As summer approaches, gift-giving season launches into full gear. Weddings, graduations, outdoor BBQs — the list of celebratory events grows daily. With each celebration comes the obligation to avoid showing up empty-handed. The right gift should mark the occasion, speak to your relationship with the recipient, and show an understanding of their interests. What gift can suffice for your closest confidant, unpaid therapist, and lifeline? Here are three easy gifts your best friend is sure to love.
Self-care is the best care
Is your bestie the kind of person who shows up for others and puts themself last? Give a gift to the “doer” in your life that reminds them to fill up on what they pour out. Some people are natural-born givers. When they see a need, they fill it — even if it’s not their responsibility to do so. They have to fix what’s broken. Remind your friend that it’s a beautiful thing to give, but they deserve to receive as well.
Give the gift of relaxation to your best friend. Cater the gift to what they love but don’t indulge in for themself. Did your BFF always dream of attending cosmetology school but life got in the way? Research local salons and beauty supply stores for cosmetology course information. Some makeup and hair professionals will host training and special events to learn tips and tricks of the trade. Make a full girl’s day out of your gift. Do brunch, mani/pedis, and then head to the class together. One of the best gifts you can give anyone is the gift of time spent together.
Give the gift of God
Tangible gifts are fun to open, but there’s nothing more rewarding than a gift that keeps on giving. Seek ideas that will nurture your friend’s soul. Provide them with something to last more than a one-time use. To give the gift of God’s word is to give a daily dose of love. Buy your bestie a set of devotionals catered to their walk with God. These books of scripture and encouragement are often tailored for individual walks of life: mothers, fathers, teens, college students, etc. You can even find a devo for stress, anxiety, health issues, and more.
Gift bibles are also a great idea to share God’s love in a palpable way. Customize the cover, case, and include tabs for them to organize the pages. Make it personal by placing notecards amongst the pages you feel will speak to them the most. Leave notes for them to find as they read through scripture. Each time they seek to hear God’s voice, they’ll receive an extra sign of love from their closest friend. After all, fellowship is a key component to a healthy spiritual life.
Staycation, Vacation, Relaxation
A proper vacation doesn’t have to break the bank. Give your BFF the gift of time away. Tickets to the Maldives aren’t necessary when a nice bed & breakfast is close by. The key to a solid vacation is a change of scenery. New sites to see, new food to explore, and a chance to disconnect from the stressors at home are all key.
Offer to have their kids stay with you for a long weekend so they can remember what it’s like to enjoy their house alone. Give them the chance to catch up on the things they like to do for themselves. Find a local B&B and set them up with a weekend stay alone or with their spouse. Time away doesn’t have to be an elegant indulgence to provide proper relaxation. Whatever gift you decide to pursue, your best friend is sure to love and appreciate it simply because it came from you.
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