| 1) Ask the recipient what he/she wants. This of | | | | 6) Give the recipient money to spend in any store |
| course will ruin the element of surprise but at least | | | | they want. |
| the recipient will never be disappointed. | | | | 7) Stick to what you know. If you know the |
| 2) Ask the recipient to create a wish list of at least | | | | recipient is a music lover, buy something music |
| 20 items in various budget ranges (£5-£10, | | | | related. A gadget for a gadget lover would make |
| £10-£15, £15-£20, £20-£25, £25-£30, | | | | sense as well. |
| £30 plus). I have chosen the quantity of 30 | | | | 8) If possible, have a nose around the bedroom. Are |
| because it will then give you the choice of at least 5 | | | | there signs of anything that you could replace? Worn |
| items per price range. There are many online sites | | | | trainers? Ripped T-shirt? However, be warned, you |
| and companies who have an excellent wish list facility. | | | | might get a slap in the face if anyone found out. |
| 3) Ask a close friend or family of the recipient what | | | | 9) Look for something that is so unique, the chance |
| she thinks he/she would like. | | | | of the recipient already owning one will be greatly |
| 4) Join online gift ideas forums and ask for other | | | | reduced. Of course this will probably involve spending |
| people’s opinions and get some inspiration. Who | | | | a bit more time surfing the net. |
| knows, someone might have recently bought a gifts | | | | 10) Buy the gift with another family member, and if |
| for an 18 year old man or 60 year old woman. | | | | you’re smart enough, you’ll be able to get |
| 5) Give the recipient a gift voucher to spend in their | | | | away with leaving all the responsibility to them! |
| favourite store. | | | | |