Creative "congratulations gift" idea? Please read...?

Question

This will all sound like an odd question, but I really would appreciate some sincere advice/suggestions/ideas. Thanks.

The Youth & Family Minister at the church I attend recently finished an Associate in Ministry, and she really perservered through everything and learned a lot, even when writing papers and watching lectures became very time-consuming in difficult family times. Her comissioning will be in late September.

I am very close to her and she has shared a lot with me about her papers, etc... and I want to make something creative (I cannot draw, paint, etc..at all, lol) as a "congratulations gift" or something.

The one idea I have so far is using certain photos and formatting Bible verses over them that fit with her situation and growth, etc.. as well as a card and writing something meaningful inside. Writing is my tremendous gift as far as creativity goes.

Any other ideas? Thank you!! :)

Answer 1

I have an idea that is way different than what you are thinking but it's an idea.

I'm thinking of the poem "Footprints" where there are two sets of footprints in the sand but occasionally we only see one set. The story reminds us that Jesus walks with us at all times but when we need him the most he carries us.

http://www.footprints-inthe-sand.com/

My idea is to purchase a clear vase, place a layer of sand in the bottom, make the next layer a layer of shells (to maintain the footprint theme) next make little scrolls of bible verses that are uplifting and comforting (or are fitting to her circumstances). Also include scrolls that you have written (which you admit is your talent) that are meaningful to her.

You can roll the pieces of paper up and put a tiny colorful rubber band around them (the really small ones that girls like to put in their hair can be found at dollar stores) or tie each one in a ribbon. You could also fold them into squares.

You can include the footprint poem in a card or on a picture and package it up all togther with the scrolls inside. She can read all of them at once, or open one at a time. The idea is to keep the vase of sand and shells to remind her of her story and of God's promise.

This can also become a perpetual gift, you an add more bible verses or words of encouragement for other occasions like birthdays, holidays, hardships or joy etc.

Another idea would be for her to put prayers or thoughts onto paper, fold the paper up and put it in her vase as a physical way of handing her concerns into God's hands.

Or she can use it to add Thankfullness, Gratitude and Praise.

It is a little different from your original thought but it does incorporate some of it. I hope you like it.

Answer 2

Find someone who specializes in custom made memory books. Have them do most of the design and layout, leaving room for photos and memorabilia. To cut costs on the project, give them a price limit. Let them know what colors she likes and what her favorite things are, then finish it with your personal touches- ie: photos with bible verses. This way most of the work is done for you and all you have to think about is the creative aspect of the project. Write a poem for the back page, or even a short humorous story depicting her journey. The personal touches make this gift special- she won't just throw it away when her decor changes. Depending on where you live, you can usually find a memory book designer at your local craft store: ask the manager! Or even ask around your church. I'm sure there are lots of ladies that make memory books. They might even go easy on the cost since the recipient is a loved member of your church. I just had a memory book made for my sister in law by a friend- she charged me $40 for an 8X8!

Answer 3

I think that is a great idea. It would be even more meaningful if you could get other people at your church, such as members, coworkers and your pastor, involved in the project. Lots of times it is hard to get people to contribute, so if you created a page with the photos and verses you could ask various individuals to add personal comments and sign the book.

Answer 4

I love this idea of putting together a scrapbook that speaks to all her studies. It is really creative. Barnes and Noble might have a good scrapbook with some templates to start you off, and you can leave some blank pages so she can add to it.
Another option is creating some stepping stones for her garden, you can do a mosaic pattern, set in qwik set cement, and paint bible verses on the center stones, Use a sharpy, and coat the rock with clear poly to protect it.
But really, I love your idea, it is personal, speaks to her achievement, and comes from the heart!

Answer 5

try writting a poem or making up a little story about her if writting is what you are good at then you can do it, by story i mean something meaningful not in a bad way ,get a white t-shirt have all her friends sign it an put little greetings on it. like great job or way to go, can do the same with a poster board