Finding the perfect gift is a mystery that eludes many of us. What to give? Will it be liked? This useful guide breaks it down for the week’s theme, Gifts of Love.

What Makes a Good Gift?

Think about what your special someone likes and who they are as a person. Your love is unique; a one-of-a-kind treasure. Shouldn’t your gift be, too? Find a special necklace in your girl’s favorite metal or a scarf in a color that brings out her eyes. Get your guy some special cuff links to complement his wardrobe, or look for a sleek iPad case that works with his techie lifestyle. No matter what, thought is what makes a gift special. Take the time to browse and follow your heart!

How Much to Spend?

Been dating for a couple months? Married for twenty years? No matter the time you’ve been together, the thought put into a gift is most important. If your budget dictates a smaller investment, think about what your loved one values most and make your dollar count. Even if money isn’t a concern, opting for the most expensive item isn’t always a good idea. Listen to your gut – if you’re feeling too cheap, you probably haven’t put in enough thought. On the other hand, if you’re thinking about accidentally dropping a mention of the high price, you still need to put in more thought. Let your budget help decide the price, but the most important factor is considering your special someone’s taste and appreciations.

All Wrapped Up

Half the fun of receiving a present is seeing it wrapped in a pretty package. This year, instead of buying the basic red-and-pink at the superstore, take a suggestion from the tastefully elegant example above. Use some white paper, preferably thick, and wrap the gift box with crisp corners. Add an oversize silk ribbon and tie a huge bow – voila! – instant gifting chic. Try color coordinating the ribbon and card for maximum visual impact.

Giving Like You Mean It

This year, why not try something new? Make a donation to your loved one’s favorite charity, or start a tradition by finding a worthy cause and give a small gift. Slip a confirmation of your contribution into the card – it’s a great way to help give back and keeps the tradition of giving for the right reasons on the up and up. Now, go enjoy your heart-filled holiday, knowing you gave something truly spectacular and one-of-a-kind.