No matter for whom you are seeking the perfect gift idea, the answer always lies in doing a little detective work. There are few tasks more daunting than trying to come up with the perfect gift on short notice for someone you know very little about. The more you can find out about that certain someone, the easier it will be to select a gift that they will truly cherish.
One item that really is a "must" in a gift-giver's arsenal is a notebook, where you can keep track of birthdays, anniversaries, upcoming special occasions like weddings and graduations and more. Now, unlike the traditional dates calendar, this is a book where you will jot down notes about the people in your life; their likes, dislikes, special interests, hobbies, etc. You'll need plenty of room for each person, so that you can add notes as time goes by and their interests and circumstances change. This is particularly important when it comes to children, since what they are "in to" can seemingly change like the direction of the wind in Newfoundland.
Once you get in the habit of it, it almost becomes second-nature to obtain this information on a regular basis. Just take notes during your next phone call, interject with a few leading questions and pay attention to what is being discussed. You'll learn that Bob is now into gardening, and that Sheila is really fond of Darjeeling tea.
Once you start your "gift giving journal", you're sure to have little "present epiphanies" as you go about your daily routine, and you can quickly jot them down in your journal. (Keep it by the phone or computer where you will have quick and easy access). Over time, you should have a good list of ideas for great gifts for almost everyone.
The next step on your journey to becoming the ultimate gift giver is what I call a "gift closet". This is an out of the way place in your home where you will store items that you come across in your day to day travels. Not only is it very cost-effective to "pre-shop" for gifts, it allows you to take your time in selecting really wonderful items for the entire family, friends and co-workers alike. Once you get in the habit of keeping your eyes open for unique gift ideas at the grocery store, department store and online, you'll come across all kinds of items that are just right for those people on your list. Often they can be purchased on sale, and stockpiled in your gift closet for future occasions. Just be sure to label them so that you can remember for whom you purchased them. Keep a list of family and friends taped to the inside of your gift closet or cupboard, so that you can keep a tally of how many gifts you have in store. That way you won't run into the problem of having 10 gifts for Sally, and nothing for Bob, June and Petey.
It's great to stock up on cards, gift wrap, gift bags and ribbon, too. These can often be found on sale, and having them on hand can save you a fortune on last-minute purchases.
By being a gift-giving detective, planning ahead and being prepared for upcoming special occasions, you'll soon be known as the "Martha Stewart" of gift giving to your family and friends. And little will they know that your ongoing weekly efforts actually save you money and time in the long run.
