Find Gifts For Anyone That Are Perfect for Gifting In 4 Easy Steps!

The pressure to find something truly perfect for gifting can easily turn excitement into anxiety. It's not just you, as you know that 6 out of 10 people find gift-giving stressful! But don’t worry—we are going to give you four very easy and simple steps that you can follow to find the perfect gift for anyone and everyone.

In this blog, you will learn exactly how to find the perfect gift and make your gifts more enjoyable by focusing on 4 easy and practical steps. These simple steps will help you choose gifts that are sure to delight anyone.

We'll also take a look at some interesting experiments that show how to choose the perfect gift by understanding people's real desires. These insights will make your gift-giving even more thoughtful.

Finally, we will include a handy checklist for last-minute gift needs. By the end, you’ll have all the tools you need to find thoughtful gifts that are truly perfect for gifting without the hassle!

By the way, if you're not a big fan of reading, check out my TEDx Talk instead:

1. Understanding the Gift-Giving Dilemma

Gifts Are All About the Receiver

When giving a gift, it's essential to remember that it's not about what you think is great—it's about what the person receiving the gift will truly appreciate. A gift that seems ideal to you might not be perfect for gifting to someone else because everyone has different tastes and preferences.

Even animals understand this. For example, penguins search for the perfect pebble to give to their partner, and dolphins sometimes bring food to people as a gift. They know what their “recipient” likes, and they focus on that.

But for humans, the options are endless, which can make choosing the right gift overwhelming. This is where thoughtful gifting comes into play. Plus, social media adds extra pressure because it's not just about whether the person liked the gift or not — it's also about how their friends and followers react when they see it online.

Most importantly, the best gifts are those that really consider the recipient's likes, needs, and situation. The closer you are to someone, the more they will notice how much thought you put into the gift. So, when choosing a gift, think about what they would truly appreciate, not just what looks good to you.

Read more: The Art of Well Received Gifts - Proven Techniques

Modern Day Gifting Challenges

Gift giving today is more complex than it has ever been. A big reason for this is social media. On average, people spend 2 hours, 24 minutes a day scrolling through social media, where they see countless photos of the best gifts and celebrations. This constant interaction has raised everyone's expectations, making it difficult to find a gift that any one would like.

Another challenge is the overwhelming number of options. Whether you're shopping online or in stores, there are so many options that it's easy to get confused. This can lead to second-guessing and overthinking, which can turn a fun activity into a stressful one.

In short, gift giving in modern times is a complex mix of social pressure, endless choices, and increased expectations. The key to overcoming these challenges is to focus on the person you are giving the gift to and the thought behind it, rather than trying to impress others.

For more information on the challenges of modern gift-giving, including sustainability issues, check out the blog (Challenges for Sustainability in Modern Gift-Giving Practices).

Experience and unique gifting have become popular in modern times as they offer something beyond a physical item—creating memorable moments instead. This trend highlights the growing preference for experiential gifting, where the value lies in the experience rather than the object itself.

Let’s take a research-oriented approach and study some statistics to rationalize and understand the demographics of gifting in modern times.

What Is an Indicator of a Good Gift According to People?

This statistic, presented by statista.com, shows the results of a survey on the indicators of a good Christmas gift in Norway by gender. Around 77 percent of female and 63 percent of male respondents believe that a gift given with consideration is the biggest indicator of a good Christmas gift.

These statistics may surprise you as one of the misconceptions in today’s world is that an expensive gift works the best, which is completely untrue. As you can see in the graph above “given with consideration”, i.e., thoroughly brainstorming on what the person likes/dislikes; usefulness, and wishlisted products make the perfect gift for any one. We do understand that someone’s wishlist is sometimes inaccessible, it usually only circles around the interests and hobbies of the person (unless you’re really close enough to give them a tablespoon!).

Retailers' Expectations About Christmas Gift Trends in the UK & Ireland

According to the survey, 51.3 percent of retailers expect practical gifts to remain the most popular choice for Christmas. These expectations lead them to promote and market only practical gifts as if practical gifts are the gifts that will satisfy your recipient – and, you’ve seen those ads they play on TV.

Introduction to Giftophobia

Giftophobia is real! Yes, you read that right. While you may have heard of common fears like claustrophobia (fear of closed spaces) or acrophobia (fear of heights), giftophobia is something different. It's not just a fear of gifts - it's a deep anxiety about the whole process of giving them.

Read more about (How to Deal with Gift Anxiety – Simple Steps)

Although gifts often come wrapped in shiny paper with a bow, for some people, choosing and giving gifts can be really stressful. Giftophobia refers to the fear and anxiety that many people feel when it comes to choosing the perfect gift.

Learn more about how you can easily wrap gifts with GiftAFeeling's custom gift boxes

This isn't as uncommon as you might think. The term "giftophobia" has been searched millions of times, but it's still not widely known. People with giftophobia often put off buying gifts until the last minute, ask others for help, or feel nervous about finding the perfect gift for someone who is difficult to shop for. In fact, many struggle with how to choose the perfect gift that would be a gift anyone would like.

Giftophobia doesn't just cause stress - it can also affect relationships, lower confidence and make social situations even more difficult. It may sound a little dramatic, but for those who experience it, gift-giving can become a source of anxiety rather than fun.

Read our blog about overcoming giftophobia:
(Definition, Causes, Effects, Overcome Giftophobia)

Understanding gift-phobia is the first step toward making gift-giving more enjoyable and less stressful.

2. The Challenge of Finding the Perfect Gift

Importance of Understanding Recipient Psychology

Understanding the recipient's psychology is important when choosing a well-received gift. 'It’s the thought that counts' is a phrase we often hear during the gift-giving season. But does this statement answer all your questions or take all your confusion away? Before searching for 'the best gifts to give this Christmas season,' you may have had no clear direction. This phrase helps us understand why we exchange gifts. The goal of finding the perfect gift is to share thoughts, gratitude, and appreciation from your heart to theirs.

To master how to choose the perfect gift, one needs to understand the psychology of the recipient. Studies show that 96% of people value the thought behind a gift rather than the gift itself. Boots UK teamed up with psychologist Honey Langcaster-James to examine what makes a thoughtful gift. To keep things brief, Honey concluded with a few statements: "We've all been there – searching online at the last minute hoping the perfect gift will just appear. It’s important to remember that no one knows your relationships better than you do, so trust yourself to think."

Choosing your gift based on recipient psychology means considering what they would truly appreciate. Brainstorming what someone would enjoy beforehand can ease the stress of gift selection. Reflecting on your relationship, what makes them happy, special memories, and what constitutes a successful gift can guide you toward finding something truly perfect for gifting. Thoughtfulness is important when choosing gifts that the recipient will love and fulfilling the gift-giving experience for both parties.

The Psychology Behind Gift-Giving

Let's take a look at studies on the psychology of gift giving that suggest there are two goals to consider when giving someone a gift.

1. The psychology behind gifting The first is to make the recipient happy - sharing the feeling. That mostly depends on whether the gift is something they want or not.
2. Another way is to strengthen the relationship between giver and recipient. This is achieved by giving a thoughtful and memorable gift - a gift that shows the giver really knows the recipient. Usually, this means finding out what someone wants without asking directly.

You can see the conundrum. To get someone the gift they most desire, the obvious thing to do is ask. Asking this simple question would solve the problem of desirability. But merely looking at what the recipient does would also give you an idea of what they may desire. People usually desire what they do; whether it’s work or studies. But then you may run the risk of not communicating the thoughtfulness enough if you stick too much to what the receiver works on or does.

The following graphic illustrates the problem:

The best gift is one that is both desired by the recipient and thoughtful. For instance, a custom t-shirt with an inside joke printed on it could be perfect for gifting.

On the other hand, the worst kind of gift is neither desired nor thoughtful. For example, this might be a pair of branded socks.

Then there are desirable but unthoughtful gifts, such as cash, and undesired but very thoughtful gifts, such as naming a star in someone’s honour.

Research Methods to Understand Your Gift Recipient

It is important to understand the psychology of the recipient when selecting a well-received gift. Gift-giving research can provide valuable insights into what makes a gift truly special and appreciated. Here are some simple methods to collect information about the recipient:

 

1. Social Media

Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn can provide valuable information about your recipients. You can collect information about their interests, hobbies, and preferences by reviewing their posts, likes, comments, and shared content. This method can help you determine what they would like as a gift that would be perfect for gifting.

2. Conversations

Engage with recipients in informal conversations and listen carefully. They often mention their wants or needs without even realizing it. Asking open-ended questions about their hobbies, favorite activities, or upcoming plans can provide valuable information. This approach helps you understand their preferences and ensures that your gift will be thoughtful and truly perfect for gifting.

3. Observing Interests

Take note of the recipient's environment. Look at their home decor, the books they read, the shows they watch, and the activities they enjoy. Observing these details can help you better understand their tastes and preferences. This method is especially useful for finding subtle hints about what they might appreciate.

4. Surveys and Quizzes

Create a fun survey or quiz to find out their likes and dislikes. This works well for group gift-giving situations, like with coworkers or friends. Keep it light-hearted so it’s entertaining and informative, guiding you to choose something perfect for gifting.

5. A Personal Story From the Speaker: How Knowing the Recipient's True Interests Makes the Perfect Gift

A memorable example of how understanding the recipient can enhance gift selection comes from gift-giving conversations. Let's take a look at the speaker's personal story.

Example: The speaker, a gift-giving expert with years of experience in understanding recipient psychology, shared a personal story about his friend, John, who is a chef. Last Christmas, he wanted to give John a special gift. Knowing John was a chef, he decided to get him a personalized wooden cutting board with his name engraved on it. He thought it was the perfect gift because it was both personal and practical for John's cooking.

When John unwrapped the gift, he smiled and thanked his friend warmly. However, the speaker later discovered that although John appreciated the thought, cooking was just his job. What John truly loved was coming home, relaxing, watching Netflix, and ordering food from outside. The cutting board, although thoughtful, didn’t really align with John’s favorite activities.

Thinking about it, I realized I could have chosen something more in line with his true interests. Perhaps a Netflix subscription or a gift card to his favorite restaurant would have brought him more happiness. This experience taught me how important it is to really understand what someone enjoys in their daily life to choose a gift that truly makes them happy. By knowing the recipient better, we can choose gifts that show we care and understand them deeply.

4. Four Simple Steps to Finding the Perfect Gift

When you are trying to find the perfect gift, you should keep in mind four simple and easy steps. These steps will help ensure that your gift is not only appreciated when it is given but also cherished for a long time. Let's dive into these four simple steps to help you find that perfect gift.

Step 1: Personalization

“The thought and care you put into a personalized gift are what truly matters. It will have a special impact on the recipient, more than any other gift in the world, because it comes straight from your heart, and goes to theirs.”

Why Are Personalized Gifts the Best Choice?

In today's world, finding gifts is easy. With so many options available, you can quickly buy anything from a store or online. But is that gift really special? Does it show how much you care about the person you're gifting? Probably not, and that's where personalization comes in.

Personalization means adding a personal touch to your gift. When you put thought and care into personalizing a gift, it becomes more than just a product - it becomes a meaningful gesture. A personalized gift shows that you've taken the time to think about the recipient's likes, interests, and needs. It's a way of saying, "I know you, and I care about you".

People love receiving personalized gifts because they feel special. Whether it's a custom-engraved piece of jewelry, a photo book filled with memories, or a mug with their name on it, a personalized gift touches straight to the heart. It shows that the gift was chosen with them in mind, making it unique and memorable —perfect for gifting.

Studies confirm this – around 45% of people surveyed said that originality is the key to a great personalised gift. This means that people appreciate gifts that are unique and made just for them. Research also shows that personalised gifts can strengthen the bond between the giver and the recipient, making the relationship feel even closer. Such thoughtful gifting is a way to ensure that your gift leaves a lasting impression.

So, if you are wondering how to choose the perfect gift, start with personalization. It is the best way to ensure that your gift is thoughtful, appreciated, and truly perfect for gifting. Whether it is for a birthday, holiday or a special occasion, a personalized gift is always a great choice.

How Do You Choose the Right Personalized Gift?

Choosing the right personalized gift can be challenging, especially when there are so many options available. We often focus too much on a particular trait or interest of the person, and forget how useful the gift would be in different situations. This can lead to gifts that are thoughtful but not very practical, which is why finding something that is both meaningful and versatile is perfect for gifting.

Learn how 3D personalization can help you create gifts that are both thoughtful and practical

According to new gift-giving research by Mary Steffel, Elnor Wiliam, and Robin LeBoeuf:

“Givers (we) tend to focus on what recipients are like, rather than what they would like. This can lead us to gravitate toward gifts that are personalized but not very versatile; what we want to focus on is both!”

For example, let’s say you’re picking a gift for your dad, who has a distinctive moustache. It might seem natural to get him something related to that, like a funny moustache-themed quote or a grooming kit. While these gifts are thoughtful, they might not be the most practical or meaningful in the long run.

Instead, think about what your dad really enjoys doing or needs. Maybe he loves taking walks in the cool autumn weather. In that case, a personalized hoodie that keeps him warm and fits his style could be a perfect choice. It’s not just thoughtful but also something he can use often—truly perfect for gifting.

Check out our blog The Personalization of Gift-giving to learn more about personalized gifts.

The key is to balance personalization with practicality. Think about what the person would truly appreciate in different areas of their life, not what only reflects one part of their personality.

Why Personalized Gifts Are the Best Kind of Gifts

When it comes to finding the perfect gift, nothing beats a personalized gift. Personalized gifts show that you put thought and effort into choosing something special. Here’s why they are perfect for gifting:

Personalized gifts help express unconditional love: Personalised gifts are a great way to express your love for someone. It's more than just a gift - it's a meaningful gesture that shows you care. Whether it's a custom-made piece of jewellery or a personalized mug, these gifts really connect with the recipient's emotions.

Make the recipient feel special: People love to feel special, and a personalized gift does just that. It shows that you have considered their likes and interests, making the gift unique to them. This is what makes personalized gifts so memorable and perfect for gifting.

Strengthen relationships: Giving personalized gifts can help strengthen relationships. It shows that you value the person and your relationship with them. This thoughtful touch can deepen relationships and create lasting memories, which is why personalized gifts are perfect for gifting.

Perfect for romance: Personalized gifts are a great way to express love in a romantic relationship. They show your partner that you put effort into choosing something special for them, which can make them feel cherished and loved.

They are unique in general: Personalized gifts are always one step ahead of other gifts because of how unique they can be. Unlike mass-produced gifts, personalized presents show a person’s creativity, making them stand out from the crowd. Such presents also display how much effort someone put into them when they could have bought them from a store, making them an excellent choice for unique gifting.

Create lasting memories: Personalized gifts aren’t just things; they are memories in the making. While other gifts might be forgotten over time, personalized items carry a special meaning that lasts a lifetime.

Suitable for everyone: Personalised gifts work for everyone, regardless of their age or gender. Whether it's a gift for anyone - a teenager, a child, a colleague, or a family member - personalised gifts are always a great choice - perfect for gifting to any recipient.

Perfect for any occasion: No matter the occasion—whether it’s a wedding, birthday, or holiday—personalized gifts are always a hit. They make the gift-giving process stress-free because they are always appreciated and perfect for gifting.

Show you care: The thought behind a personalized gift speaks volumes. It shows that you’ve taken the time to think about what the person would really love, making the gift even more meaningful.

Affordable and meaningful: Personalized gifts don’t have to be expensive. The thought and sentiment behind them make them priceless, showing how much you care about the recipient.

Step 2: Usefulness

Why Are Useful Gifts Better Than Fancy Gifts?

When it comes to gift giving, we all want to make sure what we choose brings joy and leaves a lasting impression. But sometimes, we get so caught up in choosing something exciting that we forget the most important thing: how useful it is. A practical gift that can be used every day often means more to the person receiving it than something flashy that sits forgotten on a shelf. Gifts that are both thoughtful and practical are perfect for gifting because they combine excitement with everyday utility.

Think about the last time you received a gift that was great at first but ended up collecting dust. It happens to all of us. That's why it's important to choose gifts that people can actually use in their everyday lives. For example, a gift card to a nearby restaurant will be more appreciated and used than a gift card to a fancy place far away.

When you're trying to find the perfect gift, focus on what the person needs or uses regularly. Instead of just choosing something that looks cool, think about what will make their life easier or more fun. For example, if someone loves basketball, a LeBron James jersey they can wear often might be a better choice than a signed basketball that will probably just sit on a shelf—this is a gift that’s perfect for gifting and a great example of useful gifting.

How to Choose a Thoughtful, Useful Gift

When choosing a gift, it's important to consider how useful it will be for the person receiving it. Studies show that by the age of 24, most Americans begin to prefer practical gifts, especially during the holidays. In fact, 81% of people like receiving gifts they can actually use throughout the year. Items related to health and fitness are especially popular, with 77% of people more likely to give these types of gifts—perfect for gifting those who appreciate practical and beneficial presents, which is the essence of useful gifting.

The true value of a gift is not just how exciting it is when you open it, but how often it will be used. For example, a cool gadget may seem like a great idea, but if it's hard to use or doesn't fit into the person's daily routine, it may just sit on a shelf. On the other hand, simple gifts like a good book, self-care products, or even a toothbrush are more likely to be used and appreciated. These types of gifts are not only practical but also perfect for gifting since they take into consideration the daily needs of the recipient—an example of useful gifting at its best.

So, when you're deciding how to choose the perfect gift, think about how practical it is. What does the person really need? What would make their life a little easier or more enjoyable? A useful gift shows that you've thought about how it will benefit them even after they've opened it.

Read more: No longer sitting on the shelf, gift something useful - Apply these research based tactics!

Let's look at an experiment:

In a series of eight classroom studies and one field study where friends exchanged gifts, researchers looked at how people balance between something desirable and something practical. Imagine a person knows his friend loves Italian food but has to choose between a gift card to a fancy restaurant located an hour away or a nice restaurant located just five minutes away. The study found that the person giving the gift typically chooses the more fancy restaurant, while the friend actually prefers the closer and more convenient option.

What Are Strategies for Choosing Useful Gifts?

Here are some unconventional strategies for how you can choose a gift:

Focus on solving a problem: One of the best strategies for useful gifting is to think about how you can solve a problem for the recipient. Instead of just adding more stuff to their life, think about removing something negative or inconvenient. For example, if they often complain about household issues, consider hiring a handyman to fix those small annoyances like squeaky doors or leaky faucets. If they struggle with daily chores, a gift certificate for a meal delivery service or laundry service can make their life easier—making it perfect for gifting because it directly addresses a need.

Avoid creating more work: While giving someone an experience, like a massage or cooking class, can be a great gift, it’s important to minimize the effort they have to put in to enjoy it. For example, instead of just giving them a gift certificate, schedule an appointment for them. This way, they don’t have to go through the hassle of making the booking themselves, which makes your gift more thoughtful and less of a burden.

Choose practical, long-lasting gifts: Sometimes, the most thoughtful gifts are the ones that keep on giving. Instead of flashy, short-lived gifts like flowers, consider giving something more practical and long-lasting, like a plant. A plant not only adds beauty to its space but also provides ongoing benefits as it grows. Studies have shown that such practical gifts can bring more lasting happiness than one-time flashy presents, making them perfect for gifting.

Think about their daily needs: When figuring out how to find the best gift, consider what the person uses or needs daily. For example, if they’re into fitness, a high-quality water bottle or home workout gear could be a perfect choice. If they enjoy cooking, think about getting them a versatile kitchen gadget that they might not splurge on for themselves. The key to useful gifting is to think about what will make their daily routine easier or more enjoyable.

Personalize with care: Finally, when you choose your gift, make sure it's something that reflects the recipient's personality and preferences. A personalized gift doesn't need to be extravagant; it just needs to show that you've thought about what they would really appreciate. Whether it's a custom-engraved item or something that caters to their specific hobbies, a personal touch can make even a practical gift feel special, reflecting the true essence of useful gifting.

When you're thinking about how to choose the perfect gift, focus on usefulness, practicality, and personalization. In the end, the best gifts are the ones that the person will actually use and appreciate. It’s not always about how much money you spend, but about how thoughtful and practical the gift is. By focusing on what will be useful in their daily life, you can make sure your gift is remembered and loved—perfect for gifting on any occasion.

Read all about (Rules for Finding the Perfect Gift)

What Are People Doing with Unwanted Gifts?

Here's what people are doing with unwanted gifts:

• Keep them: 31% of people choose to keep unwanted gifts.
• Give them to someone else: Another 31% plan to regift their unwanted items.
• Exchange them: 20% of people decide to exchange their unwanted gifts.
• Sell them: 7% prefer to sell the gifts they don't want.
• Give them back: 4% return the unwanted gifts.
• Throw them away: Another 4% choose to throw the gifts away.
• Other options: 3% of people have other ways of dealing with unwanted gifts.

Americans have wasted $15.2 billion on unwanted gifts:

Americans spent $15.2 billion on gifts they didn’t want. About 61% of Americans say they received at least one unwanted gift during the holidays, which equates to about 154 million adults overall.

 

Step 3: Experience

“When recipients receive an experience, regardless of whether they share that experience with the gift-giver, they feel more connected to the gift-giver as a result of it, compared to receiving a material gift.”

Why Are Experience-Based Gifts Special?

Experience-based gifts are special because they create lasting memories rather than being just another item on a shelf. When you give someone an experience—like concert tickets, a cooking class, or a weekend getaway—you're giving them something that goes beyond material things. These gifts often result in shared moments, deeper connections, and stories that the recipient will remember and cherish for a long time. This is why experience gift giving is considered so impactful and perfect for gifting.

Let's find out why experience-based gifts are so special:

Creating lasting memories: Experiences such as concerts, classes or vacations provide memories that last much longer than material gifts. Every time the recipient recalls the experience, they relive the joy, making your gift memorable and meaningful. This longevity of happiness is what makes experience gift giving so impactful and perfect for gifting.

Strengthening connections: Sharing experiences creates a strong bond between the giver and the recipient. Even if the experience is not shared, the thoughtfulness behind it makes the recipient feel closer to you. This emotional connection is another reason why experiential gifting is perfect for gifting.

Personalization: Experience gifting shows that you know the recipient well by matching their interests, whether it's a cooking class for a foodie or a spa day for someone in need of relaxation. The ability to tailor the experience to a person's personal preferences makes these gifts truly perfect for gift gifting.

Long-term happiness: Research shows that experiences make people happier in the long run than material gifts. According to a study in the Journal of Experimental Psychology, 57% of people feel happier when they remember their experiences, while only 34% feel the same way about material items. This lasting happiness is what makes experience-based gifts so special—and perfect for gifting.

Experiment:1

Let’s do an experiment to prove it: Science has shown that people are happier when they receive gifts related to experiences rather than material gifts.

Imagine you're choosing between two gifts: a gadget or an experience like a cooking class. If you're not very close to the person, you might choose the gadget because it seems like a safer, less personal option. While material gifts can be nice, they don't always create a deep emotional connection.

Now, think about giving a gift to someone who is very close to you, like a family member or a good friend. In this case, you might choose an experience. Why? Because experiences, especially unique ones, bring people closer together. Sharing something like a cooking class or a weekend trip doesn't just create memories—it strengthens your relationship.This makes experience-based gifts perfect for gifting to those you care about deeply.

Studies confirm this. Research has found that people feel more connected to others after sharing special experiences, even if those experiences are simple, like picking out fun decorations together.

Experience gifting is so special because it creates memories that last forever. Unlike gadgets that can lose their appeal over time, memories from experiences stay fresh forever. Whenever the person thinks about that cooking class or trip, they will feel that joy again, making your gift something they will cherish for years.

Experiment: 2

Let's take a look at another experiment conducted by the University of Pennsylvania called "The $10 Challenge": This study shows how the type of gift you choose can affect the relationship between you and the person receiving the gift.

College students participated in this experiment with a friend. One student was the gift giver, and the other was the recipient. The gift-givers were each given $10 and asked to buy a gift for their friend. They could choose either an experience-based gift, such as movie tickets or a Chipotle gift card, or a material gift, such as a pint glass, teddy bear or socks. The recipients didn’t know the details of the experiment, and they received their gifts 10 days later.

The results were surprising. People who received experiential gifts felt more connected to their friends who gave them these gifts. It's important to note that they didn't like experiential gifts more than material gifts - the experience simply made them feel closer to their friends.

Why Do Millennials Love Experiences?

Millennials love experiences because they value creating lasting memories, building strong relationships, and feeling connected to their community. They prefer to spend money on experiences rather than material goods, because these moments bring more happiness and satisfaction, shape their identity, and enrich their lives meaningfully.

Below is a graph that shows the buying experiences of Americans over the last 140 years:

Millennials, more than any other generation, have embraced the value of experiences. Here are some key statistics that demonstrate this:

• Cherishing Time with Loved Ones: 69% of millennials feel that spending time out with friends and family is more valuable than staying at home.
• Creating Irreplaceable Memories: 77% of millennials say that some of the best memories of their lives have been made at live events.
• Bonding Through Events: 79% of millennials believe that attending live events with family and friends helps deepen their relationships. In fact, 30% say they met someone at a live event who became a good friend.
• Building a Sense of Community: 69% of millennials feel that attending events makes them feel more connected to other people, their community, and the world.

The Role of Social Media in Sharing Experiences

The graph illustrates how millennials are leading the way in sharing these experiences on social media. A significant 60% of millennials have posted, tweeted, or shared about their events and experiences online, more than any other age group.

For millennials, sharing experiences on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram is almost as important as the experiences themselves. This behavior is fueled by the fear of missing out (FOMO), which drives them to not only attend but also broadcast these events, further contributing to the experience economy.

How to Choose the Best Experience-Based Gift

When choosing the best experience-based gift, it's important to think about what will create lasting memories for the person you're giving this gift to. Experience gifts are unique because they provide more than just a physical item; they provide meaningful moments that can be cherished for years, making them perfect for gifting. Here's how to choose the best ones:

Know their interests: Think about what the person likes to do. Do they like cooking, adventure or maybe something artistic? Choosing an experience that matches their interests makes the gift special and enjoyable—perfect for gifting someone with a personalized touch.

Consider your relationship: Experience gifts can bring you closer to the person you're giving the gift to. People often feel more connected when they receive an experience rather than a material item. Whether you join them or not, the emotional impact is usually greater, making it a thoughtful gifting option.

Be practical: While experiences are memorable, they should also be practical. Make sure the person can really enjoy the gift. For example, consider their schedule and location before planning a trip or event. Practicality ensures that the experience is perfect for gifting because it aligns with their lifestyle.

Personalize it: Adding a personal touch can make the experience even more special. Personalization shows that you've thought about the gift, whether it's a custom itinerary or a small item related to the experience.

Focus on memories: The best part about experience gifts is the memories they create. Unlike material items, which can lose their appeal, memories last a lifetime. This makes experience-based gifts a timeless choice.

Finally, experiences often provide deeper connections and lasting happiness than material gifts. Whether it's a simple activity or an exciting adventure, choosing an experience-based gift is a heartfelt way to show you care—making it perfect for gifting in any meaningful relationship.

We explain this in detail in this blog: Gifts and Experiences

Step 4: Long-Term Satisfaction

Why Is Long-Term Satisfaction Important in Gift-Giving?

When we give gifts, it's easy to focus on the excitement of the moment when the gift is opened. But the true value of a gift comes from how much happiness it brings over time. For example, you might give a child a toy that they’re thrilled about at first, but if it’s quickly forgotten, it wasn’t the best choice.

Long-term satisfaction means choosing gifts that will be enjoyed and used for a long time, not just in the moment. Imagine giving a personalized tennis backpack to a friend who loves playing tennis. Every time they use it, they’ll think of you, and the gift will continue to bring them joy—making it perfect for gifting.

There’s a real-life story that shows this well. Teresa was picked for her university’s tennis team, and her mom, Sherry, wanted to give her something special. Sherry chose personalized tennis gear—a backpack, hat, and water bottle with Teresa’s name on them. Every time Teresa used these items in her matches, she felt connected to her mom’s thoughtful gift, which brought her joy long after the initial excitement.

Gift giving research shows that people often choose flashy gifts that create an immediate impact, like a bouquet of roses. But something like a potted plant, which grows and lasts longer, can bring more happiness over time. This is why it’s important to think about the lasting impact of your gift, not just the initial excitement. Gift giving research suggests that gifts providing long-term satisfaction are often more appreciated.

Gifts that continue to be useful or bring joy—whether it’s a subscription service, a durable item, or a memorable experience—are the ones people appreciate most. By focusing on long-term satisfaction, you can choose gifts that will be cherished and remembered long after the special day.

Why Millennials Value Long-Term Connections with Brands

People, especially millennials, are increasingly interested in building long-term relationships with brands. It's not just us saying this, the data shows it too:

 

Millennials are increasingly attracted to brands that offer more than just a product – they want long-term relationships that resonate with their personal values. According to research, 50% of US Millennials aged 18 to 24 and 38% of those aged 25 to 34 believe that brands say something about who they are, what their values are, and where they fit in the world. Additionally, 40% of millennials are willing to pay more for a brand or product that reflects their image, while only 25% of older generations are willing to do the same.

This focus on long-term relationships is more than just a trend; it's a fundamental shift in the way millennials engage with brands. They don't just buy products - they buy the values and principles that brands represent. Millennials are highly selective and care deeply about the brands they support, looking for companies that align with their beliefs and make a positive contribution to society.

For companies, this means it's important to build trust and demonstrate a commitment to social responsibility. Millennials want to see that brands aren't just about making a profit, but are also dedicated to causes they care about, such as sustainability, charity work, and community support.

This mindset also influences the way millennials give gifts. They prefer to give and receive gifts that reflect their values and have a lasting impact, rather than just providing momentary pleasure. In this way, millennials are redefining what it means to connect with a brand, making those relationships more personal, meaningful, and lasting—another reason why thoughtful and meaningful gifts are perfect for gifting and ideal for experience gift giving.

How Do You Choose Gifts That Will Last a Long Time?

When choosing a gift that will last a long time, it’s important to think about how the gift will be used and appreciated over time, not just the initial excitement when it’s opened. Gifts that provide lasting value are perfect for gifting, as they continue to provide joy long after they are received. Here are some simple tips that will help you choose a gift that will last a long time:

Choose quality over quantity: A high-quality gift that is built to last is always better than something that looks good but doesn't last. Whether it's clothing, gadgets, or a memento, choose something that is carefully crafted and that the recipient can use for years. Quality gifts are perfect for gifting because they stand the test of time.

Think about practicality: Consider what the person really needs or uses on a regular basis. Practical gifts, such as a well-made backpack, kitchen tools, or subscription service, are things they will use often, making them more meaningful over time.

Add a personal touch: Personalizing a gift, such as engraving their name or a special date, can make it even more special. A personalised gift shows that you have put a lot of thought into it, making it unique and likely to be treasured for a long time. Personalization is also a hallmark of unique gifting.

Focus on long-term enjoyment: Choose gifts that will make them happy long after they receive it. For example, instead of giving flowers that will fade, consider giving a plant that will grow. Or, give an experience, such as a membership or a class, that they can enjoy over time. Long-lasting gifts like these are perfect for gifting because they continue to create happiness and memories.

Match their interests and values: Choose something that matches their preferences. If they like eco-friendly products, choose something durable. If they have a hobby, choose something related to that. A gift that matches their values is more likely to be meaningful and be used for a long time.

Opt for timeless choices: Trendy gifts can be fun, but they often go out of fashion quickly. Instead, choose something with a classic design or practical use that will remain relevant and appreciated over time. These timeless options often represent the best gifting choices.

By focusing on these tips, you can choose a gift that will continue to give joy and value long after you open it and show the recipient that you truly care about their happiness in the long run. Gifts that offer long-term satisfaction are perfect for gifting because they create lasting memories and ongoing happiness.

Read more: It's not just the initial enthusiasm - research proves long-term satisfaction is the key to gifting!

4. Make Gift Buying Easier: Stress-Free Tips and a Useful Last-Minute Checklist

How to Make Gift Buying Less Stressful

Buying gifts can sometimes feel overwhelming—figuring out what to buy, where to get it, and whether it's the right choice. But it doesn't have to be stressful. Here are some simple tips to make the process easier and more enjoyable:

1. Plan ahead: Life gets busy, so it's a good idea to plan your gift shopping ahead of time. This way, you'll have enough time to find the perfect gift without having to rush at the last minute.
2. Set a budget: Decide how much you want to spend before you start shopping. This will help you focus on gifts within your budget, making the whole process less stressful.
3. Enjoy the process: Remember, gift-giving is about sharing joy and showing that you care. If you keep a positive attitude while shopping, you will find that it is a lot of fun and rewarding.

By following these tips you can make gift buying a more enjoyable experience for both you and the person receiving the gift.

Your Last-Minute Gift Buying Checklist

When you're in a hurry to find the perfect gift, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But don’t worry—this last-minute gift-buying checklist will help you choose something thoughtful and meaningful, even with limited time.

Here's a last-minute checklist for you with 5 simple steps! Grab a notebook and consider these points:

Step 1: Thought-leading questions to ask yourself:

Think about what your recipient likes: Their hobbies and interests. What do they talk about? What do they post on social media? Are they a sports fan? If so, which teams do they like? Doing just a tiny bit of gift giving research could make this very easy for you!

Think of any special memories you can tap into: Are they a history buff, a music lover, where do they like to travel, where did they grow up, go to school, or get married? These are clues to help you find a gift anyone would like that is meaningful to your recipient.

Think of some problem they may be facing: Think about what they do - their profession and daily life and try to know their problems; what issues they are facing. For instance, choosing the best shirt to wear for work (let’s say their work allows casual wear). Now, you can tap into this and gift them a custom t-shirt that they may feel proud to wear - something complementing their personality. A gift for anyone should ideally solve a problem or bring joy.

Still haven't found the answer? Here are 10 straightforward questions:

Step 2: How can you personalize a gift to make it unique, i.e. more special?

Once you have noted some ideas from Step 1, here’s what you need to do next:

Think about if you can find some design relating to their interests, hobbies, activities, likeliness, or whatever you’ve chosen from Step 1. Think about how you can personalize it - perhaps, add their name or favorite dialogue, quotation, etc., to the design. If you cannot find anything online.

Step 3: How can you provide something practical or useful?

Once you’ve chosen a design, a personalized design, here’s what you need to do next: Think about what products they use in their daily life - a shirt, a mug, a hoodie, a hat, a beanie (in winters), etc. What causes them problems? Perhaps they are looking for a mug to use in their office, overthinking the right dress for work or parties - would they prefer short-sleeved, long sleeved, or even a jacket? Choosing something they can use in their everyday life ensures useful gifting that doesn’t end up sitting on the shelf.

Step 4 - How can you provide an unforgettable experience?

Once you’ve closely noticed their lifestyle and found a product that can solve their problems or concerns, think about whether you can place/print/embroider the personalized design you have chosen on that product. If you can, think about how it would make them feel when they wear it. Would they feel proud? Would it put a smile on their face every time they use it? Would it make them feel ecstatic? What would their initial enthusiasm be like?

Step 5: Lastly, how can you go past the initial floating moment to also provide long-term satisfaction?

Now finally, think about the quality of the gift - the print, the color, the product! Will it get damaged after a few uses? Will the recipient still love it after using it for a few months? This would depend on how unique and appealing your design (from step 2) is! Thus, it’s the most important thing.

Read more: How Motives Of Gift Giving Shape The Purchase Process

FAQs

How to be a great gift giver?

To be a great gift giver, focus on the person's likes and needs. Think about what will make them happy or help them in some way. Planning in advance and adding a personal touch, such as a custom message, can make your gift even more special.

How to give thoughtful gifts?

Giving a thoughtful gift means paying attention to what the person really likes. Think about their hobbies, favorite memories, or everyday challenges. A gift that shows you've really thought about them, such as something personalized, can mean a lot.

How to find the perfect gift?

To find the perfect gift, first think about what the person likes or needs. Consider their hobbies, recent events, or personality. The best gifts are those that show that you know them well and have put a lot of effort into choosing something for them.

What are the perfect gifts?

Perfect gifts are those that match the person's interests and needs. Personal items, experiences or practical things they can use every day are often great choices. The main thing is to choose something that really resonates with them.

What do you consider when choosing a gift for someone?

When choosing a gift, consider what the person likes, what their hobbies are, and what they need. A good gift is one that makes them smile or helps them in some way. Personalizing the gift can make it even more meaningful.

How do I choose a unique gift?

To choose a unique gift, think about the person's passions or memorable experiences. Look for products that are different or that you can personalize to reflect their personality. Custom-made or one-of-a-kind products make great unique gifts.

How to choose the best gift?

Choosing the best gift means considering what the person likes and needs. A great gift is thoughtful, practical, and maybe even a little personal. Think about what will make them happy and make them feel special.

What do you consider in choosing your gift?

When choosing a gift, think about what the person likes and what might make their life easier or more fun. A personal touch, such as a custom design, can make the gift even more memorable.

What is choosing your gift?

Choosing your gift means letting the person choose from a selection of gifts. This way, they get what they really want or need, making the gift more meaningful.

How do you master gift-giving?

To master gift giving, start by really understanding the person you are giving a gift to. Think about their likes, needs, and the little things that make them unique. Plan in advance to avoid last-minute stress and choose thoughtful, practical, and personal gifts. A great gift shows you have put care and effort into choosing something meaningful, making the recipient feel valued and appreciated.

About the author

Vinayak Mahajan

Vinayak is a TEDx Speaker, #1 Global Bestselling Author, Founder & CEO of GiftAFeeling Inc., and a highly recognized thought leader in the gifting industry around the world. He has been published in Exceptional People Magazine, Business Digest Magazine, seen on CNBC, Wall Street Select, USA Today, LA Business Podcast, and has made live TV appearances on Ticker News. Having worked with 87 of the top 100 Canadian companies over the past few years, his company - GiftAFeeling has been recognized as one of Canada's top 5 e-commerce businesses by CanadianSME National Business Awards!

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Published August 22, 2025