You have less than 36 hours (sometimes MUCH less).... where do you get that perfect present? That gift that makes both you and the person you are giving it to happy... a gift that shows appreciation and caring.

First consider the tastes, likes and dislikes of the person to whom you are giving the gift. You want to make certain that you find something that will delight them. Consider their loves, favorite hobbies, foods/drinks. even their favorite colors. What do they like to do? What things do they talk to you about. Do they light up when talking about going to a sports event or the theater?

Next consider what is available in your budget. Your friend may love a fancy computer, but if that is not what you are willing to spend, it isnt the right gift. Instead you may choose a computer accessory or some computer software.

Of course you now get to figure out if you can get what you want in your desired timeframe. Event tickets, gift certificates, and flowers/candy are easy gifts. If you have 3 days, using Amazon prime is a wonderful way to shop.

You can always make a gift as well. Baking cookies can be done with a few hours notice. Making coupons for baby sitting, lawn care or cleaning are often very appreciated. There are many gifts that can be done on a very low budget.

Here are some Last Minute Gifts you can get the NEXT day

Sometimes it helps to have many ideas in front of you to help you decide on a present. Here are many easy gift ideas:

Gift Baskets

• Coffee, tea, wine
• gourmet foods, cheese, chocolates
• Games, sports, toys
• Movies, popcorn, snacks

Event tickets

• Sports
• Movies
• Theater

Things you wear/use

• Jewelry & watches
• Special clothes
• Perfumes and bath scents

Activity related

• Movies
• Sports equipment or related items
• Gardening or crafting supplies
• Books

Hobby related

• Trains, cars, motorcycle related

• Thngs they collect (favorite animal items, baseball cards, etc)
• Computer accessories or computer software
• Photography related

Once you have found your gift, how do you make it special? You personalize your gift.

Often, this can be very simple. In a card or in a note, explain *why* you chose the gift. This can really make a difference. Say something like: "I love the way you smile when you talk about movies". Or "This gift looks like it will show off your beautiful eyes."

You can also add a favorite poem or joke to give it a personal touch. When themed with your gift it can add a an extra smile. If you are giving something that is consumable, this also gives the person something they will be able to keep.

Making your gift a theme present can be useful as well. You basically add several gifts together that are choosen just for the person. This could be a nice golf bag, some golf tees and great golf balls. On each item you could add sayings like: "Thanks for carrying the load" (on golf bag), "Thanks for lifting our spirits" (on golf tees) and "Thanks for helping us have a ball" (on the golf balls).

All these methods can be used on last minute gifts - even when giving gift certificates!