Gift-giving usually has two goals. The initial goal is to bring joy to the recipient. That is largely determined by whether or not the present is what they desire. The second goal is to improve the giver-recipient relationship. This is accomplished by presenting a meaningful and memorable gift that demonstrates the giver’s understanding of the recipient. This usually entails finding out what someone wants without having to ask them explicitly.
We’ve all got that one friend who seems to have it all. You care about them, but giving them gifts can be a chore, and no one wants to give them money because that isn’t a desirable or thoughtful gift. The anticipation of seeing the recipient’s face when they open the present is half the fun of giving it.
Is It the Thought That Counts?
Gift givers also tend to overestimate the value of more expensive gifts, although there is no denying some luxury gifts will always be well received. However, it some cases turns out that both expensive and inexpensive gifts are equally appreciated by receivers. In actuality, they feel more connected to those who provide practical gifts, such as a gift certificate to a nearby regular restaurant rather than a faraway luxury restaurant.
It is also advisable to give an exceptional smaller gift rather than an average bigger one. So, if you cannot afford the big item that you had your eye on, pool money with others instead, or think of an alternative, rather than opting for a more mediocre down-scaled version of the object.
Is Cash a Thoughtless Gift?
Cash can be regarded as unthoughtful because it involves no work and appears to place a monetary value on the connection. Cash is handed over as a gift in a crimson envelope in Chinese cultures with the aim of decommodifying the money by literally encasing it in a symbol of good fortune. If you’re going to gift money, consider doing so in a unique way, by getting creative with the packaging for example. This will demonstrate a higher level of consideration.
The gift card is the closest thing to cash. The biggest advantage is that it necessitates some effort and allows for some deliberation when choosing which gift card to purchase. Despite this, research reveals that gift cards are frequently used as a last choice.
Give What They Asked For
Don’t try to outsmart them when they tell you what they want. Give them what they’re looking for! It may appear careless to you, but it is not to them. According to studies, gift recipients think the most meaningful gifts are the ones they requested, not the ones that the giver tried to be over thoughtful with. This tends to happen a lot with wedding registries. Givers may think they need to over-compensate and get something not on the list, but the receiver has placed certain objects on that list for a reason: it is what they desire.
Perfect wedding gifts for those with or without a registry can be found from British designer and innovator Tom Dixon. This popular brand started with striking, yet timeless furniture and lighting fixtures. The product line was then expanded to include a variety of artistically designed and functional home furnishings, including the brand’s iconic Tank glassware. Tom Dixon accessories will make an ideal gift for the discerning recipient. Numerous glass sets are available to choose from as well as beautifully crafted ice buckets.
Experience Counts in Large Amounts
Giving the gift of an experience is a popular trend as these can be memorable than a gift that can be cast aside. Tickets to a live performance with a gift certificate for a restaurant close to the venue provides the whole hog. Go a step further and donate your time: offer to babysit or pet sit while the receivers are utilising their gift. An ideal anniversary gift is to recreate your first date. Other options include an introductory lesson for something the recipient has expressed interest in or a yearâs subscription to Audible.
Think beyond your desire to evoke immediate joy and think rather of the long-term enjoyment and memories being created. Sometimes you can even think of a âproblemâ that needs to be rectified. Outsource chores as a gift: buy home-delivered meals as a gift once a week for their birthday month or hire a handyman for the day to repair all those niggly things in their home that they never seem to find the time to sort out. Why not have their knives professionally sharpened or book a session or two with an acupuncturist?
Givers can sometimes be wary about gifting experiences, fearing they’ll choose something the recipient doesn’t desire. It’s a legitimate concern, but there’s a simple solution: make sure there are options. Give a gift certificate to a spa that offers a variety of treatments instead of booking for a massage or manicure.
Think outside the proverbial box when brainstorming ideas of gifts for your family and friends. Check their Pinterest boards, Amazon wish lists, or Facebook posting history for ideas and clues. Listen carefully when they speak about what they like or donât like and learn to read between the lines. When it comes to gift-giving, begin planning ahead of time to pick a gift that will be cherished, appreciated, and utilised for years to come.