Are you like me at all? Every time a gift giving event comes around, be it birthday, Christmas or anything else, I never know WHAT to get. It just don’t want to give someone cash. That is not only boring, but so impersonal.
But then again, I don’t want to give them something they will want to re-gift — or worse yet — sits on a shelf and never gets used.
It isn’t even just knowing what to get. It is also a challenge to try to stay within budget at the same time. So, what should do?
I’ve come up with some great tips to help you find out what to give to that hard to buy for person on YOUR list.
Give something they can always use.
Every January, my kids take a thank you gift to their teachers. It includes pens, pencils, markers — most of the items that have probably been used up already and may need to be replaced. For us, it is a simple way to let them know that we appreciate all they do and at the same time, give them something they can actually use. You can use this same idea for the hard to buy for person.
Maybe you could make a basket filled with beauty product samples for a teen girl. You might even pick up a popcorn bowl, box of popcorn and a movie for your neighbor and his/her family. Think about things that you use and see if you can’t create a goodie package based upon things that they really need.
Ask a friend.
If you don’t want to come right out to ask someone, why not ask a friend or family member what they are into. I do this every time my child gets asked to a birthday party. We want to make sure we give the kids what they are into, so it is a simple question and works quite well.
Of course, if you don’t know any friends, maybe go check them out on Facebook. Sometimes they share links for products or even photos about their hobbies. For instance, maybe you see a friend who has Liked an author on Facebook. You might be able to pick up the latest new title in the book store for them.
Gift cards.
To be honest, these are a lot like cash (in my opinion). However, they can work. If you are really not sure what to get someone, but you know they love books, get a card to a bookstore. Or, if they love to go out to dinner, a card to a local restaurant. You can check out sites such as Raise.com, where you can even find discounted gift cards! (No reason to pay full price if you don’t have to).
These may seem like cash, but if you are specific in getting someone a card for their favorite store or dining establishment, you are showing you care and want them to be able to spend money on something they love.
If, you still are not sure, sticking with an Amazon gift card is always a great option – so they can buy anything they want.
Use Pinterest.
Pinterest is filled with absolutely amazing ideas! Just do a search for Gift Ideas ________ and fill in the blank with whatever your looking for. That might mean teacher, coach, musician, etc. You’ll get hundreds of results returned for you and just might find the perfect idea!
We all know it is the thought that counts – but try to put a little thought into it too and make your recipient feel even more special than they already are.