My mother-in-law and I share a love for giving gifts. We love shopping for them even more — but that’s beside the point.

It’s such an amazing feeling when you give just the right gift and the recipient is thrilled with it. It really makes your friend feel appreciated and shows that you have a great attention to detail and care for them a lot. It’s important to think ahead so you can find the perfect gift.

Here’s a checklist for giving great gifts:

1. Start Early

How many times have you waited until the last second to get a gift and either spent too much money or settled on something that was convenient but might not have been the best idea for your friend? If you started early – this wouldn’t happen. Start thinking about friends’ birthdays or events at least two months beforehand. Read more