Who doesn’t like to receive an unexpected gift every now and then? After all, most people expect presents for their birthdays, anniversaries, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and other gift-giving holidays, but how about a special present just to say “I’m proud of you” or “Job well done”?

Such a gift can really be suitable for just about anyone who deserves a special nod. Bosses can give them to employees after a particularly successful year or project. Parents can present them to their children for a good report card or a successful sports season. Spouses can give such gifts to each other just to say “Thanks for always being there for me.” The possibilities are endless.

Choosing such a gift can be difficult, especially if the recipient isn’t someone you know well – such as an employee. However, a good choice for such a gift might be a personalized item – an item that shows you took time to pick something special just for the recipient.

Personalized gifts run the gamut from office and desk accessories like pen and pencil sets, desk caddies, organizers, and other items appropriate for employees or colleagues, to more intimate gifts for close friends and loved ones, such as jewelry. Kids might enjoy sports gear, like personalized baseballs and baseball bats, or perhaps a frame where they can keep a favorite photo of the family or their teammates.

Wine lovers might like something special for their collection, like a personalized corkscrew and/or accessory set or even a fancy personalized bottle stopper. Cigar lovers would be thrilled with a new humidor or other smoking accessory as well.

The best thing about surprise gifts – no matter what you choose – is the unexpected pleasure they give the recipient, and the gift of a personalized item makes that surprise even more special.