
It is never too early to start shopping for a holiday present for your loved ones and friends. Gifting offers an opportunity for us to show love and care towards the people in our life. Given how meaningful and satisfying gifting is, we have to put much thought into choosing the perfect present to ensure that we communicate the right message to the person we are gifting. Everybody has different preferences, and we need to consider this one selecting a holiday present.
Regardless of what you choose, it would be best if you focused on finding the perfect gift. You can only achieve this if you manage to avoid the common gift-giving pitfalls. To help you find the ideal gift for the people in your life, we have put together these four not-so-common tips on how to choose an unforgettable holiday present.
1.Personalize the Gift
Before you start stressing about finding the perfect gift, consider the relationship the two of you share and your feelings towards them. Also, think about the message you want to send. It allows you to narrow down the options much faster than browsing through gift collections on different websites and stores. The message you sent to your partner through the gift is not the same as the message you send to your best friend or coworker. The good news is there is an endless list of options we can choose from when finding the ideal gift for our loved ones. You could choose a few Christmas cushions for your friend to add to their Christmas collection and you could also choose a customized present or a gift that gives an experience. Someone who loves coffee may prefer a coffee mug instead.Another great example would be giving a sterling silver pocket watch to someone who loves classical accessories such as watches. To make it even more special, have it engraved with initials or a simple but sweet message.
2.Get Ideas From Outside
If you do not know the person you plan on gifting well, you may have difficulty finding a gift that matches your interests and personal preferences. In this case, external ideas are welcome. Talk to people that have a close relationship with the person. Chances are, they could even know something they want or need. You could talk to family, friends, or even coworkers.
Going through the person’s social media accounts can also provide some valuable clues. Pinterest is an excellent place for you to start since most people pin the items they desire on boards on the site. You can also go through their Tumblr, Facebook, or Twitter accounts for more ideas.
If the person is an online shopper, you can go through some of the online websites they frequent to view their wish lists. With some luck, you may get a list of items you could choose from. If you are stuck, you can also get ideas from the person. It is especially great to make sure that you get them a gift they can use and appreciate.
3.Use Gifts to Emphasize Experiences
There is a new trend. Many people prefer experiences rather than physical items so you should consider giving a present that offers an enjoyable experience. Look through some of the scheduled local events and concerts as well as restaurants for ideas. If their favorite band is performing in town, you can get a ticket or two, so they can tag along with their friend. You can also offer time-saving services such as paying for a few hours of cleaning services, making a few freezer meals that they can quickly heat and eat, and they don’t have much time or grandparents on their behalf.
4.Avoid Popular Gift-Giving Pitfalls
Some people go straight to the point and tell you what they want for a holiday present so if they have already told you what they prefer, don’t put much thought into it and get them something else instead. Get them something they asked for as they are more likely to use it, and they want it.
Also, don’t be scared of giving the same gift to several people. You don’t have to put yourself through the stress of getting a different gift for every person in your life. If you happen to come across a gift that you think multiple people will like, buy the same gift for them all.
Things have changed a lot over the past few decades, and so has the art of giving holiday presents. Your creativity and imagination can go a long way in saving your blushes when presenting a gift. Make sure you understand the preferences and interests of the recipient and avoid the prevalent gift-giving pitfalls. If you have a hard time settling for one, you can give them an experience or get ideas from other people close to them.