Julissa Calderon in Secret Santa gift-guide

10 Gifts for Your Secret Santa, According to Julissa Calderon

Art by Stephany Torres

In this series actress, writer, director, and entrepreneur Julissa Calderon, best known for playing Yessika Castillo on Gentefied, discusses her holiday picks for different moments – and people you might be thinking of getting a gift for this Christmas. Whether it’s your loved one, your partner, or you just want a Secret Santa gift, Calderon has a gift idea for you to conquer the holiday season and emerge as the best gift-giver of all.

Every product is independently selected by our guest writer. Items purchased through our links may earn us a commission.


Hi mi gente linda! When I think of Secret Santa, I think of something that’s a little less personal than what I would get someone really close to me. Something that’s still cool. That’s if I’m thinking of the traditional idea for Secret Santa, at least. But, in my family, Secret Santa is the heart of our Christmas tradition. And least with the adults. And then we get all the kids presents. That means that since you only get one present, the budget is a little higher there. 

So, thinking of that, there might be other families that do the same! And if there are, and you’re looking for one big gift, here are some ideas. Included are some ideas if you’re looking for a more regular Secret Santa gift, too.

Elisa Johnson Glasses

Elisa Johnson Glasses
Credit: elisajohnson.com

I have over 20 pairs of glasses because I think they add to any look. But right now my favorite brand is Elisa Johnson. The brand is just too good. I’ve never worn one of my shades and not received a compliment. They’re stylish, good on your wallet, and will have people thinking you spent your last for them! The Jane in Brown Tortoise glasses is available on elisajohnson.com for $140.00.

REVLON One-Step Volumizer Hair Dryer and Styler

REVLON One-Step Volumizer Hair Dryer and Styler
Credit: amazon.com

This is a good, fast way to blow dry your hair at home for girls who aren’t hair-savvy like me. I know every girl would want one. And it’s got a great price too! The REVLON One-Step Volumizer Hair Dryer and Styler is available on amazon.com for $33.58!

Schutz Boots

Schutz Boots
Credit: schutz-shoes.com

I always want to be like the Santa of Christmas. I always want to be the girl that got the good gifts. So I feel like I do boots because you can’t go wrong with a pair of Shulz boots or booties. Schutz Boots are available at schutz-shoes.com starting at $178.00!

Instax Mini Evo Instant Film Camera

Instax Mini Evo Instant Film Camera
Credit: target.com

I think this is such a cute gift. In this era of social media and picture-taking, having an instant film camera is huge. And you don’t have to break the bank for such a good one! The Instax Mini Evo Instant Film Camera is available on target.com for $199.99

Vitruvi Stone Diffuser

Vitruvi Stone Diffuser
Credit: vitruvi.com

As a lover of smells in my home, this diffuser is a perfect gift. It’s sleek, pretty, and looks like home decor as it spreads yummy scents. The Vitruvi Stone Diffuser is available on vitruvi.com for $123.00.

Calpak Packing Cubes

Calpak Packing Cubes
Credit: calpaktravel.com

I travel a lot. As an obsessor of organization, packing cubes are a must and a great thing to give to someone. Calpack has the best ones. If you haven’t already started to use packing cubes, this is where you start! Calpak Packing Cubes are available on calpaktravel.com starting at $38.00.

Google Nest

Google Nest credit_ amazon.com
Credit: amazon.com

If you’re like me and constantly messing with your temperature at home, you need to get the Google Nest. It’s the kind of gift I’d give everyone. You don’t have to get up and can control it all from your phone! The Google Nest is available on amazon.com for $127.90.

Stretchy Headbands

Stretchy Headbands
Credit: amazon.com

I love a good headband. Whether it’s for working out or just to add some hair accessories to a look, get one. It’ll truly pair with anything. These stretchy headbands are available on amazon.com for $9.99.

Ninja NeverClog Cold Press Juicer

Ninja NeverClog Cold Press Juicer
Credit: macys.com

If you’re like me you who loves orange juice, fresh oj is the only way. And because it can get pricey, having a good juicer goes a longggg way. The Ninja NeverClog Cold Press Juicer is available on macys.com for $129.99.

Gucci Women’s Mini Perfume Coffret Set

Gucci Women's Mini Perfume Coffret Set
Credit: Sephora

Perfect little set to have any girl smelling yummy! There’s different scents so they can go through them and find their own smell they love, but it might be a little difficult because there’s are all…SO good! Gucci Women’s Mini Perfume Coffret Set is available on sephora.com for $68.00.

gift guide Julissa Calderon secret santa