These days I’m unlikely to ever be found panic buying on Buchanan Street on Christmas Eve. But, doing this job I have doled out plenty of last-minute gift-giving advice to ‘no-idea-what-to-buy’ shoppers over the years. As you can probably tell if you follow my posts and blogs, I’m into Christmas in a big way, and I’m now coolly confident in my gift buying ability.

The one stumbling block for even the most confident gift buyer can be Secret Santa. Best case scenario (as with me and my art-school pals) is that you know each other really well and its a great opportunity for some reciprocal indulgence.

However, there’s a treacherous side to Secret Santa too! A friend of mine, who shall rename nameless, got the company’s accountant (yes, the person responsible for paying his wages) for SS three years running. Sadly, for both parties, said accountant only works one day a week and all my pal really knows about her (or thinks he knows) is that she likes red wine. So, his 3 gift choices have been a bottle of red for under £10, a candle in the shape of a bottle of red, and then another bottle of red for under £10. I really hope she does like red.

Detective mode

If you’re not inspired as soon as you know who you’re buying a gift for you need to start your research. Social media’s a great way to discover if your newest hire has a secret pug obsession!

If you have a bigger gifting budget for work I’ve collected together some of our most popular goodies in hampers –  I think they make really original corporate gifts this Christmas.

And not forgetting our sets of mugs which make a great staff pressie or just might be the best way to brighten up your boardroom for 2017!

Gifts Under £10

Everyone loves a sweetie, right? Tartan Stag Fudge Tin £9.95. Perfect for carrying their packed lunch! Tunnock’s Teacake Lightweight Cotton Shopper £8.50. Perfect for dog lovers –  ‘Hamish’ Schnauzer Dog Fine China Mug £10.

Gifts Under £20

Bake Off 2017 wannabe? Christmas Scandi Stag Apron, £18. For glittery guys and gals  – Tunnock’s Teacake Metallic Foil-Print Tote £16.50. For the ‘Bru fiend –  ‘Peace Love & Irn-Bru’ A3 Scottish Typographic Art Print, £19.95.

Gifts Under £30

Give the gift of art! Jaggy Beasties Print – Lilac, £25.00. The ‘Come Dine with Me’ wonder – Tunnock’s Caramel Wafer Apron & Tea Towel Set, £26.00. The ‘looks braw wth a kilt’ Men’s T-Shirt – ‘Scottish Breakfast’, £25.00.