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Some people love birthdays, the surprises, the gifts, the whole celebration. Others prefer something simple and heartfelt. These ideas are a mix of both: thoughtful ways to celebrate the friend who loves a big to-do and sweet, low-key gestures for those who appreciate the little things!

I love birthdays because they’re such a sweet opportunity to show up, not just for friends and family, but for anyone who could use a reminder that they’re loved and remembered.

~Nadia

Credit: Take Them A Meal

Gift a Little Comfort! A cozy candle, a good book, or even a soft blanket wrapped up with a tag that says “For your birthday, a little rest.” It’s a thoughtful way to remind someone they deserve to slow down and feel celebrated. These envelope gift boxes from Amazon are my favorite for packaging birthday gifts.

Don’t have Instagram? Click here for the packaging link!

Credit: KajalsCreativeCorner

Create a Special Card! Skip the store-bought card and make your own! Use scrapbook paper, a favorite quote, or a printed photo of the two of you. A few handwritten lines can mean more than any gift. I found this adorable idea that I’m planning to try the next time I need to make a card!

Credit: Take Them A Meal

Send Them a Meal! If you can’t celebrate in person, send them a meal from our online store! It’s such a thoughtful surprise that says, “I’m thinking of you today.” You can even include a personal note and one of our You Are Loved spoons to make it extra special.

Credit: PippiPost.Shop

Drop Off a Favorite Treat! Nothing says “I thought of you” like showing up with their favorite coffee, flowers, or snack! I found a neat packaging idea that you can use for your next birthday treat drop-off. It’s such a simple gesture that can make someone’s whole day.

Don’t have Instagram? Click here for the packaging link!

Credit: Desert Chica

Deliver a Cake Box! Pack a small box with cake mix, frosting, sprinkles, and a candle - everything someone needs for a little celebration! You can even include a tag that says “A birthday in a box, because everyone deserves cake.” These are also wonderful to donate to a local shelter or food pantry.

Don’t have Instagram? Click here for the details!

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Easily Organize Meal Schedules for Friends

Take Them A Meal is an easy (and free!) online tool for coordinating the delivery of meals to loved ones. If a friend is ill, elderly, or welcoming a child, you can rally their community to take them meals. We also offer delicious, fully-prepared meals that can be shipped directly to their door!

Send Love in a Box - Freshly Prepared Meals Shipped Nationwide!

Surprise your loved ones with a delicious, chef-made meal delivered straight to their door. Explore Shipped Meals

Tested Recipes that Transport Well

Our culinary team has tested each of these recipes to make sure we can heartily recommend them. Explore Our Recipes

Gifts & Such

Check out these thoughtful and practical gifts including engraved spoons, meal carriers and more!

We’ve included a few affiliate links in this post. If you buy something, we might earn a small commission. We only recommend things we genuinely love!

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