Leer en españolSomebody asked me the other day what I think the best gift to give a quinceañera is. This isn’t just any birthday, after all. She’s leaving childhood and turning into an adult — it's once-in-a-lifetime.

My answer: Rather then stress over the perfect gift, why not let her do the shopping? Give a gift card and she can pick out something that suits her new, grown-up style. Gift cards are better than cash because they show a little more thought, since you're picking one of her favorite stores. A cash card is very cool. It's like having a debit card, so it creates a sense of financial awareness and being a grown-up.

Twenty dollars is an acceptable amount to give. If you're giving a group gift, one person can collect cash from other givers and make it a card of higher value. You can choose a store where she can buy makeup (like Sephora or Ulta) or clothing; department stores where she can find almost anything (Target); music, books, and electronics stores (Barnes & Noble or Borders); or restaurants, if you think she’d enjoy social time with friends.

To make gift cards even more thoughtful, personalize them with a card that has sincere thoughts and life advice. Here are some suggested messages you could write:

Dear Lucy, HAPPY 15TH BIRTHDAY! As you make the wonderful transition into womanhood...

...use the positive feeling of butterflies in your stomach as a sign if you are unsure about what to do when you need help to make the right decisions. Have faith and follow your heart.

OR ... practice becoming an even more positive woman each day. Try to only think of the things that you like about yourself.

OR ... dare to dream big! Be strong and don’t be afraid to make mistakes, look silly, or to feel rejected. As long as you have your family by your side supporting you, everything will be alright.

OR ... when life gives you difficult situations along the way, remember all the love and support that you have. It will make it easier to get through anything and to “give it a try.” The important thing is to always “give it a try.”

OR ... remember that you have so many qualities and talents. Just because you are unable to do something doesn’t mean that you have failed. Instead it’s an opportunity to let others help you out — and THAT is not only smart, it’s how we make friends for life.

What do you think? Would you rather receive gift cards on your quinceañera, or a surprise, prepurchased item?

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