Custom Reel Viewer

“Because you click through these one at a time, in order, it’s worth thinking about the sequence as much as the individual photos. I’d put together a rough story arc — childhood photos through college years in one reel, for example, then graduation, marriage, and children in another — depending on what story you want to tell.

For a milestone birthday, anniversary, or retirement tribute, this is also a nice one to crowdsource. Ask a handful of close family or friends to each send over their own favorite photo of the guest of honor, rather than relying only on your own collection — that way you might be able to surprise them with ones they might have forgotten or never even seen before.

If you need to transfer old printed photos to a digital format, this can be done very inexpensively nowadays ($20-$30 for 100 photos) and it’s a great opportunity to preserve them for years to come. Similarly, old photos that are fading, discolored, or damaged can often be restored at the same time. See links below.

Note that most sellers ask you to label each photo by number when you send them over, including which one’s meant for the center slot. It only takes a minute, but it’s worth double-checking before you hit send — especially if you’re telling a life-story chronologically.

Finally, this has the potential to be quite emotional for the guest of honor, so don’t just give it to them when you arrive. Turn it into a moment at the event, after everyone has been there for a while and eaten, so that the whole group can share in the experience.

For more personal, unusual, or indulgent gift ideas, check out my Gifts Ideas page.”