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It takes a village to keep any of us afloat. From manicurists to postal workers, we rely on other people for a helping hand every single day. Show them your appreciation at the end of a stressful year with a thoughtful thank-you gift.
But nailing the perfect gift can be tricky. Although you see these helpers regularly, they’re a bit more difficult to shop for than friends and family.
If you’re unsure where to start looking, lifestyle expert Jill Bauer contributed to Hoda & Jenna's Ho-Ho-Holiday Shopping guide to share her picks for the best thank-you gifts to give in 2021.
Whether you’re shopping for your dog walker, babysitter, hairstylist or teacher, scroll through to discover thoughtful gifts they’ll love to receive.
Don’t forget to check out Shop TODAY’s 2021 Gift Guide to find the perfect present for everyone on your list!
Best thank-you gifts seen on TODAY
Sprigs Multi Mitts
Bauer says these are perfect for neighborhood dog walker or crossing guard since they feature a pocket to stash their cellphone in. They're mittens but they can convert into fingerless gloves when they need to reply to text messages or answer a call.
"The Cheese Board Deck," by Meg Quinn and Shana Smith
The host or hostess in your life probably has attempted to create their own charcuterie board once or twice, but with this deck of cards, they'll have all the inspiration they need to design 50 charcuterie boards. With this gift, each one they create will be Instagram-worthy.
Uncommon Goods Minute Mimosa Sugar Cube Trio
Raise a glass to the helpers in your life (and then help them raise a few of their own). Once they drop a flavor-infused cube into their champagne, they can sip away on citrus-inspired or berry-inspired mimosas.
Mary Steratore Thank You For Your Part In My Journey Necklace
For the nurse, counselor or coach that consistently shows up for you, this thoughtful gift is one they can keep with them at all times. The handmade necklace features a Lapis stone that is securely wrapped in wire and adds a pop of color to this sentimental piece.
Crock-Pot Lunch CrockFood Warmer
Great for teachers or those who are always on the go, this mini crockpot can heat up their lunch right at their desk. Whether they enjoy meal prepping and prefer to skip the microwave or typically bring in leftovers for lunch, this smart food warmer will come in handy.
Anne Neilson 100 Days of Gratitude Cards
If you consider them to be a real-life angel, these sweet gratitude cards will let them know how much you appreciate them. This set includes 100 cards with original artwork on one side and a quote about gratitude on the other.
Anne Neilson Love Scripture Cards
This deck features 26 scripture readings that those guided by faith might appreciate. Each card has an original angel artwork on one side and a curated scripture verse on the other.
Roku RCAL7R Voice Remote
They do a lot for others — so they'll enjoy getting to kick back and stream some of their favorite shows and movies. This Roku remote features a headphone jack, so they can plug their earbuds in and tune the world out while they relax.
Delite by Delightly: Growing Together Kit
If you still aren't sure what to get the special helpers in your life, these curated boxes from Delightly are a no-fail option. You can find all different kinds of gift boxes for every kind of person on your list, including these fun boxes: You Are the Sweetest, Detox Kit, Soup-rise Kit and S'more Fun Kit. The kit pictured above is essentially a garden in a box: It includes a planter with sunflower seeds, plant food and a plant stake.
Still looking for the perfect gift? Be sure to check out Shop TODAY’s 2021 Gift Guide to shop for everyone on your list, including:
- 30 sweet, savory and indulgent holiday gift baskets to send in 2021
- 14 of the trendiest gifts to give—and get—this holiday season
- 45 cozy gifts for the person who’s always cold
- 59 useful tech gifts for every budget
- 45 useful gifts for anyone who loves to travel
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This gift guide was originally published on Nov. 25, 2019.