If you’ve arrived here, panic rising and palms sweaty, then we can only assume that you’ve either forgotten a loved one’s birthday or your wedding anniversary. That, or you’ve recently felt a flush of appreciation and gratitude for someone and you just can’t wait a day longer to show it.
While getting a set of birthday books filled with personal photos or a bouquet of roses resplendent in aroma might sound simple, hurdles can present themselves when you need a quick fix.
Fortunately, modern technology, in all its one-click-convenience, is at hand (or rather, finger tip) to help you deliver that message of appreciation or save you from a tight spot, on the same day and oftentimes, instantly.
When it comes to your loved ones, you’ll want to give them something unique and thoughtful, but also a present which communicates a message of value, too. It can be a delicate balance, and sometimes inspiration for good gift ideas just isn’t easy to find. We’re here to help with that; here are 7 thoughtful gift ideas that can be given on the same day remotely.
A Personalised Digital Memory Book
Sometimes the most meaningful gifts are the ones that celebrate shared memories and experiences. Creating a digital photo book or memory album might sound like it would take weeks to organise and deliver, but modern technology has made this wonderfully simple and instant.
Services like Google Photos, Apple Photos, or dedicated platforms allow you to quickly compile photos, add personal captions, and create a beautiful digital album that can be shared immediately via email or messaging apps. You can even include voice recordings, videos, and written memories to make it truly special. The recipient gets instant access to flip through cherished moments, and you can always order a physical copy to arrive later.
For added personalisation, consider creating themed albums – perhaps ‘Our Adventures Together’, ‘Reasons You’re Amazing’ or ‘Memories Of Us That Make Me Smile’. It’s intimate, thoughtful, and shows you’ve put genuine effort into celebrating your relationship. And, anytime in the future, it could be realised as a genuine, physical copy at just the click of a button!
An Online Experience Of Virtual Class
Why give a physical item when you can give an unforgettable experience? The digital age has opened up a world of virtual experiences that can be booked and enjoyed on the same day you gift them.
Consider booking your loved one into a virtual cooking class with a renowned chef, a wine tasting session delivered to their door with same-day shipping, or even a virtual tour of world-famous museums and landmarks. Many platforms offer instant booking for online experiences – from art classes and photography workshops to meditation sessions and language lessons.
The beauty of experiential gifts is that they create lasting memories rather than adding to someone’s collection of possessions. Plus, many of these experiences can be enjoyed together virtually, making them perfect for maintaining connections across distances.
Flowers That Say More Than Just Thank You
Yep, we realise we said ‘unique’ some 24 words ago, and flowers are, well, pretty obvious, but gifting same day delivery flowers? Doing so can help you cover all manner of sins, cases of forgetfulness or help you show gratitude with the immediacy and gravitas it deserves.
Flowers are a cliche for a reason; they’re tried, they’re tested, and they’re always welcome by the receiver. What’s more, a bouquet is simple, cost-effective, and easily communicates value. Indeed, you can now send thank you flowers to a loved one on the very same day that you click the button – with most florists simply requesting you place the order before 1pm for same day delivery to apply. Flower delivery specialists can add your note that you can write online to make sure that the message of thoughtfulness and love is delivered with clarity.
Of course, in the rush to send your gift, there’s a danger you choose a flower which is wholly inappropriate or specific to a certain occasion. Black roses, for instance, aren’t much of a thank you gift, and a vibrant bouquet may not be appropriate for someone bereaved. Check out this guide to choosing the right flowers for a specific occasion for more.
Read: The IDEAL guide to choosing the right flowers for every occasion
A Star
It sounds a bit out there, but it’s certainly unique! In fact, it’s so out there, it’s in space. So, why not name a star after your loved one for a symbolic, enduring gift which shows appreciation and makes the receiver feel oh-so-special?
Perhaps accompany the gift with a heartfelt (see: cheesy) poem about how your loved one is the brightest star in your solar system, and your gratitude will be well and truly noted.
Plant A Tree
Trees take a long time to mature, sure, but the act of planting one? It can be done – or at least gifted – instantaneously. Indeed, the National Trust offers the chance to plant a tree as a gift without you even having to get your hands dirty.
Instead, you simply donate a figure to plant one new tree sapling (a £5 minimum is suggested) and the charity will send you confirmation straight away. Five days later, you’ll receive a certificate confirming the planting of your tree. There’s even the option to plant ten new tree saplings for £50. Talk about showing someone your appreciation!
This is all part of the National Trust’s aim to plant 20 million trees by 2030. Wouldn’t you love to be a part of it?
Sponsor An Animal
If your loved one is animal obsessed, then it’s likely they have all the animal themed items they’ll ever need already in place. So, why not instead give the gift of compassion, without your loved one having to find room in their house for another trinket or fluffy toy?
And the best bit? Sponsoring an animal can be done remotely, instantly. A great idea for dog lovers is a dog sponsoring gift. This is a great way to help an abandoned dog get the support and home they need. You’ll receive photos, stickers, magnets, and regular updates on your pup at Xmas, Valentine’s, and various other dates throughout the year.
Adopting an animal from the WWF is another fantastic gift option. You can help your animal-mad mate protect precious habitats around the world and the species which rely on them, ensuring a safer future for various animals for years to come. See a full list of animals available for adoption here.
A Charitable Donation In Their Name
Perhaps the most meaningful gift of all is one that reflects your loved one’s values and passions while making a positive impact on the world. Making a charitable donation in someone’s name can be arranged instantly online and shows deep thoughtfulness about what matters to them.
Whether they’re passionate about education, environmental causes, animal welfare, or social justice, you can find reputable charities that accept donations and provide immediate confirmation certificates. Many organisations will email a personalised certificate within minutes of your donation, which you can then forward to your recipient along with a heartfelt message explaining why you chose that particular cause.
This type of gift not only honours your relationship but also creates a ripple effect of positive change in the world – something that truly keeps on giving long after the initial gesture.
The Bottom Line
Whether planting a tree, sponsoring a dog, or helping your loved one reach the moon with crypto, there are plenty of great gifts out there which can be given on the same day and remotely. Such presents are ideal if you’ve forgotten a special occasion or, even better, simply want to show your appreciation.
