Pick a Good Gift for Someone Close to You
It's hard to find the perfect gift for someone who is close to you. Not only a boyfriend, girlfriend, best friend, but anyone - like mom or a grandmother. Hopefully this article will make it a little bit easier to get that perfect gift for one of the people you love.
Steps
- Think about what they like, but also what maybe a "inside joke" or a memory between you two. Never ask what they want, it sort of ruins the surprise. Just stay aware of things. Like brands, colors, styles, movies, music, things they collect, etc.
- Think about places you two have gone. For example: your cousin and you went to a concert, get her something from that band. It's more personal then a gift card.
- Make sure to keep it a secret, and if you tell anyone make sure they keep it secret too! Most people say they don't like surprises but they really do.
- Make sure the gift looks presentable. For example: if you get a book, wrap it, and add a card. Or if you buy a clothing item make sure it's wrapped in a box or shopping bag.
- Personalize a gift, always. Even if it's just a card.
- If you don't have money or truly have no idea what to get the person. Make up coupons. Like "I.O.U. one shopping day to anything you want" or "One manicure & pedicure, just us!" for guys "One day doing anything you want, fishing, football, washing cars - you choose". They are all personal and all something you can make memories while doing. You can even bring a camera or buy a disposable for the day.
Tips
- Always think before buying the gift "will they use it?" If the answer is 'no' put the item back and keep looking.
- The best gifts say something to the recipient without you saying it. That could be "Yes, I remember what you like."
- Gift cards should be a last resort sort of thing.
- Think about the person's personality and buy something that matches.
- If they drop a hint, that is a good place to start but keep in mind the gift can be as personal or creative as you are comfortable with.
- Depending on the person making their gift could be your best bet!
- Pay attention to things they like and say! People usually drop hints.
- Try asking someone close to the person. For example: girlfriend/boyfriend ask their best friend or parents.
- If you're looking for a gift for a girl, and if they are self-conscious stay away from clothing.
Warnings
- Do not give flowers as a gift (unless your girlfriend/wife/lady family member loves flowers). It's a waste of money and they die and eventually get thrown away. Or, give live ones that are growing in a pot still.
- Giving cash is like saying "I don't know what you like, but hey happy birthday..". It isn't very personal or caring.
- Do not just take them out to a meal and think "they'll love this"!
- If there is any other option, don't give a gift card! Nothing is worse than choosing someplace a person has to spend the non-personal money you gave them!
Things You'll Need
- Time
- Money
- Love / compassion/ affection
- Shopping skills (stores, sales, etc)
- Good ideas
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