Simple but true. It really is the thought that counts... or at least it should be.

Families today are challenged by the current economic times and just do not have the extra money to be as extravagant as they may wish to be. However, couples are still getting engaged, babies are being born and birthdays need to be celebrated. Therefore, gifts need to be given... but there is no need to panic. There is no need to break the bank when you want to show someone you care and that you want to share in their celebration. Instead of spending a lot of money, spend some time really thinking about truly unique gift ideas for the person that you want that gift to go to and think of something that you are sure that person will really appreciate. These great gift ideas should bring a smile to their faces! You want your gift to be something that the bride and groom can’t stop talking about. You want the recipient to understand that these personalized gift ideas are intended to let them know how special they are to you!

Do you know someone who LOVES to cook? Give her a recipe box but include some well tested and favorite family recipes. Perhaps you could bring the family a pretty hand painted platter or baking dish but include some homemade sugar cookies or freshly baked bread.

Do you know someone who LOVES to read? Give that someone a book that you have read and loved but include a special bookmark or maybe a special tote bag to carry their books.

Do you know someone who LOVES to travel? Buy them a journal and write a special quote or a note about traveling on the first page. Perhaps you could buy them a dog treat box or cat toy and include a promise to take care of their pet the next time they are away on vacation.

Do you know someone who LOVES photos? Give them a personalized picture frame and be sure to include a photo of the two of you together. Give them a photo album with the promise to organize their pictures.

Do you know a family that LOVES movies? Buy them a favorite DVD and be sure to include a tray of gourmet chocolate, popcorn or caramel apples to eat when they get the munchies while they are watching.

Do you know someone who LOVES wine? A favorite bottle of wine is classic but pair it with some wine belts or some hand painted wine glasses and you have a very unique gift idea.

Perhaps you know someone planning a wedding? Give the couple a Wedding Wish Jar and include your heart felt wishes to the bride and groom along with your promise to help them with the invitations or wrapping the wedding favors or bridesmaid gifts.

The most important thing about gift giving IS putting the time into figuring out the PERFECT gift… no matter how small or expensive. When you give from your heart, your gift will always be well received. Mom was right, it is the thought that counts.

It’s the little things that take a gift from "a little something" to "something special"!

Always remember ...it’s all in the details