At the slightest birthday or as soon as there is a wedding, at Christmas time, this question comes up with almost oppressive regularity: how to choose an original gift? Gift certificates, discount vouchers, the traditional DVD or the tie that will be piled up with the others in a cupboard, it’s a little too easy and it might even be frowned upon… A few tips to help you!
Depending on the occasion
When it comes to finding an original gift, it goes without saying that you don’t give the same things for a birthday, a wedding, or a housewarming. The first thing to do is to think about the occasion.
First of all, is this a gift for one person or for several? For example, if you’re invited to a housewarming party for friends who are opening their shared apartment, find a joint gift related to their apartment. More and more stores offer furniture that can be written or painted on: this way, each participant can write a word or draw a picture, which can become a pleasant attraction at the party.
If it’s a couple, the gift should be different too. Play on a couple of clichés: find unbreakable tableware in case of an argument; it’s a bit provocative and funny, and can make a unique gift. Otherwise, breakfast sets—mugs, cups, bowls—with faces depicted in different moods. That way, everyone can set their minds on things in the morning: Monday is grumpy, Sunday is relaxing!
Depending on the person
When it comes to giving someone a gift, we have varying degrees of freedom. If it’s someone you know well, feel a little freer to think outside the box. So, instead of thinking about an original gift, start with your friend’s unique style. Are they a stickler for tidying up? Do they have a particular phobia or, on the contrary, a slightly eccentric passion?
Most of the time, what makes us fall into banality when giving a gift is the fear of not pleasing them. Put yourself in the person’s shoes: you would probably prefer that your loved ones show a little imagination rather than treat you to a collector’s edition of your favorite movie for the twentieth time. And if you know the person well, there’s little chance that you won’t please them.
The best gift for a unique occasion is always something that only you could have given. You probably have your jokes or stories you’ve shared, whether in class, at a party, or on vacation; try to find something that can bring back those memories. The importance of a gift is often the stories it reminds us of!
Discover things
Take the time to find your unique gift. Whether you know the person or not, if you want to give a gift that’s out of the ordinary, you’ll have to put in the effort. Spend an afternoon looking for unique, off-the-beaten-path shops and browsing their shelves.
