DEMDACO

We all have big moments in our life that stick with us and perhaps define us. Birthdays, a new job, a new house, or a new baby are all meaningful moments that form our deepest of memories. While there are many ways to commemorate and celebrate life’s biggest moments, it’s also useful to understand how these events develop into lasting memories. One way we create memories is by focusing on the most memorable and recent high points. Psychologists call this the peak-end rule, where people tend to form memories based on what happens at the end of an event and “smooth out” the rough edges. For example, if you were to take a trip and encountered traffic delays and bad weather, but at the very end of the trip something exceptional occurred, you’re more likely to frame the trip positively. Second, moments can be made through mindfulness. Essentially, when people pay attention to specific details of an event—be it the delicious food or maybe the thought that went into plannin...

It’s possible to give thanks with little effort—sometimes nothing more than a few sentences on a piece of stationery—can leave a lasting impression. If you’re looking for ways to express thanks beyond a written note, follow this guide for meaningful thank you gifts at every price point. Thank You Gifts Under $10 The degree of gratitude doesn’t correlate with a price tag. A gift under $10 that either captures the sentiment of your relationship with the person or complements his or her tastes can be a powerful way to express thanks. Surprise someone with affordable and meaningful gifts like a cute, smaller piece of wall art that will accentuate their home décor or a pack of note cards that they can use in the future. Other items like magnets or a small piece of jewelry can express your unique bond with someone and convey your appreciation at very little expense. Thank You Gifts From $10 to $20 Coffee mugs and picture frames are popular thank you gift ideas...

There’s much etiquette involved when it comes to baby showers: Are gifts required? How much do you spend? Do you stick to the registry? Are men allowed? What if it’s the second or third baby? Fortunately, you can find information online related to the dos and don’ts of baby showers and gift-giving etiquette, but here is a useful breakdown: First things first: Gifts are expected if you attend a baby shower, according to Parents Magazine . Second, the amount you should spend on a gift is largely determined by how well you know the expecting couple. Typically, coworkers or distant friends should plan to spend between $15–$25, a friend or relative should spend between $35–$50, and a best friend or close relative should give something in the $50–$100 range. These price ranges and categories are fluid, but a good rule-of-thumb. Third, the type of gift will likely vary depending on whether you’re celebrating first-time parents or a second or third baby, since new pare...

We’re almost hardwired to send cards or gifts to friends and family to celebrate milestones such as birthdays, weddings, graduations, baby showers, etc. But what about less notable but equally significant moments where friends really step up? Like letting you use their vacation home for free, watching your pet while you’re away on vacation, or picking your child up from school when you’re stuck at work. While wine, flowers, chocolate, or a kind thank you note are great ways to acknowledge someone’s help, sometimes you want a gift that reciprocates or surpasses the level of thoughtfulness someone else showed you. If you’re looking for gifts for friends that go above and beyond, the following presents are good options:   Gifts for Art Lovers Thoughtful art gifts that capture someone’s love of animals, nature, or family are a perfect way to acknowledge their exceptional help. If you want to gift a thoughtful piece of décor for their home, take a look at dif...