How to Pick the Perfect Birthday Present

My boyfriend’s birthday is at the end of this month and I struggled for SO long to pick something. Usually, I’m really on top of gifts, but not this time, it seemed. It can be so hard to pick gifts, especially for your significant other, because there’s a lot of pressure to pick something special and “perfect” for them.

Here are some questions to ask yourself when picking the perfect gift for your special person!

1. What problem have they complained about recently? For example, if they’ve been saying their favorite belt has gotten too tight, “borrow it” for a day and get a new hole put in it. If they complain that their phone always dies way too quickly, get them a portable phone charger, or a charging phone case! Obviously not all problems will be fixed by a simple purchase, but some of the smaller ones can be.

2. What are some things that are special to you? My boyfriend shaves every day when we’re together because my skin it really sensitive and turns super red every time his stubble brushes against it. It’s such a sweet, thoughtful gesture, so for his birthday this year I made him some homemade shave butter and aftershave, that smells like things he likes. Try to think of the little things that mean the most in your relationship, and find a way to celebrate them with a small gift.

3. What type of gifts are they likely to want? Some people love super personal, sentimental knick-knacks, others see them as clutter. Some love super useful products they can use every day, some find it utilitarian. Personally, I love “experience” gifts that I can do with my boyfriend. He’s got me tickets to a Christmas concert this year for my birthday and getting to spend that time with him was worth so much more than any one object.

4. What special memories can you recreate for them? When I was little, I went to the Nutcracker Ballet in Houston. I was fascinated. I was only five, but I got to dress up in a sparkly, poofy dress, I got to curl my hair, and I got to wear LIP GLOSS (a true sign of womanhood). I remember that night so fondly, and I talk about it often. Two years ago, my boyfriend got me tickets to see the same Nutcracker production. I got to relive one of my favorite nights all over again and being with him was the icing on top of the cake!

5. What have they been eyeing recently? When my boyfriend and I went to the rodeo this year, as we walked through the stalls, I saw that he was looking at a new belt. When he pulled out his computer for us to watch a movie one night, I saw ads for a new watch pop up on google. Paying attention to the little things they’ve been wanting to get themselves is a good way to sneakily ensure you’re giving them what they want.

If these questions aren’t sparking anything, check out some of my favorite gifts below! I’ve included stuff from all kinds of price ranges, so you’re sure to find something you like!