In any non-2020 year, lightning-fast shipping is usually the real MVP for last-minute holiday shoppers. But for those who prefer to shop small, or are just too deep in the procrastination game to get their sh*t together (no judgment!), you've still got some speedy gifting options in Los Angeles.
Here, we've rounded up the best local stores and on-demand shopping apps that will save the day. Whether you're in need of two-hour delivery, prefer to ditch Amazon, or if you don't mind leaving the house for same-day or curbside pickup (hello, fresh air!), these handy services will save you in your 11th hour of gift hunting.
Goody: It really doesn't get any easier than sending a gift by text message, and it's also not as impersonal as it sounds, thanks to Goody. The convenient gifting app for Android and iOS lets you send a hand-picked gift to your loved ones — think jewelry from Mejuri, candles and perfumes from Le Labo, gourmet sweets from Georgetown Cupcakes and Mik Bar, Glossier cosmetics, home decor from Museum of Modern Art, and more. Goody will text your recipient, and they'll "unwrap" your personalized note through their browser (no need for them to download the app) and enter their mailing address to redeem their prezzie. You're only charged when the gift is accepted.
Fred Segal: If you're too slammed to swing by Fred Segal's West Hollywood or Malibu outposts, you can turn to Postmates to save the day. The cool L.A. retailer (which recently launched its QVC-like Fred Segal Live shopping channel) is now stocked on Postmates, so you can pick up giftables like jewelry from Natalie Marie, candles by Boy Smells, CBD-powered skincare by Saint Jane, and more.
Fast AF: From Dec. 22 to Dec. 24, every purchase on the recently-launched shopping app can be delivered within a two-hour window up until 11:59 p.m., or you can pick up at the company's Venice pop-up. They've got gift-worthy goods for every type of recipient, such as luxe skincare from Dr. Barbara Sturm, Hyperice massage devices, Byredo candles, Alo activewear, Sonos speakers, cosmetics from Fenty, pet treats from Max Bone, and even the Nintendo Switch. And starting Dec. 21, will be dropping special products such as the PS5 and merch from Fear of God, Nike x Sacai, Xbox, and others (keep an eye out "special access codes being dropped throughout the day from friends of the brand" on social media). Then on Dec. 26 and 27, users who pre-registered on the app will score an access code for 25% off their purchases on both days.
Emjay: The cannabis delivery service recently released its gift-ready wellness kits that'll take care of most creative pal, your stressed AF BFF, and more types. Although you can't send gifts directly to your recipient (by law, only the account holder can place and accept orders), you can get it delivered to your casa and pay your pal a distanced drop-off visit. The MJ-powered platform also offers a host of other CBD-only and THC-infused goods if you prefer to personally curate your present.
Adventuretown Toys: Shopping for a little one or a kid at heart? Cool L.A.-based online toy shop Adventuretown (founded by former ReVamp designer Annamarie von Firley) will also bring your gifts right to your doorstep as soon as the same business day when you order by 2 p.m. PT.
Of the Night: Until we can all safely celebrate up close and personal, the next best thing is to bring the party (in a box) to your club-going pals for the holidays. L.A.-based company Of the Night offers themed packages starting at $150 that include whimsical (or sensual) decor, sweet treats, booze, and more accoutrements for partying it up at home.
Nugg Club: For the ganja gift that keeps on giving, cannabis subscription box Nugg Club will deliver a regular selection of CBD and THC goodies to your favorite marijuana enthusiasts, so long as they live within the coverage areas in L.A. and Orange County. They'll get a mix of edibles, vapes, flower, wellness products, and more from respected brands including Beboe, Stone Road, Cann, Original Pot Co., Kiva, and others.
The Grove's Store-to-Door: You can handle all of your gifting needs at The Grove without leaving the house, thanks to its store-to-door service. Choose from its online holiday gift guide or let the pros at Caruso Concierge help you find something from one of its retailers, including Nordstrom, Charlotte Tilbury, Lucy Zahran & Co., Ray-Ban, Alo Yoga, APL, and more. Your order will be delivered straight to your door the same business day. You can book your one-on-one session online to shop virtually or call (323) 900-8070.
Main photo: @fredsegal