Birthdays and Gift Giving!

Yesterday was one of my friends Birthday. I scrambled my brain trying to figure out what to get her and after she complimented a scarf I wore, I knew that is what I was going to get her! While I chose a more "normal" gift to give there are many other choices that are out of the box and unique.

Heather from Shutterfly reached out to me to share some cool and fun ways to give a Birthday gift! Here she is to explain how many ways you can give someone a gift on their Birthday.


Eight Fun Ways to Wish a Friend Happy Birthday

Today’s digital technology has made it easier than ever to keep in touch with people we have met along the road of life, even those we might not have kept up with otherwise. Even though it can be fun to receive a text, tweet or social media shout-out on your birthday, there is something special about having friends go above and beyond. Birthdays are something to be celebrated and often the acknowledgement alone is enough.

Even so, here are eight fun, inexpensive ways to wish a friend happy birthday:

1. eCards
: Sure, this option does not take a lot of time, but it shows an extra effort that a text just doesn’t convey. There are thousands of free cards available online with countless messages for every occasion, birthdays included. Not only that, but you can choose from humorous, spiritual, serious or sentimental messages and themes. Your friend is sure to appreciate the energy that went into choosing the perfect card for him or her. Don’t forget to include a personalized message at the end.

1. Custom photo birthday cards
: Create cards as personalized as your message. It’s always fun to choose a photo of you and your friend – something that defines or represents your friendship – and then include a note about how special your friend is to you.

1. Customized candy labels
: What says “happy birthday” more than a chocolate bar? But not just any chocolate bar – one with a personalized candy wrapper. Design a label with a cute message, something like “Hope you have a sweet birthday” or “John’s Chocolate, sweet since 1974.” 

1. Stationery
: Create specially designed notepads or other stationery for your friend – this doesn’t have to be expensive. Include your friend’s name on the notepad or something he or she really likes. Then, instead of buying a card, write a special message on the first page of the notepad. 

1. Gift cards
: Who doesn’t love a gift card to their favorite restaurant or store? These make the ideal gift and you can make it for any amount that fits your budget. Even a $5 gift card to your friend’s favorite coffeehouse will be appreciated. Many gift cards come with an envelope or sleeve where you can write your birthday wishes.

1. Flowers
: If you want an extra-special way to wish a friend happy birthday, send flowers. You usually get a free note with the delivery so your friend knows who sent them and why. What birthday girl doesn’t love being surprised with roses on her special day?

1. Video
: Even though texting and tweeting can seem run of the mill when it comes to birthday wishes, that doesn’t mean technology can’t be used to make the wishes more special. Make a video wishing or singing happy birthday to your friend, then send it to his or her phone/email or post it online. Your friend will appreciate the extra effort that went into your wish.

1. Handmade cards
: Some people are not so talented with crafts, and if that’s you – it’s okay! But for the DIY guru, handmade cards are a fun and creative way to say happy birthday. Whether you’re into stamping, scrapbooking or just crafting in general, there are a ton of great card ideas on the Internet. Plus, this is a great way to involve your kids in wishing your friends and theirs happy birthday.

Wishing a friend happy birthday doesn’t have to break the bank but it can still be creative. With a little brainstorming and thought, you can make your friend feel extra cherished on her special day.

Author Bio: Heather Hewitt is a seasoned writer and guest author who enjoys connecting people with thoughtful products, services and ideas as they relate to crafting, photography, gift giving and personal expression.

I hope this got your wheels turning for the next time you have to run out and get a gift. These suggestions are not limited to just Birthdays. You can send any of these to someone for a quick "pick me up" or just to let someone know you are thinking of them.

I'm off to run some errands now! I hope y'all enjoy this beautiful Saturday!

Love,

E