Top Gifts for the Single 30-Something Woman

Practically everyone has a single girlfriend that is held dear to the heart. It is common knowledge that sometimes single gals are over looked when it comes time for holiday gift giving. Single women in their 30's should certainly not be pitied. But there are those women who live fearlessly without husbands, boyfriends, or children. Ladies without any of the aforementioned "attachments" sometimes miss out on all the great gifts. But everyone knows that without the carefree single 30-somethings around, the world just might be a less exciting place. So why not honor them during the holidays with a few neat gifts that they certainly can appreciate?

1- Cookbooks - Single people have to eat. Some single gals scoff at cooking, while some simply do not know how to. At any rate, this is a gift that most 30-something ladies would appreciate. Because of the influx of cooking shows on television these days, cooking is no longer considered a hackneyed and old-fashioned tradition. Recipes have grown to become just as daring as the women who prepare them. So, when choosing the perfect cookbook gift for your special friend, keep in mind her personality and select accordingly. Women who are on-the-go might do well with a gourmet cookbook that contains quickly prepared recipes. Some ladies have a thing for sweets. So why not pick up a specialty dessert cookbook. Whatever style your single girlfriend possesses, there is surely a collection of recipes to suit her personality. Check out Amazon.com, Target stores, or supermarkets to get some ideas. Barnes & Noble often has cookbooks on sale. Their variety in selection is also quite vast. So shop away!

2- Bath Time!! - Most single women in their 30's have bustling careers. A hectic daily schedule most often breeds plenty of stress. So treat your recipient to a sumptuous bath set. The "Bath" gift basket is a popular holiday gift idea, and has been for many years. The reason is quite simple: everyone bathes, and everyone likes to feel pampered. With that in mind, there are several different types of stores which cater to this type of pampering. Victoria's Secret is a terrific place to buy intimate bath products. But these types of gifts can also be purchased at major department stores, bath and linen chains, and even drug stores. Another great way to go would be to create your own custom bath set. Choose individual products specific to your recipient's tastes, and then combine the products into your own basket. You can never go wrong with a holiday present that encourages a little sweet self-indulgence!

3- Music Collection - Is your single 30-something a huge Prince fan? Then why not surprise her with a box set of his greatest hits? Several musical artists have collections, and collections of collections of songs from their catalogues. With the digital age in full swing, it's become easier and easier to locate and obtain one's favorite songs. Walmart.com has a custom CD application wherein customers can choose the songs they want burned onto a CD. The customer can then "design" the cover and jacket of the CD. The site covers just about all genres of music, and has a plethora of great artists and songs to choose from. You might even create a disk of songs that commemorate a special event that you've shared together. Create a couple of these music collections, and you've got yourself a really happenin' gift.

4- Department Store Gift Certificates - What do most active single ladies love to do in their free time? Shop of course. Since your friend's moods and clothing size can be somewhat "whimsical" at times, you are better off letting your 30-something buddy choose her own apparel. That being said, one can never go wrong with a gift certificate (or three) to her favorite clothing store. If you're unsure as to where your free-spirited girlfriend loves to shop, then opt for an American Express Gift Card. These cards can be used nationwide, and operate much like cash. This way, you'll always be sure that the clothes won't be returned the day after Christmas.

5- Netflix Subscription - Let's face it, sometimes the single 30-something lady is content to curl up with a pint of Ben & Jerry's and a good movie or two. On nights where a date is not on the menu, there is nothing better than cuddling up with a few of those wonderful red envelopes. I am referring to Netflix envelopes of course. Netflix is the truly innovative service wherein DVDs are delivered to the consumer's mailbox. Netflix has really grown over the years, with their selections increasing by the thousands every month. There are several packages available depending upon your friend's "watch-ability" factor. If she is truly a movie buff, you might opt for the 5-at-a-time deal. Casual viewers may only require one or two movies at a time. There is no return postage requirement upon returning the flix back to the company. And as soon as they receive the DVD, the next movie is shipped out. If she does not have a subscription already, she is sure to thank you once she reaches the mailbox and sees those cute little red envelopes.

Single women in their 30s often forget to treat themselves to basic necessities. Sometimes their lives are so hectic that having someone else consider life's little "extras" is truly a treat. Give your lively 30-something single friend a break from the hustle and bustle of the holidays with some extra pampering, and you'll probably have a friend for life…