Is it something she really wants and will really like?

If so, then no.

The most thoughtful gift I ever received - in my entire life - was a used book that had been a library book. A guy I was dating tracked it down on the internet somehow after we had a conversation about our favorite childhood books. I didn't even know the title.

I had already planned to break up with him, and felt like the worst person in the entire world. It's too bad we didn't work out - it would have been a great story for the grandkids.

It's super fine to shop on ebay for the gift, especially if it's a great value for the price. I just bought something that was ONE TENTH of the price of the exact same thing in a store, and the one I bought really was "like new".

I would recommend the jewelry or the fine china/glassware/silver areas for bargains. Or maybe something vintage like a poster.

What's wrong with eBay? Especially if it means you are saving money because it's cheaper!

At my house, eBay makes Santa possible. I can't affored all of that stuff new!

Why would it be messed up?

Many people shop online these days vs. shopping at a brick & mortar shop.

It is so much easier and convenient because people are so busy these days.

I don't see how it would be messed up at all.

As long as you put proper thought into the gift, then it should be fine.