By: Kendra Danielson 

     The holiday season brings on a lot of emotions as many frantically search for gifts to give to their loved ones. Many people are in need of ideas for what to get for their friends and family this Christmas; however, shopping can be made easy with the help of The Squire, and additional guidance from students here at Eisenhower.  

     This year many new trends have set inspiration for Christmas wish lists. As new items, brands, celebrities, and topics have gained popularity, wish lists have formed to show off these updated trends. In general, top wish list items often include money/gift cards, technology items and accessories, clothing, home goods and décor, or tickets to events or shows.  

     For those who don’t want anything specific, money or gift cards are always a reliable option to gift to anyone from a friend or family member to a significant other. Depending on their interests, you could consider gift cards for Walmart, Target, TJ Maxx, Bath and Body Works, restaurants or even fast-food places. The Squire asked senior Haley Highhouse where she recommended shopping this holiday season, and she shared, “The Galleria Mall in Buffalo, New York is my favorite place to Christmas shop, but the Millcreek Mall in Erie and stores in Lakewood are also great places to find lots of gifts.”  

     If you’re willing to spend a little more, then technological items might be the way to go. Constant advancements in technology are allowing companies like Apple, Microsoft, Samsung, and others to sell new products just in time for the holidays. Popular gifts in the tech category include iPhones, laptops, Kindles, Air Pods, Apple Watches, Apple Air Tags, iPads, Xbox’s, PlayStations, headphones, cameras, and TVs. Highhouse noted her desire for a MacBook this Christmas in hopes of being able to use it once she is in college next year. On the less expensive side of this category, settling for tech accessories works just as well. For example, phone cases, game cards, chargers, controllers, covers, and more are great options.  

     Some of the most common Christmas gift ideas are clothing and shoes. With so many stores and brands to shop from, you’re sure to find something for everyone. You can never go wrong in this department because outerwear is a necessity that anyone can use. Anything from loungewear, like pajamas, sweaters, and hoodies, to sportswear, such as coats, slippers, boots, sneakers, hats, or even socks, is a fitting gift for any friend or family member. Trending brands to consider looking at include Nike, Adidas, Comfrt, Pink, Carhartt, Gymshark, Lululemon, Under Armor, New Balance, Columbia, North Face, Ugg, Bearpaw, etc. 

     Other miscellaneous items with a variety of prices that make great gifts for the right person are heated/weighted blankets, craft supplies, candles, tools, room décor/storage organizers, jewelry, makeup, perfume/cologne, sports gear, books, flowers, stuffed animals, candy/snacks, water bottles, hair products, or other home essentials.  

     If you’re buying for someone who is big into sports, music, travelling, theater, or something along those lines, then consider gifting them with an experience that will create long-lasting memories. Although tickets can be expensive, you are gifting them with a good time they will never forget, which may be the best kind of gift of all.  

     Hopefully your Christmas shopping can be made easier with this 2025 Gift Guide. The Squire would like to thank Haley Highhouse for taking the time to help with their research, and happy gifting season to everyone!