As Christmas is just around the corner and the conversation at a workshop yesterday had a lot of talk about gifts. Certainly we have all received or given a gift to someone we didn't really know or had no idea what to give to them. I grew up in a home that gifts weren't the meaning of Christmas but when gifts were given they were appreciated and thoughtful of the person who would receive. So I thought I would share my thoughts on gift giving.
You have to do the work!
Once upon a time, in a far away land, there was no internet and we talked to people in person or on the phone always. Now, we have this easy button called social media, lol. People every day are talking and sharing what they love, what they hate and as long as they are being somewhat authentic on their social media, you can low level stalk them and find out at least something if you really don't know them.
As for some gift giving tips for people in your life, giving meaningful gifts involves consideration and thoughtfulness. It is so important to consider the receiver's thought and feelings when choosing a gift. If you participate in a Secret Santa exchange, and you think a coffee mug with boobs on it would be appreciated by the giftee then go ahead and give them the gift of daily laughter. However if that person would be too embarassed to use such a mug or doesn't drink coffee then maybe that is not the gift for them. This is one from my personal experience lol
Alright, so, here are some tips:
Know the Person:Â Understand the recipient's interests, hobbies, and preferences. Tailor the gift to their personality. Generic presents usually get regifted or donated.
Handmade or Personalized Gifts: Consider making something yourself or customizing a gift to suit the individual. If you are not crafty, the week before Christmas is not the time to pick up a glue gun and yard
Experiences Over Things:Â Tickets to a show, a cooking class, or a weekend getaway can create lasting memories. If you want something fun try a comedy show but this is not a great time to sign up your partner for an anger management class or if for some unfortunate reason you draw your bosses name in a secret santa a leadership retreat is not a good option.
Quality Over Quantity:Â Invest in high-quality items that align with the recipient's interests. Quality doesn't necessarily mean expensive but you likely won't find great quality at a dollar store.
Gifts That Give Back:Â Choose gifts that support a cause the recipient cares about. For instance,some companies donate a portion of their profits to charity or plant a tree which we all benefit from.
Consider Practicality:Â Think about what the person might need or use in their daily life. Practical gifts, when chosen thoughtfully, can be incredibly meaningful. The giftee may be cleaning snow off their vehicle with a broom so a brush with a scraper would be well received
Handwritten Notes:Â Accompany your gift with a heartfelt, handwritten note expressing your appreciation and why you chose that particular gift for them. If you do this, having some kleenex handy might be a good idea also.
Family Heirlooms or Stories:Â Consider passing down family heirlooms or sharing stories that hold sentimental value. It's a beautiful way to connect generations.
Subscription Services:Â Choose a subscription to something they love, whether it's a magazine, a streaming service, or a monthly delivery of their favorite products. Also a Gift Card can be meaningful for an item you want to gift but don't want to choose the wrong size or colour
Gifts of Time:Â Offer your time and presence as a gift. Spend quality time together doing something they love or helping them with a task or project.
Intimate Gifts: When buying lingerie for your lady, don't be intimidated!! It is easy to check the tags on her favourite bra and panties for her size. Write it down if you don't know what the letters and numbers mean and if in doubt, size down one size because it is flattering when your partner thinks your are skinnier than you are. (keep the receipt if you need to guess)
Remember, the key to a meaningful gift is showing that you've put thought into it, considering the person's tastes, needs, and the relationship you share.
If you know someone who needs these tips, share away!!
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