How to Buy a Birthday Gift for Less

Buying birthday gifts is always hard., no matter how good of a friend you are.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• money
• a friend with a birthday

1. How old is your friend turning? If they are your age, look at stores you would look in. If they are under the age of 12, toy stores are a good choice. If they are consiteribly older than you, look into stores that are typically for someone in that age group.

2. What does your friend like doing? If they are into sports, get them something related to that. Tickets to sporting events are alway fun. If they like clothing, find a store you can buy them a gift card to. If they still play with toys, get them an accessory to something they alreay own and love. If the are a quiet type and enjoy lesiurly activities, such as gardening or remodeling homes, give them a how-to book.

3. Decide how much you are going to spend. Typically $30 is the standard for a boring friend or a childs birthday party. If you are better friends with the person, spend more. If you are married or related, spend an even greater amount. NOTE: If you are not in a good financial position, homemade gifts or just spending time with the person are the best options.

4. Remember, birthdays aren't all about what you get them. It is the thought that you put in to buying something they will like that counts.

5. If you share an inside joke with them, a gift to always remind them of that is a good choice.

Tips & Warnings

• Dont give them used items- unless they are still quality.
• Give them the gift as close to their birthday as possible.
• If the person's birthday falls near a holiday, do not say the gift is combined with their holiday gift. No one likes getting one gift for two holidays...

[teeterrl]

on 8/15/2008 OMG THANKS SO MUCH FOR ALL THE COMMENTS ERICA!!!!!!

[acole]

on 7/26/2008 Good tips. Thanks!