Stock Up With Stocking Filler Gifts

As Christmas approaches, it's easy to get distracted by the big things - lavish parties, large meals, extra glasses of wine - and of course, supersized gifts! But whilst the big-ticket presents look fantastic under the Christmas tree, it's very often the small stocking fillers that really hit the spot for our friends and loved ones. There's something about a selection of small stocking fillers that brings out the child in us all!

For her
Firstly, Stocking Fillers are all about presentation for the ladies. Handing over presents in a plastic carrier bag just won't cut it - so impress her from the start with a beautiful vintage Christmas stocking! Then get to the small matter of filling it... If she never quite achieved goodie two-shoes prefect status at school, remind her she's the boss nowadays with the 'perfect' pin badge - or indulge her princess persona with her own personal tiara! You could also try appealing to her sweet side - and showing her how much you care - with the silver 'love heart' or 'my last Rolo', both of which come in a sweet presentation box... just point out that they're beautiful silver plate, before she attempts to eat them.

For him
Instead of being forced to listen to him blathering on about the latest band or album, pop this little 'music to check out' notepad in his Christmas sock. That way he can indulge his geeky record spotting side whilst looking cool! For extra bonus points, why not wrap it in some raunchy wrapping paper... Featuring scantily clad models, this is one sheet of gift-wrap that won't be going anywhere near the recycling bin. You could also encourage his latest culinary genius with the egg cup and timer kit, to reassure you he won't starve when you nip out for an evening with the girls.... or pretend you really do believe he's a budding 'survival expert' and give him the corkscrew key-ring, for the ultimate in emergency survival gear. After all that 'off-road' activity he'll be demonstrating (opening wine bottles in the garden shed), keep him clean and remind him of those childhood glory days with the 'Jim'll Fix It' soap on a rope! You will have fixed his stocking fillers anyway, that's for sure!

For teenagers
For teenage stocking fillers, think quirky technology...and try the puppy mo-pod! Voted gift of the year, this cute little mobile phone accessory lights up and dances when a call comes in! Even moody teenagers will be tempted to answer calls from the family when they see the dinky little dog boogying away. And knowing how teenagers appreciate a crisp tenner or two, have a crafty laugh (and get them to work for their money for a change) with the ingenious money maze! Hide the cold hard cash or vouchers inside, and watch your favourite teenager grapple with the fiendishly tricky maze puzzle to get to it... Instant fun for the whole family guaranteed!

For kids
Stocking fillers for kids can be slightly obscure. Budding Mr and Miss Bumps will find their scrapes are eased with the rather fantastic 'pirate' or 'bacon and egg' bandages! You might want to keep them handy after giving the juggling set - put the dog somewhere safely out the way, as your budding jugglers hurl bean-filled balls around chaotically in the name of festive fun. Or avoid arguing over who owns which stocking filler by trying a personalised gift - the cute little Christmas bear has a space on his red jumper for a special personalised message (try: 'Stop fighting with your brother and tidy your room please. Xmas '09'.) Or encourage them to develop some 'gardening' skills with the Mr Grasshead 'grow your own' kit!

For grandparents
The older generation will love the thought and care behind their little stocking fillers, so treat them to the ultimate festive token - the 'Merry Christmas' glass keepsake. Chic and stylish, this cute little keepsake comes in a presentation box and will guarantee a smile. It'll also be something else for them to show off about down at the Bingo Hall. You could also try the Christmas Pudding photo album, ready to fill with all the photos of your happy Christmas holiday... just don't let Grandma near your fancy digital camera after she's been at the Sherry...

All in all, with a bit of forethought, creativity and some clever purchases, you really will be the star of Christmas with your lovely selection of festive stocking fillers! In fact, why not treat yourself into the bargain - after all, why shouldn't you have some fun too! Happy holidays!