When it comes to gift-giving, the sentiment behind a gift means more than the gift itself. This is especially true for sentimental gifts that are given on someone’s birthday. That being said, there are some great options for sentimental birthday gifts for boyfriends you might want to consider this year if you’re looking for something meaningful and heartfelt. These items may not be expensive in terms of cost, but they’ll certainly be priceless in terms of meaning.
#: A musical instrument.
Does he play an instrument? Is that ‘something else’ a guitar or violin backstage at his concerts? If so, why not show him just how insightful your knowledge of his interests is by getting him a new instrument? He’ll be able to pick up his favorite tune again and create new memories.
Or, if you think he’s more of an aspiring rockstar than a talented musician, getting him this gift will let him belt out blissful tunes in the shower. Who knows? Maybe he’ll even invite you over for private concerts.
#: A classic novel
Not every boyfriend is as well-read as yours! If that’s the case, why not give him a challenging but rewarding read full of romance, adventure, or drama? You could go for something like Pride and Prejudice (and no, we’re not suggesting this because it happens to include your name), Jane Eyre, or The Great Gatsby. All classics are sure to get his brain ticking.
Or, if you just want to improve your book collection, why not pick up a copy of The Picture of Dorian Gray? It’s quite the page-turner.
#: Something personalized
Personalize anything you can get your hands on! That includes accessories – like this personalized engraved bottle opener set – clothing, or even jewelry. Get creative with it by engraving his name on something he’ll regularly use (like a mug) and watch as he brags about who gave it to him every time he uses it. What could be better than that?
#: A rare album or sheet music
Is there an artist or song that is particularly meaningful to your boyfriend? If so, look into getting a rare album or sheet music for him. Of course, you don’t want to spend a fortune on something that won’t mean much to him, but there’s nothing wrong with looking into the market and finding an affordable option.
Or, if you’d rather not take such a big risk with your gift, why not get him tickets to see his favorite band live in concert? It’ll be sure to put a smile on his face.
#: A letter from the heart
If you’re looking for sentimental gifts for boyfriends, look no further than getting them something they can carry around in their hearts forever: a heartfelt letter. Whether it’s just between the two of you or involves other loved ones (like families), find some time when you’re alone to write out your thoughts. He’ll never forget it.
#: A picture frame
If you want to show him just how thoughtful you are, get him a sentimental gift that’s all about the two of you: a picture frame. You know where your first date was, what he said during it and how he looked at you. Why not immortalize those memories forever? This way, no matter how long time passes (or if he moves away), he’ll always be able to look back on them fondly.
Or, if you’d rather display something physical together than something old or new, print out one of your pictures from Instagram or Facebook and put them in the frame. Even; take an Instagram-worthy selfie with him and print it off for a cute souvenir.
#: A unique experience
If you’ve been together for a long time, you probably have a chunk of memories both of you will cherish forever. Why not give him something that involves those memories? For example, go on a romantic picnic in the park or even just watch your favorite superhero movies at home one after another! You’ll be able to relive all those fun times again and again.
Or, if he’s moved away from all those old memories, why not plan an epic holiday so the two of you can create some new ones together? He’ll never forget being whisked off to Tahiti or Iceland – especially as his side gets him you.
#: A heartfelt poem
If you’re struggling to think of something sentimental, why not take a leaf out of his book and write him a poem? It doesn’t have to be Shakespearean quality either. Just tell him what’s inside your heart in the form of words. You can even get someone else involved if you want. If you don’t know where to start, check out this amazing list of poems by city.
#: A city skyline
Does he love somewhere specific? Why not immortalize that place forever with some kind of small sculpture or picture frame? For example, buy him a personalized city skyline or a small painting of a view from his favorite holiday destination. This way, no matter how long time passes (or if he moves away), he’ll always be able to look back on that moment fondly.
#: A photo book
If he loves sharing pictures on social media, why not get him a truly personalized gift? Get an amazing leather-bound photo book filled with all the best pictures you two have taken together. He probably won’t want to add it to his Instagram or Facebook – but keep it private and display it in your home for friends and family to see.
This is sure to make for some great conversations too. And who knows what memories will come up when they do.
#: A collection of memories for the mantlepiece
If he’s one of those people who loves to show off family and relationship photos, give him a collection of memories for his mantelpiece.
Just gather all his favorite photos from the past five years and print them out. Put them in a lovely shadow box with some engraving on the front, such as ‘The best boyfriend ever’ or ‘Love you lots.’ He’ll be able to receive visitors and share your heartfelt message without any embarrassment.
Or, if you’re looking for something smaller but equally meaningful, get yourself an awesome customized phone case. You can include all his favorite quotes and pictures on it so he’ll never forget about how much he means to you. It’s like having a little bit of you with him every day.
#: A sentimental quote
Sometimes it’s the sweetest messages that matter most – and some inspiring quotes can make a difference. For example, why not get him some art prints or photo prints featuring his favorite messages? You could even write your own on a cute mug and give it to him as an extra special treat.
It doesn’t even have to be based on love or relationships either (although if that’s what you’re into, then there are plenty of ideas out there too). He’ll treasure it forever and use it whenever he needs an extra boost in life. And we guarantee he’ll remember who gave him the gift too.
#: A customized phone case
Is he constantly breaking his phone? Or maybe you just want to get him something that’s a little bit special this time around. Why not create the ultimate customized phone case? You can choose between an iPhone or Samsung cover and design it however you think best suits your personality. For example, you could get one of your favorite pictures of the two of you printed on it so he’ll never forget about how much fun he has with you!
Or, if there are some kind of words and phrases that mean a lot to both of you, simply print them out and stick them directly onto the case itself. It is up to you. We know picking gifts for guys can be tough, but when it comes to a personalized phone case, it’s a thoughtful gift he’ll love and use every day.
#: A private video
Is there a song you both love? Or maybe a song that means a lot to him in particular? Why not create a special video of the two of you singing along to it together? You can record yourselves on your phone or tablet or simply get someone else to film you. After all, the more you think about it, the harder it gets.
Once you’re done recording, upload it onto YouTube and send him the link so he can keep watching it whenever he feels like it. Even better, why not add in some cute animations and graphics in the background? This will make it more memorable, and we guarantee he’ll watch it on repeat.
Or, if you want something simple but effective, why not take a picture of the two of you and get it blown up into a huge print? You can give this to him as a gift or even keep it hanging in your bedroom for all to see. It’s one way to remind him that you’re thinking about him from time to time.
#: A love letter
If there’s a certain piece of writing, he loves or remembers fondly, ask if you can borrow it. Then get yourself the manliest paper possible (tip: try picking up some old-fashioned parchment paper ) and write out his favorite quotes by hand.
Put it in a nice envelope and make sure you write ‘Only to be read by him on the front. Even better, why not add some flowers to the envelope using the paper itself? Or if you want to go all out, get yourself a miniature bottle of his favorite aftershave and put that inside too.
Conclusion:
You see, we’re all well aware of how busy life can get. We sometimes know all you want is something simple and easy, but it still shows how much he means to you. That’s why we hope the best ideas for sentimental birthday gifts for boyfriends will inspire you this year. Trust us when we say we’ll love receiving these thoughtful gifts. And once you’re done, why not think about treating yourself to something nice too.
What do you think?