by Lisa Web

Created on: January 27, 2008

The never ending struggle to get that perfect gift for the picky person, or the person who has everything, the "hard to buy for". It is something I think we all deal with, we all know at least one person who has it all. It's very hard to even make general suggestions for gifts but here are some tips that I use when I come across the time of year to start buying these gifts.

Pay attention. When talking to this person, pay special attention to items that they recently got, or items that they mention that they have interest in. If they just purchased a new set of golf clubs, you could look into an accessory for them, a towel or new balls with their monogram on them. If they mentioned how they really wanted that expensive range for a gift, you may not be able to get them that, but a gift card to the appropriate store with a brochure on the item may spark their interest. If they have recently or will soon take a trip, a nice photo album or journal may be appropriate.

Get creative. Just because they have everything or are picky doesn't mean that there is nothing to buy. Pick up on peoples tendencies. If they drink coffee with no cream or sugar every morning, maybe a gift of gourmet coffee and a nice mug would be appropriate. If they are a movie enthusiast and have every movie under the sun, a rack to store their DVDs may be a nice gift. If they like a particular color or theme in their house, buy a holiday specific decoration to display during that time of year.

Make it returnable. If you do get something make sure that you have a receipt attached or in the card for them. The worst thing you can do is get them something that if they don't like it they are stuck. I would rather have a friend exchange a gift than never use it or toss it out.

Make it simple. Simple is key. When someone is picky, keep your ideas easy. If they are into dogs, don't try to guess what kind, buy a calendar with different dogs in it. If they are into crafts, don't assume what kind, buy a craft organizational item for them. It is easier to be simple than it is to get specific.

Buy multiple small items. Again, if a friend likes coffee, maybe a small selection of coffees would be best. Or beer, you can mix and match a few micro brews for the beer enthusiast. If a friend likes puzzles, maybe a selection of puzzle books would be nice. Put your small items into a bucket, mug, pail, whatever and present to the receiver. They are likely to be surprised that you took the time to collect the items.

Look all year long. I never stop looking for gift ideas. I start buying right after Christmas for the following year, I buy seasonal clothes or hates and mittens when seasonal is clearanced out. Pick up small generic filler along the way. Most everyone likes a candle or chocolates. These are easy items to buy one here and one there, if you ever need a last minute gift or filler, you are ready to go.

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