Gift Giving Etiquette
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.
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.
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