Holiday parties are in full swing and that means lots of fun — and lots of gifts to get — and not enough time. So we did the work for you. We’ve curated a list of the 50 best gifts for $50 or less, and you can find them all right here in Charlotte. Need a last-minute hostess gift? Check. Need something for your son’s coach? Check. And the girl who’s got everything? We’ve got you covered there too. You might even find a few things for yourself.
BEAUTY & BATH
Copper-infused sleep mask
A cult favorite, this mask covers your eyes with advanced care and minimizes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles as you sleep. Find it for $35 at Woo Skincare + Cosmetics.
Makeup brushes
This Skinny Dip London Marble “Eye Kit You Not” brush set features premium brushes that every girl needs to create the perfect eye. Find the set for $45 at KK Bloom.
Big make-up bags
These make-up bags are not only big enough to hold everything you need, but the designs are hand-painted by local artist Laura Park Designs and then transferred onto the material for the bag. You can snag one for $50 at The Buttercup.
Luxe skincare set
This Herbivore Coco Rose Luxe Hydration Trio is perfect for the girl on the go who still wants to feel fresh and pretty. The set includes body polish, lip conditioner and hydrating face mist. Grab it for $39 at KK Bloom.
Bath treat
Luxuriously infused with the iconic scent of Trish McEvoy’s Sexy 9 blackberry and vanilla musk and enriched with nourishing vitamin E and shea butter, this rich, foaming body sponge will exfoliate and moisturize. The set includes two sponges and is $48 at Woo Skincare + Cosmetics.
FASHION
Shawl vest
This shawl vest is a great gift because of the versatility. It can be worn as a vest, shawl or poncho. The Perfect Shawl Vest is one size (no need to guess on sizing), and it is only $29.99 at Julie’s Clothing.
Like cashmere … but not
Your girlfriends will love you, and you’ll love the price, when you gift these “cashmink” scarves and chenille beanies. They feel like cashmere but cost much less. Get them for $24-$39 at Luxe Angel.
Best t-shirt to show your Queen City pride
The 704 Shop officially opened their first retail location (1616 Camden Road) this month, and they have a brand-new fun shirt thanks to a partnership with local photographer Nick Rend. Made from an ultra-soft poly-cotton blend, the shirt also blends the culture of fashion and photography in Charlotte. Find it for $30 at 704 Shop.
Girl power t-shirt
Spread some girl power with this fun t-shirt from the Charlotte duo that’s all about building women up. Find this disco gold top for $42 at the Girl Tribe pop-up store at South End 1800 Camden Road. The pop-up is open through December 31, 2017.
JEWELRY & ACCESSORIES
Erin McDermott necklace
We are loving this hand-wrapped black onyx necklace to wear as a neutral or a statement piece. An unusual black onyx stone is hand-wrapped in gold wire and hangs from a 24-inch chain. Made by local designer Erin McDermott, you can find it for $48 at Blue Hem.
Passport holder
Grab this beautiful passport wallet by FashionABLE, a line of goods made by women who have overcome obstacles in their lives. Find it for $35 at Moxie Mercantile.
Pendant necklace
These 5mm druzy square pendant necklaces come in an array of colors to give a fun jolt to any outfit this holiday season. You can snag one for $48 at Luna.
Purses
These festive handbags with fun and sparkly designs featuring stars and more are perfect for every holiday party. Find them for $39 each at Luxe Angel.
Cups
These fun giftables are cups, mugs and tumblers with cute sayings and they’re perfect for the girl on the go. Made by Ashley Brooke Designs, you can find them for $15-$24 at Luxe Angel.
Kendra Scott necklace
The Elisa pendant necklace has long been a bestseller and makes the perfect gift. Find it in almost every color you can imagine for $50 at the Kendra Scott store in SouthPark Mall or several area boutiques.
Kristin Hayes earrings
Local jewelry designer Kristin Hayes is always on trend and reasonably priced. Check out her gold- and rose gold-filled earring threads for $50 at her new Kristin Hayes retail and design center in Myers Park.
Charlotte water bottles
These Charlotte insulated water bottles have a fun gold and marble combo that will keep you looking stylish (while staying healthy and hydrated)! These work for both hot and cold beverages. Grab one for $28 at CLT Find.
Keychain
Love’s Affect keychains are beautiful, handmade and gold-plated, and they add the perfect amount of sparkle to your favorite girl’s keys. Find one for $40 at Bevello.
FOR HIM
Patterned sock sets
Add a little flair to his buttoned-up outfit with these fun and colorful patterned sock sets. For $38.40, you can get your man a 3-pair set from Johnston & Murphy that are both sleek and comfortable. Pick from plenty of patterns to find the perfect look for the holidays!
FOOD
Chef Alyssa’s spreads
Everybody loves Chef Alyssa’s cooking classes. Well now you can take some of her cooking home. Her spreads (she calls them the new ketchup and mustard!) have become huge hits in the year since she launched them. Choose between the smoked chili & rosemary mustard (a good rub for salmon, chicken or pork loin) or the champagne tomato jam (perfect to spread on grilled cheese sandwiches, veggies or burgers). You can find them at Earl’s Grocery and Reid’s Fine Foods for $8.99 each.
Fudge
Last year, orders poured in from across the country for Iva Jean’s Fudge. This fall saw the return of seasonal favorites Apple Pie and Salted Pecan Pumpkin. They also have Peppermint Bark, Mint Chocolate Chip and Gingerbread Fudge for the holidays. Single tins have 8-10 ounces of fudge and retail for $15 at The Common Market in Plaza Midwood, Paper Skyscraper and CLT Find.
Cocktail gift box
This mini holiday cocktail gift box from Charlotte’s own Bonnie + Bud (they specialize in curating the perfect gift box) will make a splash because it comes with Navy Hill Soda and Tonic Mixer, Poppy’s Handcrafted Popcorn, Sweeteeth “Cinnapsis” Chocolate Bar, Molly & Me Roasted & Salted Pecans and two Gold Foil Peace & Joy Coasters, all bundled in a wooden box with a festive garland and bells. The box will cost you $49 plus delivery. Order one at bonnieandbud.com.
Coffee
The Charlotte Coffee Company has made it their mission to make coffee that tastes good – and does good. Try their “704 Blend” (the everyday house blend), the “Crowders Mountain Blend” (blend of high-grown mountain coffees), or the “Freedom Park Dark Roast” (full-bodied and creamy with hints of roast). They donate 10% of sales to local non-profits dedicated to ending hunger and homelessness. Pick up your favorite blend for $12.99 at The People’s Market.
Custom food baskets
Whether you want to create your own or just grab one and go, Reid’s has tons of beautiful baskets filled with locally made (and loved) products – everything from cheese straws to pecan pie. Reid’s can ship anywhere in the United States, Canada and Mexico. You will find a wide selection of holiday baskets for less than $50 at Reid’s Fine Foods both at the Myers Park and South Park locations.
Chocolate chip cookies
These Helen’s Kitchen cookies are the perfect grab-and-go gift for every holiday party. They come ten cookies in a bunch, beautifully wrapped for the season. Helen Burns started making them out of her Myers Park kitchen in 2008 and now they’re sold in stores across Charlotte and shipped around the world. The secret is in the sea salt sprinkled on the top! MM, mmm good. Get a pack of 10 for $12 at Reid’s Fine Foods.
Gummies stocking stuffer
Not only are these gummies from Sugarfina “Cheers!” the cutest stocking stuffer, but they taste amazing! The bento box comes with champagne bears, champagne bubbles and bubbly bears. Find a box for $28 at Bevello in Park Road Shopping Center.
FOR THE HOME
Fun Charlotte prints
These Charlotte maps are designed by local artist Evan Plante. His eye-catching work will add timeless style to any room. They come printed in a variety of color options, including black and white. Nab one for just $30 at CLT Find.
Pizza cutter
Looking for the perfect gift for your guy? This Gentlemen’s Hardware Pizza Cutter and Serving Board is it. The set includes a segmented hardwood pizza board with a leather hanging loop and the black anodized cutter. Very sexy and just $29.95 at Paper Skyscraper.
Wooden blocks abstract art
These wooden blocks from SCAD grad Meredith Parker are abstract, colorful, original pieces of art painted on wooden stained blocks. They are ready to nestle, group or hang in your home. Find them for $50 each at Art House Charlotte.
Candle
The best-selling scent of the season is back. The Frazier Fir candle by Thymes comes in a pine cone shape for the holidays. Find it for is $34.95 at Paper Skyscraper or Woo Skincare + Cosmetics.
Stag utensil holder
This stag head utensil holder is a stylish way to organize your tools, whether in the kitchen, studio or office (utensils not included). Find it for $49.95 at Paper Skyscraper.
Magic Light Wand
Turn your Christmas lights off and on with this magic wand remote. The wand has a twinkling sound and lights and is perfect for kids – and let’s face it – the kid in all of us. Find it for $30 at The Buttercup.
Note cards
These fine art note cards from Anne Nielson are a blank canvas perfect for every occasion – and make the perfect Christmas gift. Four different angel images, for a total of twenty-four note cards, are included in a keepsake box. Find a set for $42 at B.D. Jeffries.
Holiday candles
Perfect for the holiday season, the Charlotte Candle Company features apple harvest, cinnamon stick, pumpkin pie and more eco-friendly all-natural soy wax candles made right here in Charlotte, and they are all poured by hand. Pick them up starting at $12 at The Cheeky Bean in Ballantyne.
Conversation starters
You may not remember what you made for dinner some of these nights, but these Table Thyme Discussion Cards will prompt some memorable conversations and evenings you will never forget. This is the perfect go-to gift for the holidays for moms, teachers and coaches. Find it for $19.95 at Hallmark in Park Road Shopping Center.
Wine “glasses”
The perfect gift for any girl who loves her wine, these stemless wine glasses by Corkcicle are just $22 each and come in fun colors at Paper Twist.
Decorative coasters
These coasters are great for the Carolina girl who wants to show some love for her city and state. This set of 100 letter-press coasters features four designs that show off the Queen City, North Carolina and more. Find them for $32 at Paper Twist.
Safari-themed wooden blocks
Local Charlotte photographer Heather Liebler’s original safari images on wooden blocks are the perfect accent to any cool room. They are perfect to nestle in a bookshelf or hang on a wall. Find them for $25 each at Art House Charlotte.
She’s got skillz…
Need a gift for the girl who has everything? Skillpop classes will teach her something new. These classes are wildly popular (they often sell out) and are a fun way to learn new things. The photography and hand-lettering classes tend to be the most popular. Check out class offerings at skillpop.com. Every class offered is $50 or under. Get a gift card here.
BOOKS
Coffee table book
Charlotte: The Signs of the Times is a new book by local author Christopher S. Lawing featuring a visual tour of Charlotte’s classic roadside signage. Find it for $34.95 at Paper Skyscraper.
The Sewanee Night Before Christmas
Putting a decidedly Southern spin on the classic Christmas poem, this new release by Southern author Katie Porterfield celebrates all things Sewanee: The University of the South. With delightful illustrations by Christi Teasley, this story replaces reindeer with tigers, and Santa wears purple and fills stockings with items from familiar shops in this quaint Southern town. Find it for $18.99 here.
Build your following
Read This If You Want To Be Instagram Famous is perfect for anyone trying to build their social media following. It’s packed with secrets and tips from the hottest Instagrammers out there. Find it for $12.99 at Bevello in Park Road Shopping Center.
Journal with daily “assignments”
Have a friend in need of a self-confidence boost or just some help channeling her inner girl power? Drawing on self-awareness, creativity and mind-body connections, Beautiful You from UNCC Professor Rosie Molinary is a powerful 365-day action plan for slowing your self-critic, shoring up your confidence and championing one’s own wellbeing. Through easy daily assignments, Beautiful You is a handbook that will make readers think, laugh and change their ways – for the better. Find it for $17 at Park Road Books, Main Street Books in Davidson or Barnes and Noble.
FROM SB SHOP
NEWLY Balsamo lucite square tray
This stunning, modern tray is ideal for the entertainer in your life. Plus, it was made from 100% recycled materials. Find it for $45 at SB Shop. Order by December 12 (that’s TODAY!) for delivery by Christmas.
BKDG Arrow Shirt
This Be Kind Do Good tee donates 100% of its profits to efforts to help clean up the devastation left behind by hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria, so you can feel great about gifting it. Pair it with black denim and a patterned bandana to sport a simple yet styled look while spreading some holiday cheer. Find it for $25 at SB Shop, and be sure to order by December 18 for delivery before December 25.
Feather earrings
These Hearne Dry Goods feather earnings are the holiday statement piece that any friend would adore. Toss them on with a simple cashmere sweater, or don them for a holiday party. They must be ordered by December 14 in order to be at your house in time for Christmas! Find them for $35 on SB Shop.
OMI beads
Jewelry is always a great gift, especially when it’s unique. These “Black Lantern” OMI beads are made by Tennessee-based jewelry designer Joy Walling. They’re made with semiprecious stones and charms that give off positive energy and good vibes. Whether you’re wearing jeans or a cocktail dress, these bracelets are your perfect accessory! Order by December 12 (that’s TODAY!) for delivery by Christmas. Find the set of two bracelets at SB Shop for $48.
Cigar box
CigarClub.com was co-founded by Jeff Zeiders and Chris Yokley in Mobile, AL to provide both novice and experienced cigar lovers a unique discovery experience, tailored to their individual tastes. Inside each box, you’ll find hand-picked selections from their curated collection along with a welcome note and a sample gift item that changes month to month. The SB Shop is offering a chance to gift a single month’s CigarClub.com box for 3 cigars ($35) or 5 cigars ($50). Additional subscriptions are available, and you can find the details at SB Shop.
Mission Mercantile flask
Mission Mercantile features products that are 100% full-grain, vegetable-tanned leather goods, and each product is made for many lifetimes, designed to improve with age. This gentleman’s essential is a timeless gift with historical origins. The best man at your wedding, college football fans, professional poker players and countless others have adopted it as a way to transport drinks when the situation requires legal, but more conspicuous means. Find it for $40 at SB Shop, and be sure to order before December 18 for it to arrive in time for Christmas!
Desk calendar
Help someone start the new year off right with a Trabeautiful 2018 desk calendar and easel. This beautiful calendar is elegant, and it makes the perfect addition to any professional’s desk. Order by December 18 for delivery by Christmas. Find it for $48 at SB Shop.
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