This is probably the most common request I get from my clients: I have a birthday /anniversary / wedding to go to but I can't think of anything to get them, they already has everything. Can you help???

If you are facing this problem than personalised gifts might be the perfect solution. Research shows that personalised gifts have a much higher chance of being kept and treasured, sometimes for generations. It is one of the best ways I can think of saying I love you without spending a fortune.

Personalised gifts fall into the following categories:

1. Engraved - jewellery or photo frames for instance.

2. Custom made - a keepsake box is one example, or a diary for special occasions such as a babys first year.

3. Speciality - an example is a Day You Were Born certificate which depicts the important events on a given date, or an autographed memento.

There a number of tips that would make the gift buying experience more enjoyable:

Plan in advance
Most personalised gifts will take longer to prepare than buying a gift off the shelf. Two weeks will be sufficient in most instances so it is worthwhile leaving a reminder in the calendar for a couple of weeks before the event.

A simple gift can become special
Items such as engraved sheets or towels (perfect as a wedding gift) or a personalised carry case, iPod for example, will make a lasting impression on the receiver. I often find that gifts that might have otherwise appeared mundane or unimaginative will become extra special with the addition of a simple monogram.

Some fads are timeless
Humour and family trees are two trends that have been popular for many years and show no signs of losing their appeal. One of the many themed mugs with a personalised engraving will usually be well received, as will a family tree memento such as a family tree chart or a Find your Ancestry gift box.

Couples are best
One idea I find very endearing is matching mementos such as candlesticks or matching crystal glasses, both engraved with the couples names. This is great for anniversaries, house warming and weddings.

The old ones are the best
I often find that personalised gifts which take into account the recipients personality have an explosive effect. This is useful for when you know the receiver quite well and you might take into account hobbies or leisure pursuits. Some ideas might be a personalised fishing rod, monogrammed golf balls or signed cricket bat. For those with a religious disposition an engraved bible would be a lovely personalised gift.

Check the details
There is nothing worse that ordering a personalised gift and discovering when it arrives that a name is spelt incorrectly or the date is wrong. Check, check and check again.

If you are still pondering about ideas and the best place to search for ideal personalised gifts then visit Bust-ed.com where you will find a delightful selection of personalised gifts.

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