The 2024 Stocking Stuffers Gift Guide
Small bits and bobs for everyone you're shopping for this season.
If your inbox is anything like mine, you’re already inundated with gift guides. The best ones I’ve found either have a narrower scope or a very distinct point of view, so in the interest of saving you time and making this digestible (and short enough for email), my first guide for holiday gifts is sticking to the smallest, most often overlooked side of gifting; stocking stuffers. I tried to keep this relatively affordable while ensuring each recommendation would be special enough to elicit a little surprise and delight. I’ve also kept this free for all readers, so feel free to share it with your friends!
For your loved ones
Good Things Happen Keychain, $15
This is a great little token for anyone you’re close with and anyone who might need an occasional pick-me-up. When the pandemic hit back in 2020, I bought one for all my closest friends.
Personalized 1941-Style Zippo, $27
I’d omit the second line with the date personally, but the 1941-style Zippo is my daily, and having it engraved is something I wish I’d done when I got it. This is the sort of thing they’ll pass on to future generations. If you really want to splurge, go for a gold Dunhill Rollagas—I still have my grandfather’s.
Calming, pH-balancing bath powder that feels like pressing restart on your body. It has a nice herbal scent and it’s good for the skin, especially this time of year.
Highland2000 Merino 2x1 Watchcap, $38
These come in a variety of colors and neutral shades. They're a great natural fiber way to keep your loved ones warm. There are a bunch of other styles—I wear the cotton ones here in LA—but the merino 2x1 is the best-looking, in my opinion.
Foxfibre organic cotton socks, $35 for 3
Organic cotton socks, made in USA with naturally colored cotton developed by Sally Fox. For men’s sizes, it looks like only brown is in stock, but it’s a good color for hiding stains. Even if they don’t appreciate the backstory, everyone enjoys a cozy sock.
Tory English Spur Leather Belt - 1” Wide, $51
This has been one of my favorite belt designs for years. It’s affordable, reliable, and looks good on everyone in any outfit.
Diptyque Terres Blondes scented matches, $30
“Wheat bran absolute, red cedar essence, scorched earth” — Light one and let it burn like incense, close your eyes and feel yourself transported from a chilly winter night to sunkissed wheat fields just like that one scene in Gladiator.
A perfectly brewed cup of coffee anywhere you have access to hot water. I’ve tried dozens of brewing devices, and Aeropress remains the quickest, easiest, most foolproof way to make a damn fine cup of coffee. This travel style has everything you might need, sans coffee and water.
Stainless Steel Ice Cream Cup - Set of Two, $28
Be sure to include some ice cream or sorbet so you can enjoy the gift together. :)
For the young and the young at heart
Fujifilm Instax Mini 40 Instant Camera, $90
A modern Polaroid-style camera with a retro look and feel. The Myspace-era hipster in me implores you to get them clothespins or some Blu Tack so they can make a photo wall in their bedroom.
Nameplate chain, (options from $200–$912)
A certified classic that nearly any girl would love if she doesn’t have one already.
This is for the cheeky yutes and might get you in trouble with the elder folk, but a healthy dose of skepticism is as necessary now as ever.
For the pups
Himalayan Yak Cheese Chews, $30 for 10
There are slightly cheaper options out there, but these are the most reliable ones I’ve found — all-natural, sustainable, no dead meat smell, and purportedly good for their dental hygiene.
Oh hey- I know you! Nice to see a familiar Tumblr face around these parts of the internet
Thank you for featuring Valsa Home, Nico!! I really appreciate it 🤎🍽️