this by having open conversations with friends and family about your financial situation. Clear communication can help keep the focus on the relationship, not the money."

5. You Can Worry You're Not A Good Friend Or Family Member For Setting Money Boundaries

Worrying about how other people feel can keep us from setting boundaries. There's a difference between being an empath and a people pleaser, but it's easy to blur the lines. You can absolutely empathize with someone's hardship while knowing you're not in the position to lend the amount they may be looking for. I'm a huge fan of saying that two things can be true at once — because they can.

Irwin says you need to "address the conversation head on" if a friend does ask you for a loan. Your response may depend on if their ask was "emotionally-charged or "in an uncomfortable environment," but Irwin doesn't recommend ignoring it. If you're not in the space to respond, here's what she suggests saying in a "timely" fashion:

1. "Hey, I need time to think about this. Let me get back to you."
2. "We can help you, but here are our boundaries."
3. "We see and understand you, but we're unable to help because we're trying to pay off debt or save for _______."

Yes, Financial Boundaries Are Essential

Don't think you need to create financial boundaries for yourself and your friends? Think again. West says, "Establishing some ground rules is a lifesaver—think of it adding airbags to the friendship. Setting boundaries early on, like when you’re still in the happy, non-monetary part of the relationship, can protect both sides if things get sticky."

Here's how she advises you proceed with creating boundaries:

1. Keep it light and be honest; you’re not making a prenuptial agreement here, just letting them know you’d like to avoid “financial fireworks” later.
2. Say, “I’m your friend, not your ATM.” It’s funny but helps set the tone that your wallet isn’t a free-for-all.
3. Set a gift cap, such as, "I'm happy to chip in for brunch or a birthday, but let’s not get into home-loan territory.”
4. If you do lend, draw up a repayment plan. Think of it as adulting with a side of accountability to avoid “accidentally” becoming their financial fairy godmother.
5. Limit talk of big financial choices unless you’re genuinely invested together. After all, nobody needs to know how much their friend spends on avocado toast or scented candles, let alone home renos.
6. A little humor and some boundaries go a long way. You’ll save yourself a lot of awkwardness and keep the friendships intact, one “non-loaned” dollar at a time!

Tori says, "It's so important to have transparent conversations about money, set clear boundaries, and ensure that relationships are prioritized in any money exchange." Here are a few things you can try:

1. Communicate about your budget with a “gratitude sandwich.” Say you’re invited to an outing—a dinner, or a sports game—that isn’t within your budget right now. You can respond with the “gratitude sandwich.” The “pieces of bread” are positive, and the “meat” is the money thing you’re scared to say. Thank that person for the invite, let them know it’s not within budget right now, and then offer a cheaper alternative, reassuring them that you’d really love to see them. Offering an alternative reminds that person that declining their invitation isn’t about them, and you still care about them. In doing so, you prioritize your budget AND your relationship in the process.When in doubt, remember that no is a complete sentence. You don’t need to overcomplicate things, and sometimes a simple “no” is all you need.
2. Set expectations early. When planning trips with friends, discuss the budget and how costs will be split upfront. Having these conversations ensures that everyone is on the same page and helps avoid any misunderstandings. It creates a supportive, stress-free environment where everyone can enjoy the experience together without any added worries!

The Final Verdict:

Once you've weighed your options and considered what you need, you can decide to loan your friend money. However, Irwin wants you to consider being formal about it. "You can absolutely draft a promissory note or loan agreement so that your friend knows how serious you are about your boundaries. If you want, you can also put an interest rate on it," she says.

It's not to hurt your friend's feelings, but it is a boundary you can put in place so they think to themselves, "This is truly a loan because I'm borrowing money with the intent to pay it back," Irwin says. It could change the dynamics of your friendship, but it's more about being "purposeful about the language being used" so you and your friend can both move in the "right direction," according to Irwin.

If the idea of creating a 'loan agreement' sounds icky to you, Dunlap wants you to seriously consider it as "an extra bit of protection." She says all you need to do, again, is "try setting up a simple contract to outline repayment terms" because it "can help both of you stay on the same page and avoid misunderstandings down the road."

Her ultimate piece of advice? "Only lend what you're comfortable giving and potentially losing, and keep open communication to maintain trust and respect in the relationship."