When a teenager “comes of age” everyone obviously wants to make it a great affair. It officially marks the end of the teen age and that should be celebrated with good friends, family members and, of course, a party and great gifts.
Your ‘offering’ has to speak a thousand words and catch the importance of the moment. Whatever you are going to wrap in shiny paper and tie shut with funky string and bows will have to reflect all of that, and more. Remember, a person turns 18 only once in lifetime and, if you mess it up, you cannot make up for it next year.
With this particular milestone comes responsibility. If you are a parent you may consider opening a bank account for your child, deposit an amount and offer advice on how to handle the money sensibly. You may buy a car and hope your trust is not misplaced, or before your brat heads off to university or starts a job, send him or her on a tour through Europe for an exceptional cultural experience. Adventures like skydiving, balloon rides, white water rafting, or wilderness explorations are great ideas and stand proudly next to the more classical gifts like a weekend at a spa resort or an extraordinary dining experience.
Stepping into adulthood is one of the major events in a youth’s life and should be celebrated with a party and lots of guests. If you are invited, yet live on a limited budget there is no reason for you to show up empty handed. Just think, look around and be inventive. You could even make something yourself.
Anything personalized is always a smash hit, such as jewelry, stationary or clothing. Electronic gadgets and toys like palm pilots, PDAs, DVDs, the latest cell phones, play station games or IPods are also much appreciated milestone birthday gifts.
Think practical when buying a specific gift. What does the person already have? What is his/her taste like, what hobbies are practiced, are they specific in their color choices, do they like accessories, enjoy food, are they considering continuing education and would prefer cash etc.?
The 18th is a birthday symbolizing the beginning of a significant change of life. It is the transition from being a naive teenager to becoming a young adult, with a right to vote and to make vital decisions. It is an important milestone that you can make special with your unusual and extraordinary gift.
