By Sierra Hemingway, Junior Reporter
Have you ever struggled with finding the perfect gift for someone? I have also struggled with this, because I usually prefer giving a gift over money or gift cards. Those can be good ideas and be meaningful for some people, but others may feel as though those gifts indicate a lack of thought or care. So here are some tips and ideas to help you give the best gifts this Christmas for your friends, family and other loved ones.
The first thing you should think about is: who is the receiver of the gift? The “who” matters before anything else because their role in your life (friend, family, girlfriend/boyfriend, etc.) will help you to determine the other things you have to think about such as budget, amount of thought, and also how much they expect from you. For example, your mom knows you very well and may not expect a lot from you, but your girlfriend might like something chosen with care, love, thought, that may be a bit more pricey.
The next thing to consider is budget. Once you consider who you're giving the gift to, you can determine how much you would like to spend on them. Maybe your boyfriend would just like some baking rather than an object. It’s best to budget so that you have a plan in mind. Often having a budget will help you to not spend too much.
Now, with that person in mind, think about what they enjoy, their hobbies. Observing what they love talking about when they’re with you, or what they have complained about, can stir up some ideas. Maybe their phone charger doesn't work and they need a new one. Or maybe they complain about how much they dislike physics - and then you know not to give them a “I love physics” shirt. Anything you can think of about that person will help.
Out of all the things that person enjoys (art, music, science, baking, cooking, learning, esthetics, dance, cars, movies, colours, holidays, sports, etc.) choose one topic and think about what that topic consists of. This might be musical instruments, paper, pens, highlighters, hair products, makeup, paint brushes, or something else. Those are very broad categories, but now think a little deeper. For example, if my boyfriend loves playing guitar, what does he need or want for that hobby? Maybe a music stand, guitar pick, or music sheets? You may have to do some research on the topic, but often through listening to the other person, they will tell you what they want or need. People love talking about themselves (it’s true, I'm not being rude, it’s just a fact!) so ask them about themselves and you might discover what they would like for Christmas.
Now, if you feel like the gift should be more special than a generic music stand but you like the idea of doing something with guitar, for example, there are MANY MANY opportunities to personalize things online or in shops. You could get him a personalized guitar pick with his name, initials, or even a photo. You may have to order something online, so make sure you get it ordered in time to give the gift when you see them for Christmas!
I hope this guide helps you. Good luck this Christmas season on present finding, gift giving, exam taking, and family visits!