Women love to be paid attention and receiving gifts that she loves tells her that careful attention has been paid to her indeed.  Most women like to wear perfume of some sort, but what scents does she prefer?  Ladies love the bling-bling.  Did she say gold or silver, pearls or diamonds?  Getting it right can be quite rewarding for the gift giver in a lot of ways.
 If there is something you don’t know, there is no shame in asking.  Take the initiative and find out from someone close to the lady in question such as a sister, mother, cousin or so forth, the name of her favorite cartoon character.  Sounds a little silly but if you’re looking at buying her a vintage Mickey Mouse watch when she likes Minnie Mouse her feelings will be hurt when she sees that it’s the wrong one.  Now that you’ve clarified the things that she likes, which one should you get her?  There’s nothing saying that you can’t make a list and keep these ideas in your gift giving arsenal, surprising her over and over. 
 As long as she’s not allergic to them, pets make a great present that she will have for a long time to come.  Just make sure to do research for reputable breeders and have the puppy or kitten checked out by your own vet to make sure they’re healthy.  Make a care package of food, toys and such to go along with the little furry one. 
 Giving clothing items can be tricky and finding out every little detail about her wardrobe simply isn’t feasible.  Sending her on a shopping spree for her birthday will not be offensive and will avoid things needing to be returned and spare both of your feelings.  In fact, she will think that you are very cool for encouraging her to do something that men have been complaining about for centuries; shop!
 For the woman who truly loves to cook and doesn’t look at it as a chore, consider giving her a high end mixer such as a Kitchen Aid stand mixer or a set of professional grade pots and pans that she has been drooling over.  To that same end, for the serious sewing lady one of the new fandangle sewing machines like the Singer 7470 with computerized stitching would really knock her out. 
 Gifts don’t always have to be brand new.  Antiques are great gifts.  Homemade gifts are another way to show your love.  She’ll be thrilled and touched that you took your time and put forth such effort on her behalf.  There aren’t too many women who will be angry if they are given quality jewelry.  This idea may not be new, but it still has the ability to leave her speechless when she opens the box and sees a pair of diamond earrings nestled inside the box. 
 Whichever option you choose, she will no doubt be thrilled to know that you seem to know her so well and treasure your gifts for all time.