Has it happened again? You know, the festive season is just around the corner and you’re scrambling to get presents in time. Luckily, you’ll be sure to impress your friends and loved ones—even at the last minute—with these ideas brought to you by our CIBC Private Wealth Management lifestyle concierge partners TEN Lifestyle Group.

 

Top technology

“It can be tricky to keep up with the world of tech, but these gadgets are guaranteed to be a big hit,” says TEN retail expert Shannon Reid.

 

Wireless audio sunglasses—Now your loved ones can listen to their favourite tunes without buds or headphones. Bluetooth sensors and speakers direct music to their ears with incredible sound quality. They’ll be able to hear what’s going on around them, too, making these sunglasses a safe, stylish option.

 

Virtual reality headsets—These lightweight, wireless gaming systems come with motion controllers, and some let players plug in and play without more equipment. With up to 50 games and apps to choose from, and with hundreds more in development, this headset will delight young and old.

 

GPS pet trackers—Keep tabs on Fido no matter where he’s run off to. Pet lovers can attach the GPS to his collar, or it can become part of the collar. Most trackers use smart phones and can be checked through apps or websites. It’s great for those fur babies who can’t call for a cab or yell out if they’re hurt.

 

Culture and entertainment

“What gift do you give someone who has everything? It’s a question we get asked a lot. You can’t go wrong with a memorable experience,” says Reid.

 

Music to the ears—Tickets for a friend or relative to see their favourite band is a sure-fire winner—and you may get to join them! With major artists announcing tours across Canada and beyond for 2020, now’s the time to secure seats.

 

A once-in-a-lifetime experience—Whether it’s working with a conservation team to release white rhinos into the African plains or undergoing espionage training with ex-special forces, truly unique experiences will live long in the memory.

 

A night at the theatre—Here’s an idea for your special someone: Arrange to have them picked up and taken to a special restaurant for a cocktail and dinner for two. Then it’s time for the show and they’ll watch the drama unfold from the best seats in the house. When the curtain falls, their drive awaits.

 

Culinary arts

“They say the quickest way to someone’s heart is through their stomach,” Reid notes. “So we’ve pinpointed three food-focused gift ideas that we know will satisfy any foodie’s appetite.”

 

Pick up tips from the pros—Help home cooks take their skills to the next level by giving them the chance to attend a workshop hosted by a professional chef.

 

A dinner to remember—Some restaurants are best kept for special occasions. Treat your loved one to a fancy meal and book the perfect place.
 

Cook up a storm—Ever since The Great British Baking Show became a big hit, sales of multi-mixers have gone through the roof. Surprise a budding chef with this stylish kitchen gadget.

 

That’s a wrap

Research suggests that almost half of the paper used annually in North America is used for wrapping holiday gifts. How about trying a greener way to package that special something?

 

Reuse what you already have: Save paper from birthdays and other celebrations. Store flat and reuse—no one will ever know the difference.
 

Use brown paper bags: Often made from recycled paper, placing your gift in a brown bag tied with a ribbon adds a rustic touch.
 

Tie a handkerchief or tea towel: In Japan, they’ve been wrapping gifts in cloth for decades and it’s catching on across the world. Choose a patterned tea towel or colourful handkerchief that becomes part of the present. 

 

Work is busy and traffic is insane. But just because you’re short on time doesn’t mean you can’t find the perfect gift for family and friends. Use our last-minute ideas so the lucky people on your list will think you planned their presents months in advance.

 

Global retail and experience insights provided by our partners at TEN Lifestyle Group.