Do's and don'ts of gift-giving, as well as many great ideas

Buying gifts has never been more difficult because not only do we have so many options, but most people already have a lot of what they require, particularly if they are of a certain age and don't require much. Grandparents and a successful boss may fall into this category. But no matter who they are, you can always give them something they will appreciate. Learn how to give the perfect gift every time by reading this comprehensive gift-giving tips guide.

This gift-giving tips guide, written by LeahG, a gift finder and designer, contains excellent suggestions for determining the perfect gift for a specific person, as well as suggestions for what not to buy!

Gift-giving has many different meanings around the world, and we'll look at some of them so you can get it right when gifting family, friends, and coworkers, among other people! Gift giving etiquette and rules, as well as DIY gifts and money-saving gift ideas!

The Most Important Things to Think About When Buying a Gift

What is the name of the lucky person who will receive the gift?
What is the gift's significance?
What amount of money have you set aside for gift-giving?
What is the gift-giving deadline?
What are the gift recipient's likes, dislikes, interests, and passions?

These are the most important things to think about when buying gifts. Buying a thoughtful gift necessitates knowledge of the aforementioned in order to budget and find a gift that you know the recipient will enjoy.

1. The Gift Recipient

The gift type will vary depending on the relationship between you and the gift recipient, as well as the gift recipient's own cultural background. For example, you would not buy the same gift for your spouse as you would for your boss or a neighbor. There are also some items that are considered unlucky when giving a gift to a Chinese friend or business partner. (Scroll down for international gift-giving etiquette rules.)

2. Gift-Giving Occasions

Because your gift will often be 'occasion related,' such as a wedding, anniversary, or baptism, the occasion is critical. Birthday gifts are often more interest-based, so knowing their age, interests, and hobbies is critical. It's possible that you'll need to do some additional research.

3. The Spending Plan for Gifts

There are a plethora of online resources (see below for our money-saving gift-buying tips) for gifts that are inexpensive, thoughtful, and one-of-a-kind that you can buy or make yourself. If you have a medium to large budget, you will have more options, but you don't want to spend a lot of money on something the gift recipient won't like or enjoy.

4. Unfavorable impressions left by gifts.

It is sometimes inappropriate to spend more than a certain amount. Spending a lot of money on a gift for your boss or a friend's partner, for example, could indicate romantic feelings or hidden motives. It's a fine line to walk between "enough" and "too much" spending.

5. The Reciprocal Gift Giving Law

If you're giving a reciprocal gift to someone who doesn't have much money, be aware that an overly generous gift (depending on your relationship with them) may make them feel uncomfortable or force them to spend an equal amount, putting them in debt. Consider arranging to 'trade' favors instead of buying gifts.

6. The gift-giving deadline

It's especially important to keep the gift's delivery deadline in mind if you're buying a gift that requires customization or has personalized details, as the manufacturing process may take longer. Allow for delivery time as well as the possibility of a return and redelivery if the item is defective or incorrect. Plan at least 6 weeks ahead of time for major gift-giving occasions.

7. The Gift Recipient's Likes and Dislikes

Items for decoration

If your gift is intended to be decorative, consider how it will fit into the home or office's current design scheme. The gift may end up hidden away in a cupboard if it's too flashy for the decor, too modern or vintage for the gift recipient's tastes. If you don't know what you're doing, stay away from decorative gifts. If you do, most people prefer a well-coordinated item that can be worn without being noticed.

Gift suggestions for people with unique interests.

By asking them or those who know them questions, you can learn about the gift recipient's special interests. You should already have a good idea of what they might like if you are close to them and know them well.

Books

Find out who their favorite author is. Is there a particular book they want to read? Is there a particular first edition they'd like? You can personalize it by inscribing something on it or getting an autograph.

Music

What types of music do they enjoy listening to, and who are their favorite bands, composers, and artists? Take a look at the most recent releases.

Art

Do they have a favorite type of art? Do they have a thing for wall art? Consider a poster, print, original painting, or word art in a style that you know will complement their decor.

Fashion

Which fashion designers, high-street stores, and online retailers do they prefer? A thoughtfully sourced gift card or a thoughtfully sourced gift from one would be greatly appreciated.

Collectables

Is there anything they keep track of? Is it possible to add a collectible or a book about their hobby to their collection?

Activities

Are they interested in going to the movies, the theater, vacationing, or participating in sports? As a gift, consider giving tickets to an event or an experience day. Spa days are popular with men and women alike. We all need to relax and be pampered now and then. If that's not an option, consider a spa day gift basket.

8. Make-Your-Own-Gifts

There are many great books in the library and YouTube tutorial videos on how to make handmade gifts if you enjoy crafting.

Favors Exchanged

If funds are limited, consider issuing vouchers for 'trading favors.' You could offer to mow their lawn in exchange for them baking you a delicious cake. Without spending money on gifts, you can use whatever skill set you have to assist friends and family members.

Gifts that are uniquely you

Personalized gifts are always a good idea (and they don't have to be expensive; prices start at less than $5!). Your gift recipient might appreciate a nice set of monogrammed hand towels, a photo watch, a named water flask, and so on. ZAZZLE offers a wide range of personalized gifts. There is a no-questions-asked money-back guarantee.

9. Gifts to AVOID Purchasing

When it comes to gift-giving, there are a few no-nos to keep in mind, as well as a few simple rules to follow to avoid making costly gift-giving mistakes. A'meat' hamper for a Vegan would be the worst case scenario. For a recovering alcoholic or non-drinker, alcohol is an option.

Gift Buying Guidelines - Things to Avoid When Buying Gifts:

If you're buying alcohol as a gift, make sure you know how much they drink and what they like.

Don't buy food as a gift if you're unsure about vegan, vegetarian, or food allergies.

Keep in mind that some people will only accept vegan or ethical gifts and will refuse to accept anything made with animal products.

Environmentally harmful gifts may also be on eco-conscious people's wish lists.

For a boss, coworker, employee, or ex, don't buy a gift that could be interpreted as romantic. This rule applies to items like perfume/aftershave, jewelry, and, of course, no lingerie. Don't get it for a stranger if you'd get it for your spouse (as a romantic gesture). Your spouse will be irritated, and the recipient will be confused.

ten. Safe Gifting Alternatives

You might be wondering what you can buy after reading the preceding! There are plenty of safe gift options available, so don't worry. If you don't know much about the interests and preferences of your gift recipient, a themed gift basket is a safe bet.

There's no way to go wrong with any of these. They take the guesswork out of gift-giving because there are so many options for every occasion and taste.

They also, of course, look fantastic. They are a refined gift that reflects the personality of the sender. Food, wine, cheese, and chocolate are no longer the only things they can do. Gift baskets with sports, movie, spa, and garden themes, to name a few, are available, as are gift cards with a general theme. Place the gift card inside a small, nicely wrapped gift box to make it a little more special. Place the card on top of the gift tissue paper in the box.

11. What Are Some Gifts You Shouldn't Buy Your Boss?

The relationship between you and the gift recipient is crucial. For example, you wouldn't buy the same gift for your boss as you would for your spouse. Some gifts may be inappropriate for some people, while others may find them extremely appealing. This is why gift etiquette is so important; it must be done correctly. A gift for a boss or coworker would be impersonal, perhaps with a corporate edge (assuming they are not family or close friends).

It would be formal and not sentimental in nature. You wouldn't buy perfume and red roses for your female boss or a coworker, for example. They will either get the wrong or right impression if you try to tell them you love them. Bosses and coworkers will appreciate funny work-related gifts or personalized office supplies.

When buying gifts, there are 12 ways to save money.

Purchase for the following season from end-of-season sales.

After Christmas, look for unwanted gifts in thrift and charity stores.

Organize a gift exchange party - re-gif Gift Sales - Buy for the following season at the end of the season!

Even if the event or holiday season is a long way off, it's worth keeping an eye out for a sale on the gift item you're looking for. The stores I prefer (e.g., Zazzle) frequently have gift and accessory sales of up to 60% OFF, so it's definitely worth keeping an eye out for a sale on the gift item you're looking for. I'm constantly on the lookout for good gift deals.

For example, many of my Christmas gifts are bought in January sales, eleven months in advance! Because Christmas decorations and other items are no longer in season, you can save a lot of money. For example, I buy Christmas cards, crackers, and gift wrap for the following Christmas during the January sales. Discounts of up to 80% may be available. Because the store does not stock such items the rest of the year, stocking filler type gifts brought into stores specifically for the Christmas season are frequently heavily discounted. For instance, consider beauty gift sets from your local pharmacy.

When it comes to seasonal clothing, I do the same thing. I buy them during the sales when they're out of season for the following season. Some styles are timeless, allowing me to keep up with the latest trends. :) Winter coats can be purchased for a significant discount in the spring, and summer beachwear and vacation clothing can be purchased for a significant discount in the autumn. If you shop wisely, you will save a lot of money!

It is not a good idea to buy perishable goods at a sale. Purchasing perishable gifts such as food that has passed its expiration date is not a good idea, especially if you plan to keep them for several months. White cocoa can appear in chocolate that has been out of date or has had a long shelf life. Although it is claimed that it has no effect on taste, it does not appear to be appealing.

After Christmas, look for NEW unwanted gifts in thrift and charity stores. You can also save money on gifts by utilizing 'unwanted' items that end up in charities or thrift stores. Brand new gift items, often with original product wrapping and tags, can be found in these stores. They are brand new, unused, and marked down significantly. Even well-known brands are represented.

Throw a gift-swapping get-together. Meanwhile, here's an original thought... This might come across as a little mercenary. You could throw a party with your local friends and invite them to swap and trade unwanted or unused gifts. It clears out clutter, prevents hoarding, and ensures that everything has a home. If you have any money-saving tips for the holidays, please share them with me here:)

13. Gift-Giving Etiquette Around the World

Western Gifts Etiquette

In the West, gift-giving guidelines, rules, and etiquette are typically limited to price, relationship to the recipient, and occasion.

For those with whom we are romantically involved, red roses are reserved as a bouquet gift - a dozen on Valentine's Day or as a single.

It is frowned upon and discouraged to give PETS as a gift.

Friends, family, and partners are appropriate recipients for perfume and jewelry gifts, but not coworkers, bosses, or business associates, neighbors, or others. Any large outlay or ostensibly "intimate" gift would leave a "periphery acquaintance" in the dark about your intentions or feelings toward them. It's possible that your gift will be completely misinterpreted.

We do not send gifts to funerals, but we do send sympathy cards, flowers, and wreaths to the deceased's family or the funeral home. We might also give memorial gifts to close family and friends.

We consider a monetary gift to be unconsidered (though this is becoming more welcome especially amongst marrying couples and the younger generation). A Gift Card is a more appealing alternative.

Flowers are given as gifts to express congratulations, sympathy, or gratitude, or to mark the passing of a 'day.' Each occasion will be commemorated with a different flower. Your florist will be aware of the situation.

After receiving a gift, it is customary to send a thank you note.

Gifts are wrapped in tissue paper and labeled with a tag or other identifier.

The price tags on gifts have been removed. Some businesses now provide receipts with the option for the recipient to return the gift if desired. Personally, I am against the practice of returning gifts.

On the following occasions, we usually give gifts: Birthdays, religious holidays, Mother's Day - Father's Day, etc., Wedding Days, Valentine's Days, New Homes, Graduation, Retirement (co-worker), Leaving gift (co-worker)...the list of gift-giving occasions seems to go on forever! Start putting money aside right now.

Customer gifts to service personnel (including monetary tips) are generally prohibited and must be refused - work rules! Restaurants (tips), salons, and other similar establishments don't mind. The gift would almost certainly be declined if it was particularly valuable.

Other than family, homemade food gifts are inappropriate. The food may contain allergenic ingredients, or the person may simply lack 'trust' in the food's safety.

It is strictly forbidden to give religious items to a non-religious person.

Clothing that is either too big or too small is a no-no!

Real fur, snakeskin, crocodile skin, and other exotic skins are not only frowned upon, but also illegal in some cases.

Gift-Giving in Different Cultures

Food, drink, flowers, and number-related gifts, as well as anything sharp, such as scissors or knives, should be avoided. Different flowers and their colors have different meanings in different cultures. Sharp items generally refer to the severing of ties in those cultures that consider them.

Of course, alcohol is frowned upon in many cultures, as are foods like pork or beef, as well as cowhide bags. When giving a gift, think about what that country or culture is known for. Don't give them anything that will make them feel ashamed of their country. Avoid giving anything that is political, sexual, religious, or illegal, as well as joke gifts or t-shirts that display any of these no-nos.

Purchasing Chinese Gifts

There will be no clocks, black or white gift wrapping, red ink writing on cards, etc., and no handkerchiefs.' These items are thought to conjure up images of death, illness, and sadness, among other things. Gifts of socks and shoes should also be avoided.

Purchasing Japanese Gifts

Because they are associated with illness and death, white flowers, lilies, lotus blossoms, camellias, and potted plants should be avoided as gifts. In a gift, the numbers '4 or 9' are frowned upon, though this is less so among the younger generation. Because red is the color used for funeral notices, there will be no red cards.

Purchasing Korean Gifts

Koreans have their own set of customs, which you can learn more about here. Anything starting with the number '4' should be avoided at all costs.

Purchasing Saudi Arabian Gifts

Saudi Arabia has a slew of rules that govern what is and is not acceptable, and some activities are outright forbidden. In terms of gifts, anything involving or referring to alcohol or pork is an obvious no-no. A t-shirt with writing or graphics that could be interpreted as sexual, provocative, or offensive to their religion may be less noticeable. ' Avoid giving anything political, sexual, derogatory, or religious as a gift. When you are given a gift, it is impolite to refuse it. When the gift giver is present, do not open the gift. There will be no flowers for the ladies!

Here's why personalized gifts are the best!

They're one-of-a-kind, fantastic keepsakes that are now more affordable than ever! Personalized gifts are no longer as expensive as they once were before technology caught up, and you can now have almost anything personalized for a fraction of the cost of the original item. Online tools for personalizing gifts are also more user-friendly than they have ever been. When all of these factors are taken into account, personalized gifts are the best gift option, and here's why.

They are unrivaled when it comes to the 'thoughtful gift.' When choosing a gift, personalized gifts show that the buyer values the gift recipient and takes into account their preferences, needs, and passions. A personalized gift quickly becomes a treasured keepsake for the gift recipient due to its one-of-a-kind personalized nature. When they see their personalized gift, they will feel loved, appreciated, and respected. These are the emotions that personalized gifts convey. That's not all, though.

In terms of sentimental value, it's the best. It has great sentimental value if the gift is personalized with precious family photos capturing special moments or includes a personal message. This is especially true for memorial gifts, wedding anniversary gifts, and retirement gifts that are personalized.

Many of today's personalized gifts are also functional and serve multiple purposes. Tea towels, for example, can be personalized with photos of your family, a stylish monogram, a family crest, or a drawing by your grandchild. A tea towel purchased on the high street with no personalization features will be quickly forgotten, as will the person who gave it to you; however, if you personalize it, it will be treasured like no other. We have (almost) an entire house full of useful gifts that you can personalize right here.

Personalized gifts are always in style. Whether we are children, adults, or retirees, we all enjoy receiving gifts with our names on them, as well as photos of our pets, children, family, and other loved ones. We prefer things that are familiar and make us feel warm and fuzzy.

There are a lot of ready-made designs available. Some personalized gifts are blank canvases on which you can draw your own design, but there are also many wonderful themed and special occasion gifts that already have designs on them. They have template fields where you can fill in your personal information. In many cases, the designs are created by talented designers who will gladly assist you with bespoke refinements. If you're still not convinced, check out Zazzle's customer reviews!