Surviving Christmas: The Ultimate Stocking Stuffer Formula

Growing up, my family didn't do Christmas stockings. Whether for financial, practical, or just can't-be-bothered-to-get-that-many-gifts reasons, it just wasn't a thing in our house. My husband's family, on the other hand, have had stockings for years, and so this is something that I'd like to incorporate into our family traditions.



Now, I understand that taking tips from someone who hasn't had the opportunity to test something out might be a little dunce...but I'm fairly confident that this formula will ensure a full, well-rounded, but still personal Christmas stocking.

Let's skip the antipasti's and get straight into the meat & potatoes of the post (hope all my American friends had a great Thanksgiving!).



Let's get into the guide, shall we?

Something to Eat (or Drink!)

This is definitely the most exciting part of the stocking, in my opinion! Remember, these gifts can be as inexpensive or as costly as you want. For example, your something to eat could be a big bag of candy that you split between many stockings, using it as a filler or a topper so that the recipient can't see inside. Or, you could get something else like packaged macaroons, homemade cookies...even a mug with hot cocoa mix inside. The possibilities are endless. Another great idea is getting mini coffee bags or tea bags (hint: Winners) and put those inside to fill up space. 

Something They Need

All the people on a budget say YIPEE! The great thing about living on your own is you get excited about receiving ANYTHING you would already have to spend money on anyway. Think deodorant, aftershave, body wash, lotion, toilet paper (haha, please only do this if your recipient will find it funny and awesome)! It doesn't necessarily have to be for their body, it could be that your mom desperately needs a new whisk or serving tool set...maybe your dad needs new pliers. Whatever the case may be, there is something small that your friend/family member needs. 

Something to Wear

I love this category, too. Again, this could be as big or as small as you want. New scarf, fuzzy socks, iPhone gloves, underwear, hat, etc. You're starting to get it by now! These are all great inexpensive things that you can use to fill up your stocking!

Something Funny

This is where things get really personal. What kind of humour does your friend/family member have? Do they love gag gifts? Get them something from the Dollar store or off of Amazon. Do they love books? Get them a mini coffee table book that you know they'll enjoy. Do they play guitar? Get them a novelty guitar pick. All of these categories can intertwine, like getting them funny socks, for example. Really have fun with it here.

Something to Pamper

You know what your recipient likes to do to relax. A great, inexpensive stocking stuffer in this category is a face mask. You can get them for $1 at Walmart or, if you're filling many stockings, you can buy a value pack nearly anywhere and separate them into each (and keep one or two for yourself, right?). Now, I lucked out and my guy likes face masks, but if that's not your man then maybe you can give him a gift card to get his hair cut, or give him a car wash voucher. Cologne is a good idea too, but that can get pricey. :) 

Something to Cherish

What better way to end off a beautiful and thoughtful stocking than to add something sentimental to the mix. Write them a letter, frame a picture of you both, create a drawing, write them a song. Something to remind them of you and show how thankful you are to have them in your life. 

I hope these ideas inspired you for this year's Christmas stocking stuffing! 

Love you guys,