Be it birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Diwali, Eid and whatnot – gift-giving is an essential part of our lives. However, giving gifts is just the tip of the iceberg. There is more to this than that meets the eye. The art of gifting is often treated as quite an underrated and neglected skill. But when it comes to selecting the perfect choice for your special ones, there is a whole list of yays and nays to follow before putting the final ribbon knot on your wrapped box. Discover the dos and don’ts of gift giving in this gifting 101.
Do: Fix a Budget
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While we tend to give a priceless gift to those we hold dear, you should fix a budget. Though you can be as extravagant as you want, spending too much money on a gift not only messes up your finances but also leaves an obligation on the receiver to reciprocate in the same way. Not everyone is able to do so!
Do: Plan Beforehand
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Never ever wait until the last minute to go to the gift shop. A successful gift is one that is given with great thoughts, views and sentiments. Also, since the process of a well-thought-out gift involves figuring out the budget, picking out the options, people involvement, ordering & delivering, it is best to start at least 2 weeks in advance.
Do: Try to Know the Person (you’re Gifting to) Inside Out
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Over the years, you must have received a number of such gifts that you would have returned, re-gifted or just left in a corner only for them to collect dust. To make sure your recipient doesn’t fall into this category, get to know their personality, hobbies, interests and preferences. In fact, you can get hints or ideas via their social media profile as well. This will help you pick the gift that resonates the most with them.
Do: Ask Their Friends/Family What They’d Appreciate
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If you are still unable to figure out their likes and dislikes, you can always ask their family or friends about what they would appreciate. Getting in touch with their dear ones can help you narrow down your choices.
Do: Give the Gift Receipt Too
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We are certain you would have chosen a gift that is best for your thinking. However, there could be a 0.0000001% chance that just because you like it, the recipient will too. So, why not give them the option to choose something else over it, right? After all, it’s their gift!
Don’t: Limit Yourself to Tangible/Materialistic Gifts
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How about gifting experiences rather than an item? Today, other than classic choices, there are innumerable options when it comes to experiential gifting. In fact, studies say that the recipient feels a lot closer to you when they receive an experience. Some of the options you could for are a rock concert, a safari adventure, a video message from their favourite celeb, pamper hampers, breakfast-in-bed and a dinner date. These gifts are guaranteed to etch an unforgettable memory in their heart that they will cherish forever.
Don’t: Re-Gift Something
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How would you feel when you see the gift you gave to your friend A, forwarding it to friend B and somewhere in near future, friend B is gifting it to you? You would feel hurt! Hence, we suggest steering clear of the complications of re-gifting.
Don’t: Be Afraid to Buy Something Unique
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As you scout through gift options, you might come across something unique and offbeat. While you may feel it’s not suitable, try taking a shot once. Don’t shy away from introducing your dear one to a unique gift. Who knows your gift might turn out to be something they have been thinking of only in their dreams. Also, check out some unique ways to present a gift that will come in handy.
So, there were some of the unspoken gift giving etiquettes you should consider before wrapping your next present. Lastly, remember that gift giving is not just about gifts; it is about caring, showing your love, thoughtfulness and generosity of heart.
