Yup, it’s here: the year of 21st birthdays. Which means, on top of having to buy a new outfit for every party, you have to find a thoughtful and memorable present for each, too.
You and everyone around you is turning 21. Makes you feel a little old that you're no longer in your twenty, eh? Look on the bight side: you have a friend who’s turning 21 and he or she is celebrating the milestone with YOU! That’s pretty big.
The way we see it, there are three things you need to do to thank them for their friendship and celebrate this milestone.
1) Clear your calendar and RSVP with a ‘Yes’ (via Facebook event, naturally),
2) Pick out an outfit and buy a present for them and;
3) Attend the party.
One and three are easy enough, but what about two? That’s where finder.com.au can help. We’ve got all the advice, gift ideas, and coupon codes to make sure all three steps are equally as easy to complete. Here are 21 of the best birthday gifts to give (and receive - hint hint!)
Top 21st birthday gifts
Inexpensive and cheap 21st birthday gifts
Once-in-a-lifetime Experiences
How to choose the best 21st birthday gift
21 is a huge milestone and should not be treated like any other birthday. You may notice that friends who usually like to keep their birthdays quiet, will actually make an effort to celebrate this year. That’s how imported it is.
Now, if you’ve been invited to a 21st birthday party, it’s likely to be one big bash with family, friends, and even a specific venue booked for the evening. Don’t allow your gift to fall short. Even if you’re pressed for cash or time, you can still get a thoughtful token that your friend will cherish.
- Questions to ask yourself:To start on your birthday present buying adventures, you’ll need to ask yourself what you know about your friend. What are their interests? Think about what you two enjoy doing together, the memories you’ve shared, and the embarrassing moments, too. You know, the dirt. A 21st birthday party is nothing if it doesn’t celebrate the highs and lows, the talents and the (lovable) faults, of the one celebrating their birthday.
- Don’t worry about price, worry about thoughtfulness:The best gift is one that reflects your friendship and knowledge with the person who’s turning 21. Even a cheaper, gag gift can go a long way if it has some thought or sentimental value attached to it. Also, think about the kind of person he or she is. They might prefer something a little more decadent, or they might be the kind of person who doesn’t like physical gifts, but prefers experiences. This could mean the difference between buying them a glass votive, or buying them a SCUBA diving adventure. Two gifts you do not want to give to the wrong people. There’s nothing worse than getting a gift you’d never buy or use in your life by someone you consider to have a long standing friendship with. Who are you? And what did you do with my friend???
- You don’t have to cheap out if you’re on a budget:If you’re on a budget (what uni student isn’t?) the best way to get a gift that’s worthy of a 21st is by buying a group gift. Ask mutual friends who are attending the party if they’d like to chip in to buy something and see how many people you can get. In theory, the more people who opt in, the bigger and better the present you’ll be able to buy.If you’re not that close with the birthday boy or girl, this is a great way to skip the gifting decisions altogether as you can ask the person in the group who knows them best, to choose something they believe to be appropriate.
- Whatever you do…Remember, even if the invite says “no presents required”, you really should get him or her something. Even if it’s small. The best gifts are the thoughtful ones, so spare some time to consider your friend and your friendship before you start shopping.
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Top retailers to shop at for 21st birthday gifts
1. The Hut
The Hut has a little bit of everything, from novelty gifts and appliances, to clothes and accessories.
2. The Iconic
Clothes for him and clothes for her. It's a win-win situation whoever the birthday boy/girl is. Buy them a brand they love to wear or go for a gift card - there's really no wrong decision here.
3. Dan Murphy's
What 21 year old isn’t happy with beer, beer, and more beer? Oh, and a vodka shot or two?
4. Hallmark
All birthday presents have to be accompanied with a birthday card. There’s no two ways about it.
I am organizing 100 years birthday for my father in law end of Aug and looking around 50 guest. I would like to give away souvenir with his name or photo in print has to be small things.
Any ideas and where to get?
Hi Marilou,
Thanks for your question.
You might like to read our article on where to buy personalised gifts for ideas and inspiration for your souvenir presents.
Hope that helps,
Stephanie
Trying to find a designer handbag that does not cost an arm and a leg
Hi Yvonne,
Unfortunately, designer bags are always going to be a bit pricey. That’s what makes them so sought after! But you don’t have to spend thousands.
Try looking at designers like Michael Kors, Marc by Marc Jacobs or Rebecca Minkoff. Those brands usually retail for under $500. You can even get pieces for around $100.
If I were you, I’d go for Marc by Marc Jacobs. It was recently announced that the brand is discontinuing and merging into the original Marc Jacobs brand, and as a result most of the stock is being discounted.
Here are a few (all under $500) that I’ve picked out for you.
Calvin Klein Black
Ginger & Smart Black
Rebecca Minkoff Red
Rebecca Minkoff Black
Marc by Marc Jacobs mini bag black
Marc by Marc Jacobs satchel black
Marc by Marc Jacobs grey
If none of these are appropriate there are also a number of non-designer brands that are still really sought after and very nice. Brands like Oroton, Country Road, Marcs, Mimco, Deadly Ponies and Status Anxiety all make really beautiful bags without the designer price tag.
I hope that helps.