Giving a gift is always exciting, but it can also present challenges. Even if you know the ins and outs of your recipient’s tastes, it can be difficult to find the gift that really conveys your message. To get a better idea of what really makes a thoughtful gift, we decided to consult some gift-giving experts and we were very pleased with the results. We hope this helpful guide, along with tips from professionals, will help you choose a thoughtful gift that you will cherish for years to come.
Don’t shop for yourself
When you are browsing for gifts in a physical shop or online, or you can check out websites such as Gifts66.com. Inevitably, there will be a tendency to buy the gift you want to receive. This instinct is completely understandable, but it is important for you to try and put yourself in the receiver’s shoes rather than seeing things from your own perspective.
Not just about the item
Receiving a gift is much more than just buying a new item. With this in mind, it is important to consider your approach. You may want to take the recipient to a special place, make memories while you’re together or surprise them at home or work. Remember that simply buying the most expensive gift you can afford is not always the best option. In fact, it may work against you.
“A gift should be something that pleases the recipient – from my own experience, I don’t like receiving expensive gifts because I know the person giving it to me has to pay a lot of money for it (and frankly, I know all of us work very hard to earn it), so I accept gifts very rarely.
Start planning ahead
If you know you will be giving a gift to someone in the future, think about it immediately. When you are with that person, try to look for clues that will help you shop later. When you are in that person’s home, look around and try to get a feel for their tastes. You may also want to look for things that might be useful. For example, if you are considering offering a blender, suggest smoothies for two people to make. If the recipient comes up with a brand new blender, that’s not an ideal option.
Consider unique traits
When attempting to present a thoughtful gift, all the factors that define the recipient should be considered. This will, of course, include hobbies, but there is more to a person than just what they do in their spare time. A truly thoughtful gift usually goes beyond what is clearly visible on the outside to show the recipient that their inner qualities are recognised and appreciated.
Classics never go out of fashion
Depending on the situation, sometimes a unique twist on an old classic is the perfect gift. For example, a beautiful bouquet of flowers is universally loved and appreciated.
“Giving a beautiful bouquet of flowers usually says it all without having to say anything! To really capture your heart, think about the colours and types of flowers you like and even bring back fond memories of that person. They will be pleasantly surprised by the thoughtfulness you put into a floral arrangement that has been professionally arranged and hand delivered. Add a love note to the bouquet and you will turn them on their ear!”
Everyone loves a treat
Boxed chocolates If in doubt, taste the delicacies! After all, no one would be unhappy to receive a nice supply of their favourite snack. For tea lovers, for example, a nice cup with an assortment of teas, local honey and tea biscuits. For sports fans, a selection of craft beers and snacks to enjoy while watching their favourite sporting event.
Other suggestions
Send products through the recipient’s favourite chocolate or cheese brand
Quote the recipient’s favourite poem on a greeting card, which can be attached to any gift
Send something that reminds the recipient of the good times they spent with the sender. This could be a DVD of a film they have seen together, or a book written by a favourite author.
