Since she is a combination of child and teenager and is beginning to shine in her own unique manner, turning thirteen is like taking a stage for the first time. That’s why a personalized gift is so unique at the moment. It’s a subtle reminder that “you’re unique, and I see you,” rather than merely a fad.
Jewelry is always a hit, but what if it’s engraved with her name or initials? It suddenly has a lot more meaning. Consider sparkling necklaces, birthstone charms that correspond with the month of her birth, or bracelets that are simple to put on but difficult to take off. Friendship bracelets or pairs that have a common slogan or secret code? Those will remain for class photo days and sleepovers.
At this age, journals take front stage. There needs to be a secure landing spot for all those ambitious ideas and crazy schemes. An instant sidekick is a notepad with her name or a personalized design on the cover. Writing down dreams or drawing cartoons becomes a regular routine when you add a rainbow of stickers and a few bold pens.
Don’t ignore her hangout area. Blank walls become instant mood enhancers when art prints are adorned with her name or initials. Choose a cozy throw blanket or pillow with her nickname sewn in and her favorite colors. In her room, even a framed cartoon of her and her pet will be given top priority.
Teens are accustomed to using tech devices, but they shine when they have a little personality. What about monogrammed headphones, a laptop sleeve in vibrant hues, or a phone case emblazoned with her name? That’s the secret to making an impression at the breakfast table or in a crowd.
With a twist, sleepover gear becomes even more awesome. No one will “accidentally” take her belongings if she has personalized slippers for late-night giggles or a water bottle with a cartoon image of her face. Bonus points for coziness if a fuzzy blanket or soft robe is used.
Make it enjoyable if she’s just starting out in the makeup industry. It’s lighthearted, not serious, but feels like a true treat, whether it’s a cosmetic bag printed with her initials, a small mirror engraved specifically for her, or a small set of brushes with individual names.
You can’t go wrong with a book in which she is the protagonist or a diary that challenges her to write in it if she is a girl who loses herself in stories. A sketch pad with her name dancing over the cover will be treasured by artists as a reminder that every scratch and scribble is entirely hers.
Include a jigsaw puzzle or game with the solution being her favorite selfie. Every component she assembles gives you more reason to smile (and most likely show off the result).
Finally, remember to include a traditional handwritten card. Tell them a silly story, an inside joke, or just “I’m proud of you.” She frequently keeps that personal touch on her shelf longer than any technology she outgrows. A gift that feels like it was made particularly for her can make an average birthday into something she will talk about for years to come. Thirteen is a year to remember.