Here are the best birthday gifts for your friend. Unique gifts are unexpected or quirky. While they don’t have to be weird, per se, they can be. A traditional gift is more anticipated and expected, although this doesn’t necessarily mean a customary gift is boring. Whatever direction, make sure that the gift fits the receiver.
Price
Before you buy any gift, determine your budget and ideal price range. Then make sure your purchase falls in line with those numbers. It’s also a good idea to consider your friend’s budget, too, especially if you often reciprocate on gifts. While going all out for a friend can be really special, it may put them in an uncomfortable position trying to match and or one-up you on your special day. Keep in mind that you can buy something amazing and meaningful without always having a hefty price tag.
Customization Options
Some gifts allow for personalization, which can be pretty special, depending on the item and what the personalization options are. For example, engraving names, customizing flavors on an ice cream subscription, or something as personal as the “Why You’re My Bestie” hand-filled journal.
Subscriptions and/or Extras
Give the gift that keeps on giving. Subscriptions can continue your gift-giving even after your BFF’s special day (without too crazy of a price). As you consider gift options, look at subscriptions and other gifts that offer “extras” to bring joy to your friend on more days than one.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This round-up was written by Patrice J. Williams. She has contributed gift guides to The Spruce since 2020. She loves helping her friends and family find unique, thoughtful, and wallet-friendly presents. In addition to her work for The Spruce, she writes commerce articles, including product suggestions and reviews, for other outlets and appears on-air for “Today” and WE tv. She was also the Savvy Shopper reporter for WPIX in New York City. Additional reporting was done by Marisa Donnelly, a writer and editor with over 12 years of experience. Her work has appeared in Huffington Post, Bustle, BossBabe, Thought Catalog, and more.
Remember: gifts don’t need to break the bank, but they should be thoughtful and meaningful to both the giver and receiver.
If you want to say no to gifts for a birthday party, let your guests know in advance. Perhaps set up something in place of gifts like donations to a fundraiser.
