How to Choose the Perfect Gift for Your Partner

Buying presents for birthdays, Christmas, anniversaries, and impromptu occasions should be a source of delight, but sometimes it can actually be stressful. Some people seem so hard to buy for, others appear to have everything, some are fussy, or you may just not know the recipient that well yet. Everyone wants to find unique ways to surprise their partner on their birthday but it isn't always possible. Some people may not even communicate what it is they desire and it might feel like you are rooting around in the dark. However, there are plenty of methods to swing the balance in your favor and make life easier for you. One important thing you need to do though is to listen. By understanding a few of your partner's values, you will have a head start in making the perfect gift purchase.

Handmade Gift

Many people value a gift that has had thought and the giver's time put into it much more than something from a shop that they will never use. There are great creative hobbies you can do at home; and if you are this way inclined, then consider making something that your partner will enjoy. This doesn't have to be anything spectacular; depending on the occasion, it could be something as simple as cooking a meal. If you are one of those people who is rather challenged when it comes to the kitchen and you have never made your partner a meal, then imagine their surprise and enjoyment when you present them with dinner. Remember, you may have to practice this a few times before your partner experiences the final dish.

Use Hang Tags

Hang tags are labels that are attached to clothing to help consumers see the difference between knit and woven fabric if it isn't clear to their eye. These tags often contain a wealth of information that isn't included on the regular labels. You can use this to your advantage. If your partner has a particular concern about an environmental issue or is keen on corporate social responsibility, then you can check hang tags to find products that meet these values. Hanging tags can help you decide which manufacturer cares about the same areas as you and your partner. Although the gift itself may look the same as the next one on the shelf, what is inside won't be the same.

Give to Charity

This might not sound like the greatest present; but you might consider making a donation in your significant other's name to a cause they are concerned with. This can be a handy way to make a last-minute gift if you are stuck for time and ideas. If you are going on vacation soon, then you may be able to combine their present with a trip to a charitable concern such as an animal rescue center.

Create an Experience

Don't just buy a gift card to a spa, but rather arrange a night or even a weekend away together. Making the gift into an occasion will make your partner feel special. You can still introduce some special gifts along the way too to make it an extra special time away. Perhaps you can present your partner with a glamorous satin and sateen kimono robe when you are relaxing in your hotel. If you don't want to go away, then check your partner's favorite movies and books. Is there something they are passionate about that can be turned into an event? If they love a particular band, then see if they are performing around the same time as your partner's birthday. If they enjoy a particular film, find out whether there is a stage show somewhere that you could get tickets for. A show, a good restaurant, and a night in a lovely hotel can sometimes be preferred over receiving a DVD box set or an Amazon gift card.

Unfortunately, there is no perfect gift for everyone; but by taking mental notes about what your partner values, likes, and dislikes, you can improve your chances of hitting the right note. A partner will likely appreciate the effort you make far more than the money spent; and if there is a show that they want to see, making this happen will mean a lot. This is especially true when your partner knows that three hours of Mamma Mia is the last thing you wanted to see but you bought the tickets anyway.