Birthday Gift Inspiration & Ideas - Giftster https://www.giftster.com/news/category/birthday/ Free family gift registry Wed, 24 Jan 2024 16:36:53 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.2.3 https://www.giftster.com/wp-content/uploads/cropped-512-32x32.png Birthday Gift Inspiration & Ideas - Giftster https://www.giftster.com/news/category/birthday/ 32 32 A Taste of Mexico: Celebrating Birthdays the Mexican Way https://www.giftster.com/news/mexican-birthday-traditions/ Wed, 24 Jan 2024 16:36:53 +0000 https://cms.giftster.com/?p=13172 Do something different for your birthday this year by embracing these Mexican birthday traditions at your next party.

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A perfect way to experience another culture is to embrace their traditions by incorporating them into your next celebration. These Mexican birthday traditions will have you excited to celebrate getting another year older. 

Las mañanitas

Start your birthday with the tradition of “Las Mañanitas,” which translates to Little Mornings. You will wake up to a morning serenade at dawn. However, it isn’t just any song that gets sung for the serenade. It is most widely this birthday song. It is a song that expresses the beauty of the birthday morning and how much love the singer has for the birthday person. However, if getting woken up at dawn doesn’t sound like fun, you can have it sung at any time of the day. Many people choose to have it sung later in the day at their birthday party when blowing out the candles.  

Las Mañanitas Lyrics (Spanish)

Estas son las mañanitas
Que cantaba el rey David
Hoy por ser día de tu santo
Te las cantamos aquí

Despierta, mi bien, despierta
Mira que ya amaneció
Ya los pajaritos cantan
La luna ya se metió

Qué linda está la mañana
En que vengo a saludarte
Venimos todos con gusto
Y placer a felicitarte

El día en que tú naciste
Nacieron todas las flores
En la pila del bautismo
Cantaron los ruiseñores

Ya viene amaneciendo
Ya la luz del día nos dio
Levántate de mañana,
mira que ya amaneció

Las Mañanitas Lyrics (English)

This is the morning song
that King David sang
Because today is your saint’s day
We’re singing it for you

Wake up, my dear, wake up,
Look, it is already dawn
The birds are already singing
and the moon has set

How lovely is the morning
in which I come to greet you
We all came here with joy
and pleasure to congratulate you

The day you were born
all the flowers were born
On the baptismal font
the nightingales sang

The morning is coming now,
the sun is giving us its light
Get up in the morning,
look, it is already dawn

Tres leches (three milks) cake

This delicious cake gets its name from the three types of milk used in its preparation. It starts with a special kind of sponge cake made with flour, sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Once it’s baked, the cake is soaked in three types of milk: evaporated, condensed, and cream or whole milk. The cake is then frosted with whipped cream. 

Traditionally, the cake would be white with white whipped cream. It might have fruit decorating it, such as coconut or strawberries. However, this has changed in modern times to give it bright colors and decorations. You could have a single-layer or multi-tired cake. There is a lot of flexibility in what the final cake looks like. The key is soaking the cake in three types of milk to make it tres leches. 

La mordida tradition

People tend to have strong feelings about this tradition. La Mordids translates to “little bite. ” The birthday person’s hands are tied behind their back. They must then take a bite of their birthday cake without using their hands or other assistance. While the person is taking their bike, the birthday party guests shout “Mor-di-da” as someone pushes the birthday person’s face into the cake. 

While this tradition is celebrated in Mexico, not everyone participates. It is typically something the birthday individual gets a say in. Unlike here in the States, where the birthday person is surprised by getting their face shoved into the cake. The Mexican version is supposed to be fun; everyone is in on the joke and up for a laugh. 

Piñatas

What’s a Mexican party without a pinata? You can buy one pre-made or make one yourself. Use paper mache and cardboard to make the hollow sculpture. They are typically fun shapes, like food, animals, or representative of something the birthday person loves. Inside the pinata, you can fill it with anything you want. Traditionally, it would be small toys and candy. However, you could do an adult version with mini liquor bottles, makeup samples, or snacks. 

To play, each partygoer gets blindfolded one at a time and gets a turn swinging a stick at the pinata. Everyone takes turns until the pinata breaks open and the contents pour out. 

Los regalos (birthday presents)

Birthday presents are just as common in Mexico as in the U.S. You give them wrapped in paper, and the birthday individual gets to open them. Giving money as a gift is less common in Mexico. People tend to focus on items the recipient could use or want. 

Large get-togethers

A hallmark of a Mexican get-together is the number of people in attendance. It is common for immediate family, aunts and uncles, grandparents, cousins, and anyone else available. There is an importance in spending time with family and those who love and care about you the most. While these aren’t formal events, you are expected to put some effort into what you wear. 

Mexican birthday traditions: food and music 

As with American birthday parties, there are plenty of drinks, food, and music. You may hear traditional Mariachi, banda, norteño, or more modern tunes played. People aren’t afraid to get up and dance to the tunes. 

For food, traditional dishes are served. These include sopapillas, tortillas, enchildas, salsa, taquitos, churros, and mole. In addition to the tres leches birthday cake, other desserts like flan or rice pudding may also be served. You will find everything from soda products to beer and tequila for drinks. With so many people in attendance, a feast accommodates everyone. 

Age-specific Mexico birthday traditions

Similar to a Sweet Sixteen party or the large party that happens when someone turns 21, there are specific “big birthdays” in Mexico. 

Presentación de tres años

This birthday tradition happens when someone has a child who is turning three. They celebrate with a “Presentación de Tres Años,” or a presentation to the community. The purpose of this extra special party is to celebrate and give thanks for the child’s good health. 

This Mexican birthday tradition is steeped in religion. It comes from the presentation of the Virgin Mary at three years old. Many people celebrate their baby’s third birthday by attending mass. The child gets dressed in fancy clothes and a priest provides a blessing. After the mass, the family attends a large birthday party with extended family and friends. 

La quinceañera

The most well-known age-specific birthday tradition is the quinceañera. Girls turning 15 will celebrate with an extra large party to signify their “coming of age.” A hallmark of this party is the over-the-top ball gown style dress that the birthday girl wears. Traditionally, they are pink or white. However, this has changed in modern times. The day typically starts in the morning with the birthday girl attending mass to pay homage to the Virgin Mary. 

Celebrate your next birthday with these Mexican birthday traditions 

Do something different for your birthday this year by embracing another culture. These Mexican birthday traditions are a fun way to experience and celebrate another culture. So fill out your Giftser wish list and start sending out the invites. You can enjoy a large party with plenty of food, tres leches cake, and a pinata.

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How to Find Joy in Every Milestone Birthday https://www.giftster.com/news/how-to-find-joy-milestone-birthday/ Wed, 17 Jan 2024 15:33:45 +0000 https://cms.giftster.com/?p=13149 Celebrating a milestone birthday can be a time for reflection and joy. These tips will help you find joy in your birthday.

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We all handle milestone birthdays differently. Some of us look forward to celebrating a milestone birthday in a big way. Others want to hide and pretend like it didn’t happen. Milestone birthdays stand out as significant because they represent getting older and moving into the next phase of life. 

Reflect on what you’ve learned 

A milestone birthday is the perfect time to reflect on everything you’ve learned over the past decade. This could be from attending school or life experience. Our lives are enriched by growing and learning. It can be easy to lose sight of this when we get wrapped up in everyday life. A milestone birthday is the perfect time to step back and recognize everything you’ve learned. You may be getting older, but you are also getting wiser. 

Practice gratitude 

A milestone birthday is the perfect time to think about the blessings in your life so far. Practice gratitude to be thankful for the positive things that have happened in your life. This could be the goals you’ve accomplished, wisdom gained, or memorable experiences. Focusing on the positive things in your life so far will help you establish a positive mindset for the next part of your life. 

Take a fresh start 

A milestone birthday is like one chapter of your life ending and another beginning. This is your opportunity to make a fresh start. Consider this your opportunity to finally take that class you’ve been meaning to. Or learn a new hobby that has always interested you. A milestone birthday is your chance to take action and make much-needed changes in your life. 

Don’t compare yourself to others 

We have a habit of comparing ourselves against how we think others are doing. With the rise of social media, this has become even more prevalent. You need to do your best not to do this. When posting on social media, people project the best parts of their lives or what they want others to see. It may seem like they have the perfect life and are always happy. This isn’t always the truth behind the posts. To protect your happiness, don’t compare yourself to what you think others have accomplished. Instead, focus on yourself and the positive things in your life. 

When planning your milestone celebration, think about what you want. Some people might love a huge birthday party with all of their friends and family. Others may prefer something more intimate and subdued. 

Embrace the adventure 

Life should be an adventure. You don’t know what tomorrow, next week, next month, or next year will hold. Embrace the unknown and look forward to the next chapter of your life with curiosity and excitement. A milestone birthday is the perfect time to plan an adventure. Take a trip to a location you’ve always wanted to visit. 

Celebrate your next milestone birthday with Giftster 

Whether your next milestone birthday is a 30th, 40, 50th, or 60th, Giftster can help you celebrate. Create a wish list for your friends and family. That way, you can embrace the next phase of your life with the love and support of those who know you best. 

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Birthday Bloopers: Hilarious Videos of Gifts Gone Wrong https://www.giftster.com/news/birthday-funny-videos-bad-gifts/ Mon, 08 Jan 2024 18:23:52 +0000 https://cms.giftster.com/?p=13140 Avoid an epic fail the next time you give a birthday gift. These hilarious birthday gifts gone wrong will show you what not to do.

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Giving the perfect gift can feel stressful as you search for just the right present. It needs to convey an appropriate sentiment for your relationship with the recipient. SNL highlighted this struggle in a hilarious skit (below). It needs to be in a suitable price range. Finally, it should be something that the person will want and enjoy. For some, their best efforts are thwarted, resulting in these hilarious videos of these birthday gifts gone wrong. 

Give them something they want 

Giving a birthday gift should be about the recipient and what they want. When she gave him a candle, this girlfriend didn’t consider her boyfriend’s interests. To make matters worse, he spent significantly more on her birthday gift than she did on his. Things continued downhill when he told her to return the candle, and she told him she couldn’t. At this point, she admitted she took the candle from her mother’s house. 

Not what it looks like 

Sometimes, getting a gift that looks like one thing but is another can be cute. This works exceptionally well when you stick to a theme or topic the recipient is interested in. However, there is also a high risk of failure. This poor woman received what she thought was a camera lens. Only to then have to be told that the gift wasn’t a camera lens but a coffee mug. From the video, it looks like she isn’t thrilled with either idea. 

Gifts gone wrong: unusable gifts

Watch this son’s face go from pure excitement to confusion to amusement as he opens his gift. He loves to golf and was thrilled to get a new club. But his excitement quickly changed to confusion as he realized it was a left-handed club and he was not left-handed. He and his father then laughed together at realizing the club wasn’t right. 

Recipients fail too

A son gets a brand-new hoverboard as a gift. He immediately takes it into the backyard to ride it. Upon hitting a crack in the concrete, he falls. The hoverboard goes straight into the pool. You can hear the increasing desperation in his voice as he calls his parents. The hoverboard slowly sinks to the bottom of the pool. 

Take care when shipping gifts 

This woman felt the same excitement we all feel when we come home to a mystery package around our birthday. She excitedly opened what she thought was a thoughtful gift. It could have been if it was delivered correctly. Unfortunately, something went wrong. What started as an elegant bouquet turned into a box of petals and rotting stems. 

Read the fine print 

It’s happened to all of us at some point. You see an item online and buy it without reading the full description. It then arrives in the mail, and disappointment sets in. One woman thought she had a sweet gift idea of buying her boyfriend a watch case. Except when it arrived, it said “best dad of all time.” Her boyfriend is not a dad. Her failure wasn’t in the idea but in failing to read the fine print. The on-sale item she thought was a great deal was a Father’s Day promotion. 

Avoid a birthday fail and give a winning gift

Make sure everyone gets the gift they want for their birthday and every other occasion. Create a family group on Gifster so everyone in your family can create and share wish lists. With the ability to add items from anywhere, Gifster makes it simple to manage and share your wish list. Add your preferences for each item to ensure you get the exact size, color, and style that you want. Family members can then purchase items from the list and keep it a secret until they give the gift.

Happy gifting!

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Eco-friendly Wrapping Paper Alternatives https://www.giftster.com/news/green-gift-wrap-alternatives/ Fri, 20 Oct 2023 15:49:34 +0000 https://cms.giftster.com/?p=12661 Do you feel like the season of giving puts more into landfills than your loved one’s hands? Here are some eco-friendly gift wrap options.

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If you are a parent or you’ve hosted family for the holiday, you know that the season of giving doesn’t end when the last gift is unwrapped. It ends when the last pieces of plastic, cardboard, and paper are out at the curb.

In the UK alone, consumers use 227,000 miles of wrapping paper each year.

Are you interested in giving less to the landfills this year? Here are some ideas for eco-friendly wrapping paper alternatives.

Stockings 

All of those stockings hung by the chimney with care are excellent eco-friendly gift wrap options. You don’t need wrapping paper for presents that fit in stockings, so to reduce waste make sure not to double up. 

On the topic of stockings, socks can be great wrapping options for small items like jewelry. Choose a cozy, holiday-themed pair for a useful, waste-free gift wrap.

E-mail 

You might be tempted to purchase gift cards and place them in holiday cards. But for an eco-friendly wrapping paper alternative, digitize them instead. 

Most stores have electronic gift cards or certificates that don’t use paper or plastic (and are harder to misplace). “Wrap” them up in an email and the recipient still gets to “open” them.

Furoshiki

Furoshiki are traditional Japanese fabric wrapping cloths. They are reusable, versatile, and creative. Once you’ve tried this gift-wrapping art, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to wrap even the most oddly shaped present. 

Learn more about how to tie Furoshiki here, and all the gifts you give this year will be eco-friendly and beautiful.

Old papers

Do you get a newspaper delivered to your home? Are there unused road maps in your car? How many coloring book pages are on your refrigerator? 

Think of how fun and environmentally friendly it would be for a gift recipient to have a present wrapped in the Sunday comics, a map of a famous city, or a crayon drawing of a dinosaur.

Containers

If you think about the gift you’re giving, you might be able to come up with a corresponding “container,” like a box or jar, to put it in. They are incredibly versatile, which means the recipient of your gift is likely to reuse the container it’s “wrapped” in instead of throwing it away.

A few ideas might be candies or cookies in a tin or mason jar, books in a fabric tote bag, or spa items, wrapped in a towel, in a basket.

Just a bow (or no wrapping at all)

Potted plants, bottles of alcohol, or candles would look lovely with a simple ribbon or no wrapping. And while it might seem unconventional, according to AP News, “nearly two-thirds [of U.S. respondents] said they would happily receive gifts without wrapping.” 

If you want to be creative with just bows, here are 25 Ways to Wrap Ribbon and Bows on Gifts.

No matter which method you choose, we hope you and the recipients of your gifts are happier with these environmentally friendly options for gift wrap.

Happy gifting!

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How to Make Your Birthday Stand Out from the Holiday Season https://www.giftster.com/news/make-birthday-special-during-holidays/ Fri, 22 Sep 2023 15:32:31 +0000 https://cms.giftster.com/?p=12399 Have you always felt like your birthday gets missed during the holidays? Here are a few ways to help it stand out this year.

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Is your birthday in November, December, or January? If you answered yes, you’ve probably experienced the frustrations of a birthday that falls close to the holiday season.

Chances are also good that you struggled to have a great party. Friends were out of town, no one could figure out what to get you for two celebrations back-to-back, and everyone always seemed more excited about the holidays than your birthday. 

Let’s not forget that with all of the seasonal treats, your birthday cake probably didn’t stand out much, either.

As we start to approach the holiday season again, here are some ideas for how to make your birthday stand out. After all, everyone deserves to have a truly special day once a year.

Choose a fun, non-holiday theme

If you want your party to stand out from the holidays, invite them to more than just a birthday party. Invite them to the event of the year. Choose an amazing theme and some matching elements your guests can enjoy. 

For example, at a Barbie-themed birthday party, you might serve a pink cocktail and ask your guests to dress up for a “fashion show.” 

Do you plan to host the party at your house? Take down any holiday decorations or knick-knacks you have around your home so guests will focus on the occasion of your birthday instead.

Turn the party into an outing

Kids have birthdays at fun places all the time. Why can’t you? At a time of year when everyone is already gathered in their homes with friends and family, make your birthday stand out by hosting it at a fun location.

Steer clear of cookie decorating classes or a trip to the Nutcracker ballet. Instead, find venues that are holiday-free. You might even be the hit of the season if your party lets your guests burn off some of their holiday stress at a fun event like axe-throwing or indoor go-karting.

Ask for experiences instead of things

During the holiday season especially, people are in the gift-giving spirit. But this often results in an abundance (if not overabundance) of new items around the home. If your birthday is during the holiday season, your gifts might feel more of the same.

To make your birthday stand out, ask for something a little different. Experience gifts can include any of your favorite hobbies or interests.

Here are some ideas:

  • Tickets to a sporting event, concert, or theatrical experience
  • A class or “how to,” like cooking, pottery, glass-blowing, writing, or a sporting technique
  • A night away in a hotel at a destination you’ve always wanted to visit (even if it’s just a nearby lake where you can go fishing)
  • Self-care like a yoga class, massage, float spa, or manicure
  • Babysitting so you can go out and enjoy any one of these activities
  • Housecleaning, lawn care, or other home services to free up your spare time for other things

Looking to feel at ease about birthday gifts every year? Create a group on Giftster and you and your loved ones can create and share wish lists year-round.

Happy Gifting!

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How to Plan & Execute the Perfect ‘Over the Hill’ Birthday Party https://www.giftster.com/news/how-to-plan-execute-the-perfect-over-the-hill-birthday-party/ Mon, 14 Aug 2023 14:37:09 +0000 https://cms.giftster.com/?p=11865 Getting older can be more fun. Here are some tips for hosting a memorable “Over the Hill” birthday party for a friend or family member.

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A particular age. Wiser. Over the hill. We have several euphemisms for old age. Any of them can be an appropriate birthday theme for a family member or friend who has reached an “old” age milestone. 

When can you celebrate someone’s old age? Well, it’s probably best before they are really old. “Over the Hill” birthday parties have more of a sense of humor about the whole “getting older” thing. You can probably choose the age, like somewhere around 40 or 50. (But don’t pick 30. That just seems cruel.)

So if you’ve got the perfect victim (I mean, birthday person) in mind, here are some tips to plan and execute an amazing “Over the Hill” birthday party. 

Keep it a surprise 

You can tell the birthday guy or gal that you’re hosting a party. You can even tell them who’s invited. But saying, “We’re throwing you an Over the Hill party” ruins a bit of the fun. 

If you want to see the celebrant laugh when they walk into their party, at least keep the theme a surprise. Keeping the whole party a surprise, though, is probably a lot more fun for everyone. 

Just make sure you know your audience. Not everyone enjoys surprises. In that case, a subtle surprise for the “Over the Hill” theme is probably best.

Decorate with “old age” items

Part of the humor of an “Over the Hill” party is that someone is getting older, but they aren’t exactly geriatric yet. Dentures, arthritis creams, adult diapers, reading glasses, and “Caution: You’re Old” signs are all humorous decorations you can incorporate into the party space. 

You might have even seen a themed tombstone or two as these types of celebrations, so if everyone has a good sense of humor, a “Here lies Daniel’s youth” grave marker is a perfect extra touch. 

Match the food to the “Over the Hill” birthday party theme

Eating party food that matches the theme is a good time for everyone. It also gives you a chance to be creative and clever. So here are a few ideas of party snacks and treats you can put together for an “Over the Hill” birthday party:

  • Think back to your childhood and make some dirt pudding for someone Older than Dirt 
  • Mix up some party punch (these are for adults only) and label it “The Fountain of Youth”
  • Fill a bowl with “Pain Pills,” like Skittles, M&Ms, jellybeans, or Mike & Ikes
  • Serve any food (burgers, pizzas, sandwiches, etc.), just make sure there’s a sign nearby that says “Early Bird Senior Special”

Give the perfect gift

For a clever present, create an “Over the Hill” gift basket complete with prune juice, denture glue, and a book of crossword puzzles. Then, to even out all the teasing and fun, make sure to give a few things the birthday guy or gal really wants. Ask them to create a wishlist on Giftster that you can share with all the guests, so they’ll leave their party a little older, a little wiser, and a lot happier.

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The Dos and Don’ts of Sending Party Invitations https://www.giftster.com/news/dos-donts-party-invitations/ Wed, 02 Aug 2023 16:07:33 +0000 https://cms.giftster.com/?p=11854 Before you can enjoy a great celebration, you need guests. Here are dos and don’ts for sending party invitations to your next event.

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Do you have a great party planned? If you’ve sorted out all of the details, it’s time to invite the guests. But if you’ve ever had to create and send out party invitations, you know that they can take some time and thought.

Of course, once all the guests arrive, it will all be worth it.

Here’s our guide with all the dos and don’ts of sending party invitations so that you can move on to the fun stuff. 

Do include important details

You’ve put a lot of effort into your party. Make sure the guests know what to expect.

Here is the information you should include:

  • Occasion (graduation, baby shower, birthday, anniversary, etc.)
  • Date
  • Time
  • Location
  • RSVP
  • Dress code 

Kids’ party invite tips

For a children’s party, there are a few other things you should probably include, such as whether it’s a drop-off event if the kids need to wear anything (like sneakers for playing or a shirt that might get dirty), how long the party will last, and whether food will be provided.

Formal party invite tips

If it’s a formal or catered event, you might also include if guests should expect a cash bar.

Do match the invitation to the occasion

There are many ways to invite people to events, from simple text messages to formal printed invitations. When you’re trying to decide how to send invitations, you should think about how casual your party is. The more casual the party, the more casual the invitation can be.

Backyard BBQ? A text message with just the details is acceptable.

Bridal shower? It’s better to mail printed invitations to the guests.

Other invitations fall somewhere in between, like electronic invitations through e-mail or printed invites you can hand to recipients. Try this free birthday invitation maker to create something custom for your upcoming party.

When planning the invitation type, you can also think about design. For example, the invitation can help share your party’s theme with the guests.

Don’t send your party invitations too early or too late

For most parties, aim to send your invitations 3-6 weeks before the event. 

The less formal the celebration, the less time you need to give. These are the events where you plan a party, send invites (maybe just through text or email), and “see who shows up.” 

For more formal parties, like baby showers or wedding showers, you should give guests more time to plan. After all, they would want to prioritize and attend these occasions, and some guests might need to travel from out of town. 

Don’t forget your wish list

If you’re planning a celebration in honor of a bride, mom-to-be, married couple, or birthday, guests are likely to want to bring presents. You can include the registry information on the invitation for most formal parties where a registry is appropriate.

However, for birthday parties, it’s not the best etiquette to include a wish list with the invitation. If someone asks directly you can share it with them.

We still recommend that you make one, especially for kids. Giftster is a great website for creating a web-based wishlist you can share with anyone who asks.

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How To Wrap Odd Shaped Gifts https://www.giftster.com/news/how-to-wrap-odd-shaped-gifts/ Wed, 12 Jul 2023 15:23:14 +0000 https://cms.giftster.com/?p=11807 Presents come in all shapes and sizes. Here are tips and tricks for how to wrap even the most oddly-shaped gifts.

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Birthdays, baby showers, anniversaries, weddings, graduations, and other milestones and holidays… there’s never a shortage of reasons to give gifts throughout the year. And there never seems to be a shortage of odd shaped gifts to wrap, either.

If you’ve found yourself in a rut using boxes and bags for everything, you’ve come to the right place. No matter what you find on a friend or loved one’s wish list, we promise there is a way to wrap it and present it with class.

Here is the ultimate guide on how to wrap odd shaped gifts. These versatile wrapping videos will turn you into a gift-wrapping expert in no time.

How to wrap a cylinder

Several types of gifts come in a cylinder or circular shape. But don’t stress about wrapping them. There are a few creative and beautiful tricks to wrapping these types of presents below.

Tall cylinders

This tutorial from @mama_mila_au is perfect for round items or presents that come in cylinder shapes and containers, such as candles, coffee tins, games, and candies.

Round tins

Whether you make your own baked treats or buy them premade, tins of cookies are a popular gift. Here is a simple but beautiful technique from @effectivespaces to wrap these round tins.

Wine bottles

Do you typically just put a bottle of wine into a gift bag? Here are a few creative ways to give the gift of wine using wrapping paper instead. This fun tutorial is courtesy of @effectivespaces.

How to wrap large gifts

Not every gift is perfectly sized for traditional wrapping paper. If you have a large gift to wrap, try one of these unconventional tricks. 

Fabric

The Furoshiki method of gift wrapping uses fabric in a Japanese traditional style. This tutorial from @shihomasuda_giftwrapping shows you how to use fabric for wrapping. You can use larger pieces of fabric for larger gifts.

Fancy Pleats

Just because the gift is big doesn’t mean you have to skimp on style. Here’s a tutorial from @janemeans for wrapping a large present that looks luxurious. 

How to wrap toys

Toys come in so many different shapes and sizes. Sometimes it’s tempting to just throw them all in a gift bag. But if you want to learn some ways to wrap toys as gifts, check out these tips and tricks.

Packaged toys

Parents know the difficulties of getting toys out of plastic packaging. Thankfully, @thefoldinglady shares a creative way to wrap them.

Small objects

Watch this wrapping video from @lenniamc for a versatile way to use wrapping paper. With this trick, you’ll be able to wrap almost anything.

Pick a present from your family member’s wishlist on Giftster and start wrapping – no matter how large or oddly shaped it is. Happy gifting!

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25 Golden Birthday Cake Recipes https://www.giftster.com/news/golden-birthday-cake-recipes/ Wed, 05 Jul 2023 15:22:08 +0000 https://cms.giftster.com/?p=11513 Make a golden birthday extra-special with one of these delicious cakes.

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A golden birthday is undoubtedly a crucial milestone in our journey through the years. This once-in-a-lifetime event holds immense significance and offers a remarkable opportunity to reflect on your treasured memories and embrace the joy of the present. Whether you are celebrating your birthday or that of a loved one, there is no better way to add fun and glamor to your special occasion than with an equally elegant golden birthday cake. 

Here are some top golden birthday cake and treat recipes to take your birthday party a notch higher.

What is a golden birthday?

A golden birthday, also known as a champagne birthday, is when your birth date coincides with your age. For example, if you were born on May 19, your golden birthday occurs when you turn 19. Similarly, if you were born on December 31, your golden birthday occurs when you turn 31.

25 easy golden birthdays cake recipes to try

Enjoy making and indulging in these golden-themed birthday cakes.

1. Gold/Yellow velvet cake

Gold makes everything fancy, and the golden standard in this cake is sure to turn your birthday into a lavish event. Instead of the traditional cream cheese frosting, adorned with edible gold stars or a golden cream cheese frosting. Here is a simple recipe. 

Gold/Yellow Velvet Cake by My Cake School

2. Golden hashtag cake

Looking for a fun and trendy birthday cake to celebrate a teenager’s golden birthday? In the current age of social media, a hashtag cake can be the ideal birthday treat that perfectly reflects their interests, favorite things, and current obsession. Modify your recipe by layering it with golden sprinkles to match the occasion. Check out the recipe here

Golden Hashtag Cake by Club Crafted

3. Creamy vegan cheesecake

Celebrating a vegan’s golden birthday and wondering what cake to bake? This decadent creamy vegan cheesecake is so simple to make and special enough for the occasion. It features a tart base which you can finish with various toppings, including golden vegan sprinkles, berries, or passion fruit. Here is the recipe. 

Creamy Vegan Cheesecake by My Quiet Kitchen

4. Tuxedo birthday cake 

If you love a classy dressing style, why not celebrate your golden birthday with a tuxedo-themed birthday cake. The cake lends your celebration some formality and an elegant look to match the golden occasion. It features a two-tier structure with a wonderful white, black, and golden combination. Check out the recipe here. 

Tuxedo Birthday Cake by Food.com

5. Strawberry shortcake ice cream cake 

A strawberry shortcake ice cream cake can be a perfect birthday cake to celebrate a golden birthday in summer. The cake has everything great about the novelty bars you know and love. Here is the recipe. 

Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake by Delish

6. Golden raspberry cake 

This light, creamy raspberry cake can be a sweet summer treat to celebrate a big event with little time for baking on your hands. Personalize the recipe by frosting the cake with golden raspberry-flavored buttercream and garnish with fresh raspberries and edible gold pearls. Here is a simple recipe to get you started. 

Golden Raspberry Cake by BBC Good Food

7. Red velvet cake 

Celebrate your special day with this fluffy, soft, and buttery cake featuring a velvety texture. A golden red velvet cake is an easy-to-make treat with a few tips and tricks. Pair it with a tangy, sweet cream cheese frosting and add a twist to the classic red velvet cake by giving it a golden hue. Here is the recipe.

Red Velvet Cake by House of Nash Eats

8. Golden butterscotch cake

Wow, your guests with this tender, moist butterscotch cake with golden hues. Top it with a butterscotch drip, salty, crunchy pretzels, and chocolate curls. Drizzle the cake with a golden butterscotch sauce for extra indulgence. Here is the recipe.

Golden Butterscotch Cake by Flowing Kitchen

9. Golden Oreo cake 

This moist and rich vanilla cake is baked on a golden Oreo crust and whipped in a delicious golden Oreo vanilla cookie shell and cream cheese filling. Here is a quick recipe

Golden Oreo Cake by Liv for Cake

10. Gold funfetti cake 

Celebrate your life’s crucial moment with this funfetti cake topped with gold-flecked chocolate truffle ganache. To add some glamor, consider garnishing with chocolate curls. Here is the recipe.

Gold Funfetti Cake by BBC Good Food

11. Lemon gold cake

This lemon golden cake is something you might not want to miss out on. It is one of the easiest teats to prepare for a loved one’s day. Layer the cake with lemon curd and cover it with a gold-tinted crème cheese frosting or gold sugar crystals. Check out this recipe. 

Lemon Gold Cake by Recipe Goldmine

12. Pineapple upside-down gold cake 

Pineapple upside-down gold cake may comprise a topping of pineapple, butter, and brown sugar with a vanilla cake batter poured over. Customize yours by adding a touch of edible gold flakes to the caramel glaze. Here is the recipe.

Pineapple Upside-Down Gold Cake by Betty Crocker

13. Golden Almond cake

Almonds are famed for their ability to make a crisp and tender cake. Although this golden cake may look like a dry sponge cake, it bursts out moistness and flavor to dissolve easily in your mouth. Garnish the top with edible gold leaf and toasted almond slices for a luxurious touch. Here is the recipe.

Golden Almond Cake by Not Just Spice

14. Coconut meringue cake

This meringue cake is a deliciously sweet treat to celebrate your loved one’s birthday. It is light with a mild but sweet flavor that won’t overpower your accompaniment. Sprinkle shredded coconut on top and add gold sugar stars or coconut flakes tinted with gold food coloring. Check out this simple menu. 

Coconut Meringue Cake by AllRecipes

15. Chocolate truffle cake 

Love chocolate? Celebrate a golden birthday with this tender, luxurious and easy cake. Fill it with gold-flecked chocolate truffle ganache or coat it in gold-dusted chocolate ganache and garnish with chocolate curls. Here is the recipe.

Chocolate Truffle Cake by Taste of Home

16. Champagne gold cake

Nothing adds glitter to a golden birthday than this champagne gold cake. Create a champagne-infused vanilla cake and frost it with a champagne-flavored buttercream. Use edible gold leaf or gold sugar pearls to add a luxurious touch. Here is the recipe.

Champayne Gold Cake by Delish

17. Carrot cake with cream cheese frosting

Carrot cake with cream cheese frosting is a classic dessert that you can enjoy anytime. It is moist, flavorful and is sure to wow everyone on your birthday. Fancy a moist carrot cake with hints of golden raisins and spices? Check out the recipe here. 

Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting by Domino Sugar

18. Golden pistachio cake with pistachio buttercream

If your loved one is a pistachio lover, surprise them with this easy pistachio cake. Coat the cake with golden-tinted frosting and sprinkle crushed pistachios on top. Here is a simple recipe for your cake.

Golden Pistachio Cake with Pistachio Buttercream by Rich & Delish

19. Toffee crunch cake

This lusciously smooth yet crunchy treat can be a perfect way to celebrate your special day with friends and family. Ensure you spread a caramel buttercream between the layers before topping the cake with a golden toffee crunch. Check out this recipe. 

Toffee Crunch Cake by Life, Love & Sugar

20. Honeycomb cake 

If you fancy an elegant cake with an organic feel to celebrate your birthday, go for this golden honeycomb cake. It features hits of gold accent, peach roses, and a prominent honeycomb print. Here is the recipe.

Honeycomb Cake by Better Homes & Gardens

21. Golden chocolate hazelnut cake

There is always something special about chocolate cakes, and this golden chocolate hazelnut cake is no exception. Its main ingredient is cocoa, which delivers feel-good chemicals to lighten moods and add cheer to your celebration. Decorate with golden chocolate ganache and sprinkle crushed hazelnuts on top. Check out the recipe.

Golden Chocolate Hazelnut Cake by Daily Mail Australia

22. Coconut pineapple up-side-down cake

Pineapple upside-down cake has continued to be a favorite potluck dessert since its inception over 100 years ago. It delivers a familiar yet exotic taste thanks to the infusion of caramelized pineapple with fragrant toasted coconut delights. Finish it off with a golden chocolate drip to add some luxurious feel. Check out this recipe.

Coconut Pineapple Up-Side-Down-Cake by Taste

23. French cream cake with maple cream cheese frosting

This French cream cake is a perfect fall or winter birthday treat. It is gluten-free, making it ideal for anyone with dietary requirements. To add some glamor, finish it with a creamy maple cheese frosting and add a layer of golden chocolate ganache. Here is the recipe.

French Cream Cake with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting by The Organic Kitchen

24. Golden gingerbread cake

This gorgeous spicy and golden gingerbread cake is deliciously moist and light. It is one of the easiest to make treats for your upcoming birthday. You can enjoy topping it with a tangy cream cheese frosting for a delightful contrast. Here is the recipe.

Golden Gingerbread Cake by – Cooking NYTimes

25. Finally, Pop some golden champagne!

Golden birthdays are also known as champagne birthdays for a reason. You must have some champagne to make the event complete. Of course, champagne has a golden color, plus the bubbles add some glamor to your event!

There is no more fun and meaningful way to celebrate your golden birthday than with a golden birthday cake and party ideas. Remember, the recipes we have shared can be adapted and personalized to suit your preferences and dietary restrictions.

We wish you a joyous golden-themed birthday with friends and family! 

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25 Creative Kids’ Birthday Cake Recipes https://www.giftster.com/news/creative-kids-birthday-cake-recipes/ Thu, 04 May 2023 15:47:58 +0000 https://cms.giftster.com/?p=11015 Get inspired with a wide variety of fun, colorful kids birthday cake recipes. And don't worry, you don't need to be a professional baker!

The post 25 Creative Kids’ Birthday Cake Recipes appeared first on Giftster and was written by Giftster.

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Birthdays are undeniably the most eagerly anticipated event for kids. When celebrating your little one’s big day, a birthday cake is a great place to start for a party theme. Cakes are often the main attraction at a birthday party and are a great way to make a child feel special and loved.

However, coming up with unique cake ideas for the big day can be challenging – especially ones you can pull off with limited baking skills and let’s face it…time.

Here are 25 kids’ birthday cake recipes for a variety of skill levels to celebrate your kid’s next birthday and add a personal touch to their party menu.

1. Strawberry pink flamingo cake

What better way to celebrate your daughter’s pink-themed birthday than with a strawberry pink flamingo cake! The strawberry adds a fresh fruit appeal and an attractive allure. Check out this Strawberry pink flamingo cake recipe

Strawberry pink flamingo birthday cake
Strawberry Pink Flamingo Cake by The Sweet Nerd

2. Chocolate and marshmallow cake

Chocolate and marshmallows are undoubtedly two things that kids cherish the most. Why not infuse these two ingredients and make a delicious cake to celebrate your child’s special day? View the recipe here

Chocolate marshmallow birthday cake for kids
Chocolate and Marshmallow Cake by Taste of Home

3. Lemon blueberry birthday cake

A healthy cake may sound like a wild dream, but it is possible when you add fresh fruit. If you are looking for a “safe” cake for a young one with special dietary requirements, blueberry birthday cake will do the trick. See this recipe

Lemon blueberry allergen free birthday cake
Lemon Blueberry Birthday Cake by Preppy Kitchen

4. Coconut cream birthday cake

If your child loves coconut flavors, surprise them with a coconut cream birthday cake on their big day. View this easy recipe

Coconut cream cake by Taste of Home

5. Chocolate sheet cake

Running out of time and need a simple but elegant birthday cake recipe for your loved one? Opt for this chocolate sheet cake. The sheet cake is an easy-to-make option that bakes in just over an hour. See this recipe here

Chocolate sheet cake
Chocolate sheet cake by South Your Mouth

6. Red velvet cake

Red velvet cake has a unique buttery, chocolaty, tangy taste and beautiful colors that will impress young minds. Check out a simple recipe to get started

Red velvet cake
Red velvet cake by Preppy Kitchen

7. Lolly truck cake

If you are looking for a spectacular boy-themed cake that will light up your kid’s face, opt for a blue lolly truck cake. This is also a perfect cake when opting for a recycling theme. Use bottled lollies or mixed lollies if you prefer. Check out the recipe here

Truck birthday cake recipe for kids
Lolly truck cake by Women’s Weekly

8. Choco berry surprise cake

This elegant cake would impress just about anyone while setting the tone for a fun party.” Take advantage of the season’s berry best and make a beautiful surprise cake topped with your favorite berries. Check out this best chocolate berry surprise cake recipe.

Chocolate berry birthday cake
Choco berry surprise cake by Women’s Day

9. Rainbow cloud cake

Rainbow cloud cake is undoubtedly the brightest, happiest, and cheery cake you can bake a loved one on their birthday. The mix of rainbow-colored ingredients makes the cake fun to decorate and eat. Here is a simple recipe

Rainbow cloud cake
Rainbow cloud cake by Woman’s Day. Photo by Mike Garten

10. Rich chocolate cake 

Do you have young chocolate lovers in your family and wondering what treat suits their birthday? A rich chocolate cake recipe will surely add cheer and sparkle to their faces. Get this rich chocolate cake recipe for a beautifully moist, rich, and fudgy cake.

Rich chocolate cake
Rich chocolate cake by Foodess

11. Cherry and almond cake

If your child is allergic to gluten, this cake recipe is just for you. Cherry and almond cake is rich in protein and healthy fats making it one of the safest treats for kids with dietary requirements. Check out this recipe

Cherry almond cake
Cherry and almond cake by James Martin

12. No-bake strawberry cheesecake

Worried about your zero baking skills? Use this awesome no-bake cake recipe and surprise your kid with a lovely cake on their birthday. This cake requires only a handful of ingredients and is ready to serve in under two hours. Check out this recipe to get started

No-bake strawberry cheesecake
No-bake strawberry cheesecake by Gemma Stafford

13. Vanilla Ring cake

A moist ring-shaped cake with sumptuous icing will definitely add pomp and color to your kid’s birthday party. You can sprinkle strawberries on dark stone to add some glamour. Check out this simple recipe

Vanilla ring cake
Vanilla Ring Cake by Taste of Home

14. Tropical fish cake

This tropical fish cake recipe lets you take your kid’s next birthday party underwater. Use flicks of the spatula to create scale and fin textures for your cake. Get the full recipe and wow your guests with this delicious cake. 

Tropical fish cake
Tropical Fish Cake by Better Homes & Gardens

15. Dragon cake 

A fire-breathing dragon cake will surely add fun to your loved one’s birthday celebration. But, unlike what most moms think, this is a quick recipe for any celebration. View the recipe

Dragon cake

16. Artist palette cake

Have a gifted artist in your house? Why not celebrate their next birthday with this fun and colorful artist palette cake made from a sheet cake? Check out this easy recipe to get started. 

Paint palette birthday cake
Artist Palette Cake by Better Homes and Gardens

17. Castle cake

A castle cake is a perfect treat for every princess or prince in your life. This iconic birthday fortress can set a cheery party mood and add fun to the birthday celebration. Here is a simple recipe for your castle birthday cake

Pink princess castle birthday cake
Princess Castle Cake by Betty Crocker

18. Furry purse cake

This adorable furry purse cake is a perfect way to celebrate a young fashionista! It features a heart-shaped women’s purse made of faux fur material with a super soft touch. Check out the recipe

Pink purse cake
Furry Purse Cake by Punchfork

19. Race car cakes

Cool car cakes perfectly complement a boy-themed birthday celebration. This super cool and fast race car cake satisfies your loved one’s need for speed. The color theme is often red, black, and white, with varied textures, race flags, flame elements, and more. Here is a race car cake recipe

Race car cake
Race car cake by My Food & Family

20. Birthday party hat cakes

Cute cone-shaped cakes are the perfect way to celebrate a little one’s special day. Decorate your cakes with colorful frosting and favorite candies to get fun graphic patterns. Then add a licorice string for a perfect finishing touch. See recipe

Birthday party hat cake
Party hat cake by Better Homes & Gardens

21. Go bowling party cake

Bowling is a great birthday party idea, especially if your loved one is into sports. Complementing the theme with this striking bowling party cake allows people to eat, sing and play, which makes the occasion more enjoyable and fun. Cut out three pins from the sheet cake and use a bowl to bake a stunning dome-shaped bowling ball. View recipe

Bowling themed birthday cake
Bowling cake recipe by Better Homes & Gardens

22. Coconut angel cake

If you prefer a light, airy but elegant cake to celebrate your loved one’s special day, look further than this coconut angel cake. This deliciously sweet and fluffy cake is all craze on flavor but lighter on fat and sugar, making it ideal for kids with dietary requirements. Check out the recipe

Coconut angel food cake
Coconut Angel Cake by Country Living

23. Froot Loop cereal milk cake 

Does your little one love Froot loops? They will definitely love his gorgeous Froot Loop cake topped with colorful cereal milk and creamy frosting. Check out this colorful recipe

Fruit loop cereal cake
Froot Loop Cake by Florida Milk

24. Candy cane cake

This gorgeous birthday party cake infuses a minty taste of candy canes, delivering a flavorful peppermint cooling effect in the mouth with each bite. Infuse the cake with chocolaty ingredients and frost with a creamy peppermint frosting, then top it up with crushed candy canes. Get this recipe for candy cane cake.

Candy cane birthday cake
Candy Cane Cake by Molly Watson

25. Candy Land cake

A Candy Land cake is perfect for ushering your little princess into the festive celebration. This gorgeous cake is made with a vanilla sponge layered with strawberry-flavored cream and strawberry pulp. Check out the full recipe here

Candy land themed cake
Candy Land Cake by Women’s Weekly Food

A delicious and festive birthday cake is an easy way to make your young one’s birthday special and memorable. The creative collection of birthday cake recipes above provides an easy way to mark the unique occasion for any child celebrating a birthday.

At Giftster, we wish your child a happy birthday full of fun and joy!

The post 25 Creative Kids’ Birthday Cake Recipes appeared first on Giftster and was written by Giftster.

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