Christmas Subscription Boxes For Those Hard-To-Shop-For Friends

Known for being a favorite of lifestyle bloggers, Birchbox contains 5 highly coveted beauty samples in each box. If you'd rather not gift a subscription, you can give one of the brand's limited edition stand-alone boxes, like the Power Beauty box, which contains $178 worth of full-size, travel-size, and exclusive products.

BUY IT: $30 for 3 months; birchbox.com

Book Of The Month gives word-lovers their pick from five new books each month. The books are chosen and reviewed by "judges" who include Anthony Bourdain, Liberty Hardy, Krysten Ritter, Tyler Coates...the list goes on. You may want to take advantage of their holiday offer if you're a bookworm, as well: Give a subscription and get a free month for yourself.

BUY IT: $14.99/month; bookofthemonth.com

Bring on the perks! A trendy FabFitFun box is perfect for that gal on your list that loves to get her hands on the latest and greatest beauty, fitness, and fashion items. Each seasonal box contains more than $200 worth of products. Plus, members of FabFitFun can enjoy access to the brand's fitness-focused video streaming service, quarterly magazine, members-only shopping experiences, and daily lifestyle content.

BUY IT: $49.99/box or $179.99 for 4; fabfitfun.com

You could argue that everyone on your Christmas list could use a little more relaxation in their life. Field To Cup is a tea subscription service that sends loose teas – green, fruit, herbal, black, and white – to your door with a Monthly Steeping Guide. This is a great gift to package alongside a book recommendation, cozy blanket, or sassy mug.

BUY IT: $6.97/month; cratejoy.com

This shaving subscription service does away with dull razor blades and empty shaving cream bottles. You can start a trial with Harry's for next to nothing (just $3 for shipping!) that includes a razor, shave gel, and blade cover – or, you can give the man in your life a limited edition shave box that adds on a travel cover, extra cartridges, and a razor stand.

BUY IT: $30; harrys.com

Handmade goods that support makers and artisans around the world? Yes, please! This box is perfect for the jet-setter who loves to experience products from other countries. The "boxes" – which are actually hand-woven baskets from Mexico – are themed, so you can choose whether "Cozy," "Memory," "Hydrate," or "Picnic" (the list goes on) fits the recipient best.

BUY IT: $33/month subscription for The Cozy Box or $60 one-time; globein.com

With a monogram subscription, you'll ensure that your favorite Southerner is never left without her initials displayed. A monthly box brings one monogrammed item right to her front door. Plus, this company is based in Tennessee – so you're supporting a local Southern business.

BUY IT: $19.95/month; cratejoy.com

This Essentials Bundle from The Honest Co. is a great way to give Mama everything she needs while still giving her the freedom to choose. Pick five products from the lineup each month, with personal care options and a chance to try out the brand's all-new cleaning collection.

BUY IT: $35.95/month; honest.com

Who doesn't need a pair of colorful socks in their Christmas stocking? This sock-scription brings a pair of "Classic" or "Crazy" socks to the recipient's door each month, and pulls from high-quality brands like Happy Socks and Sock It To Me.

BUY IT: $12/month; cratejoy.com

Once you see this Mostess box, you'll probably want to get a second one for yourself. These seasonal boxes are full of everything entertaining – from plaid dessert plates to brined olives to drink stirrers. This gift box, aptly titled the Cheers Winter Box, is perfect for gifting in one fell swoop to the beloved hostess in your life, or can carry you through all of the season's holiday parties if you split up the 6 full-size home goods found inside.

BUY IT: $125/box; mostessbox.com

This oh-so-Southern gift box embodies the best things about the holidays – sharing with your neighbors. The "Sweet" Holiday box from Thoughtfully contains everything you need to bake up some love for the season, including three cast-iron, holiday shaped skillets; white chocolate chip cookie mix; vanilla frosting; sprinkles; and a charming winter whisk.

BUY IT: $69.99/box; thoughtfully.com

A food subscription box is an easy pleaser, especially when it contains a unique, curated selection of global foods. Try The World subscribers have the option of receiving boxes with country-specific offerings ($39/month) or snacks from around the world ($19/month). Start with 7 products in the South Africa box (pictured) that have been curated by Chef Nti Ramaboa, and then try out the Sweden, Spain, and Thailand boxes.

BUY IT: $39/month; trytheworld.com

We know you'll get a thank-you note when you gift this elegant subscription to the writer in your life. A box from V. Paperie has 5-7 products each month, each beautifully designed from a team of aesthetic-savvy graphic designers. From notebooks to greeting cards to office supplies, this sweet box is the perfect way to spread Christmas cheer.

BUY IT: $25/month; cratejoy.com

Pet parents will love the discounts that come with a membership to PetHero. Mamas, Papas, and puppers (and kitties, too!) will get a quarterly box of fun toys and treats, 24/7 access to the brand's pet recovery service, and 25% off all vet bills. Really!

BUY IT: Plans start at $20/month; pethero.com