What sort of birthday boy or girl are you? Are you the type to sweep the day under the carpet and hope no one notices you’re a year older or do you want the world to know it’s your special day and have the accompanying party to show it?
Everyone is different when it comes to their big day, but one thing that everyone tends to enjoy on their birthday, no matter how flashy or subdued they want it to be, is spending time with family and friends. If you’re one of those friends, it’s your job to make your mate feel loved on their big day. Here are three ways to do it.
Photo by Ylanite Koppens
Throw a surprise
Bearing in mind what we’ve just said about different folks wanting certain levels of fanfare on their day, you might be reluctant to chuck a surprise party for your friend if you’re not sure they’ll love it. The thing is, though, the surprise in question doesn’t need to be a big or public affair.
Sure, if your friend is the biggest social butterfly going, throw that 50-man surprise party you know they’ll love. If you’re looking for something more subtle, however, that can be done, too. Maybe a lovely picnic in the park, a day out just for the two of you or a small gathering of their closest friends.
For the right person, even the smallest surprise can make the most significant impact.
Be thoughtful with your gift and card
Ah yes, the card and gift. An almost obligatory feature of every birthday, but one you can get very wrong or very right depending on how much effort you put in.
The old phrase “it’s the thought that counts” is something you should always bear in mind when shopping for gifts, and it’s often the more sentimental presents and cards that go down better than flashier but lazier options. One area to consider in particular is the card, which you can happily go pluck from the local petrol station’s limited selection if you wish, but you can make much more of it if you try.
Personalised cards, for example, are a great way to tell someone you care. By adding that personal touch to what is typically a throwaway item, you’ll likely find it means a lot more to your recipient.
If you’re struggling, ask
Birthday planning is no easy task, particularly if you’re dealing with somebody who is hard to read in party/gift terms. While you often want a birthday celebration to be a surprise, there’s no harm in asking what somebody would like to get or see for their birthday if you aren’t sure what to do.
You might find your friend would rather do nothing but chill at home with some pizza, or they’re hoping for the biggest night of their life. They certainly won’t mind you asking for some guidance, especially if you can make things happen once you’ve got that all-important info.
Making your friend’s birthday, a memorable one can come in many ways. Naturally, you know your friend best, so it’s almost certain that anything you think would be a fun or excellent idea will go down a treat. If you are struggling for inspiration, though, maybe the tips above will help.