One-of-a-Kind Gifts for a One-of-a-Kind Woman

By J. A. Young

Giving a one-of-a-kind gift is not as difficult as you might think. It's probably not quite as expensive as you might think either, although price tags for unique presents run the gamut from relatively inexpensive to outlandishly expensive. Thia article offers insightful ways to give a woman a gift that belongs to her - and her alone.

Artisan Crafted Gifts

Every woman loves jewelry - but before you spring for that tennis bracelet (sported by thousands of feminine wrists) opt for something a bit more original. Artisan-crafted jewelry might actually be less expensive than the marked-up wares offered by traditional jewelry stores and often, buyers may have some say in the design. Purchasing one-of-a-kind jewelry is easier than ever with online craftspeople marketing their pieces and skills. In such cases, you can incorporate your wife or girlfriend's birthstone into a unique setting. Consider a special locket with a sentimental engraving. With artisan-crafted jewelry, the possibilities are truly endless.

Other artisan crafts also offer gift-givers a chance to purchase an original. Are there any glass-blowing studios in your area? Consider giving her a glass-blown original perfume bottle in shades of her favorite colors. Delicate, exquisite and one-of-a-kind, any woman would find this a thoughtful touch and a wonderful keepsake that can be used or simply admired.

In an age of digital this and that, discovering something in a package as simple as a charcoal or pencil framed sketch of you and her may bring tears to her eyes. Find a local artist or enlist the help of a talented college art student who could use the patronage and simply give them a photo to copy by hand. Any woman would treasure this imaginative touch to her gift.

Antique Gifts

Sometimes turning to history means you will be able to find a rarity, if not something quite one hundred percent original. If your lady appreciates antiques, than scouring a few antique shops is a wonderful way to demonstrate your thoughtfulness. Also, prices vary so you are certain to find something in your price range. If you've got twenty bucks to spend, a fine bone china teacup and saucer with a pretty floral design can be found. Just add some teas, a few candies and a sweet note, and you're in business.

On the higher end, just consider her tastes. Antique objects run the gamut from textiles and jewelry to housewares and furniture. Consider an old English tapestry to drape across the piano or a nineteenth century kimono to replace her bathrobe. Giving an antique gift can be both charming and romantic. It's also a way to hone in on her personality and demonstrate how well you know her. Everything from vintage birthday postcards to rhinestone bangles to inlaid trinket boxes to lacy shawls can be found while rummaging in antique shops or online antique markets.

Do It Yourself Gifts

If you are in the market strictly for an affordable one-of-a-kind, you may need to roll up your shirtsleeves and make something yourself. Think of your gal - is she softly feminine like a bouquet of lilies, or boldly outgoing like a spicy meal? There are plenty of books full of recipes to make homemade perfumes and soaps. Give one a try. You can pick up the ingredients at very small expense, and the bottles can be purchased almost anywhere that sells glassware.

Finally, don't underestimate the one-of-a-kind potential of your hard labor - if you're talented that way (footing the bill of a professional installer does not lessen the gift in any way). If she loves plants, help her create a mini-greenhouse by extending her windows to house her favorite flowers. Does she complain about no space? Create a walk-in closet by screening off some of her bedroom or build suitable shelving for an existing closet. A homemade vanity or built-in bookcases for her beloved novels may go far in saying she's special to you.

Giving a one-of-a-kind gift is the ideal way to show a woman she is rare and therefore precious to you as well. Happy shopping!

© Doityourself.com 2006