Procrastinated With Your Gift-giving? No Problem!

You have a friend, colleague, or family member's special occasion coming up fast, and you still haven't made plans for a purchase. What to do now? You're running out of time! Fortunately, I am something of an expert in gift-giving procrastination, so I can give you a few tips on how to make a last-minute choice that will be unforgettable to the receiver.

Whatever you do, try to be creative. Don't fall back on items you know the receiver tends to collect, as they may be constantly bombarded with such items. For example, my brother-in-law used to collect rubber ducks, but he soon lost interest in them. However, even now (several years later), he still receives them, which he tends to find annoying.

If you know for a fact that a particular item is still a fascination, consider finding an accessory to accompany their collection. A beautiful cabinet for storage, a cleaning kit, or something similar. One idea? To a wine enthusiast, you may want to present a genuine leather wine journal, which are becoming increasingly popular these days.

If you know other guests attending the celebration in question, don't be afraid to talk to them, especially if they are better acquainted with the future receiver. For all you know, multiple gift givers may be contributing to a single large present, and you may be able to join in. This often happens during weddings or baby showers, when necessities can be tremendously expensive.

Intending to shop online to find great deals? There's no problem with that, especially if you're on a limited budget, but you should, of course, be hyper-aware of shipping dates and deadlines. Fortunately, many companies offer you a tracking number so you can easily keep track of the location of your order, but it is a good idea to choose a company or warehouse as close to your home as possible.

Quick gifts online can involve high shipping costs if you need to have them ready in a few days, so be sure to weigh the expense carefully against buying a present in a store. If still decide to purchase online and the order arrives late, consider giving a modest gift card so the receiver still has something to open on their big day. It is like a good faith promise for a more substantial reward for their patience.

Remember that the best gifts are not always something that can be handled or spent in a traditional fashion. My spouse and I have received activity certificates for several anniversaries, allowing us to go horseback riding, participate in couples' photo shoots, and more. So, it all comes back to being creative! Ultimately, the receiver(s) will be grateful you recognized their special occasion.