Aw, I can't believe some didn't get any present at all. I think if you're not expecting one (say if single mum with very young children and no close family or such), then you should go out and treat yourself!!
DD is single mum, so no gift from partner (doesn't have one) or DS (too young to shop on his own), so we picked up a present for her (DVD she wanted), wrapped it, and tucked it under her Christmas tree when we were there. Also picked up a couple gifts for her DS from Santa, as her money is extremely tight this year as she just moved into her own flat a few weeks ago and had to use her savings to buy appliances. Had to do it on the hush, as we didn't want DS1 and his partner to feel we were playing favourites - generally, both DGSs have equal amount spent on them. But then, when they were falling apart at the seams last year, we did something pretty similar for them, as they didn't have the money to pay for Christmas presents.
I like the proactive approach, Riven! Sounds like it worked! Honestly, DH is funny - he hates buying me any kind of gift that is useable - like cookbooks, kitchenware, or anything like that. Personally, I'm of the opinion that if that is what I actually WANT, then it's okay to buy it. I'm finally getting him to understand that I don't want some expensive jewelry or the like - I don't wear it anyway! And he's bought me some lovely perfume as well - but now I have enough to last me ages - so no point buying that either!
This year, I got a hairdryer with diffuser (which I wanted), a computer program kit for quilting (which I want to try so am pleased this can help me get started), and then we bought some Dr Who DVDs on sale together. Plus a few gifts from other family members.