Happiness comes in all sizes, some bigger than the others. As for gifts, 21st keys, these oversized keys have always been and seemingly will always be a treasured gift.
Even if they don’t have a corresponding lock, they always unlock the path to more love and acceptance!
Not only is it an item that exhibits a gesture of love and gratitude, but it is an evidence of the unwavering commitment to our Kiwi roots.
You can find a 21st birthday key in abundance. Yet, you can’t just pick up a key and gift it to someone you love. You’ll have to choose from designs, colours and, of course, engraving options — which will finally land you on a 21st key that is as special as your recipient.
In this blog, I’ll guide you on how to give a 21st key that resonates with the person you’re gifting and also fulfils its purpose in the best way.
Personalising 21st keys in New Zealand allows you to create a unique and meaningful gift that holds sentimental value for the recipient. Here are some of the best ideas to make your 21st key stand out from other handouts.
1. Add a message
Engraving is a no-brainer for a wooden 21st key. If you’re just buying a 21st key and gifting it straight to the person, it will lack the personal touch, and that gift won’t stick around for long.
Some people also make the mistake of putting a cliché message, such as “Happy Birthday” or whatever corresponds to the occasion. If you’re not much of an expressive person, this is your chance to reflect on your relationship with the person you’re about to gift.
You can add a short phrase of 2-6 words. If you’ve got something longer in mind, shift it to a gift card. Think of something that only you and the recipient share. Here are some of the top engraving ideas you can steal –
A dialogue of your and the recipients’ favourite movie.
A phrase from a lullaby (in case you’re a parent or a relative of the recipient.)
An emotional message that marks your relationship with the recipient.
Motivational or quirky quotes they’ll appreciate at first sight
Anything you’re confident about will be cherished.
Remember, a little message can make a lot of difference. A 21st key is just the medium, and the message is the actual reminder of the precious bond that you and your recipient share.
2. Choose Photo Insert Mindfully
People say that it’s the thought that counts, and it’s never been truer for a 21st key. Many 21st keys come with built-in photograph inserts. This makes for instant and effortless personalisation, but it doesn’t end here.
Your choice of photograph for the person you’re about to gift also dictates the recipient’s reaction. Some people stick with childhood photos, or if they’re not able to find a decent picture, they’ll steal it from the recipient’s social profiles.
This can backfire and will put it in the recipient’s mind that you didn’t go above and beyond to get a unique photograph. There may also be a chance that your recipient receives another 21st key carving with the same photograph, resulting in disappointment for both parties.
Try to find the best photograph of your recipient. This will take some labour but it will be worth it. If you’re struggling to find the right photograph, get a printed sketch made and put it in the photo insert. It may not be that creative, but it can save the day from a hackneyed 21st key gift idea!
3. Symbols
In the picture: 21st keys with different Maori symbols
Many times, wooden or glass 21st keys don’t have enough space to incorporate messages. However, this doesn’t mean that you have to skip on personalising. You can simply engrave small symbols that carry significance for the recipient.
Family Crest or Initials
If the recipient has a family crest or initials, consider adding these to the key. It symbolises their connection to their family and heritage, making it a meaningful and sentimental touch.
Kiwi Symbols and Icons
Consider engraving or adding small Kiwi motifs, the silver fern, or the Southern Cross stars.
Personal Interests and Hobbies
If they love sports, music, travel, or any other passion, include relevant symbols or references to make it uniquely theirs.
Favorite Places or Coordinates
Include the coordinates of the recipient’s favourite place, such as their hometown, a memorable travel destination, or a significant location in their life. This will add a personal and nostalgic element to the key.
4. Birthstones
Although rare, this method will appeal to your recipient without a second glance. Gifting birthstones is a great practice, as it is not only thoughtful but also passes on good luck and prosperity to your loved ones. Of course, what better way than to gift a birstone studded with a unique wooden 21st key?
Incorporate the recipient’s birthstone into the design. A birthstone like an emerald, pearl, or more will add to the premium factor of the 21st key, making it a more precious gift than others.
Gift Like a Pro: Premium 21st Keys in New Zealand to Choose from
Having the perfect 21st key gifted to your loved one is a delightful experience, and we’ll bring you closer to that. Discover our wide range of wooden and glass 21st keys and engrave it with your choice of quotes, words, or symbols at Stonex Jewellers.
We have a bustling store in Otahuhu, Auckland. Apart from that, our website provides you with a unique shopping experience for gifts, jewellery, accessories, watches and much more!
Walk through our collection of 21st keys and gift them the right way with Stonex.
AUTHOR BIO
Karsha
Karsha has been a writer for over 10 years and has been writing for Stonex Jewellers for more than two years where she has gained insights on how to capture the essence of the jewellery industry. She comes from a versatile background, having written for fashion & lifestyle beats and covering the trends of the market. Graduated from the domain of Journalism & Mass Communication — she knows how to depict the cultural and emotional significance of who styles what & when.
