Last-Minute (but Thoughtful) Gifts For La Familia

Mamás always know what to get everyone else, but they rarely tell us what they need — that's why I know I need to be extra observant around her. What does she like to do? What does she need at the end of the day? What my mom needs — and a lot of them do — is a cozy night in with a hot bath and her favorite shows or books. This expandable tray ($50) lets her have her glass of wine nearby while allowing her to prop up a book or iPad so she can relax.

No bath is complete without some bath salts, and this natural product ($24) is made from Dead Sea salt to help her relax and soften her skin without completely stripping it dry.

Once Mom is done with her relaxing bath, she can get ready to join the rest of the family — and just like every Latinx woman, she's never fully ready without a pair of earrings. These two pairs of earrings ($20, originally $25) from Old Navy are great for both hanging out at home during the day or going out with her friends at night.

I also find it very difficult to shop for my dad because every time I think of something, my mom beats me to it. But not this time around. This time, I managed to scoop just what he needed — and wanted! My dad goes through slippers like no other. He will wear them out constantly, slip them on immediately after a shower, and probably live in them if he could. So what better gift than brand-new ones ($8, originally $20) in a Christmas-y red plaid?

Once he's done with his routine and slipped on his brand-new slippers, he can top off with an aftershave balm ($65) by none other than Dior. Just like me, my dad loves the finer things in life, and that applies to his shaving routine.

He can finish off his nights by sipping some whiskey from his new decanter set ($32, originally $80). It comes with four glasses, so he can share with his buddies or family members.

Whether it's your savvy older sister who knows exactly how to approach every situation or your younger sister who's at the forefront of everything cool, shopping for them shouldn't be complicated. Just think of what you might like to borrow without them knowing. This fair-isle cardigan ($45, originally $55) is great to break up the usual holiday outfits without coming off as tacky.

Perfumes are never a bad choice if you know what kind your sister likes, and Ariana Grande seems to come out with hit after hit. Her new scent, Mod, promises to be as good as the iconic Cloud, if not better. This gift set ($90) comes with both new scents, Vanilla and Blush.

Last but not least, make sure they stay on top of their chores — or work from home — with this cool desk vacuum ($25). It's cute enough so that it doesn't have to be hidden in a desk drawer and efficient enough that they won't feel bad about eating at their desk.

Help him spruce up his showers by gifting him a waterproof speaker ($45, originally $50) so he can play all his favorite music. Just make sure he doesn't hog the bathroom or make the hot water run out.

No matter how much he annoys you, you want to make sure your brother knows how much you appreciate his guidance, protection, and friendship. You also don't have to spend a lot of money to make sure he knows. Scoop up a scarf ($4, originally $18) that he can wear all year round. You know he will wear it with pretty much every outfit.

Whether your brother is in a relationship or getting his feet wet in the dating world, you have to make sure he looks and smells good. This set ($72) comes with a full-size bottle and a travel one that he can put in his pocket when he gets ready to leave the house.

That first joint Christmas with your partner's family can be a little nerve-racking. You have no idea how your families will interact, and you want to make sure that everyone feels included. And what better way to do that than by buying them matching pajamas ($6-$15, originally $25) to rock with yours?

Keep everyone's toes warm with cozy matching socks ($9, originally $17) to go with the matching PJs.

Lastly, to commemorate that first joint Christmas, a digital frame ($55) is a great idea because everyone can add pictures they've taken on their phone. Great memories are always a perfect gift.