In the end, it’s just so easy to end up sitting there, blankly staring at some screen, scrolling through page after page of gift options, having absolutely no clue what to buy. Maybe it’s a best friend’s birthday, maybe it’s Mom and Dad’s anniversary, or maybe it’s another coworker’s retirement. Whatever the occasion, finding a gift that’s both thoughtful and unique can feel like Mission Impossible. And, of course, it doesn’t have to be. Let’s explore some of the easy, creative ways of finding a gift that will leave a lasting impression. Once you get into the right mindset, with just a little creativity, you’ll be able to find your perfect idea in a much shorter amount of time. The trick here is to think outside of the box. Ready to start? Let’s see how you can make each occasion special.

Start by Knowing the Person

First things first: What does this person like, really? Ditch the generic gift card—yawn—and take a second to consider this person’s hobby, interest, and personal style. Do they cook? Perhaps a quirky kitchen gadget would be right up their alley. A bookworm? Perhaps a first edition of their favorite novel is the winner. The key here is to dig a little deeper. Anything they may have recently talked about that gets them excited, or something new they might have taken up. Sometimes the little things can spark fantastic ideas for gifts. The personal touch in this is that you know what it is that they like and what they don’t, so the gift can have more meaning. It means you have been paying attention to what matters to them, which only makes it more special. After all, who doesn’t love to be understood?

Think Outside the Big-Box Stores

Let’s face it: most people immediately think of big-box stores and online behemoths when it comes time to give gifts. Sure, it’s easy, but are you really going to find something memorable in such a place? Why not try some haunts that offer more unusual discoveries? Look for local craft fairs, boutique shops, and even better, vintage and thrift stores. You’re likely to find one-of-a-kind items, but you’re also helping the little guy.?

If you’re from Colorado, for example, take a short excursion to a thrift store in Colorado Springs, and see if you don’t make some real finds, such as something vintage or handcrafted and unique—something having a story all its own to make a memorable gift even more special. Shopping at these smaller, lesser-known places brings unexpected surprises. You might even stumble upon something that jogs a memory or means more than you think to the receiver. Let’s be real, though—the hunt itself is half the fun!

DIY or Personalize It

Here’s a little secret: you really don’t have to be that crafty of a person to give a DIY gift. A homemade gift can be simple yet amazingly meaningful. Think of a photo album full of memories, a batch of their favorite cookies in the oven, or even a heartfelt love letter. Not your thing? No problem. There are plenty of ways to get personal without breaking a sweat. Jewelry with engraving, monogrammed towels, or custom-made artwork all scream, “I put thought into this!” Personalized gifts somehow seem tailor-made for that person—and sincerely, in many ways, they were. The effort involved in making or personalizing something instantly gives that something sentimental value. Even a small gift with personalization can make much more of a lasting deep impression than anything mass-produced. What’s more, it is a great way to show that you have thought about them on a deeper level.

Gift an Experience Instead

Not all gifts have to be in boxes. Sometimes the best things you can give are experiences, not things at all, that make memories that often last a lifetime. How about taking someone on an outing? Maybe tickets to a concert or something fun they might never take the time to sign up for. It is not just a present, but an experience they will remember long after the day is gone. Make it even more special by planning an experience that focuses on their interests. Love to cook? Take a cooking class together. Outdoorsman at heart? A weekend getaway could be just what the doctor ordered. Experience gifts also possess an added plus with regard to flexibility, as many can be scheduled at nearly any time. The shared memories make your relationship all that much stronger. The joy of giving an experience is that it’s something that outlasts the physical gift—it becomes a memory to treasure.

Curate a Gift Set

Another great option is to make a gift set based on a theme. This is a fairly easy way to personalize a gift without putting in too much effort, and the possibilities are endless. You can put together a “self-care” nook with candles, bath salts, and an afghan, or a “coffee lover” care package with beans from a local roaster, an elegant mug, and an adorable spoon. Better yet? You can mix and match the items in any number of ways to come up with a set that’s particular to that individual. A thoughtfully put-together gift set means you know the receiver well, and that you’ve taken the time to think about the receiver’s preferences. This is also one of the finest ways to give several items in smaller forms, which might feel more personal and considerate. The beauty of a gift set is that it can be tailored for any occasion—from birthdays to baby showers.

Go Green with Sustainable Gifts

Why not show it in a gift, if you know whether the person is an environmentalist? More and more people in today’s world are leaning toward sustainable and eco-friendly products. Think of reusable shopping bags, bamboo utensils, or even eco-conscious skincare. Another great idea is to give a gift that gives. Other companies have products where part of the sale goes to a charity, or you can purchase items from stores that ensure fair trade. It’s a win-win situation: the recipient gets a meaningful gift, and you support a cause. Sustainable gifts are not only great for the environment but also a conscious thought to the bigger picture. He or she will definitely appreciate the thought behind such an eco-friendly choice. After all, who doesn’t enjoy a gift that feels good on many levels?

Conclusion: It’s the Thought That Counts

Ultimately, it is the thought that counts at the end of the day. Whether it is something you have made yourself, an experience you have thoughtfully planned out, or even a treasure found in an unexpected place, it is the thought that truly counts. So, next time you are looking for that special something, think out of the box quite literally. You will be surprised, and so will the lucky person you will be gifting. Remember, it isn’t about how much you spend but about the effort and the care put in for this. After all, one thoughtful gift creates moments that last far beyond the occasion itself. So go creative, and above all, have fun with the process!