When it comes to gift giving,the old proverb has always been “it’s the thought that counts.” And though we would readily agree,it’s safe to say that at one time or another we all have been guilty of not following proper gift giving etiquette.
Most of us love to go shopping,but how many of us like to buy things that strike our fancy,not the fancy of the recipient? Plus,it’s no fun to buy something you consider ugly or tacky or ridiculously out of style,even if that item is exactly what best friend or your sister would love.
Yet,according to proper gift giving etiquette,when purchasing a gift for someone else,you should never make your taste overriding that of the recipient.
■Silent Rules of Gift Giving
A perfect gift should show that you invested a little time and energy and that you actually cared about the preference of the recipient.If you go the extra mile,it’s more likely that the recipient will love the gift.When you don’t invest some time and effort into your selection of gifts the recipient’s smile will be forced,which is a sure sign they don’t like their gift.What’s worse,you’ll both know it.Their forced smile will be followed by that uncomfortable occasion in which two things usually happen: the recipient lies and says they love the gift and you scramble to find the receipt so they can return the gift as soon as you leave.The easiest way to avoid this problem is to purchase for a gift that they are really like.
■Gift Etiquette
The best way to avoid this conundrum is to find something in common between yourself and the recipient.Sit down and really think about the recipient.Once you figure this out,you can easily delimit an area that would be safe shopping around.
For example,if you both like gardening,buy a garden basket,and fill it with gardening tools.If you both enjoy the same music,you would be safe in purchasing a nice basket and filling it with CDs you would like.
■Taste or the Lack There of