Thursday, December 9, 2010

I recently bought my friend a Heifer, a llama, and a goat.
I know, it sounds like the beginning of a joke, but this really was her birthday gift. The organization, Heifer International at www.heifer.org has the perfect gift for friends who don’t need or want anything, but you want to do something special for them. My friend loved the idea that her gift was helping families and children less fortunate in third world countries. Please visit the site to find out more details regarding the variety of animals available. She can now check off her bucket list that she is the proud owner of a cow!

Purchasing gifts for friends and loved ones can be tricky. I of course recommend the ChaCha rings, wine glasses, and jewelry which come beautifully packaged. I also love the idea that you can match your recipients personality with the color varieties and stone size. But, if you have already purchased ChaChaBella before and are looking for some other ideas, perhaps this blog can help.

At www.gifts.com, I love how they divide the women and men into personalities. Is your female friend or relative the domestic diva, the trendanista, the achiever, the super mom, the thinker, urban sophisticate, the adventurer or one of the other personalities. They group gifts by style. Remember, what you may like or want isn’t necessarily their choice. I sometimes see things that I say I would like that, but I am not purchasing it for myself. If you are ever with your friend and you hear a comment like that, file it away for gift giving. I know the super sized cupcake baking tray seems like it would only be used once a year, but she will love it, and always think of you (as she bakes her own cake if she is the domestic diva type).

My friends normally chip in and we give each other hard, cold cash. I know it isn’t exciting, but sometimes it can be a lot of money. This allows the receiver to decide if they want tons of little things, or one great big purchase. The key is always making sure they buy something though to honor the gift and not pay a boring bill! I know women who will roll over in their grave if a gift card or cash is given, you want a substance beautifully wrapped (not in a bag) gift. I salute you for your effort!

A funny gift that I have seen given is all the “As seen on TV” items in a huge basket. Yes, the shake weight, aqua globes, heel tastic, and many more can be the special birthday present for your loved one. This friend just has to have a sense of humor! Visit www.asseenontv.com for the variety of choices.

We all know sentimental gifts of a letter, poem, or framed picture can be beautiful. They are personal and always well received. If you ever need a poem written for a friend, I am your gal! I have written more poems than I can count by just asking about 20 questions, and you will have most unique gift ever.

Let me know the worst gift you have ever received and the winner will win the best gift, a chachabella ring! If you need a poem, contact me, Suzanne, at s@chachabella.com.