If remembering birthdays and other special occasions is one of your new year’s resolutions this year, read on. We’ve all been there – no matter how hard you try there’s always at least one birthday you miss every year, so we’ve compiled our top six tips for making sure you never miss a birthday or anniversary again. Here’s how:
1. Get organised
We all know the old saying, “failing to plan is planning to fail”. The start of the new year is the perfect time to get organised by investing in a calendar and writing in the dates of everyone’s birthdays, as well as making a list of everyone you need to buy for throughout the year. Even better, keep a list on your phone or in your diary so you can look out for gifts every time you are out and about.
2. Buy cards online
Search for greeting cards online and buy in bulk. You may get a discount from the retailer for buying a few at once, or at least take advantage of free postage. There’s no shortage of greeting card retailers (including Mr Gift!) and finding the perfect card for your recipient is pretty satisfying too!
3. Shop the sales
Take advantage of sales and discounts by keeping your Gift List handy and regularly referring back to who you need to buy for. This way you’re always getting the best gifts at the best price. Also look for generic gifts for men, women, and kids. The next time you need a birthday/thank you gift in a hurry, or one of the kids forgets to tell you about an upcoming birthday party you’re prepared!
4. Support local
There’s never been a better time to “shop local” with many local businesses taking a hit as most markets and fetes have been cancelled over the last year. Be sure to make a trip to your local markets when they reopen to support their artisans and producers by purchasing their wares as unique, sustainable gifts. The local business, as well as your recipient will thank you for it!
5. Choose consumable gifts
One of the biggest problems with modern day society is the amount of “stuff” people have. There’s a good reason why so many people are turning to Marie Kondo and decluttering challenges – their homes are crammed! The next time you purchase a gift consider it’s long-term use and the storage it requires i.e. how often will it get used again, and where will it be stored in the interim? Consumable gifts are often the perfect solution, especially for grandparents who have down-sized and don’t want more clutter, people who live in apartments and don’t have storage space, or families who have a number of people in their household and are drowning in stuff. Consumable gift ideas include: food such as jams, chutneys, sauces, spices and handmade chocolates, soaps and toiletry products made from natural products, scented gifts such as draw sachets, beverages such as gin, wines, and cordials from bespoke producers and distilleries.
6. Dedicate a space in your home for gifts and cards
Your mum or grandma may have had a gift draw or cupboard, and for good reason! Years of experience made them realise that a central place for storing gifts, greeting cards, and even wrapping paper was essential for keeping on top of gift-giving. You don’t need to allocate much space, just a draw or shelf will suffice. The key is being consistent so you know where to go as soon as you have a “gift emergency”, and you don’t misplace gifts at the back of your cupboard.
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