Birthday Wish list Essentials: Simplify Your Shopping
Today, kid's birthday parties are big business, with plenty of parents looking to put smiles on their children's faces every year.
However, we're all kids at heart, so don't wait for someone to come along and nail every detail that will make your birthday one to remember. You should create a birthday wish list that lays out exactly what you want. Don't let the process be a pressure cooker of stress!
Use these strategies so that you can begin working on this list.
1. Figure Out the Meaning of This Year's Birthday and What is Most Important to You
Before creating the perfect birthday wish list, you should first take inventory of your life and what is most important for this year's celebration.
If you are trying to put together the birthday list for the perfect gifts, make sure that you prioritise what the birthday means and what you hope to get from it. For example, this could be a year of learning, which means you might want nothing but books, audiobooks or courses.
If you have been working yourself to the bone, maybe all you want is some time off and a nice vacation.
When you know exactly what you are hoping to get from your birthday this year, creating the list will naturally happen.
As such, don't hesitate to dream big when it comes to your birthday gift list items. This is one time of year when it is perfectly okay to be selfish, so don't stifle your dreams before watching them turn into realities. The more you consider your birthday wishes, the easier it will be to put together a list that actually means something to you and will be a big hit all round.
2. Create a Detailed Birthday Wish List That Features Price Comparisons and Rankings in Terms of Priority
When it is time to put together your birthday list, go into it knowing that you aren't likely to get every single item on the gift registry.
Some things might be harder than others to find, and others might be more expensive, which means you will have to prioritise which items on the list are most important to you.
Keep your top dream item at the top of the list, but also include things that you would be happy to get otherwise. Give yourself the time to make this list as detailed as possible, floating price compare among different websites or retailers.
Close to 200 million people log on to Amazon each month, so make sure to check their listings when putting items on your birthday list.
The more shopping options you include on the list, the easier it will be to make sure that each item can be purchased, whether you are in the UK or California.
How can you create a birthday wish list that caters to different budgets?
Creating a birthday wish list with varied budget options involves listing items from different price ranges, such as inexpensive books or cosmetics to pricier gadgets or experiences. Including a range ensures that gift givers can choose something suitable for their budget while still making you happy.
3. Use an Online App or Platform That Makes Your List Shareable With Those That Matter the Most
Creating a gift ideas document is good, but there are so many advantages to using an online wish list platform.
When choosing a service that is completely dedicated to these types of lists, such as Giftwhale, you'll be able to play around with more features and get the best results.
For instance, Giftwhale allows you to reserve items with a click of a mouse, which is a great way to make it easy as pie for your friends and family to reserve items for your birthday. Not to mention Giftwhale has an attractive interface that is also very easy to use.
This takes all of the hassle and frustration out of the shopping experience and helps to notify others when an item has been purchased.
When you work with Giftwhale, your list is shareable to your friends and family members, it makes the entire experience a breeze. They'll be able to see which items are reserved and can shop for you at their leisure, knowing they will help create a great experience for you and a deserved happy birthday!
Having all of this information up front during the birthday shopping process makes all of the difference in the world.
4. Be Sure That You Allow Plenty of Time For the Best Wish List to Come True (and to allow for shipping!)
The last thing you will want to do is rush your list. Waiting until the last minute decreases the chances that you'll get the items because you didn't give your shoppers enough time.
Because of this, you should create your birthday shopping list several months in advance. The more time you allow, the easier it will be for people to plan and save, and even come up with their own thoughtful gift ideas linked to some of your own items or hobbies.
You will also want to give yourself time to make the birthday wishlist because there is always the possibility that you will change your mind. When you have the list months in advance, changing your mind about an item is no harm, no foul.
However, waiting until the last minute to change your mind creates confusion, or worse, can create a situation in which someone buys something that you no longer want.
Avoid all confusion by planning far in advance.
How can you share your birthday wish list discreetly with friends and family?
You can discreetly share your birthday wish list with friends and family by using wish list websites or apps that allow you to create and share lists privately. Simply send them the link to your wish list by email, and they can choose a gift without spoiling the surprise.
5. Think About How You Want to Celebrate as a Whole
Birthday presents aside, looking at the big picture of how you want to celebrate your birthday can make the occasion even more special and memorable. Here are some detailed steps and considerations to help you plan the perfect celebration:
1. Plan Time Off from Work:
Request in Advance:
Ensure you request time off well in advance to avoid any last-minute work commitments. This also allows your colleagues to plan around your absence.
Extended Break:
Consider taking a day or two off before and after your birthday. This gives you ample time to prepare, celebrate, and relax without the rush.
2. Choose a Celebration Style:
Intimate Gathering:
If you prefer a low-key celebration, plan a cosy dinner with close friends and family at your favourite restaurant or at home.
Big Bash:
For those who love grand celebrations, consider hosting a large party with a fun theme. Book a venue that can accommodate all your guests and offers amenities you might need, such as catering and entertainment.
Adventure or Getaway:
If you’re more of an adventurer, plan a getaway. Whether it’s a weekend trip to a nearby city, a beach vacation, or an outdoor adventure like hiking or camping, a change of scenery can make your birthday extra special.
Solo Celebration:
Don’t forget that celebrating alone can be equally fulfilling. Plan a day filled with activities you love, such as visiting a spa, exploring a museum, or simply indulging in some quiet time with a good book and your favourite treats.
3. Decide on the Venue:
Home Party:
Hosting at home can be intimate and personal. You have full control over the environment, decorations, and timing.
Restaurant or Cafe:
Booking a table at a restaurant or cafe can take the pressure off cooking and cleaning, allowing you to focus on enjoying the moment.
Event Spaces:
For larger gatherings, consider renting an event space or hall. Look for places that offer flexible packages and can provide necessary services like catering, decoration, and music.
4. Guests:
Close Friends and Family:
Make a list of people who are closest to you and who you would like to share your special day with, whether it's your friends down the road or your grandma.
Work Colleagues:
If you have close relationships with your colleagues, consider inviting them as well. Celebrating with a mix of different social circles can add a dynamic vibe to your party.
Open Invitations:
For larger celebrations, you might opt for an open invitation where guests can bring a plus one. This can make the event more inclusive and lively.
5. Food and Drink:
Catering:
If you’re hosting a larger event, hiring a catering service can ensure a variety of delicious options without the stress of cooking.
Potluck Style:
For a more personal touch, ask guests to bring their favourite dish. This can create a diverse and communal dining experience.
Signature Drinks:
Create a menu of signature cocktails, mocktails or smoothies. Personalised drinks named after you or your favourite things can be a fun addition.
6. Personal Touches:
Decorations:
Decorate the venue with items that reflect your personality and theme. From balloons and banners to table centerpieces and lighting, these details can set the mood and create an Instagram moment for anyone's blog!
Memory Lane:
Create a photo collage or a slideshow of your favourite memories from the past year or your life. This can be a touching way to reminisce and share your journey with guests.
By thinking about how you want to celebrate as a whole, you’re setting the stage for a birthday that is not only enjoyable but also deeply personal and memorable. Each detail, contributes to the overall experience, ensuring that your birthday is a day to remember.
Create the Perfect Wish List For This Year's Birthday Shopping (Or Christmas!)
Your birthday will be a smash hit if you take the time to figure out what gifts you'd like. We can help.
Take the time to create your birthday wish list today with Giftwhale, so you can put together an incredible birthday wish list.
