What was your best 50th birthday present?

[Thelonelygiraffe]

Looking for inspiration for a 'big birthday' gift for a friend! She likes running, baths, candles, reading, flowers, is very busy and hasn't much free time. Ideas, please?!

A birthday video made by friends and family: everyone says nice things about her or names one thing that comes to mind when they think of her, wishes her well etc, then you just merge it together, add her photos and there you go! Here are also some great birthday video ideas, but you can't go wrong with the plan above.

I got a Steiff teddy from DD and DH, I get one every ten years.

I took my 3 best friends on an overnight trip and had a great time. I didn't want a party.

A friend gave me a large patio tub fully planted and in flower. I can’t remember many other presents so I must have been pleased with it!

The beautiful ring my husband bought me. Its perfect.

Honestly, I'm almost 50 and I'm putting a blanket ban on 'stuff' gifts. I absolutely don't want more candles, smellies, wine etc because I've got a house full of stuff and it feels like a burden having to store, clean etc. If anything, I'm having a major life laundry.

What I'd love more are experiences. Friends inviting me over for drinks or dinner or going to gigs, theatre etc

Totally agree with dressed .. I am fortunate in that I have everything (in physical terms) that I want/need in my life and am constantly de-cluttering and simplifying my lifestyle. Agree that a nice 'experience' is always appreciated... doesn't have to be expensive ... a country walk with coffee and cake is lovely; obviously something like an afternoon tea or spa treat is really special too.

Agree with @Ragwort - doesn't have to be a pricey gesture. (A friend had just taken possession of a new oven and invited me over to sample test batches of cakes and scones. That was a fantastic evening 😋)

Thanks, all! Will steer well clear of teatowels ;)

I think the best thing will be a weekend away.

Love the video idea, @Notasyoungasiwas !

Some lovely ideas here. Time is definitely the best thing to give. Thank you so much.

Sorted - spa day booked :)