When there’s someone in your life for whom words cannot express your love, it can be difficult to find the right gift for them. Whether you’re looking for Valentine’s Day presents for your significant other, a birthday present, or a gift for no other reason than to express your feelings, you need to take your time.
Remember, finding the perfect gift isn’t about spending the right amount of money. It’s about the thought you put into it. Yes, we all like nice material things, but that’s not what hits someone deep in their heart.
When you take the time to find a perfect gift based on the individuality of the receiver, that’s what makes an impact. However, that’s often easier said than done. We’re here to help.
Keep reading for our top seven tips on choosing perfect gifts for the people who are most important in your life.
1. Listen
Ironically, if you pay attention to your loved one on a day to day basis, they may tell you exactly what the perfect gift for them would be. You may have to read between the lines and pick up on subtle details, but you can do it. Practice your active listening skills.
This is easier if you spend a lot of time around them. However, remember that the best gifts are always surprises we aren’t expecting. Don’t blow your cover by asking obvious questions that could betray your intentions.
2. Be a Problem-Solver
Some of the most perfect gifts we receive are those that solve problems for us. For example, if you’re mom is always complaining about an old vacuum that misses half the dirt and pet hair on the floor, buy her a new one for Mother’s Day.
No matter who you’re shopping for, pay special attention to their struggles, frustrations, and complaints. If the person is more reserved about their problems, you may have to inquire subtly about things that might be bothering them.
In some cases, this may entail a non-material gift. For example, if your loved one is a busy parent who never has time to relax, you could find a babysitter (or do it yourself) while providing them with an all-expenses-paid day at the spa.
3. Focus on Their Passions
Another way to find the perfect gift for someone close to you is by making a list of everything they like. This can be especially helpful in narrowing down your options to provide a direction.
Let’s say your father enjoys a glass of whiskey in the evenings. Make his birthday special by buying him a personalized decanter and whiskey glasses.
Alternatively, if the recipient of the gift loves to paint or draw, buy them a fresh set of art materials. Just make sure you know exactly what they use and what tools they prefer (that stuff is important to artists).
If you’re not sure, you can ask them some underhanded questions to inquire about some gift ideas. You could ask them about their favorite movies, TV shows, etc. and find them some fan memorabilia. The options are endless, you just need to be creative.
4. Create Custom Care Packages
Sometimes, sending the perfect gift is the best way to surprise your loved one. This can be especially impactful if they live far away. Care packages are perfect gifts for loved ones in the military, away in college, or even in nursing homes.
The key is to fill the care package with all of their favorite things. This could include candy, home-made baked goods, movies, board games, arts and crafts, books, comic books, video games, and more.
Most importantly, you need to add a personal touch. You can do this with a hand-written letter, hand-stitched gloves, socks, or caps, etc.
Find out more about how to send a perfect gift to your elderly loved one.
5. Give the Gift of an Unforgettable Experience
Another great gift idea involves providing an amazing experience rather than a material item. This experience, of course, needs to be centered around the individual.
Once again, it may be helpful to create a list of the things they enjoy. You could spend the day with them getting massages, eating at their favorite restaurant, seeing a concert or movie, going to a museum, etc.
Just make sure it’s a stress-free day filled with their favorite activities. This is a fun one to do for couples. Here are some ideas.
6. Take Them Back With Nostalgia
Sometimes, the perfect gift is one that reminds the recipient of the past. You could create a photo album centered around a parent who’s passed or some fun times you’ve had together.
You could also buy them some memorabilia relating to a past experience. For example, if you went on a trip to Rome a while back, you could blow up a picture of your time there and frame it for their home.
Ultimately, it depends on the message you’re trying to get across and the emotions you’re trying to invoke.
7. Be Sentimental
Finally, remember that many perfect gifts are of sentimental value. Whatever you give your loved one, you want it to represent how much you love and care about them. If you’ve been dating your significant other for a while, it may be a good time to give them a key to your place or propose to them.
Alternatively, something sentimental can come in the form of a hand-made item. If you’re an artist, you could paint or draw a picture of the two of you together. If you aren’t skilled in the arts, it could be just as meaningful if you hire an artist to create something for your loved one.
Looking to Give the Perfect Gift?
Remember, finding the perfect gift for someone is never about a dollar amount, it’s about love and compassion. It’s about what makes that person so special in your life that you’re willing to spend time researching gift ideas. Focus on that while choosing their gift.
Be sure to check out some of our other articles on everything from relationship advice to saving money. Our blog is dedicated to helping people like you improve their lives through knowledge, insight, and excellent advice.
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