When it comes to giving, we want our presents to come across as thoughtful, tasteful and creative, but sometimes we just end up stumped and the art of gift giving becomes too stressful. Here are some simple tips to help you find the perfect item for everyone on your list.
Keep In Mind
1. Take time to think about the people you’re buying the gift for. You can narrow down the choices if you consider what compliments their personalities.
2. Consider their hobbies, like playing sports or reading. This way, you will have a better idea of what to get.
3. There’s nothing wrong with asking individuals close to them what they would want.
4. Plan ahead and manage your time wisely. Doing so helps prevent feeling stressed from trying to buy something at the last minute.
For Teachers
1. Stationary: It’s difficult to imagine what your teachers’ life are like outside of campus. So unless you know your teachers and their personalities very well, keep your gifts confined to things that will make life better during their workday, such as a fancy pen or cute note pads. Buying school supplies for the class is another great option.
2. Gift cards: You could argue that gift cards are impersonal and lazy, but gift cards are great presents. They give teachers the gift of freedom to buy whatever they want. However, make sure to stay away from Visa cards. They are inconvenient and take a long time to set up.
3. Caffeine: Although not all teachers drink tea or coffee, many of them do. Consider asking for their favorite drink, and get them a generous amount.
For Friends
1. Personalized items: You probably know your best friend better than anyone else, so his or her gift also comes with the additional pressure of getting something extra special. The key is finding, or making, something personal to the both of you. A simple, but classy gift is a friendship token, such as a necklace or picture frame with a photo of you two.
2. A blast from the past: A gift centered around how you two met is also great way to go. Think back. How did you and your friend first meet? Do you share any inside jokes? Remind your friend that he or she is important by giving a gift that reflects a certain, special moment.
For people you don’t know well:
1. Feed a collection: Find out if your gift recipients have a collection of their own. If so, get them a new addition, whether it is a collectible item or simply something along the lines of what they collect. They’ll surely appreciate it!
2. Stalk social media: A lot students have Pinterest and Amazon accounts. Maybe take a look at their boards and wishlists to see what they would be happy to receive.
3. Clothes: Since Christmas is in winter, consider buying cozy apparel, like scarves or onesies. When buying clothes for someone, try to buy one size fits all items and pick something similar to their style. The goal is for them to add it to their wardrobe and actually wear the item.
Don’ts
1. Mugs and candles: Chances are your recipient has so many of these stored from previous years that he or she doesn’t know what to do with them.
2. Bath products: Although lotions, perfumes, and other bath products are very sweet, the very scent you adore can make someone else gag.
Don’t forget that it truly is the thought that counts. Not all of us have large budgets or time for gift buying. You’ve put in thought for the people on your list, and whether they know it or not, that is a great gift in itself.