When choosing a gift for someone it is always important to consider their personality, interests, and tastes. Many people are finding that during our current economic downturn the best birthday gift ideas are gifts that are not only something the recipient will use but also something they wouldn't normally allow themselves to spend their money on. A great gift would be some of the simple pleasures of life that will help the birthday-recipient relax, unwind, and escape the day to day pressures of life.

Many people have tight budgets and would not normally spend money on a massage. Massages have been proven to relieve stress, promote more restful sleep, and can even help people with muscle relaxation. Giving the gift of massage is like giving the gift of relaxation. It is a unique gift that anyone would appreciate; even your most finicky friends or family members.

Giving the gift of a family photo can be a very heartfelt and long lasting gift. Having a family portrait done by a professional photographer is a great gift given to families who may be on a tight budget. Also, simply organizing photos and putting together in a nice album would be a perfect gift for most anyone. Photos are memories that will last a life time and can be a gift that doesn't wear out over time. It can be a valuable gift that can become a priceless keepsake.

Many people enjoy going out to eat. Again, this is another gift that due to the economy, many individuals and families are cutting back on the money they spend on dining and stay home in an effort to save as much money as they can. Everyone needs an opportunity to have someone else make dinner and do the dishes.

Giving a magazine subscription is a great gift because it is so easy to customize to a specific hobby or interest. With hundreds of magazine to choose from it would be almost impossible not to find a subject that would fit the recipient's interests or hobbies. Also, it is a gift that lasts an entire year and comes monthly.

No matter who you might be buying a birthday gift for, they are sure to enjoy some form of entertainment. From concert tickets to movie passes or even a professional sporting event. The gift of entertainment is always appreciated.

Although cash isn't the most creative gift idea., it definitely wins the practicality award. Depending on the person's financial situation, that cash could go to something they have been wanting for a long time or simply something they have been needing for a long time.