Optimising's Last Minute Gift Guide 2025
Running Out of Time? We’ve Got You Covered
Your shortcut to stress-free gift giving this year
Stuck for gift ideas but running out of time? We’ve all been there. Between sprinting toward end-of-year deadlines and trying to remember what day it is, gift shopping tends to get bumped to the bottom of the list.
To make things easier, we asked the Optimising team what they recommend for those oh no, I forgot to organise a gift moments.
The Optimising Team’s Top Gift Picks
We’ve asked the Optimising team about their wishlists and what they recommend for those last-minute gifts this year (including inspo from some pretty cool organisations we work with).
Isabelle - Tiger Mist Voucher
"Perfect for anyone who loves a bit of retail therapy."
If you're having decision paralysis, a Tiger Mist voucher is a safe bet (and the fashionista's dream gift). Tiger Mist have a gorgeous range of summer ready fits, and this gift has the added bonus of putting the decision making back in the hands of the giftee.
Brandon - Rocky Mavericks Cowboy Boots
"Cowboy boots are IN this festive season."
Cowboy boots make a moment instantly more fun. Whether it's a festival outfit, a themed party or just someone who has always wanted to try the western vibe, these boots bring a combo of practical and trendy.
Daniel - Kaiko Fidgets Fidget Kit
"A gift to help keep busy hands occupied."
Sometimes amidst the chaos of the season, the best gift is something that helps calm a noisy mind. Kaiko Fidgets have a huge variety of fidgets to choose from, and the fidget kits are a great place to start. The hardest part will be resisting the urge to add something to the kart for yourself while you're at it.
Niamh - Bellroy Venture Sling Bag
"Keeping essentials together on those summer days out."
There's something so satisfying about having everything you need in one place. The Bellroy Venture Sling is my gift of choice that works for travel, everyday commutes, weekend errands, or just someone who appreciates a bit of organisation without carrying a full bag around!
Ellie - Robert Gordon Pottery Class
"Gift an experience and a take home creation."
A pottery workshop is one of those wholesome gifts that sparks creativity, and provides a break from the everyday hustle and bustle. Whether they walk away with a wonky mug or a masterpiece, the real gift is the experience. Bonus: you could buy yourself a class and enjoy the experience together!
Alex - Fast Times Skateboard
"Skate into a new (or renewed) hobby!"
Skateboards are a bit of summer, nostalgia and excitement rolled into one. Whether brand new to skating or already a pro on the board, a funky skateboard is a gift that leads to enjoying the warmer weather in the best way.
Dan - Chemist Warehouse Fragrances
"The ultimate universally acceptable fail safe."
Sometimes the best gifts are the ones you don't overcomplicate. A fragrance from Chemist Warehouse is exactly that. For the cousin you see once a year, the office Secret Santa, or the person who is impossible to shop for. And it's still thoughtful enough to not feel like a last minute scramble!
Skye - Veneziano Cold Brew Cans
"For those who love a sweet treat, or a caffeine quick fix!"
A lot of people find comfort in a good cup of coffee, so why not capture that comfort in a cold brew can from Veneziano Coffee Roasters? This time of year can be hectic, and starting off the early mornings with a little moment of daily joy can go a long way. It's the caffeine hit without the hassle of fighting against the morning rush at the coffee shop.
Joel - Penfolds Limited Edition Gift Box
"Something with a wow factor!"
Some gifts have an extra fancy feeling to them, and a Penfolds Gift Box definitely sits in that category. You can bring it along to share at the festivities, or gift it to someone special (it's a great fit for those who appreciate a thoughtful upgrade on the usual bottle).
Harry - Cake Decorating Central Cookie Cutters
"Jump into the festive baking vibes."
Cookie cutters have a way of bringing out everyone’s inner child, and grant full permission to make a mess in the name of festive baking. It's something the whole family can enjoy, bringing back old childhood memories, and creating new ones!
Tom - Helicraft Gift Voucher
"Give the gift of flight!"
Whether it’s for a Heart of Melbourne City Helicopter Tour, or a trip to De Bortoli Wines, Helicraft offers a number of tours that are bound to be an unforgettable gift! Struggling to pick one? You can even just grab a voucher that can be used towards any of the Helicraft experiences.
