They say that when you give someone a gift, it’s the thought
that counts. Nothing in the world is more thoughtful than a personalized gift,
made for the recipient specifically. Making something special will show someone
how special you think they are! But how do you go about choosing and creating
this kind of gift? Here is a complete guide for choosing a personalized item
for that special someone, even if that special someone is yourself!
The first thing you need to consider is who the recipient
is. A gift you give to your daughter will be much different than one you give
to your spouse, or even one you’d give yourself. Start mapping out what they
would love by first considering their relationship with you. The closer and
more romantic your relationship, the more intimate your gift can be. For people
who are close friends, consider bracelets, pins or brooches. For a lover or a
spouse consider rings, earrings or chokers. For family, necklaces will show a
lot of intimate, non-sexualized affection.
Second, consider the meaning. A personalized item can have
many meanings, but most fall in one of two categories: those that define the
self, and those that edify, describe and immortalize a relationship. We use
clothing and jewelry to tell other stories about who we are, and so a piece
with someone’s name on it tells a different story than one that has a general word
on it, which tells a “shared” story.
For BFFs and lovers you should strive to tell a shared story
about your relationship – you can do that with a piece that recalls a special
moment in time, like earrings that say “Springbreak”; alternatively you can
give one that encompasses your relationship, like a bracelet that says “BFF” or
a pendant that has both your names engraved in it; finally, you can give them
something that represents you, which would remind them of you when they wear
it, like a bracelet with your name on it.
The other kind of story a personalized item would tell is a
story about the wearer. There are many ways to tell a story about who I am, and
the item you buy should tell a personal one – That can be done with a named or
monogramed necklace; An item inscribed with a word that defines the wearer like
“Love”, “Courage”, “Wit” or even “Hottie”; An item that holds a birthstone; and
lastly, an item that has religious meaning and symbolism. You do not have to
choose just one of these; most can be combined – a cross with the recipient’s
name on it or a birthstone ring inscribed with the word “Justice” - and would
make very personal and special items. Choose one of these for a family member
that isn’t a spouse, like your child or parent, and for yourself as well!
Now you need to choose what type of item you will buy. Think
about how strong the message is – on the neck, face and waist we put things we
want others to see; on the wrists and fingers, we put things we want to see. If
the message is a story about the recipient, go with a necklace or earrings for women
and a necklace or belt buckle for men. If it is a story for themselves, get a
bracelet, ring or watch for women, and a ring or a watch for men. Try to also
think about what items they are missing and what items do they love wearing –
some girls love dangling earrings, some men love big metal rings. Buy something
they will wear, that compliments them and their existing personal collection.
Last, choose the style of the item. First, consider the
material which will be used; Metal, plastic, crystal? The material should be
something they would like and compliments their natural style. Metal – usually
gold or silver, but also copper, iron and steel – Is for a more reserved,
classic look. Plastic will give a younger, brasher, more contemporary look,
while crystal can look either classic or new-age, depending on the design.
Cloth, leather, bone and feathers will give a wild, powerful look that most
young men would appreciate. The Design itself should either contrast or
compliment the material, but not be indifferent to it. Remember that the font
and style of the letters is a big part of the design of the item, and make sure
it fits the intended message of the item.
After you choose all these, make sure you have a professional
make the item for you.
