Gift Buying: Thinking Outside the Box
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Gift Buying: Thinking Outside the Box

I know the frustration of trying to find a gift for somebody who seems to have everything. What finally helped me take the angst out of gift buying was starting to think outside the box. Since then, it seems to be easier to find something that my loved one will like, whatever the occasion. These days, I look in unusual places for gift ideas. Instead of retail shops, I see what is happening at local auction houses. I may look into getting my loved one something they've expressed an interest in recently, like taking guitar lessons. I may even surprise my friend with a visit from a chef who prepares a special meal just for him or her. If you have the gift buying blues, let me help. I'll provide some tips on how to get clues for wonderful presents that will delight and amaze your loved ones.

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Gift Buying: Thinking Outside the Box

3 Tips For Creating The Perfect Custom Bobblehead

Peggy Lee

Are you looking for a completely unique keepsake for a friend, coworker, or family member? For under $100, you could create a custom bobblehead online and have it shipped to your house. By uploading an image of the subject and selecting from a huge list of customizable options, you can create a gift that your loved one will treasure forever. However, if you aren't a natural artist, it might be hard to decide how to make that figurine look. Here are three tips for creating the perfect custom bobblehead:

1: Ponder Personality Traits

One of the most important things to understand about bobbleheads is that they are a type of caricature art, which is an exaggerated version of a real subject. If you really want to make your bobblehead spectacular, you need to carefully ponder the personality traits of the subject and include them in the theme of the figurine. Here are a few things to think about:

  • Body Position: Does your coworker always put his hands on his hips after he secures a sale, or does your brother love to show off his muscles? When you think of your subject, how do you picture them? Try to choose a body position that embodies the person, so the figurine looks as realistic as possible. 
  • Facial Expressions: With the figurine setting in mind, think carefully about what type of facial expression the subject would possess. For example, if you are designing the bobblehead for a wedding cake topper, you could make the bride look blissfully happy and the groom look like a nervous wreck.

As you design your custom bobblehead, try to remain tactful. Never poke fun at a body position or facial expression that someone might find offensive. For example, if the subject has a physical limitation that limits their ability to smile correctly, choose a different expression. Always try to portray the person in their best light by highlighting their positive qualities.  

2: Add Important Details

To make your bobblehead truly special, try to incorporate specific, important details. Here are a few things you should think about adding:

  • Brands and Logos: Does the subject wear a specific brand of clothing on a daily basis? Some bobblehead manufacturers have copyright allowances, so you can use brand art on your figurine.
  • Favorite Hobbies: Don't be afraid to pay tribute to the subject's favorite hobbies or past times. For example, if they love playing guitar and driving a classic car, you could put their ride in the background and have the figurine rocking a custom bass.  
  • Tattoos: Don't forget to include permanent characteristics unique to each individual. If they have a great anchor tattoo on their arm, don't leave it out.
  • Accessories: Think about adding frequently worn jewelry, hats, and accessories, such as eyeglasses.

Important details can make the difference between a doll that looks like the person, and one that is a spitting image of the subject. In the weeks leading up to your bobblehead order, make a list of details so you remember to use them when you create your figurine. 

3: Make It Event-Specific

Personalized bobbleheads are always a great gift idea, but they can become the focal point of any event if you remember to incorporate details about the party. Here are a few instances when your bobblehead could be used as an important keepsake: 

  • Weddings: Consider making a bobblehead to signify key events in the bride and groom's journey. For example, you could make a bobblehead showing the couple on their first date.
  • Retirements: To send your coworker off the right way, make a bobblehead showing key points in his or her career. For example, you could show them in front of the building they helped to design, or next to the team they are leaving behind.

By taking the time to thoughtfully create a personalized bobblehead, you can show your friend or family member how much you care while celebrating them as a person.


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