Q: My husband and I are visiting my mother-in-law for her birthday in two weeks, but I completely forgot to get her a gift. What last-minute birthday gift should I get to wow her?
- Tania.
A: Dear Tania,
Oh my, I’ve been in your shoes! I forgot my father-in-law’s birthday one year and ended up getting him some flowers and cupcakes. Thankfully, he loves red velvet cupcakes, so all was well. Phew!
If you don’t have time to go gift-shopping, take the safe route and get her some delicious chocolate or cupcakes (been there, done that!)
But if you’re looking for a showstopper, I recommend getting some stunning statement pieces for the home. Some wall art with a meaningful Biblical message, for instance, would bring her some joy and warmth. Pair this with a bouquet of her favorite flowers, and you’ll be the apple of her eye all weekend!
May we suggest: Become her favorite daughter-in-law with this Proverbs 3:18 "She is a tree of life" artwork
Q: My boss’s birthday is coming up and I’m on a budget. What birthday gift under $20 can I get to impress him?
- Adam.
A: Dear Adam,
Choosing a gift for your boss can be super tricky, especially when you’re on a budget. If you think he’d love super cheesy gifts – like a ‘Word’s Bess Boss’ mug à la The Office – you’re all set!
However, I think this depends on the kind of relationship you have with him. If you’re the office jokester, now is the time to tickle some funny bones. A ‘Best Boss’ award or a funny desk plate would be a hilarious idea. If you want to get some brownie points on a budget, you could get him a personalized business card holder with his initials engraved on it.
May we suggest: A blessing for his business wall hanging
Q: My BFF from high school has moved three states away. Her birthday is coming up and I want to surprise her with a long-distance gift. Do you have any ideas for birthday gifts to get your best friend?
- Julie.
A: Dear Julie,
This is one of my favorite questions! I can totally relate. My best friend lives on a whole other continent. For my last birthday, she sent me some fabulous earrings all the way from Paris. I’m wearing them right now!
Moving to a new place can be scary and unfamiliar. I think she could use a motivational blessing. A birthday blessing would make her feel so loved and cherished.
You could also get her something that reminds her about the great times you’ve had. A birthday gift with pictures (like a handmade scrapbook of memories) would be a fantastic idea; she’ll love your sweet gesture.
May we suggest: All 3 of these sentiments would be perfect for your best friend; Esther 4:14 Perhaps you were born for a time such as this... or Psalm 46:6 God is with her, she will not fall or Fear not, for I am with you from Isaiah 41:10. Seriously, we can't choose. All of these are perfect.
Q: I started seeing my boyfriend a month ago, and he turns 26 next week. I'm nervous about finding a birthday gift for someone I've just started dating. Help!
- Victoria.
Dear Victoria,
A: Ooh, I’ve been there! When you’ve already got some brand-new relationship butterflies in your tummy, a birthday can add to the nerves! However, I think a birthday gift early on in your relationship can help you create some charming memories together.
This is a great opportunity for you to show him how special he is to you. Since you’re just getting to know each other, I’d recommend getting him something the two of you can do together – like a wine tasting subscription or a couples’ art class. If you want to keep it casual, you can never go wrong with a pair of sunglasses!
May we suggest: He might love this classic!
Q: My son loves his Sunday school teacher. It’s her birthday in two weeks and he’d like to make her a unique birthday gift. How can we make a birthday gift out of paper for his teacher?
- Regina.
Dear Regina,
A: Your son sounds wonderful – what a thoughtful young man! Since you want to make his teacher something out of paper, I'd recommend experimenting with origami and papercrafts. Spend some quality time with your boy and try some DIY crafts. You’ll be able to whip up some super cute cranes and flowers in no time. You can make a paper bouquet too!
P.S. I’m sure that the best gift of them all is the love that your son has for his teacher.
May we suggest: Psalm 119:97 makes a beautiful and meaningful teacher appreciation gift!