So you just found out, just a day before, that it’s a friend’s or family member’s birthday. The horror starts to set in when you realize you have nothing to give them – and that they’ll be expecting something. 

Now, before you start writing up an apology for why their present is late, or blame it on the delivery services, take a deep breath and ask yourself if there’s something you can do real quick. From a favorite homemade dish to a thoughtful note with a selection of snacks, there is a lot you can accomplish if you really put your mind to it. 

Let’s take a look at all the things you can still get your loved ones with a day’s notice. 

Same Day Delivery 

On top of our list for last-minute gift ideas is anything ordered through same-day delivery services. If it’s early enough in the day, you can order things from electronics to shoes to jewelry for your loved ones from local stores and retailers. 

You can either have the gifts delivered to yourself, or you can have them directly delivered to your friend’s or family member’s house. Not only are you now not late, but you gave them their present early! Talk about winning a race against time. 

A Homemade Meal 

You don’t always have to give something elaborate and expensive as a present. Sometimes, acts of service are the way to go. Think about what the receiver of your present likes to eat, and if there’s a special dish that you can make for them. 

If they’re your sibling or a relative, you can ask a grandparent for their recipe for some of their favorite childhood snacks. For a work colleague, baking them cookies or cupcakes would be the perfect birthday present. 

A Self-Care Package 

Customized self-care packages aren’t just thoughtful but also something that you can put together rather quickly. Even with a short amount of time on your hands, it could be your chance to show your loved ones how well you know them. 

Pick a theme, decide on a budget, and get working on putting it all together. You can either put it all in a basket or a big box, and you can decorate it yourself however you want it to. 

Some common items to add in a self-care box would be face masks and cleansers, some of their favorite snacks and chocolates, some wine or beer, and some fuzzy pajamas. 

A Gift Card 

If all else fails, you can get your friend or family a gift card to shop at one of their favorite stores. It can be for anything from makeup and clothes to a shop for baking items, but make sure it’s some place that would actually be of use to them. 

This would be an ideal present for someone who likes to read books. With the help of your gift card, they can now choose whatever books they want to get – which is way better than just getting books someone else chose for you! Don’t forget to buy a card to send with it, like these EcardForest ones!

A Subscription They Would Love 

Now that we’re talking about gift cards, here’s something else that’s more or less similar. Subscription box businesses are popping up almost everywhere, and there’s pretty much something for everyone. 

From a subscription for coffee lovers to a box arriving at your front door every month full of delicious treats from around the world, one google search will tell you all about these services. This way you can sign your friend up for next month’s box and tell them it’s coming. 

We’re sure they’ll be too happy about getting regular shipments of their favorite things every month to care about a late birthday present! 

Customize Clothes or Jewelry 

If you’re into arts and crafts, take advantage of that skill and whip something up! You can get matching plain hoodies and paint them by hand for your friend, or you can make them jewelry. 

If you’re short on gift ideas, think about any inside jokes that you may have with your friend, or about any plans for the future you have with them. Things like that would only make the present more special in the eyes of whoever is going to get it. 

Remember – presents don’t have to be expensive and elaborate, but they have to be thoughtful and show that you care about the other person. Don’t worry if you don’t have too much time to put something together, and just focus on making sure the people in your life feel loved and valued on the days they need it!