With such a wide world of choice out there, sometimes it can feel impossible to know what the right gift is, even for a partner we love deeply and know well. It’s easy to fall into the trap of buying something expensive just to feel like we’ve put enough effort into their gift when actually a thoughtful, affordable gift is a much better way to show we care. If you’re suffering from the Christmas-present equivalent of writer’s block, here are a few ideas to help you out.

1. Personalized Candy Jar

Does your partner have a sweet tooth? If so, sneakily figure out what their favorite candies are, and fill a pretty mason jar with them. You can even decorate the jar with a ribbon or glass paints for extra individuality. This simple gift not only shows that you’re willing to put the effort in for your partner, but the collection of their favorite candies will also show that you really know them.

2. Something for the Bedroom

I’m not talking about a new duvet cover, but if that floats your boat go for it. This year has been tough on us all, so why not think about ways to make things a little more exciting with your partner. You could buy them some nice massage oil as a gift, and make an evening of an at-home massage. If you want to make it really special, why not get some adult sex toys to really turn up the heat. There are also a great range of sex toys for men, so no matter your partner there’s a perfect gift out there.

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3. Scrapbook

Scrapbooks have a bit of an image problem and can be considered a bit twee – but not if you do it right. For a stylish shabby chic scrapbook, abandon the colourful patterned paper and perfectly aligned photo corners – pick up any plain-lined sketchbook and your favorite photos, stick them in, and add handwritten captions about each picture. This is an especially good idea if you’ve had a particularly exciting year or are coming up to a landmark Christmas (maybe your 10th one together?).

4. Personalized mug

Far from the limited options of ‘no.1 Dad’ or ‘Best teacher’ available in years gone by, it’s now easy to get hold of a mug with any personalization you like on it. Pick a nickname, in-joke, memorable date, or favorite picture you share with your partner – and have it printed on a mug for them to use every day.

5. Indulgent hot chocolate

1 packet of luxury drinking chocolate isn’t much of a gift on its own – but if you create a selection of sachets, throw in some marshmallows and chocolate buttons and tie it all up in a basket with a ribbon then you’ve got yourself a cozy, romantic evening in the making. 

Although simple, often an affordable gift requires more thought and care and ends up being much more meaningful than a luxurious but impersonal gift. The ideas above (and many more besides) will be sure to create a merry Christmas.