How to Buy a Birthday Present
Prove to your family and friends that you can think beyond the gift card. You know when birthdays will fall each year, so brainstorm early to buy each loved one a memorable, meaningful present that suits their taste and interests.
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Instructions
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Consider the recipient's personality to rule out presents she'll never use. Your rough-and-tumble niece who detests dressing up may not appreciate a basket of makeup and perfume, for instance.
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Study the person's hobbies. Even if he's got every necessary tool, supply or accessory for their sport, craft or pastime, purchase consumable items (like adhesives for scrapbookers or golf balls for golfers) that he'll continually need. If you must fall back on the gift certificate idea, purchase one at a specialty shop related to his hobby.
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Purchase age-appropriate gifts. Although it's okay to skew younger (if your grandmother likes to play Nintendo DS or wear Hello Kitty t-shirts, for example), follow the age requirement and safety precautions on toys and clothing you buy for children.
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Start a collection that you'll be able to contribute to each year. If your mother has a music box, snow globe or Lladró figurine that she loves, make it a tradition to give her another one on birthdays and holidays.
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Give a gift that lasts throughout the year, like a membership to a fruit-of-the-month club, ballroom-dancing lessons or a magazine subscription. You can also be practical by renewing gym memberships or annual amusement park pass.
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Save money but add meaning with a coupon book of ideas to make the recipient's life easier. Include vouchers that instruct you to organize compact discs, sweep out the garage or make breakfast in bed, for example.
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Tips & Warnings
Keep a running list of birthdays in your planner or wallet. Whenever you're shopping and see an object someone on your list might like, jot it down (or buy it early if it's a one-of-a-kind item). Consult the list often and shop for birthdays coming in the next few months to prevent last-minute scrambling.
