Personalise Simple Presents
When you personalise simple presents, you make them something more than they initially are. The beauty of this is that it isn’t too hard to do, and you can transform even the most basic gift into a special treasure that the recipient will love and appreciate. So how can you work this magic at a special occasion like Christmas, birthdays and Valentine’s Day? From something as simple but effective as a handwritten note to custom practical gifts, here are some ideas.
Let the Recipient Choose
It can be hard to find something for some people. But there is a handy compromise you can use. What better way to make a gift more personal than to let them choose? Money might feel too impersonal, but gift vouchers can be a great gift with some extra thought. For example, they might like John Lewis gift cards for home decor items. Or a gamer in your life might appreciate a PlayStation or Xbox gift card. These are more personal than cash and offer high practicality.
Personalise Simple Presents with a Note
The average person in the UK spends over £500 per year at Christmas, but it isn’t all about the monetary value of a gift. Some of the most appreciated gifts are the ones that mean something, and it doesn’t get much more personal than hand-crafting a caring and loving message:
- Attach a card to the gift to explain why you chose what you did and what it means.
- Practice writing before you apply the actual note so it looks perfect when finished.
- Keep the note short and simple to avoid confusion and to keep its aesthetic.
Decorate Plain Items
Sometimes you can create something inspired that will impress. And the extra work will elevate the appreciation level. However, you need a base to work with. For example, you might be handy with a paintbrush, but aren’t too good with woodwork. So you can’t create a picture frame your mum will love from scratch. So what can you do? You can buy a basic but well-made frame and make it personal by decorating it in a style she will love and adding a treasured photo.
Get the Kids Involved
Kids love getting involved in pretty much anything. From making family meals to grandma’s birthday gift, the children can make something much more special. Whether it’s for your partner or the grandparents, a child’s touch will make a gift more magical, and the recipient will treasure it forever. Some things they can help with include hand-drawn gift tags, frame decoration and DIY craftables like a photo calendar. They can even wrap it for some giggles later on!
Personalise Simple Presents with Unique Wrapping
76% of Gen-Z enjoy experiences more than expensive gifts, and the wrapping can be a part of the overall experience. A standout gift looks and feels great right from the start, and the psychology of gift-giving has found that the emotional attachment can make it more impressive.
Find the best box
There are many different types of boxes you can try, depending on the gift. For example, a rose-shaped ring box will elevate the level of romance for a heartwarming Valentine’s gift.
Reuse materials
Wrapping paper can be wasteful, and there are tons of other materials you can use. Chalk paper is a good choice as it can be reused a lot, and even something like an old t-shirt has its charm.
Get a professional gift wrap
Of course, you might want your gift to look movie-perfect. Most stores these days, such as department stores, offer professional gift-wrapping services for that extra special look.
Create a Hamper or Kit
Hampers are a wonderful gift because they take time to put together. That shows an appreciation for the recipient on another level beyond just buying something. However, hampers are also versatile because they aren’t set in stone. You can easily add or remove individual items to hampers to make them more personal to the recipient. For example, you can create a chocolate-themed hamper for your wife, or give your dad a tasty beer and snacks hamper.
Provide an Experience
Not everyone enjoys receiving a ton of material possessions on a special occasion, and they might appreciate an experience more. An experience can make a gift more personal as it promises quality time together. Experiences are excellent gifts for busy families or couples who don’t get to enjoy each other’s company as much as they would like, greatly increasing the meaning. From family game night to a romantic time at a hotel, time is what makes it count.
Personalise Simple Presents They Will Use
Around 80% of Brits find it hard to find a gift for someone at Christmas and other occasions. However, practical gifts that they will use usually go down well. Today, it is easier than ever to customise gifts with online services like VistaPrint and MyPicture, and there’s a wide range:
- If your loved one uses computers, you can personalise USB drives and mousepads.
- You can also create a photobook using online services, which offer extra value.
- Even for the kids, everyday items like a homework book can also be customised.
Add Sentimental Touches
You can buy a generic gift, and most people will be happy to receive it. But there is usually a better way to make it feel a bit more special. Adding a small but sentimental touch will elevate even something as simple as a smartphone case into something special. For example, how about an engraved message on the leather of the case? Or you can attach a personalised key chain to a new handbag for your partner. Little touches like this are simple but effective.
Summary
Letting the recipient choose their own gift by giving something like a gift card will help you personalise simple presents, especially if it is related to their interests. You can also make a gift special by focusing on the wrapping, and sentimental touches can also elevate a simple gift.
