Four Tips for Finding the Perfect Gift for Every Budget

SAN FRANCISCO — Finding the perfect gift can be a daunting task, leaving some people to feel like gift giving is more of an obligation than an opportunity to show your holiday spirit. To top it off, the downturn in the economy has left some feeling like there is nothing to celebrate, while others have actually managed to increase their income in one way or another. No matter what your financial status is this holiday season, finding the perfect gift for everyone on your list can be the perfect pick-me-up to close out the year. Here are four tips to help you bring back the joy of gift giving.

1. Make use of a personal shopper. You don't necessarily have to pay more for a personal shopper. There are many stores that will provide this service for free. For the little ones on your list check out, Jean et Marie, a high-end children's boutique in San Francisco and a staple among savvy moms and grandparents. The store's owner, Catherine will assist you in choosing the perfect gift for any infant through eight year-old on your list and you don't even have to come in the store — they can send it directly to you! You can choose from exclusive European brands including Catimini, Jean Bourget, Marese, La Petite Ourse, Miniman, Clayeux, Petit Lem, and Lelli Kelly. They also have classic toys from Brio, and nursery furniture from Kaloo. To find out more, call (415) 563-9200 or visit the website www.jeanetmariesf.com.

2. Find the perfect gift for the difficult person on your list. Everyone has someone on their list that is hard to shop for. Try going shopping with that person in advance to get a better idea of their likes and dislikes. If you can't shop with them find out what hobbies they are interested in and give them something related, for example, paint brushes and canvas can be a great gift for the aspiring artist on your list.

3. Give someone what they need instead of what you think they might want. New towels, sheets, pots and pans or even a gift certificate to the spa can make great gifts. Giving the gift of necessity may not always be the most exciting, but it's definitely a lot less likely to end up being given away or in the storage closet in the garage. There's nothing worse than giving a gift that turns out to be nothing more than a waste of money.

4. Give a sentimental gift. If money is tight this year, think about what you can give from the heart, instead of the pocketbook. A t-shirt with a picture of the newest addition to the family or a commemorative photo of a lost loved one can make a gift that will be sure to create lasting memories. Check out a site like walgreens.com or shutterfly.com to find more ideas of how you can turn photos into sentimental gifts.