Gift Giving Etiquette
By A Heath
Is there such a thing as gift giving etiquette?
Of course!
There are quite a few DOs and DON'Ts of gift giving.
Remember, though, that each situation will be a little different from
the next, just as individuals differ from each other.
We've done a little research to provide a basic gift
giving guide. These aren't set in stone, but they should give you
a good idea about how to approach gift giving in most situations.
GIFT GIVING ETIQUETTE
Dinner or Party Invitation?
When someone invites you over for a "get together",
you'll want to bring a small gift to show your appreciation for the
invitation. This could include a candle, flowers, or a bottle of wine.
"Please, No Gifts"
If you've been invited to a birthday party, graduation
party, anniversary celebration, wedding, or any gift giving occasion
and the invitation specifically reads: "No Gifts, Please", then it
is appropriate to respect that request.
If you feel that you must bring "something", try a
card or some other very small sentiment.
Is money an appropriate gift?
It is appropriate to give money in a few (sparse)
situations, like when a teen-ager asks for it. But try to avoid giving
money.
It's more thoughtful to give a gift certificate or
gift card, but only if you take the time to consider the the appropriate
store or restaurant. Pick something that will be enjoyable and/or
useful for the gift recipient.
Other Gift Giving Hints
- Don't give loud toys to children
- Don't give things that YOU want
- Always try to wrap a gift. If you don't have the
time or talent to make it look nice, spend a dollar on a gift bag
and some tissue paper.
- Include a card with your gift, and actually write
a personal note in it
- Don't re-gift a present that you have been given
unless a) it is still in it's original packaging, b) it's appropriate
for the next recipient, and c) the re-gifting will NOT be discovered
(by the original giver or the new recipient)
- Always get a gift for a wedding, even if you can't
attend (unless "no gifts" were requested)
- Always bring a gift to a shower, but don't feel
obligated to do so if you aren't able to attend
Business Gift Giving
Business gifts are appropriate in the following situations:
- Close of a business deal (beware of international
etiquette)
- Group gifts for a retirement, serious illness, or
other momentous occasion
- Holidays (like a Secret Santa or grab bag)
In a business situation, don't give gifts that are:
- Personal in nature (perfume, red roses, etc.)
- Only from you (give outside of the office in this
situation)
- In violation of company policy (check your company
guidelines)
- Not considerate of a person's culture, diet, environment,
etc.
GIFT RECEIVING ETIQUETTE
When you receive a gift, no matter what you think
of it, say "Thank you". Accept any gift politely and remember that
it's a GIFT that was not necessary.
Thank You Notes
"Thank You" notes are highly regarded in the gift
giving etiquette world. They are particularly common after a bridal
shower, baby shower, or wedding.
However, if you opened your gift in front of the giver
when it was given, then a "Thank You" note isn't absolutely necessary,
although it is still appropriate.
"Thank You" notes don't have to be completely formal,
either. The importance is in the sentiment.
A Heath is a gift researcher for http://www.the-gift-wizard.com
