My daughter’s best gifts were some kind of bulletin board, and attached to that were various gift cards from Target/Staples/Barnes and Noble/BB&B
Thanks everyone!
I got a lot of money and gift cards, but personally I tend to like it more when someone picks something out for me, especially if it is something I didn’t think I’d need. For instance, my cousin and his wife put together a “first year survival kit” that included pencils, post it notes, a stapler, a Swiss Army knife, a dry erase calendar, Tide stain remover pens, and a giant bottle of Advil. None of it was super expensive but it was all useful and felt personal, especially because every item had a funny note on it explaining why it might be useful. Gift cards can be personal if you think about what the person might want or need, like on LL Bean or North Face gift card for someone going to the north from the tropics.
Thanks again – great ideas!
@romanigypsyeyes I think some people just feel this way. I’ve heard it described as generational, regional, socioeconomic, etc, but some people feel as if receiving money means the giver doesn’t care enough to pick out a special gift. I know I was raised to think that if I only give money I’m not putting enough effort in – as in anyone can just write a check – that’s why I like to give something along with a gift card. I’m practical, though, and rarely give anything that’s not returnable. If they want to return it for cash or exchange, and that makes them happy, I’m totally fine with it.
Of course money was the biggest help, but if I had to pick a “thing” it would be rain boots and a quality umbrella. There is nothing less fun than walking around on campus with wet clothes all day.
I understand that some people feel that way… I just think it’s a bunch of crap 