21st Birthday Present's Budgeting Guide

I think this post will be helpful for you if you are cracking your head on how much to spend on your friend's 21st birthday present(s).

So you've been invited and now you're thinking, okay 21st is a once in a lifetime thing and but if you really think about it, everyday is once in a lifetime too right? Then again you know what they all say, it's a step into adulthood and it's a really special occasion so technically your present must be pretty special too.

To some, it may be one of their biggest day, second in line after their ideal wedding 6 years down the road. So they hold it really really grand and invite like 300 Facebook friends. To others, they may just want to celebrate this occasion at a fancy restaurant with only their closest ones, say 5? It really depends.

So here's a list that may just come in handy: (Tips are collated over many discussions with some of my girlfriends and this is what I've concluded.)

Tip 1: Your budget may increase/decrease depending on the venue of the party. Chances are if it's held at some posh hotel, it'd only be decent if you present a nicer gift. (Note: nicer, may not be more expensive.)

Tip 2: Ask the birthday boy/girl how many people are attending. The more people attending, the more food he/she has to cater for and it also means that the birthday cake has to be of a heavier weight implying that it's more expensive too.

Tip 3: How 'close' are you to the birthday boy/girl and how many people are you sharing the presents with.

Just a friend: $30-$35

Sharing with 2 or more: $25-$30

Close friend: $40-$45

Sharing with 2 or more: $35-$40

In a tight clique: $50-$55

Sharing as a clique: $45-$50

Bestfriends or thereabouts: $60-$65

Sharing??: $55-$60

Other half: This one is really up to you. Personally, it's more >$300 for me. But strictly no sharing!

Tip 4: Don't be afraid to ask the birthday boy/girl what he/she wants. Then try to work according to your budget to see if you can get the ideal gift. Remember to spend within your means, it's the thought that counts. Also, I believe that you would be invited to a lot more 21st birthday parties during the year. *$$$ fly away*

Try not to think that buying presents are a chore, be thankful that you've been invited to share his/her special moment. And if you're not invited, don't be disheartened in anyway. Think positive, you get to save the money or spend it on someone else - say, yourself?

Ps: It's just a guide so take it with a pinch of salt.

Stay tuned to my next post: guide on planning your 21st birthday party! :)