Tips for Gift Giving
When Santa’s Sleigh Just Won’t Do, We’re Here for You.
Thanksgiving is over and the holiday shopping season is in full swing. Buying all those gifts for everyone on your list can become expensive and overwhelming. How much do you spend? Do you have to buy for absolutely everyone? Is it alright to re-gift? What if you don’t know what to get a person? Sharon Schweitzer, an international etiquette expert, author, and founder of Protocol & Etiquette Worldwide, offers these 10 guidelines for holiday gift giving: AVOID ASKING “WHAT DO YOU WANT?” If you don’t know what to get, try and figure it out. Consider their hobbies or what’s important in their lives. If they exercise every day, workout gear is probably a good choice. If they just moved into a new home, go for a housewarming gift. Remember, it’s about being thoughtful. YOU DON’T HAVE TO BUY FOR EVERYONE Annually review your gift list. How has your relationship grown and evolved? Have you kept in touch via phone, email, or seen each other in person? Did you buy him or her a birthday gift? If the answers to these are no, evaluate the need for a gift. You want to avoid having a friend feel truly forgotten, and sending a timely personalized holiday card will prevent hurt feelings. DON’T BREAK THE BANK Stay within your household budget. Gift giving is a blessing, not an obligation. Avoid overspending. January bills are unforgiving! AVOID MATCHED SPENDING When buying is driven more by pressure than thoughtfulness, it loses its meaning. When folks buy flamboyantly, hopefully they do so because they wish to, not because they expect anything in return. Most extravagant
December 2017
gift buyers have everything they could wish for, so there’s nothing luxurious you can buy them that they can’t buy for themselves. It’s better to plan a thoughtful, sentimental gift without a hefty price tag. CONSIDER COUPLE GIFTS Once a family member or friend is in a serious relationship, gift giving may segue from individual gifts to couple gifts. For example, buy them a gift certificate to their favorite restaurant and include a thoughtful note that shows your gracious holiday spirit. If they are engaged or newlyweds, check their registry for a treasure trove of ideas.
Neighborhood Mini Storage is your One-stop Shop for Holiday Storage, Shipping and More! Hide your holiday gifts from curious eyes in one of our three convenient locations. We can also help with getting your special deliveries shipped safely in time for the holiday. We have all the packing supplies you need, and we’re an authorized UPS and FedEx shipment center. STORAGE Regular & climate-controlled storage Variety of unit sizes Month-to-month lease options Secure, 24-hour access
BE GENUINE IN YOUR RESPONSE TO SURPRISE GIFTS If you receive an unexpected gift, be authentic in your response. Share that you are “surprised, and maybe slightly embarrassed that you don’t have a gift ready for them.” It’s awkward to race to the gift closet and spring a lastminute gift on them. You may wish to send a thank you note with a small gift wishing them all the best in the coming year.
SHIPPING/MOVING Boxes & moving supplies Shipping services: UPS & Fed Ex U-Haul equipment rental
MINI STORAGE BOX & SHIP neighborhoodministorage.com
Lake Charles 474.8800 | 210 West Sale Rd. Sulphur 626.0000 | 460 Post Oak Rd. Moss Bluff 855.3000 | 716 Sam Houston Jones Pkwy.
HOLIDAY TIPS With loyal, long term service providers, like a yard person or cleaning person, consider a holiday gratuity or tip.
Thrive Magazine for Better Living
www.thriveswla.com
35