Anyone can buy a gift, wrap it in a big bow and present it to someone. However, you are the only person that knows that special somebody well enough to buy them something truly meaningful. Something that will make them feel loved, appreciated and seen. The good news is, buying that perfect gift just got easy, with our comprehensive guide below.
Jewelry
Jewelry is one of the best choices when it comes to meaningful gifts for several reasons. The first is that it’s usually a lasting item which means the recipient will get to keep it for a long time. Secondly, jewelry is usually deceived which means it can be matched with the style of the person you are buying it for. Lastly, jewelry is usually made with precious or semi-precious materials, which means it has value, and so conveys how much you value it to the person to whom you give it.
Of course, finding just the right item of jewelry can be tricky, with so much to choose from. However, by prioritizing meaning you can get the best results. For example, choosing a piece with stones like a diamond is a great idea, because they are very tough and so represent the long lastingness of the relationship with that person. Similarly, eternity rings (with stones all the way around) symbolize the promise of a lifelong commitment.
Whereas bangles and bracelets in the color white are often linked to new beginnings. While something like a Celtic necklace with a triple spiral design. This is because the triple spiral represents continuous movement and change which is a great gift for someone going through a period of challenge or growth right now. It’s just a matter of tracking down the right piece for the meaning you are looking to convey.
Reminders
Another great option is to choose a gift that reminds the receiver of your relationship, or something positive and important to them. Indeed, there are many types of gifts like this on the market from sweet decorative test tubes filled with personalized notes that list all the wonderful things about the person, to a beautifully framed picture of the place you first met.
Another option that is possible thanks to modern technology is the light-up long-distance bracelet. These work by connecting to an app and light up and vibrating when one party touches them no matter where they are in the world. This provides a wonderful way to show that special someone that you are thinking about them almost instantly and without words.
Personalized items
Personalized items also work very well as meaningful gifts. However, it’s best to steer clear of everyday pieces simply emblazoned with a name or initials. Instead, go for something that has a real emotional resonance between you and the person you are giving it to.
For example, a star chart of the night you both first met will be both decorative and hold a special meaning that shows how important that person is to you. Similarly, a morse code phrase as a piece of art or jewelry will serve as a private message between the two of you and no one else.
Something you know they will love
Less sentimental, but no less gleefully received is a gift that you know the recipient will love because it’s bought with consideration and care. Indeed, this can be a great option to show someone in your life just how much you admire them without the need for getting too emotional, making it great for family members and friends rather than romantic partners.
The trick here is to think long and hard about what you know of that person and choose an item that will enrich their life somehow. It could be in a practical way. For example, if they bike to work every day, but moan about getting caught in the rain, buying them a waterproof jacket shows you have listened and you care about making their life a little better.
Alertly, it could be an item that will enrich their lives in a fun way. For example, if you know that the person you are buying for loves being creative and making art, buying them a beautiful art supply kit in a wooden case is just about as thoughtful and meaningful as you can get.
Don’t forget that experiences, as well as items, make great gifts too. For instance, someone that adores gastronomy will love a bread, sausage, or a cheese-making course, especially if you go on it with them!
Something you have made yourself
The final option for choosing a meaningful gift for someone that you love is to take the time and make the effort to create it yourself. By dedicating yourself to the process of making the gift your regard for that person is clear.
The good news is there are almost endless options for homemade gifts that you can choose from. If you have a specific skill such as woodworking, drawing, or sewing, opting for a high-quality homemade item that you create yourself is probably the best idea. Just be sure to consider how it will be used, as well as the colors and materials you will choose. In particular, if you know that the person you are making values recycling, you may wish to choose found and recycled materials instead of new ones for your project.
Alternatively, if you aren’t well known for your creative skills, you have two options. The first is to find a kit that lets you create the item you want, but supplies you with instructions and all the resources you will need.
Secondly, opting for a simple homemade edible treat will still convey all the effort, without you having the added strain of dedicating yourself to learning a new skill. In particular, making cookies or fudge that contain the recipient’s most favorite flavors is perfect. Just remember to present them in a special way such as a bag, or jar. A good cake, decorated with their favorite chocolate bars is another simple, but meaningful choice.