Ask An Expert: Last Minute Holiday Gift Ideas

Maureen Wahl, independent beauty consultant and entrepreneur, makes it her business to be at the ready for her clients with up-to-date expert advice on fashion, beauty and go green ideas. Local, available and last-minute details are one of Wahl's specialties. Her ability to create cost effective ideas is an exceptional talent. In the need for last minute gift ideas? Makes this fashion savvy expert your go-to person for hot holiday gifts.

Entrepreneur and civic minded small local business owner Maureen Wahl, of Quincy, is interested in saving individual families money. Focusing on each person's goals and needs, be it green energy advocacy or beauty consultations for Mary Kay Cosmetics. Variety is the spice of life, that doesn't need to hurt the wallet. Once you've talked to Wahl, you'll see her creativity and knowledge work for you.

Why start a last minute holiday gift idea list with texting gloves? "Everyone and their mother, even their grandmother's are going to need texting gloves. Nine year olds are using them this winter," said Wahl. Thinking about gender and age neutrality is one of the tricks to master when looking for last minute gifts. This is the season for company parties and grab bag gifts and Yankee swaps seen at functions and flea markets. The idea is to make it simple, but don't forget functional. The best gifts are the ones that can be used the most.

"Have the list ready, be specific to how much you are able to spend; and although you may not know what to give the person on your holiday list, putting a profile of the person's likes and dislikes together is all a staff person of your favorite store will need to help you decide on what you are looking for," Wahl said.

"Deck of cards, microwave popcorn, six pack of soda, DVD for family night. All of these things can be found at the corner store. If your budget is too tight for individual gifts this year, make it a family basket," Wahl advised. Instead of thinking what a specific person would enjoy, try a different concept and think themes. Lottery lovers basket, travel packs for the family automobile, warm the home with a basket of scented candles, mittens and blanket throw. "The choices can be versatile, making the last minute rush fun and exciting instead of stressful and confusing. Surprise them all with a family gift that everyone can enjoy," she said.

Related: Boston's Best Places For Last Minute Gifts

Go directly to the source this season and you may find everything will be done for you. "If you were to go to marykay.com and type in the zip code of your area find an agent near you. The consultant is ready to deliver, gift wrap and negotiate price. Not only that, but the gift will be customized to the person," Wahl said. Now that's a forgotten service that most of the population headed to dollar stores and bargain supply houses would do better to make use of, especially when the topic is last minute gifting.

"Ferry tickets to just about anywhere, Nantucket Island, Bar Harbor, Maine and Boston Harbor tours can be purchased online," Wahl suggested. "And don't forget you can get tickets to special events, sports and concerts in advance. Put the confirmation number into a gorgeous envelope and your last minute gift giving is all done.'

This tip opens the door to all types of adventure and creative ideas in the form of tickets to all sorts of venues in Boston, and why not Disney World? It's your decision — two thumbs up to making some incredible gift ideas at the last minute.

Related: Boston's Best Shops For Last Minute Gifts