We’ve all done it: stood in a store browsing the web, scratching our heads, and trying to decide what gift to give a close friend on their birthday. It’s a bit like getting lost in an endless maze. Let’s go off the beaten trail and discuss some cool ideas that are not just socks or a gift card. Read more about unique gift suggestions for a girl’s 13th birthday.

Remember the time you got an incredibly boring gift and had to fake smile in order to say “I love it!” You’ve probably all experienced this. Let’s stay away from that pitfall. Consider diving into the crazy world of personalized experiences. Consider hitting the target with a ceramics class, gourmet cooking lessons, or even an exciting zip-line experience. You’d become the hero when it comes to gift-giving. And that is a feeling you should cherish.

Have you ever thought of the joy of gifting something handmade? No, you do not need to be Picasso. Even glues, stitches and other materials can become treasures. Imagine this: A scrapbook with all their memories, a scarlet with their favorite color, or even a mixed tape. (Well, Spotify playlist since no one uses tape recorders any more.) Play songs that will bring them back to mind.

Do not throw away traditional gifts, even though handmade and experiences are the best. Classics like classic books are always in style. Spend a moment thinking about the person’s tastes in reading. Science fiction, mysteries, romances, or self-help even? Grab a bestseller from their favorite genre or a hidden jewel. Maybe add an unusual bookmark or an author’s autograph to the gift.

Have you ever heard about subscription boxes? These boxes are a constant gift. Imagine their face brightening every month, when a customized box arrives. You can choose from a variety of options, including gourmet snacks and monthly book clubs. Each delivery serves as a mini birthday and extends the fun beyond one day.

Let’s talk technology for a minute. With gadgets, you can’t really go wrong. Everyone will be tempted by the latest wireless earbuds, or a sleek and stylish smartwatch. It’s all about what works for them. Is your girlfriend a fitness enthusiast? Choose something like Fitbit. Does he have a future as a photographer? Is he a budding photographer?

Do not ignore sentimental items. Consider something that touches the heart. Personalized photo frames or custom-made jewelry are great options. You could even have a star in their honor! They may sound corny. But sometimes corniness is just what the doctor ordered.

You have a buddy who loves self-care. Think of a luxurious spa hamper filled with aromatherapy bath products, soothing candles and high-end body lotions. If you add a note of heartfelt gratitude, then you will become the friend to the year.

Remember that joke you have told for years in private? Why not bring it to live? You could create a custom tee-shirt that features that famous phrase, or a mug to capture your sense of humor.

One of my favorite stories: I once gifted a small bonsai. Doesn’t that sound odd? It was a hit. It was a unique, living memory of our friendship. The little tree is always in our conversations. Don’t fear the unexpected. This could be the gift which keeps you in touch.

Ask them if you still have questions. It isn’t taboo. You can often save a lot of time by asking someone straight out what they desire. They might do something that you would not have expected.

You can’t go wrong with a birthday gift that shows how much you care. What matters is not the price, but what you put into it. Remember these ideas the next time you feel like you can’t decide what to give someone for their birthday. Don’t forget to breathe deeply and enjoy the process of searching for that perfect gift.