It’s the nightmare before Christmas. I’ve spent so many years falling into the same trap of leaving my Christmas present buying until the last minute so this year I have decided to get organised. Sadly, I know my limitations and no matter what good intentions I have I get caught up in the festive cheer and leave everything till the final hour.

Thankfully my good friend Hugo has come to the rescue – he is my own fairy gift-mother and has drawn up a list of ways to take the pain out of present buying which can all be actioned last-minute, so no matter how late in the calendar I leave it, I'll still be able to fill my family and friend's Christmas stocking.  So, whether it’s a gift for Christmas, a birthday present, a special anniversary trinket or just a little something to make your loved one smile, these companies will think, shop and wrap for you.

Quintessentially

Access the inaccessible with Quintessentially who run an international bespoke service available 24-hours a day to sort all your present-buying quibbles. Their fixers can get hold of anything – perfect if that sold-out Hermès Birkin bag is top of your partner’s wish list. For a gift experience to die for, ask about their special packages, one of which includes a day shopping with Stella McCartney. And they’re open to suggestions – their only stipulation is that the requests are moral and legal. Membership starts at GBP 750 a year, but you can use Quintessentially Gifts for free if you plan on spending more than GBP 75. Just register some basic information about the person you’re looking to buy for on quintessentiallygifts.com and receive a personalised gift list.

Getting personal

Ask the experts at Harvey Nichols’ complimentary personal shopping service for advice on this season’s trends and key gifts. You’ll need to phone to book an appointment, discuss requirements then visit the store. Fear not though, this doesn’t mean you’ll be dragged around the department store, instead you’ll be safely deposited on a sofa in the personal shopping department, all you’ll have to do is choose from items your shopper has picked. If you’re really pressed for time the store can bring a selection of things to your home or office. Then they’ll wrap and deliver everything. This service is offered in most high-end department stores so give your nearest a ring and see what they offer. I just have a soft spot for Harvey Nichols as I think it’s the crème de la crème of emporiums.

Gift it

Red letter Days are the perfect failsafe idea for the time and idea-pressed among us. They have hundreds of ‘experiences’ to choose from to give to your loved one from sky-diving to sushi rolling courses to spa days  to driving a Ferrari on a racing track, they have it all. And it couldn’t be simpler to use – you choose the experience, they deliver it with a personalised message, your gift recipient contacts them and they arrange all the bookings for the best time and date to suit. Check out the list of international affiliate sites that offer these experiences and find your country to book the experience.

Outsource it

Based in India, getfriday.com can sort your present-buying crisis for you. You are sent a list of suggested presents from their helpful assistant, who will also offer to buy them and find someone to come to your office and wrap them. All you have to do is describe the people that you’re buying for: think size, colouring, likes and dislikes. Just be aware, it takes three days to register with them, but once you have put in your request they aim to fulfil it immediately and have a free 24-hour hotline.

Well, that’s my present buying all wrapped up, which leaves me plenty of time to find that very special gift for myself...