Getting the most out of gift shops

• Buying birthday presents

Getting the right thing in the gift shop depends on who you're buying for.

• Good friend? Go with their passions

You might not be an expert on golf, but there are specialist gift shops out there that can help.

• Kids? Try the unexpected

Kids will probably end up with several copies of that must-have computer game. Search the gift shops for something unusual—a cookery set, a pond life kit—the options are endless.

• Special years? Be symbolic.

An 18th, 21st, 30th or 50th birthday looming? Good gift shops should be able to advise you on year-specific traditions.

• Wedding anniversaries

There's plenty of tradition behind wedding anniversaries to help you in the gift shops.

• Pick your year

All wedding anniversaries are linked to a special material. For example, traditional gifts for 25th wedding anniversaries are made of silver. Five minutes' research before you visit the gift shop will make choosing easier.

• Use your imagination

So the first anniversary is paper—that doesn't mean all the gifts should be stationery. Gift certificates are paper, too. Use your imagination when you tour the gift shops and you'll find that perfect present.

• Be romantic

They may fit with the year, but some things should never be given as gifts. Anniversary six is iron, but you won't find steam irons in gift shops—and there's a good reason why not!

• Valentine's Day

The one gift shop challenge you really have to get right. It's the thought that counts, of course, but the perfect gift is proof that you've really thought it through.

• Old favourites

Flowers and chocolates make great gifts, but make sure you know your partner's favourites in advance—giving roses to a tulip fancier is a crime.

• Make it personal

And not just with home-made cards. Most gift shops can personalise a present with an inscription—in icing if it's edible.

• Mums and dads

You know them well, but they're notoriously difficult to buy for. Don't be overwhelmed in the gift shops and end up coming home with another "world's best dad" mug.

• Spend a little time

Most parents love spending time with their kids. Ask in gift shops about experience gifts that you can do together—a day at the races or at a spa, perhaps.

• Expert assistance

Gift shops ought to be experts on presents for parents. Ask for advice if you've run out of ideas.