Retailers try to make it seem like it's so easy to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list but the truth is, it's a huge pain in the @ss! Sweating in the mall, with your heavy winter coat slung over your arm, bumping shoulders with the masses, frantically blowing your savings (or making a hefty dent on your credit card) on various whatnot so you can feel like Santa this year, with 3 inch heels and hair all over the place.

STOP!

You need a plan, a budget and you should seriously consider doing some of your shopping online to reduce your stress levels. Here are some on and offline gift ideas to get you started for everyone on your list:

1. Mom Exuberance Beauty - Organic Skincare
 
She's So Lovely ($46) is a soft facial lotion that works on any skin type. It is natural, organic and the packaging is really beautiful. It is available on Well.ca and shipping is free.

2. Boyfriend or Husband
If he's a camera buff with a digital SLR, he'd probably love the 'Nifty Fifty' lens from Canon ($85ish), which can be bought online at Amazon or in most camera stores.

Of course the Apple Ipod Touch ($290ish) is no slouch or the iPhone, but if he is the techie type he probably already has those. You might be tempted to be a hero and buy him an xbox or a wii or something but if you do, you'll probably never have his attention again. Maybe you already fell for that last year? Keep that in mind.

3. Dad
Most Dads like a good bottle of scotch,

but if that's not an option, Banana Republic can generally be counted on for a nice fatherly sweater. They are on and offline too!


4. Brother
Unlike the boyfriend, you can give brother a computer game of some sort. Especially if you want to exact revenge on your sister in law!

Did you know that Quantum of Solace already has a game out? Let him be a spy this Christmas. ($50ish)

5. Sister or best friend
If she's the girly type she'd probably love the Clarins Chic and Glam makeup palettes ($49).

They come in a nice sparkly bag that she can use as a clutch and the colours and makeup quality are just gorgeous. Choose between black, gold and silver.

6. Grandparents
My Grandparents always got upset when we spent money on them, but they do love pictures and spending time with you. If you have a nice shot together, put it in a nice frame. Guaranteed hit!

This is me with my Opa and Alex on our wedding day. Isn't he handsome?

Also spend as much time with them as you can. Grandparents are such a gift and should not be taken for granted.

7. Co-worker or Boss

Did you get a raise this year? If yes, consider stepping up a notch. Take a note from Stylista and throw in a nice cashmere wrap in a neutral colour (if a woman) and if a Man, take a page from Dad's list and get him a scotch. We love the sparkly bottle of Absolut with the removable reusable case or throw in some goodies from Bath and Body Works. What's not to love?

Miscellaneous good fun ideas:

8. The Funny Girl - Mama Mio Bootcamp for Boobs

If she's recently had a baby or complaining about her Folks going spending too much time in the South, this hilarious kit actually works and is guaranteed to get a fantastic reaction.

9. The Naturalist - Burt's Bees Gift Set

For the picky He or She who has sworn of chemicals this year, Burts Bees has bath and body gets for men and women.

10. The Movie Buff - Movie pack from your local theatre.
Hello, who doesn't love movies? Cineplex has bundles starting at $30 that includes movie tickets, free snacks and coupons worth over $70.

For Babies, kiddies, nieces and nephews watch for our Kiddie Gift Guide coming soon!

Do you have any brilliant gift ideas to share?