If you are anything like me, gift giving is very important when it comes to birthdays, Christmas, and other holidays of the sort. I always try my very best to show that person in my life just how much they mean to me. Through the years, I have accumulated a lot of ideas for quick, cheap, and/or sentimental gift ideas for any occasion, so I have compiled a list:
1. Mixed CD
As a modern-day version of the 'mixed tape,' a mixed CD serves the same purpose -- it gives you the chance to create your own personalized playlist for a friend. This means you have to put some thought into it. It's something for the both of you to enjoy together, so finding songs that you've bonded over in the past will fit perfectly on this CD.
2. Photo book
Whether professionally done or handmade (as seen above), a photo book is the perfect mobile memory. No matter where this person ends up living, they will always have a reminder of the wonderful times you've spent together. It can sit up on a bookshelf, or right by their bedside table. For a professionally made book, visit websites such as Shutterfly or Nations Photo Lab. For easy, step-by-step instructions on how to make a DIY book, see sites like For Girls Only or Wedding Chicks.
3. Memory jar
All you need for this gift is a mason jar, paper, and markers. Cut the paper into smaller strips, and write down your favorite memories you've spent with this person. Fill the jar with as many as you can think of, and be sure to include any jokes you share or funny stories you remember. This can brighten up a person's mood when they want to reminisce about the good old days.
4. Inside Jokes
Just like Jim did in The Office, fill something the person actually needs (in this case, a teapot) with a bunch of your inside jokes or hilarious memories shared together. This is a great gift because it serves purpose as well as hiding stories and amazing memories inside.
5. Room additions
Additions for a room give a story behind simple room decor. A person's favorite book or something they've been asking for, something they collect or a cool knick knack that made you think of them -- any addition to their room will always work as a gift. They'll look at it and remember what great friend gave it to them. Homemade art is always a sentiment, so if you are able to, create something worthwhile. Your friend can hang it up in their dorm room or bedroom, or anywhere in their house.
