The four rules I use to never show up empty-handed.
I've consulted on gifting programs for a decade. The rules are boring. The application is everything. Here's the short version.
Personalize one thing well, not three things badly. A name on a great mug beats a name, a date, and a quote crammed onto a poster.
Pay for the paper, not the picture. On invitations and cards, the upgrade from matte to pearlescent is the single highest-ROI dollar you'll spend.
Order one week earlier than you think. Shipping is reliable, but the editing rabbit hole is not. Build the buffer.
Stack the coupon. Zazzle's site-wide promo almost always layers with a category sale. Don't check out until you've tried both codes.
Start here, by occasion
Under $50, won't look it
Custom throw pillows, photo mugs, framed prints. Spend on the personalization, save on the substrate.
Photo gifts that actually print well
Puzzles, canvases, photo books. Use a source file of at least 2000px on the long edge — anything less and you'll see it.
For her — beyond the candle
Custom sweatshirts, leather-look luggage tags, monogrammed totes. The good stuff is buried two scrolls down.
For him — beyond the tie
Engraved barware, golf accessories, a hilariously specific mug. The 'for him' page is better than it looks.