It's crunch time. The hottest gifts are selling out quickly and a last minute shopper may be stuck resorting to unconventional ideas. Yes, it is the thought that counts, but that thought can never justifiably be, "time is up, I'm broke, they'll think this is funny." When shopping for dear friends and loved ones, there is one simple rule for success: Know your audience. If you can't find the thing that everyone wants, specialize and find the item that this friend will truly appreciate.
You know this person. They have hobbies and interests. If you figure out what those are, you're on the road to giving a thoughtful gift. Let's say your best friend plays the guitar recreationally. You could get them a variety pack of picks for under $5. That, combined with a Guitar Center gift card, says, "I'm aware that you have interests and I support you."
Perhaps you've walked that road too many times already. If you've been mining that same interest for years and now your friend's bookshelf can't hold another Best Stage Monologues edition or Dolly Parton box set, it's time to move on. Undoubtedly, this person likes other things, but when you're just at a loss, it's time to seek out affordable quality. You can find this person something they'll appreciate but would never buy for themselves. In Manhattan, buying really nice thing at a serious discount requires nothing more than patience and shoving. At Century 21, you can find Versace accessories for under $20 and Juicy Couture for under $10. That's a great deal. Designer gifts say, "I pushed a tourist for you."
For out of town friends who aren't swayed by labels, street vendors are the way to go. People heart NY so give them what they can't get anywhere else. Billed as The Ultimate Gift of Love, Marty Allen's Sock Puppet Portraits are a crowd pleaser. They are quality photos of homemade sock puppets in decorative frames. You can find his stand in Union Square outside the tents and his portraits go for $10-12 with discounts for multiple purchases. It's a unique gift that says, "New York is whimsical and non threatening. Come visit me."
For more from Rachel Simpson: Daily Pep Talk from a Best Friend, You're Effing Awesome: a pepcast
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