Gift-Giving Dos And Don’ts For The Holidays
These holiday gift-giving dos and don’ts are a reminder that proper etiquette isn’t as important as thoughtful gestures — especially after the year we’ve had.
Exchanging presents at the holidays is always a bit more awkward than it needs to be. There’s always the fear that your surprise will flop — or worse, it will enter the never-ending cycle of re-gifting. You don’t want to waste your money or the opportunity to really show your loved ones what they mean to you. These gift-giving dos and don’ts aren’t strict rules, but they should remind you to focus on the person, not trends or assumptions.
The Dos
Do Make the Gesture
While gift-giving will be more modest this year because there are fewer gatherings, the holiday season is a good time to take a beat and think about the important people in your life. You don’t have to spend much because almost everyone’s finances have taken a hit. You can always make something yourself or write a letter to catch up.
Do Try To Wrap
You can be as creative as you want to be, but it can be as simple as topping a selection of the person’s favorite kombucha with a bow. And if all your efforts end up in a misshapen blob of scotch-taped newspaper, trust us—it’s still endearing.
Do Ask for Recommendations
It takes away a bit of the magic when you ask the recipient point-blank what they want, but there’s nothing wrong with feeling out the person’s friends or relatives. They might know of something the recipient has been coveting for months but just can’t justify buying themselves. That’s as good as it gets.
The Don’ts
Don’t Go Generic
Everyone could use a Visa or Amazon gift card this year, but it’s more of a treat if you give them credit at a more specific store they love. They might be too likely to spend a generic gift card on something practical, whereas a store gift card will encourage them to splurge on themselves.
Don’t Push a New Interest
You may be obsessed with birdwatching and want to share your passion with those you love, but a great gift should focus on something they already want. If you know the recipient’s hobbies, style, or future plans, that should be your gift inspiration.
Don’t Give Clutter
It’s tempting to add to their collections or give them a tchotchke that makes you think of them. But you also know how quickly knick-knacks on a shelf gather dust and how hard it is to clean out a house. If you remember just one of these gift-giving dos and don’ts, ask yourself: “Is this something that I’d be throwing away in six months?”
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