How to Give Great Gifts (Especially if Your Husband Still Needs Help)
Gift-giving can feel like solving a fun mystery—full of possibilities, surprises, and the satisfaction of getting it right. Personally, I’ve always loved it. From planning to shopping to wrapping, there’s genuine joy at every step. But I’m also realistic: we’ve all given (or received!) a gift that missed the mark. Thankfully, with a few simple tips, anyone can elevate their gifting game.
Suggestions for Great Gifts
1. Pretty Wrapping is a Must
A lovely gift box, beautiful wrapping paper, ribbons, and a thoughtful note make opening a gift special before the present even appears. Opening a gift can be as exciting as the gift itself, don’t miss it. Read my Gift-wrapping blog here
2. Give Something Unexpected
A surprise is memorable and delightful. If you’re using my Apple Notes gift-list trick (below), choose something that’s not already listed to add a joyful twist. For husbands and boyfriends, going off-list is riskier—but even a playful “Oh!” instead of “Oh dear!” shows heartfelt effort.
3. Include the Receipt
Confidence is great; practicality is better. A gift receipt says, “I thought you’d love this—but here’s a graceful exit, just in case.” As a default, at Heidi Carey we do not include any pricing in our packages.
4. If They Tells You Exactly What They Want—Listen! (Especially for husbands!)
Paying attention is crucial. If she explicitly asks for something, get exactly that! My dear husband Ward hasn’t quite mastered this yet. So, I make him lists. He appreciates the clarity, and I appreciate skipping awkward returns.
5. Intentions Matter (But Don’t Drive Yourself Crazy)
Thoughtful beats perfect every time. Whether Star Wars pajamas or Seaman Schepps earrings (yes, I want both), match the gift to the person’s heart, not necessarily their Pinterest board.
Pro Tips (Because I’m Slightly Gift-Obsessed)
- Keep a Running Gift List For Yourself and Others (Apple Notes!):
I record ideas immediately. Yes, it sounds obsessive—but it’s life-changing. I often forget I added something which they bought and removed and it’s both a surprise and something I wanted! Win-win - Share Your Gift List with Family Ask Them To Do The Same:
Especially helpful in households like mine—essentially the blind leading the blind. Tell husband and children to remove items once chosen for built-in surprise.My husband put a Bob Ross Chia pet on his list!
I took it off immediately after I bought it, he totally forgot and he was so happy! So happy he got a Bob Ross mug the next year and next year he getting a Bob Ross afro wig! Just kidding.
- Vintage & Handmade Finds:
Etsy and eBay are your secret weapon for thoughtful, unique gifts. Old Towne & Country Magazines from the 80’s classic! How about a horse hair necklace for a horse lover? Etsy’s got that! - Regifting: Totally fine. Find a great home instead of endless guilt.
- Amazon for Gifts? My last resort—it screams “bare minimum.”
- Amazon Gift Cards? Come on—you can do better.
Final Thought
P.S. If I suddenly vanish, it’s because Amazon finally caught up with me. (I love you, Amazon—just not for gifts!)
P.P.S. Dear Jeff Bezos, please don’t ban me. A girl needs her Prime shipping—just not for Mother’s Day presents.
