The Struggle is Real: Last-Minute Stocking Stuffers for Moms and Dads

The countdown is officially on and Christmas is nearly upon us! Rather than excitement it's right around this time that we can often feel acute stress as you realize that you spent last weekend doing anything other than buying presents. Well, let this guide help you to pick up those last-minute stocking stuffer gifts for Mom and Dad. Everything listed can be sourced in central Beijing and most shops have online stores too.

Moms

Candles
We know, we know, candles are a massive cliché! But when Mom sees these gorgeous East meets West designs from Shanghai Tang, she’ll be nothing but grateful. Candles are a great way to help Mom relax during this busy holiday season as well. Bonus! 
Price: RMB 750-980 at Shanghai Tang

Phone Cases
Get Mom a brand new phone case for the New Year. Apple has released a smart case designed for increased battery life, while Shanghai Tang provides a more aesthetically pleasing option.  
Price: RMB 848 at Apple and RMB 368 at Shanghai Tang

Scarves
Weather appropriate and cozy, the gift of warmth ticks all the boxes. Check out Zara for their ever-stylish and practical options. 
Price: RMB 139 for the grey and RMB 259 for the patchwork at Zara

Cooking Class
Does she like to cook? How about getting hands on with Mom this winter with a cooking class held at The Hutong? They offer a wide range of cuisines and skills – everything from Sichuan, Dim Sum, and Indian to Italian and even knife skills. A great way to get a good meal and take some skills away, too!
Price: RMB 300 per class per person at The Hutong

Let's Get Physical
Maybe she is less of the traditional type? Treat Mom to some defense classes these holidays instead! We have our eyes on Krav Maga – the official hand-to-hand combat system of the Israeli defense forces. KMG China offers a variety of classes for all skill levels, with the option to register for a trial class first. 
Price: Get in touch to book a free trial class at Krav Maga Global

Beauty
Help Mom feel even more special this season and treat her to some skin treatments. L’occitane’s got everything on the menu – from creams to lotions to serums to masks, you name it! We especially love their creams for night and for your hands, perfect for this dry Beijing winter.  
Price: RMB 640 for the night cream and RMB 240 for the hand cream at L’occitane

Spa Treatment
What better way to relax than a spa treatment? Perfect for the whole family – not just moms! Bodhi offers a variety of body treatments, facials, massages and more for you to choose from.
Price: RMB 560 for a hot stone massage and spa treatments from RMB 700, or search their membership and voucher options online at Bodhi 

Dads

Beer Merchandise
Support some of Beijing’s home-brewed businesses and buy Dad some merchandise from local breweries. There’s a wide range to choose from – from t-shirts and pint glasses to some of their own craft beers. Our picks are Slow Boat and Jing A, both with shopping available online and in-store. 
Price: RMB 35 for a pint glass and RMB 25 for a half-pint at Slow Boat, RMB 100 for a t-shirt at Jing A

Glovely Gloves
Bad puns aside, dads value their fingers as much as anyone. We love Zara for their handsome leather options. 
Price: RMB 259 at Zara

Notebooks
Perfect for his keeping up with his work schedule, shopping lists, ramblings, etc. You can’t beat Moleskine for their sleek and classic design, and they’re conveniently located  right in Sanlitun.
Price: Approx. RMB 80-100 per notebook, 120 for a planner at Moleskine

T-shirts
We guarantee he’ll be the coolest dad on the block with these funky tees! Plastered Beijing's designs mix traditional Chinese culture with a pop art edge for a truly unique look.
Price: RMB 140 at Plastered

Running Accessories:
Drop a subtle hint about starting to burn off some of that holiday weight, maybe? Adidas has just the accessories for running right and looking cool while doing it – great for at the gym too for those high AQI days. 
Price: RMB 169 for iPhone 6 holder, RMB 500 for the watch at Adidas

This article originally appeared on our sister site beijingkids in two segments here and here.

Photos: sproutgeek.com, Shanghai Tang, Apple, Zara, The Hutong, Krav Maga Global, L'occitane, Bodhi, and Jackie (flickr), Slow Boat, Jing A, Zara, Moleskine, Plastered 8, Adidas