'There are 6 types of friend in every group. This is what to gift them.'

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Have you ever found yourself spotting similarities between your group of friends and a classic sitcom cast? Everyone has their role, their quirks, a signature style, and interests.

It's that moment you unequivocally realise that your bestie is definitely a Phoebe from Friends, and you're a self-appointed Monica.

These identities create an enjoyable group dynamic, but when it comes to gift-giving, it can make things tricky. Do you get the "adventurous one" another water bottle? Does the "mother of the group" really need more scented candles? (Spoiler: no.)

To crack the code this gifting season, I went straight to the source.

I conducted interviews with women who proudly identify as each of these friend-group archetypes — the mother, the organiser, the baby, the wellness guru, the chic bestie, and the adventurous one — to get to the bottom of what they actually want when it's their turn to unwrap a present.

The results? Equal parts surprising, on-trend, and incredibly useful.

So before you panic-buy another mug, here's the lowdown on what your friends, according to their personalities, are secretly hoping to receive this Christmas.

Watch: Buying for a work friend? The BIZ podcast reveals some interesting numbers on how much different co-workers put in for gifts... Post continues below.

The Mother.

Every friend group has a member who has unofficially adopted everyone else as their children.

The "mother of the group" is the one texting to make sure you got home safe, carrying snacks in their bag "just in case," and somehow always knowing the right thing to say when drama hits. They're basically a walking first-aid kit: Band-Aids, tissues, painkillers, you name it, they've got it.

They're the emotional anchor, the caretaker, and the one who will happily sacrifice their own fun to make sure everyone else is okay.

This friend thrives on making sure everyone feels safe, loved, and looked after. They're not the bossy type — they're nurturing, and while they might joke about being "the mum," they love being the emotional support glue that holds the group together.

What they want:

"I (and my friends) would definitely consider me 'the mother' of our friendship group. Honestly, it's a role I've kind of leaned into — I've always liked looking after people, even if it means I'm the one sacrificing a bit of fun sometimes," my 'mother' friend told me.

"More often than not, I'm a bit of a caretaker, so gifts can be… interesting," she adds.

"People tend to assume I'd want something practical, and I'll never say no to a good hand cream or bag of peanut M&Ms, but TBH, what I actually love are things that let me feel cared for."

"Anything from cozy gifts like a silk eyemask or weighted blankets, to an indulgent skincare set would be a dream come true. Even something simple like a heartfelt crafty activity to do with the girls or a personalised present makes me feel really appreciated."

"Basically, anything that reverses the roles for a second and reminds me my friends are there to look after me too."

Gift Guide for 'The Mother':

Slip Sleepover Set, $82.

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BYOMA Cosmic Glow Treat Trio, $30.60.

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The Oodie Weighted Blanket, $159.

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Pott'd Paint-a-Mug Set, now $79.

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Homedics Therapist Select Plus Percussion Massage Gun, $89.

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The Neighbours Cellar Personalized Alcohol Gift Box, now $80.37.

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Hommey Cotton Cashmere Set, now $173.60.

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The Organiser.

If the "mother" is the nurturer of the group, then the organiser is more of a commander-in-chief. The boss b*tch, if you will.

This is the girl who thrives on set plans, group chats, and Google Calendar scheduling. They're the ones booking the dinner reservation before anyone else even saw the menu, and somehow managing to keep track of who owes what for the Airbnb.

Think: the group's unofficial travel agent, party planner, and list maker. They may roll their eyes at the responsibility, but secretly, they love being the captain of the ship.

Let's do a little test: If telling your friend "I don't mind, you choose" doesn't entirely freak them out, and they've been accused (lovingly) of being a control freak, then all signs point to an organiser.

What they want:

"Would I consider myself 'the organiser' of my friendship group? Undoubtedly," my friend tells me.

"I'm the one booking the dinner reservations, organising Osko payments, planning surprise birthday parties, etc. I understand we can be hard to buy for, and often will just be gifted money (it's just easier), but if you're after something more personal, things like chic homewares, blue light glasses, personalised planners, or sleek card wallets are all going to be a pretty safe bet."

Gift Guide for 'The Organiser':

Personalised Papier Cabana Productivity Planner, $55.

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Mesa Collections spiral 5-piece handmade cutlery silver set, $150.

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Poppy Lissiman Window Wallet, now $68.

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Grown Alchemist Hand Care Set, $49.

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Fieldbar Drinks Box, $289.

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Otra Blue Light Glasses, $75.

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Frank Green Iced Coffee Cup With Straw, $54.95.

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The Baby.

Every friendship circle one person you all instinctively need to protect. The baby of the group is the sweet, wide-eyed friend who radiates innocence and charm.

Despite what you may think, they definitely don't have to be the youngest, and they bring a lighthearted, wholesome energy that makes the group feel complete.

They're the ones everyone teases but also fiercely defends. Often gets called "cute" or "adorable" — even when they're trying to be serious. Needs help with "adulting" tasks like booking appointments or opening things, and has a knack for making people laugh without even trying.

This buddy in particular is the heart of the group's innocence. Whether they're asking "Wait, how does tax work again?" or showing up with a stuffed animal in their tote bag, they remind the group that it's okay to embrace being softie.

What they want:

"Somehow, I've ended up being known as the 'baby' of our friendship group. It's not really about age — it's more about the fact that I'm the one everyone teases for being a bit clueless sometimes," my friend explains.

"When it comes to gifts, people often go for things that are cute or cozy, and honestly, that's exactly what I love.

"Plushies, slippers, or an emotional support water bottle always make me smile. Sweet treats are always welcome too; I'll never say no to a box of choccy or baked goods.

"But the gifts that mean the most are the thoughtful ones, like personalised jewellery or a photo book that reminds me how loved I am."

Gift Guide for 'The Baby':

Pixory Custom Photo Book, now $52.35.

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Jellycat Bartholomew Bear, $69.99.

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Lululemon Back to Life Sport Bottle, $59.

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LUSH Yum! Gift Set, $60.

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Oak And Luna Willow Tag Initial Necklace, $167.

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Loco Love Rainbow Bundle, $59.

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UGG Platinum Tassie Platform Slippers, now $129.

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The Wellness Guru.

You know the one: they're basically a walking Pinterest board of self-care.

The wellness guru is the friend who swears by new smoothie recipes, knows of ALL the latest wellness gadgets, and has a meditation app recommendation for every mood.

They're the ones reminding you to drink water, stretch, and maybe reconsider that third coffee. Every time you see her, she will probably have a new health hack to share are ask you to try with her — from adaptogens in your breakfast to cold plunges.

This friend is the group's unofficial life coach. They genuinely want everyone to feel their best, and their enthusiasm for wellness can be contagious. Whether they're leading a sunrise beach walk or convincing you to try a smoothie with veggies in it, they're the ones keeping the group grounded and glowing.

What they want:

"I'm definitely the wellness junkie in my circle — I know it can be a little much sometimes, but I love passing on tips to my friends that have helped me feel my best and healthiest self," my wellness pal explains.

"When it comes to gifts, I'm all about things that support my lifestyle. Think chic blending water bottles, hair oils, or a beauty device I haven't yet got my hands on.

"I love anything that makes my routines feel a little more elevated — like a luxe incense holder, a scent that reminds me of nature, or an indulgent body care set. Basically, if it helps me recharge, stay balanced, or feel a little more zen, I'm into it."

Gift Guide for 'The Wellness Guru':

Hinu Scalp Stimulate Duo, $135.

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Nutribullet Portable Blender, now $59.

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The Silk Label Essential Non-Slip Sleep Mask, $85.

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Biotyspa Body Sculpt Kit, now $135.

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Bon Charge Red Light Face Wand, now $149.25.

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Ficifolia Sunbathers Extrait De Parfum, $109.99.

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Gentle Habits Chrome Incense Holder, $75.

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The Chic Bestie.

You know that one friend who isn't afraid to overdress for a casual catch-up and elevates every outing just by showing up? Yeah, that's your chic bestie.

She's effortlessly stylish, always trendy, and has a knack for turning even the simplest accessory into a statement piece.

She's the friend who knows the difference between "nice" and luxurious-but-subtle, and she inspires everyone else to step up their game.

A chic bestie lives on Pinterest and loves curating her life according to her aesthetic, from outfits to interiors, and has an eye for detail: jewellery, handbags, and accessories will always be on point and have you asking the brand.

They appreciate quality over quantity, preferring timeless pieces to fast trends.

What they want:

"As the chic bestie of the group (my friends' words, not mine), it can be tricky to buy gifts for me since I tend to enjoy curating my own wardrobe and vibe," my friend tells me.

"HOWEVER, I do love thoughtful knick-knacks and unique little accessories that can add something quirky to an outfit. I'd recommend focusing on items that are small, unexpected, and high-impact.

"A fun bag charm, a luxe lip product like a gloss or tinted lip balm, or any sort of chic accessories to take with me on the go are always good options!"

Gift Guide for 'The Chic Bestie':

Prada Lip Balm, $80.

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Heaven Mayhem Playing Card Set, now $60.

Chloé L'eau De Parfum Intense, $135.

Charles and Keith Pretzel Charm, $29.

Tkees Lily Square-Toe Gloss Sandals, now $91.

Morphe Conceal & Set Tool Trio, $28.

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Camile & Stone Twin Set Rings, now $129.

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The Adventurer.

This friend can usually be identified with a couple of questions: Have they ever invited you for a sunrise hike? Has she signed up for a half-marathon, or convinced everyone to try rock climbing "just for fun"? If the group is lounging around, are they itching to hit the beach and do something active?

If any if these fit the bill, yure looking in the right place for gift inspo.

A beloved 'adventurer' pal probably owns more activewear than regular clothes, and they thrive on adrenaline, new experiences, and pushing boundaries. Everyone appreciates their role as the group's motivator — making sure life never gets boring.

What they want:

"I'm definitely the more adventurous one out of my friends. When it comes to gifts, I'm all about things that can be used or elevate my routine," my friend explains.

"I love practical gear like waterproof earbuds, durable backpacks, and quality runners. Trinkets are also very welcome — a camera to take on my weekend adventures or some outdoorsy gear like a giant beach towel would never go unused.

"I also love gadgets that make adventures easier, like portable chargers or fitness trackers. If it helps me explore, move, or try something new, I'd be stoked to receive it as a gift!"

Gift Guide for 'The Adventurer':

Asics GEL-K1011, $230.

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Mifo O5 Plus Gen 3 Bluetooth Earbuds, now $149.99.

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Pinky & Kamal Sport Jersey, $159.

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The Reloader 35mm Film Camera, $149.

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Yeti Daytrip 14L Tote Bag, $200.

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Life Of Coco Sand Free Beach Double Towel, now $75.

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CSB Slim Run Belt Bag, $39.99.

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