What should I do to make it a great birthday?

[Anonymous]

one of my best guy friends is having a birthday in a few weeks. I’ve booked a table for two at a fancy restaurant, where I’ll pay for a three course meal and generous entrees, for both of us, to celebrate. I find it sad that he’s spending his birthday with me, instead of his family (they don’t really care about him and are more interested in taking another vacation).

After lunch, I’m having him back at my parents’ house (they’re fond of him); and they’re treating him to a cake and buying him chocolates as surprise birthday gifts. I was wondering in earnest, is there anything I can do to make his birthday better? Should I go shopping and buy something small, or big, in addition to his three course meal? Or is that too much?

[Sonorous]

You should go out & buy a bunch of healthy portable foods to give to the homeless.

[Asker]

I already do that 😊

[Sonorous]

lemme get some

[Asker]

Lol 🥰

[spartan55]

Geez, dude is getting gold medal boyfriend treatment.

[Asker]

He’s like a big brother to me

[spartan55]

Riiight...

[Asker]

Think what you want. I know how I feel and you will form your own conclusion anyway.

[spartan55]

He would have sex with you 100%

[Asker]

Well, then, he’s going to be disappointed.

[spartan55]

You don't get it. I'm not saying he outwardly wants to, or ask. That would 'jeopardize your friendship'. He would though, believe it. Call him and legit ask him if you don't believe me.

[Asker]

Really?

[spartan55]

If you think I'm full of it, sure.

[Oliverlogan263]

Here are some thoughts on making your friend's birthday special:

It's really nice of you to already have the restaurant dinner planned! Focusing quality time on just the two of you shows you care. Some other low-key ideas:

- Make a playlist of his favorite songs to play during/after cake. Music always lifts the mood.

- Ask casually what some hobbies/interests are lately then find an inexpensive gift related to that. Like art supplies, a book, sports gear etc.

- Bake cookies or another favorite snack of his to enjoy in addition to cake. Bonus points if decorated cute!

- Make a handmade card, either funny or heartfelt, to open on his actual day.

- Suggest an activity he's wanted to try, like mini golf, hiking a new trail. Doesn't have to cost a lot.

- Make sure he feels invited to bring other friends too if he wants company beyond just you guys.

Focus on quality time over quantity of gifts. Sounds like you already have the heartfelt part down! Keep it stress-free so he feels the love and support. Most of all, make sure he knows he's appreciated - that's the best gift.

[teamvic]

Hmmm I think what you're doing enough. Assuming this is just strictly friendship anyway

Maybe a small gift if you like but I think thats good

[Asker]

It’s strictly friendship.