“Mom I think it’s about time we leave behind the world of dolls!” One day my daughter flipped her long hair in a dramatic way. Welcome to the madness of buying a 13-year old’s Yvette’s Treasures birthday gift.
First, let’s talk about tech treats. The teens of today are practically born holding a gadget. Spending money on a new tablet is a great idea. This tablet is both an educational and entertainment tool. Include a cool case, perhaps with glitter or her favorite theme. Instant cameras seem to be a favorite among teens. These cameras are a retro, fun way to record all of those memories – from school events to slumber parties. Plus, the physical photo is a great way to capture memories.
Beauty and fashion is another world. This is the magical era where lip glosses and nail polishes are treasures. Consider getting a starter kit of makeup. You don’t need anything too extravagant, just a palette of lip and eyeshadows. Or a beauty subscription box, which delivers goodies to her doorstep each month. Imagine the excitement when you get a surprise every month.
Okay, let’s discuss books. It is possible to have new adventures by simply reading. You can escape with titles such as “Wonder” and the latest fantasy series. Grab a journal if you know she loves to write more than read. You can get her a journal with sparkly unicorns or leather binding, whichever she prefers. Also pair it up with some colorful pens. It’s the perfect recipe for endless hours of creative expression.
Sports gear can be a big hit for women who are athletically inclined. Customized basketballs with her name imprinted on them or trendy gym bags can transform physical activities into fashionable statements. Don’t overlook the accessories. Unexpectedly cool gifts include a water bottle that encourages her stay hydrated and some trendy sweatbands.
Try creating a personalized work of art as a thoughtful present. Create a collage of the fun times you and your friend have had together, or ask an artist to create a whimsical illustration of her with her pet.
Last but not least, experiences are often more valuable than material things. Tickets to a concert by her favorite band would be a great gift. Perhaps a workshop in something she’s interested in, such as pottery or coding. You can make her memories for a lifetime by spending time learning a skill or screaming at songs during a concert.
Still stuck? We’ll dive into some tried-and-true classics. A stylish school backpack will boost her coolness in the hallways. For the girl with a scientist’s heart, a DIY kit of science experiments can be an amazing gift.
Themed parties are also incredibly entertaining. Organize an at-home spa day. Use DIY masks and soothing music to relax the mind. Cucumber slices can be used for the eyes. Don bathrobes, and watch her glow with joy. Consider a sleepover set with cozy pajamas for her, a plush fleece blanket, a cocoa kit, and some of her favorite films.
It can be heartwarming to give her a charm bracelet where she can keep adding charms as each milestone is reached. Start with some meaningful charms and she will be eager to add more as the years go by.
Let’s not forget about DIY. Craft kits to create friendship bracelets or paint can help her develop creativity. Boxes of varied crafting materials can feel like Pandora’s box.
You may find it difficult to navigate through all the options, but at the end of day, the real value is in the thought and the love that goes into the gift. It’s not the gift itself that matters, but rather the memories attached to it. So, take a breath and channel your inner thirteen-year-old. Happy gifting!