Your best friend’s retirement is a big deal to them! After so many years of working, this is the beginning of their next chapter in life.
Doing something special to kick it off for your best bud is a great way to begin this new journey. Making it something memorable and thoughtful lets them know how grateful you are to have them in your life.
As a general rule, thoughtful retirement gifts for your BFF should be something special and meaningful for them. Most people expect to spend at least several hundred dollars This could be a physical gift or sharing a special experience together.
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How Much to Spend on Your Best Friend's Retirement Gift
The amount you decide to spend is largely dependent on the depth of your friendship, your budget and how you want to commemorate this special occasion. While there are no set rules, it really comes down to your financial situation and what you feel is appropriate.
Some factors to consider include:
More importantly, it’s the sentiment and reason behind the gift. It should be meaningful, thoughtful and reflective of your friendship.
Focus on finding one which resonates with your friend's interests while bringing joy and appreciation. Remember, what truly matters is the gesture and thought you put into selecting this special gift.
What Types of Gifts Would Be Appropriate?
When considering thoughtful retirement gifts for your BFF, it's essential to consider what would best commemorate this milestone in their life. It might be a physical gift they will treasure or sharing an experience.
The most important thing is to choose a retirement gift that reflects your friend's personality and future plans. Tailor it to commemorate this moment and show your love and appreciation of them.
Physical Gifts
Physical gifts can vary in size, shape and purpose. More often than not, these will be gift wrapped and presented in person. Not all have to be bought – they could be handmade as well.
It’s important to think about your best friend’s preferences and what will be truly memorable for them. Rather than focus on an expensive gift, in some instances, a homemade gift might better convey a more personal touch.
Some examples include:
Shared Experiences
When thinking of thoughtful retirement gifts for your BFF, shared experiences can be another excellent way to celebrate.
Rather than purchasing a physical gift, perhaps doing something together might be more meaningful for them. It could be as simple as taking them out for a special meal or doing something more adventurous.
Considering this is your best friend, what could be better than spending time together and having some fun? Choose something they’ll really enjoy and, likely, remember for years.
Understanding what would be memorable and appropriate becomes critical, especially when the cost is significant. This is when it may be worthwhile discussing your plans with them. For instance, they might consider a weekend getaway as overly extravagant.
Or they might surprise you with a completely different idea. Examples of some activities could include:
Memorable Retirement Gift Ideas for Your Best Friend
At this point, you might feel a little overwhelmed and uncertain what would be the best present. The following ideas reflect some of the most popular thoughtful retirement gifts for your BFF:
1. Scrapbook or photo album of memories.
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2. Engraved items commemorating their years of service such as picture frames, cutting board, plaques, pen or bracelet.
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3. Travel items such as a travel bag or backpack, quality luggage set, journal, guidebook or scratch-off world map.
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4. Self-care packages – a spa day, massage gift certificate, spa at home luxurious bath set or wellness retreat.
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5. Gourmet cooking class, gardening toolset, art class or supplies or musical instruments / accessories.
6. Tickets to their favorite band, theater performance, festival or sporting event.
7. Weekend getaway, hot air balloon ride or wine tasting tour.
8. Gourmet basket with food, chocolate, wine, coffee/tea selection with a decorative pot or favorite cuisine.
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9. A good old-fashioned party celebrating the occasion.
10. A course, class or workshop in something they’ve always wanted to study such as writing, photography, painting or a foreign language.
11. For the more eclectic friend, something like a piece of art, vase or an item to beautify their home or “she-shed”.
12. If money is no object, electronics are a great gift. Items could be a good set of headphones, e-reader or tablet.
13. For the bookworm, a subscription to a service where they can get novels they’ve always wanted to read and had no time for before.
14. Get together and volunteer for a cause you’re passionate about or sign up for a sports team such as pickleball. It’s, also, a great way to meet new like-minded people.
15. If you’re struggling and really don’t have a clear idea, a gift card is always a great idea. It could be to a restaurant or favorite store. This versatile and practical option allows them to get something they truly want and/or need.
See our posts, Funny Retirement Gifts for Women and Unique Retirement Gifts for Men, for more thoughts. Our article, Best Retirement One Lines, Quotes and Well Wishes, gives ideas what to put in a card.
Closing Thoughts on Thoughtful Retirement Gifts for Your BFF
The significance of retirement can vary from individual to individual. Some look forward to, some feel trepidation and others wonder if they should stay working. It’s the end of one chapter of their life and some big exciting changes are coming.
Show your BFF how much you love, support and appreciate them with a gift which reflects their personality, interests or any future plans. When celebrating their unique journey, pick something that'll be meaningful whether it’s a tangible gift or a fun experience you share.
