Let’s be honest: whether you get along with your in-laws or not, shopping for them is hard. Do you pick something that just makes sense for the woman of the house, since women are usually in charge of the gift-buying and exchanging, or do you try to find something to make the man of the house happy as well? It’s tricky, and even tricker if you’re looking to impress people who you don’t know well or haven’t known that long.
To help out, we’ve rounded up a few gift options that are sure to get at least one of your significant other’s parents happy, and if all else fails, go for comical. Even if it’s only comical for you, at least it’ll reduce your internal stress a bit. There’s something about the holidays that brings out the best in families (while also highlighting the dysfunction), so food or alcohol are also safe choices in most situations. If you’ve got better ideas, clue us (and everyone else) in in the comments.
Kate Spade Pierrepont Place Corkscrew & Bottle Opener
$50 via Nordstrom
Like we said, wine works well with family gatherings
Richwood Creations State Silhouette Cutting Board
$48 via Nordstrom
A gift that has a personal touch is sure to be a winner
Eau D’Italie Set of Three Scented Soaps
$42 via Net-A-Porter
Not the most original idea, but a safe bet
Jonathan Adler Brass Tic Tac Toe Set
$195 via Neiman Marcus
Playing games always helps move time along
9-in-1 Tool and Tire Tool
$55 via Neiman Marcus
A nifty and practical gadget will win over the techie parent
MarieBelle Cacaotelle Hot Cocoa Collection
$58 Neiman Marcus
Spike a warm cup of cocoa and you are set
Diptyque Pine 2013 Holiday Candle
$68 via Barneys
A great candle is another amazing gift staple
Oscar de la Renta Ikat Dot Photo Frame
$135 via Neiman Marcus
Actually, add this beautiful frame to your personal wish list
Vosges Piemonte Hazelnut Milk Chocolate Crunchy Pralines Bonbons
$38 via Barneys
If you find yourself in a real predicament, go for the chocolate