Perfect Gift Giving

The closer Hanukkah and the holidays come the more daunting gift buying becomes. All those people, where do I start? I really don’t have the energy. But then I really do like my brother’s wife and I must get something for Mom and my Matt.

The five P’s ( proper preparation prevents poor performance) applies to gift giving as well. Birthdays come around each year as do festivals and other yearly significant events. SO think ahead. I keep a stash of versatile items at home for various occasions. Notice what people are saying – I love massages but never have one. I get never have enough candles. Some items are generic and are good for all sorts of occasions. A pretty scarf, an interestingly designed dish towel a tote or an apron always go down well

Their taste or my taste.

So who are you buying for and what are you saying. I find it impossible to buy so9mething I really don’t like even if I know my friend will like it. A gift is that meshing of my taste and yours. A gift is an expression of you the giver. So naturally I think about the recipients interests and likes. Someone who likes entertaining would naturally appreciate a decorative piece for the table or pretty paper napkins. It’s impossible to fully guess what people will like so go by your own taste.

Gift small and often, rather than rarely and big

My experience is that people enjoy even small gifts but often. A gift is really saying I’m thinking of you, you’re in my heart and mind. Giving at unexpected times is also charming and well appreciated.

When People come for a meal, I like to place a small gift on their plates that relates to them, even if not new and preloved. For a Spanish speaking friend I place a book of Pablo Naruda’s love poetry on her plate. I had bought it years ago and knew I would never read it. She loved it. To an English friend I gave a delicate tin box that an red English bus and some sweets in it. To gardener gave a small vase with flowers.

I think gifts always have to have an element of surprise, the aha quality. Personally I’m a bit old fashioned and don’t love giving electronic devises particularly to kids. And of course and time is a good time to give a gift.