Personal Pinterest Board
This is personally my favorite way to show my friends I appreciate them and recognize how great they are! I have Pinterest boards for each of my closest friends and add pins that I think match their vibe or that I think they would like. It is fun for me to reflect on what makes each of my friends unique and they love receiving it because it shows that you’ve spent time and thought on putting something special together for them. It’s like crafting a digital collage of our friendship, filled with shared interests, inside jokes, and moments that have brought us closer together. They appreciate the effort I put into curating each board, knowing that every pin is chosen with them in mind. I also find myself updating their boards whenever I see something that reminds me of them so it is a gift that keeps on giving!
Create a playlist
This is another thing I love to create for my music-loving friends. Nothing says “I love you” like a thoughtful playlist with songs that remind you of them or that you think they’d love to jam out to. I have had friends do this for me and have discovered so many amazing artists through their playlists. When I curate a playlist for a friend, I delve into the depths of our shared sonic journey, selecting tracks that evoke memories, emotions, and shared experiences. Each song becomes a musical thread weaving through the fabric of our friendship, connecting us across time and space. And just like a well-crafted mixtape, these playlists are imbued with the essence of our bond, serving as a soundtrack to our lives and a reminder of the melodies that unite us.Â
A handwritten letter
Although this may sound a little old fashioned a handwritten letter with little gifts inside are so fun to create and receive. I keep in touch with some of my long distance friends that go to other schools though good old snail mail. In addition to a letter I usually add in little doodles on scrap paper, a copy of a poem or quote I love, affirmations, receipts from coffee orders, lists of songs I’ve been loving recently, or anything else that will fit in an envelope. There’s something truly magical about receiving a handwritten letter in the mail—it’s like holding a piece of someone’s heart in your hands. Keeping in touch through snail mail adds a layer of intimacy and nostalgia to our modern friendships, bridging the physical distance between us with each heartfelt word. And the little extras, like doodles, poems, and playlists, are like tiny treasures tucked within the folds of the envelope, each one a token of our enduring connection.
Pick out a recipe
I always love it when I can gift an experience to someone else. I have done this a couple times where I have scoured Pinterest (obviously) for a recipe I think my friend would love and we could enjoy making together. The fun part, of course, is the promise that you will get to make it together. Some of my best memories with my closest friends include baking a strawberry shortcake that turned out wonkier than we had imagined, and baking browned butter chocolate chip cookies that just seemed to melt in the oven. I have also made some questionable homemade pasta. These culinary adventures aren’t just about the end result; they’re about the laughter-filled journey of creating something together. Whether we’re mastering a gourmet dish or laughing at our kitchen mishaps, these shared experiences strengthen our bond and create lasting memories.
Acts of Kindness
Show your appreciation for your friends by performing acts of kindness for them. Offer to help with tasks they’ve been putting off, give them a heartfelt compliment, or simply be there to listen if they need someone to talk to. Small gestures of kindness can have a big impact and strengthen your bond with your friends. Sometimes, it’s the little things that make the biggest difference in someone’s day. Whether it’s bringing them a cup of coffee, sending them a funny meme to brighten their mood, or offering a shoulder to lean on during tough times, these small acts of kindness show your friends that you’re there for them, no matter what. By being attuned to their needs and offering support without hesitation, you’re not just strengthening your bond – you’re building a foundation of trust and understanding that will endure through life’s ups and downs.
DIY Coupons
Create personalized coupons for your friend, redeemable for acts of kindness, favors, or quality time together. Design each coupon with a specific offer, such as “one homemade meal,” “a movie night of your choice,” or “a day of adventure.” Your friend can redeem these coupons whenever they like, and it’s a thoughtful way to show your willingness to go the extra mile for them. These coupons not only offer tangible gifts but also promise cherished moments together, strengthening the bonds of friendship with every shared experience. From heartfelt conversations over coffee to spontaneous adventures exploring new places, each coupon is a token of our friendship’s depth and the joy we find in each other’s company. And as they redeem these coupons, they’ll be reminded of the love and thoughtfulness behind each gesture, creating memories that will last a lifetime.