Christmas is only a few short days away and despite putting on a courageous and poised face at the office, underneath you’re secretly freaking out that not even half your presents are bought. If the thought of immersing yourself into the stores at this time of year among irrational consumers is a nightmare you’d rather pass by, skip the aggravation of having to wrap and ribbon it all yourself. This year, Subscription Boxes are the new trend; whose day doesn’t immediately brighten up when they receive a package on their doorstep, just for them?! Ideal as a last minute gift for your girl friends, there really is nothing better than a subscription box to delight this holiday.

What’s it all about, I hear you ask? You pay a small monthly fee, and your recipients wait for a gorgeous box to arrive on their doorstep each month, full of beautiful products that suit their profile. Most places offer a 2 or 3 month subscription, which is ideal for Christmas, or of course you can purchase 6 months or a year for your bestie/sister/mom. We’ve picked out some of our fabulous favourites below; don’t resist the temptation to drop subtle hints for yourself too!

Birchbox

One of the original subscription services, Birchbox has grown to be one of the best on the market. The monthly delivery tailors to your profile, allowing you to discover new beauty products without the need to buy the full size item. Each box contains items such as makeup, perfume and skincare products, as well as occasional non-beauty items like snack bars; always a great bonus! They now also offer BirchBox Home – perfect for anyone with a love of decor. $10 per month. I’ve been a subscriber for about a year and a half and have given a few subscriptions as gifts! Sign up at birchbox.com (my referral code)

Popsugar Must Have Box

Ideal for girl friends with mixed tastes, Popsugar offer hand selected items in beauty, fashion, fitness, home and food. They give away full size products as well as premium items, which makes each months box a very exciting gift! With free shipping offered as well, this box is a truly special idea for that special someone. $39.95 a month. Savings available on multiple month purchases. I love getting this box every month because each box is so different. I’ve received books, jewelry, scarves, hats, and a ton of beauty products. Here’s my invite code to sign up: http://popsu.gr/oOFw

Klutchbox

A perfect gift for your health and fitness fanatical friends, a Klutchbox contains goods to help you live and work out better, such as workout DVDs and nutrition bars. For fitness enthusiasts, what’s better than receiving great products to assist with their drive and energy each month? If box recipients get involved in the Klutchclub website too, they can earn ‘Klutchbucks’ which can be redeemed towards full size versions of their monthly samples. Prices start from $18 including shipping. They are currently running a promo for a free box for first time subscribers! KLUTCHclub

Umba Box

These are subscription boxes with a bit of a creative difference; Umba Box scouts the handmade community and finds the most innovative handmade goods that include home-ware, accessories, stationary and bath products. Not only are you receiving beautiful and ethical handmade products, but supporting artists around the world. Each gift comes with the story behind the artist – so unique! Prices start at $26 per month including shipping. Bulk payment options available for longer subscriptions. Umba Box Options

Glossybox

Ideal for your friends who love to be preened and pampered, Glossybox arrives in a stunning box each month full of five samples unique to their profile from around the world. They send so many varied brands each month; everyone will really be spoilt for choice. Gift a Glossy Box: $21 for a Monthly Subscription.

Julibox

For the girls who love their cocktails, Julibox is a wonderful way to spice up their usual concoctions. Sign up to discover two carefully curated cocktails each month, which includes the spirits and mixers to make up four cocktails. Need additional ingredients such as lime to add that extra punch? Julibox send you an email in advance, so you’ll be totally ready to mix up the good stuff when your package arrives. $40 a month. Julibox subscription options.

Whimseybox

Have some friends with a bit of a creative spark? Whimseybox is spot-on for the creative people among us; each month you receive a box laden with supplies for your next craft projects. As well as a box full of goodies, subscribers become part of the Whimseybox community to discuss ideas and inspire each other to create their next masterpiece with their new materials. $15 a month. Whimsey Box “It’s like Pinterest at their door!”.

Razor Refill Box

800razors.com has an interesting program they call the “Razor Refill”. Every 2 months you’ll receive 8 razor refill cartridges. At the $17.99 price point it’s a practical gift that cheaper than any cartridges I’ve price shopped. They also have a His & Her combo box for $32.99 that includes 8 cartridges for each. I was sent a sample of the razors and I’d certainly recommend them. 800razors.com

Homegrown Collective

Your friend will receive a homegrown lifestyle delivered to her door each month. The boxes contain seasonally appropriate, professionally curated products that deliver the satisfaction of living a more self-sufficient & sustainable lifestyle. One month starts at $39 with longer subscription options providing more of a discount. Homegrown Collective was launched in January by Mitchell Rose. Sign up for: Homegrown Collective GREEN box.

Whichever boxes grab your attention, each one will make a perfect present for that special someone in your life these holidays. Whenever their next box arrives, it’s a great excuse to get together and discuss what their monthly delights have brought this time. Happy shopping! AND since I’m feeling festive how about a giveaway of one of these boxes. Details in rafflecopter widget below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway