Quick Birthday Present Ideas

Chocolate can make for an excellent quick birthday present.chocolate image by Oleg Verbitsky from Fotolia.com

When someone's birthday pops up and you realize you never got a gift, a quick birthday present can save the day. Even though the gift was purchased last minute, it doesn't have to appear that way. No matter what the budget, it is possible to get the recipient a well-loved present.

Massage Gift Certificate

If the recipient does a lot of exercise, works on their feet, or just enjoys a good massage, consider giving a gift certificate for one. In some cases, you may be able to purchase a massage gift certificate online instead of going to the store location. Choose a place near the person's home or job to ensure the recipient can easily use it.

Chocolate is always a sweet gift. Instead of buying any random box, pick one that you know the recipient will enjoy. For example, if the person loves truffles, make every effort to get that type. While some grocery stores carry gourmet chocolate, another option is to go directly to a chocolatier.

Choose a photo the recipient loves, like a family photo or photo of a pet. Upload it to a local photo processing center and request that they change it to black and white using one hour developing. Make the photo as large or small as you wish. After getting the photo, pick a matching frame; in some cases you can get it at the same location. Frame the photo and put a ribbon around it for a wonderful last minute present.

For a quick, low cost birthday present, buy a package of colored card stock and a pen. Think about services you can provide the recipient, such as a home cooked meal, dog walking duties or even grocery shopping. Cut the card stock into pieces the size of playing cards. Write IOU on one side of each card, then write one services you plan to provide on the other side of each card. Stack all the cards together and place one staple in the top left corner of the stack. If there are too many cards to fit a staple through, then place a hole in the top left corner of each card using a hole puncher and then secure them all together with a metal ring.

A bottle of the person's favorite drink can make an excellent choice for a last minute gift. Another option is to purchase a set, such as a bottle of alcohol that comes with a glass or other novelty or collectible item. You may also consider getting the recipient a bottle of alcohol that is almost too good and too valuable to drink to celebrate this special day.