The best holiday presents from a gifting expert

Paid for by QVC®

Though the holidays may look a little different this year, gifting is as important as it ever was, as everyone seeks to show their love and appreciation when they cannot get together in real life. Naturally, that doesn’t mean that buying presents is any easier than it has been in the past. In fact, these tokens of affection may be even more significant this year as they will take the temporary place of a hug and more tactile forms of care.

So, what to get everyone on your list during an unprecedented holiday season when getting into your favorite stores may not be possible? Look no further than the expertise of Jayne Brown, who has turned gift-giving into the most heartwarming of artforms.

“I love the combination of practical presents and then some things that you just feel are the perfect thing for someone that they probably would never buy themselves,” says the QVC host who has over twenty years of experience in fashion and curated shopping under her belt. Gifts are a year-round endeavor for Brown, as she’s constantly editing her list for her loved ones thanks to the help of technology. “I have everybody's name that I have to buy Christmas presents for in my notes on my phone and whenever I hear them talk about something they want or need, then I start adding it to the list,” she says.

Here, more of Brown’s holiday gift picks, tips and tricks to make this gifting season both effortless and fun.

“For the practical presents, what tops the list for me is HALO chargers,” Brown says. “You can actually jump a car. I've done that for people.” Brown recalls a time when she was in the parking lot of a restaurant and encountered a person with their hood up, tending to a dead car battery. “I've never tried this, but I'd be happy to try to give you a jumpstart,” she told the stranger of her new charger. The setup was simple, the car started, and the gratitude was palpable. So from there, Brown bought them as gifts for everyone in her family, and she knows you’ll find them just as useful.

Brown loves giving jewelry with inspiring messages ― especially during these times of uncertainty. “This is one that I have given to multiple generations, from my nieces that are 14 and 21, to my daughters that are 28 and 30 and to my mother and mother-in-law,” she states of this inspirational bracelet set, which serves as an uplifting reminder each time its wearer lays eyes on it.

The affirmations don’t stop with accessories, as Brown has found that literally wearing positive messages on your sleeve can have a profound impact on your mood. A simple glance at the “Feeling Loved” or “Feeling Grateful” tidings on this t-shirt will remind anyone of the reason for the season. And if you’re a new QVC customer, get ready for another holiday positivity boost. When you purchase for the first time and spend over $25, you’ll enjoy $10 off with code OFFER.

“We have a family tradition on Christmas Eve, when we all open our first present and it's always pajamas,” Brown says. “And then we take our Christmas photo in the morning, opening presents with our new pajamas on.” Now that so many are working from home, pajamas and loungewear have also become veritable wardrobe staples as people opt for comfort and coziness above anything else. This set features a fun plaid jacket that channels some serious holiday vibes and looks eye-catching on social media if you share your holiday photos like Brown, with plush pants that can be styled for wear outside of lounging indoors.

Secret Santa and other gift giving games amongst friends and colleagues are going to completely change this year with social distancing and working remotely, but Brown is still committed to her annual holiday gift exchange, even if it’s on a video call with shipping added into the mix. And whoever winds up winning this quartet of nurturing creams will be thrilled that they’ll be able to keep winter dryness at bay.

“I like Harry Slatkin candles as a gift, because they're non-gender specific and can be the family gift,” Brown says. “And I think just about everybody loves the flickering flame of a candle, whether it's a real one or the flameless. So, those are always good top-of-the-list gifts, and they are typically priced well.” With their holiday-perfect scents, the gift recipient will think of you each time they light this candle duo.


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This article was paid for by QVC and created by RYOT Studio. The Yahoo Life editorial staff did not participate in the creation of this content.