For your boyfriend/husband: 

 If you’re planning on making a gift for the special man in your life be thoughtful and spontaneous. 

 “I have been with my boyfriend for two years and for this Christmas, aside from the gift I am buying him, I am making a coupon book,” said nursing major Jessica Sperry, 24.  

A coupon book may not seem like the spontaneous gift you’re looking for but use it to do things you don’t normally do with him that he enjoys, such as giving him a free massage, cooking him dinner or going to the gym together.   

For your girlfriend/wife:  When women were asked what type of gift they would want to receive from their loved one, a common answer was “a thoughtful, romantic gift that shows it took time to create.”  

Create a gift that captures all this by making a decorated, over the top love note on construction paper.  

Aside from a card, you should make a collage of pictures of the both of you on a poster board, including little tidbits from events you have attended together (movies, concerts, prom, etc), post cards from places you have visited together, and little love notes/letters.  It will impress her and show your romantic side.  

For Mom:  

Most mothers never expect to receive anything from their children. An inexpensive gift to give to mom is a pampering day. You may know how to apply makeup, do her hair and nails. 

“My mom hardly ever goes out with friends dressed up and make up done because she’s always so busy,” said communications major Sandra Arias, 19. 

“My Christmas gift to her is to glamour her up and dress her up for New Year’s Eve.”   

For Dad:  

Buying your dad a gift may be difficult this time around. A very simple yet creative idea is to buy a basket or bucket and add items he enjoys using.  

If he likes cleaning his car, get a bucket and include a sponge, spray, rag and all things you think would look great.  

Or if your dad likes to watch movies in the living room include a popcorn bucket, a popcorn bag, candy, his favorite drink and his favorite movie.  If your dad enjoys drinking some beer get a basket and fill it up with his favorite drink.   

You will never go wrong with these small, thoughtful DIY gifts.