By: Ashley Cerasaro
Weekender Correspondent

Finding the perfect gift is no easy task, especially when the recipient is notorious for “having everything.” That’s why I’m always on the lookout for innovative gift ideas to pass on to my readers.

Laura Eiman, president of Eiman Designs and creator of PicPads, has never given an impersonal gift.

“In this day and age when everything is so impersonal, it’s good to reach out to friends and family with something that is more personalized,” says Eiman.

Her product, PicPads, is a one of a kind black and white, note and shopping list pad, created using your favorite photos. Customers can send in their favorite photos, and the artists at Eiman Designs will create a unique set of PicPads reflecting the special character of their photo. Customers also have the option of adding an inscription (a funny quote, a bible verse or their name), which will appear on every single page.

Although Eiman Designs has only officially been in business for two years, Eiman started making PicPads informally for her friends eight years ago. She credits her creativity with the invention of the product.

“I am a very creative person. I’m a graphic designer,” says Eiman. “As a child, I always made presents for my family. It’s just kind of something that’s been in my blood since I was a child.”

PicPads can be purchased at picpads.com for $24.95. Notepads are 5 by 8 inches and come in sets of four with 40 sheets per pad. Shopping lists are 3.5 by 8.5 inches and come in sets of four with 40 sheets per pad. Both are available with or without lines.

Eiman asks that customers place their orders two-three weeks in advance, as that is the average turnaround time to complete an order. To place an order, visit www.picpads.com.