Set a budget

Before you start shopping, set a budget for yourself. The amount you decide to spend will depend on the occasion, your relationship with the recipient, and your budget. Don’t feel pressure to spend more than you can afford. Spending more does not automatically mean the gift is better or the recipient will appreciate it more. 

Ask the recipient what they want

For some, the stress of gift-giving occasions comes from not knowing what to get. The easiest way to say goodbye to the pressure is by asking the recipient what they want. This simple solution is direct and gets to the root of your anxiety. Then all you have to do is get what they want as a gift. Sometimes, the simplest solution is the right one. 

Skip the gifts 

Instead of feeling the pressure of gift-giving, you could agree to skip the gifts. Make arrangements to have an experience together. This can be less stressful and more meaningful for you and the other person. It can also give you some free time back into your schedule. This extra time can be invaluable for relieving pressure for gift-giving occasions like the holiday season. 

Shop online 

Driving all over town to different stores as you search for the perfect gift can be stressful. There is traffic to deal with. You could get to the store, but they don’t have what you want. The stress builds as you lose another day and still need to find a gift. 

Online takes all of this away by putting the world of retail at your fingertips. Quickly perform a search for the item you are looking for. You can quickly move on to the next website if you don’t find it. If one online store doesn’t have the item in the right color, you can quickly look it up on another website. 

It’s the thought that counts

All too often, people get fixated on buying the perfect gift. This leads to self-imposed pressure and causes you to lose sight of the purpose and meaning behind gift-giving. If you find yourself getting overwhelmed shopping, take a step back and remind yourself that it is the thought that counts.

Overcome the pressure of gift-giving occasions 

Don’t let the pressure of gift-giving occasions cast a dark cloud over you. With these tips, you can avoid feeling stress and anxiety. Instead, you can freely shop for the perfect gift and feel confident that the recipient will love and appreciate what you’ve chosen. One way to ensure you give a thoughtful gift is to ask the recipient for some ideas or even an online wish list. With a wish list on Giftster, you can both make lists and simplify shopping for gifts year round. This direct sharing of online wish lists keeps the surprise of opening a present while simplifying gift-buying. 

Happy gifting!

The post How do I deal with the pressure of gift-giving occasions? appeared first on Giftster and was written by Giftster.

What does the recipient want? 

If the recipient directly asked for no gifts and for people to donate, your answer is easy! The recipient has made the decision to donate an easy one by telling you that this is what they want. Typically, in this situation, the recipient will request that you donate to their chosen charity. Simply donate and then give the recipient a card that shares that you donated. 

Recipient’s connection to the charity 

If you decide to donate on the recipient’s behalf without their direction, you will need to choose the right charity. For the donation to have meaning, you should choose a charity they actively support. Perhaps they regularly volunteer somewhere that you can donate to. Or there could be a cause that they are passionate about. Be careful when choosing, as supporting causes can be very personal. You don’t want to offend or insult the recipient by choosing the wrong charity.  In addition, many people think a charitable donation as a gift is the lazy way out because the giver doesn’t have to think about what gift to buy. Donating to a charity with which the recipient has a direct connection can help combat this. 

Consider still getting a token gift 

Try pairing your donation with the token gift. The majority of your gift-giving budget will go towards charitable donation. Then, use a small portion of your budget to buy a small token or symbolic gift. This approach alleviates the common disappointment felt when someone receives a “donated on your behalf” gift. 

Giving a small gift in addition to the donation can help overcome the common assumption that you are trying to be cheap. Many people assume that a donation gift means the giver didn’t want to spend any money on a gift, so they gave a few dollars to a charity. There is also the issue that the donation doesn’t directly benefit the recipient. A small gift can directly benefit the recipient in some way. 

Shop the charity 

Some charities understand that people want to support them but don’t want to just hand over money. To address this, they have online stores where you can buy items. Instead of donating as a gift, why not shop at the charity’s donation shop? This option benefits everyone: the charity receives support, and the recipient receives a present. 

Donate and give a gift 

Take the guesswork out of gift-giving when everyone has an online wish list. When your friends and family have online gift wish lists, you no longer struggle to choose the perfect gift. Anything can be added to the list, like items sold in a charity store. That way, you could support a recipient’s charity while giving them a present you know they’ll love. 

Make sharing your wish list easier with a virtual one by creating an account on giftster.com.

The post Is it okay to give a charitable donation as a gift on behalf of someone else? appeared first on Giftster and was written by Giftster.

Express your gratitude 

You should always show gratitude for the gifts you receive. Despite the disparity in gift values and the awkwardness you feel, it is important to say thank you. The gift giver obviously put considerable time, thought, and money into their gift. They will want to see that you appreciate the gift. Say thank you and try to acknowledge something about the gift that would have inspired the other person to buy it for you. 

Be direct about your discomfort 

If there is a large disparity between the gift values, then odds are the other person has also noticed it. Being direct about the issue can help address and alleviate the awkwardness. How you approach the topic will depend on what you feel comfortable with and your relationship with the other person. You could make a joke to bring some laughter to the issue. Or you can take a heartfelt approach. 

Avoid trying to one-up them

If you can’t afford to match the amount they spent on your gift, consider taking a different approach next time. Time spent and effort can be highly valued. Make them a custom gift if you have a crafty hobby. Prepare them a nice meal if you are a whizz in the kitchen. Because someone gives you an expensive gift doesn’t mean you need to match it in monetary value. And if it’s not in your budget it’s never a good idea to over-extend yourself to do so.

Consider returning the gift 

One option is to return the gift. If you don’t feel comfortable addressing the value issue or the gifter refuses to accept the gift back, returning it could be the best option. You might need to wait a bit for time to pass, and then you can quietly return the gift. If you don’t have a gift receipt, you may need to accept store credit. 

Suggest sharing wish lists for next time 

Sharing gift wishlists can take the guesswork out of gift-giving. By sharing with lists, you can set expectations about gift-giving before it’s time to make exchanges. This is also a good opportunity to open a conversation about expenditure expectations. Expensive doesn’t always mean better. Studies show that recipients appreciate gifts they requested more than thoughtful gifts that they never asked for. 

Happy gifting!

The post What do I do if someone gives me a more expensive gift than I gave them? appeared first on Giftster and was written by Giftster.

Hire a service to perform chores 

You can give the gift of time by having a professional take care of the chores that need to be done. That way, the recipient of your gift can have more free time to do the things they enjoy most. Most people won’t ask for this type of gift. So, you will need to pay attention to where they could use the most assistance. 

• Home cleaning 
• Car detailing 
• Lawn mowing 
• Home chef 
• Grocery delivery service 
• Laundry service 

With all of these services being home-based, you have the perfect opportunity to turn the gift-giving experience into an eventful one. Create a scavenger hunt that has the recipient looking for clues that will give them hints about their gift.

Classes to learn something new 

Some people value continued growth through new experiences. They appreciate learning new skills or developing their current ones. This type of gift is perfect for those who value experiences over stuff. 

• Art 
• Dancing 
• Cooking 

When giving a class experience as a present, you could keep the class itself a secret until it’s time to attend. Make plans with the recipient for the day and time of the class. Then, in the days leading up to it, you could send them videos or social media posts that would hint at what you two are going to be doing.

Tickets to an event 

If your intended recipient has a passion for the arts, music, or sports, then tickets to an event are the perfect gift. You could gift them a single ticket and buy yourself a paired ticket. That way, you and them can attend the event together. Another option is to give multiple tickets to the recipient. That way, they could choose who they attend the event with. 

• Concerts 
• Sporting events 
• Theater 

Even though the majority of event tickets are digital these days, you can still print them out or print the confirmation of purchase. Then, turn the gift into its own experience. Place the tickets in a box and wrap the box. Then, place the first box into a second and wrap the larger box. Continue this with as many boxes as you have or want to use. The recipient will have the fun of opening several presents all while building the anticipation.

Self-care/pampering services 

Give a gift that creates a relaxing and pampering experience for the recipient. A day of pampering lets them focus on themselves and their own mental and physical health. 

• Hair styling 
• Spa day and treatments 
• Manicure and pedicure 
• Day pass to a local resort or weekend away 

Because these experiences are all about self care, they are perfect for giving small token gifts that would complement the experience. That way, the recipient could continue the experience at home.

Unique experiences 

For the adventurous individual in your life, gift an experience that will take their breath away and get their heart racing. These unique gifts are the type of activities you would expect to see on someone’s bucket list. By purchasing a unique experience for them, you take away one of the barriers that may have prevented them from doing the activity. If you are brave, you can join them in the experience. 

• Sky diving 
• Zip lining 
• Hot air balloon ride 
• Race car driving 
• Boat day rental 

Gift an experience or time

We live busy lives and are constantly pulled in different directions. Instead of giving an item as a present, why not give the recipient the gift of time? These precious moments can help them relax, pursue passions, or make lasting memories. 

While you may want to give an experience or time, gift-giving isn’t about what you want. It is about what the recipient wants. Creating a Giftster wish list with friends and family is the easiest way to always give the perfect gift.

The post What are some creative ways to give the gift of time or experiences? appeared first on Giftster and was written by Giftster.

Timing is everything 

When you share your wish list with others, it will have a direct impact on how the other person receives it. There is an appropriate moment and an inappropriate time. For example, sharing a wish list before an upcoming birthday or holiday makes more sense than randomly doing it. One time feels relevant to current events, while the other feels like you are just asking for gifts. 

Another option is to wait for someone to ask you what you want or express frustration in knowing what to get. Waiting for the other person to bring up the topic avoids the suggestion of opportunitism. 

Express gratitude 

Before you share a wish list, express gratitude for any previous or future gifts the person gives. Try to explicitly mention a specific gift they gave you. Point out that they have given you wonderful gifts that you love. Your wish list isn’t because you have disliked previous gifts. Your wish list is merely a helpful guide to aid them. 

Include reciprocity

Talk about the idea of sharing wish lists. Discuss sharing or trading wish lists instead of just handing out your list. This focuses on everyone getting what they want, not just you. This is where Giftster can be useful. Everyone can make their own online wish list and share it. You can even set up a group for your family so when you log in you see everyone’s lists anytime you need an idea for them. 

Emphasize thoughtfulness  

When sharing your wishlist, point out the thoughtfulness or practicality of the items on your list. This will help highlight the fact that you are trying to be helpful by providing gift ideas that can bring value to your life. 

Share selectively

Consider who you should and should not share your wishlist with. Selectively sharing your wish list can help you avoid individuals who will not be receptive, no matter how it’s presented. Choose to share your wish list with people who will appreciate the guidance and understand the practicality of it. 

Respect boundaries 

It’s important to be respectful of others’ boundaries. Suggesting a wishlist could be helpful for some. For others, it could induce unnecessary social pressure and anxiety. For example, providing someone with a wishlist of expensive luxury goods would be unkind when you know they are experiencing financial constraints. 

Tactfully suggest a wish list 

Creating and sharing wishlists can be a helpful tool for ensuring everyone gets what they want. However, how you go about sharing your wishlist will significantly impact how it’s received. To avoid appearing greedy or opportunistic, express gratitude, highlight thoughtfulness, and respect others’ boundaries. Think about the other person before you share your wishlist. This will help you selectively share your list with those most likely to appreciate it and give you theirs. 

Make sharing your wish list easier with a virtual one by creating an account on giftster.com.

The post How can I tactfully suggest a wish list without sounding greedy? appeared first on Giftster and was written by Giftster.

Presentation matters 

Some cultures highly emphasize how you present and give a gift. In Japan, what the gift looks like matters, so you will want to put extra effort into the wrapping. In many Asian countries (China, Singapore, Taiwan, South Korea, and Japan), it is customary to refuse the gift before ultimately accepting it. This gesture shows you are humbled to receive their gift and did not expect it. Initial gift refusal is also customary in Russia. Only here, you should expect to leave the gift on the table when you leave. Most gifts aren’t opened in front of the giver. 

In Yemen and Saudi Arabia, it is a sign of respect for the recipient to inspect the gift closely. While we might find that off-putting in America, it is customary, and you should consider it a compliment.  

Know what hand to use 

Many East Asian countries expect you to use both hands when presenting your gift. In contrast, you should never use your left hand when gifting in India or the Middle East. 

Consider your relationship 

We have unspoken rules in America about what is and is not appropriate based on your relationship with the other person. Other cultures have their own version of these relationship gifting rules. For example, in China, it is common to give small gifts of appreciation for favors done. This can make gifting common. Yemen and Saudi Arabia are at the opposite end of the spectrum, with gifting only appropriate for very close relationships. Meanwhile, Russia is somewhere in the middle with the United States. Gifts should vary in value and extravagance based on your relationship with the other person. 

Avoid certain items 

Those who practice Judaism or who are Muslim wouldn’t appreciate pork or items depicting pigs. Muslims are also not allowed to drink alcohol, making this inappropriate. In many cultures worldwide, gifting a sharp object, like scissors or a knife, signals you want to end the relationship. Handkerchiefs are also potentially problematic, as they are associated with funerals in Japan and Italy. 

Look out for gift giving customs 

Learning about other cultures and customs encourages a deeper appreciation and closer relationship with others. It shows you took the time to learn because you care and prioritize your relationship with them. It also ensures you don’t want to unknowingly send the wrong message.

Embrace your differences. Who knows, you just might find yourself celebrating life’s many amazing moments in a new way too!

Happy gifting!

The post How do I navigate cultural differences when giving gifts? appeared first on Giftster and was written by Giftster.

Control your emotions 

One of the most common reasons for excessive shopping is an attempt to fulfill an emotional need. This could be unchecked feelings of desire, depression, greed, envy, or loneliness. Our cognitive ability declines when we are not in check with our emotions. You use This rational or logical part of your brain to make decisions. Without it, you are buying based on your emotions. 

Try to avoid online shopping when you are strongly feeling a particular emotion. You may want to take some time to recognize and acknowledge your emotions. You can then avoid excessive online shopping with a calm, clear head. For some, excessive online shopping is a symptom of deeper unresolved mental health issues. Speaking with a professional can provide the necessary help. 

Heuristics

On average, we make 33,000 to 35,000 decisions every day. For many of us, this leads to decision fatigue. Similar to our muscles becoming tired when we work out at the gym, our brains become tired from making an endless number of decisions. Our brains can process only so much information at a time and in a day. So, to cope with this, we unconsciously use heuristics, or mental shortcuts, to make decisions. It allows us to make decisions more quickly and efficiently. This process happens so quickly that you aren’t even aware you are doing it. Examples of heuristics when online shopping include: 

• Automatically repeatedly buying the same brand without comparing product quality. 
• Assuming a product is a good deal solely based on sale price. 
• Allowing marketing to influence how we perceive people who buy a particular product. 

It can be challenging to not go into autopilot mode when online shopping. However, there are some methods for reducing mental decision fatigue. With a refreshed mental state, you are better able to identify and avoid heuristics. Delegating some of the decision-making reduces your workload. Having your friends and family create Giftster wish list accounts eliminates the task of you having to find the perfect gift. Simply browse their wish list, choose an item, and make your purchase. You don’t have to worry about being distracted by other brands, products, or promotions. 

Disconnect from marketing

Companies have entire marketing teams that use data to perform detailed analytics on current and potential customers. They study psychology and human behavior. This information is used to create marketing campaigns that are incredibly effective at getting you to spend money. You will see this in your email inbox, social media, and texts. There are relationship-building, problem-solving, educational, and promotional campaigns. Most importantly, there is always call to action text telling you to do something. These tactics are incredibly effective at getting you to buy something. 

If you find yourself susceptible to this type of marketing, then it can motivate you to spend more and do online shopping more often. Disconnecting yourself from these marketing messages can help you reduce your online shopping. When you don’t see the constant reminders to “buy buy buy,” you are less likely to actively seek out online shopping opportunities. 

Set boundaries for shopping 

If you aren’t setting boundaries or following a system when shopping, you are more likely to spend and buy more. This is similar to people being more likely to spend more when using a credit card versus cash. There is a different mental process that you go through when spending money. Websites are designed to streamline the online shopping process, allowing you to make a few clicks and buy. This reduces the number of mental boundaries you go through when making a buying decision. 

Establish a set of shopping boundaries for yourself. Put the thought process and rational analysis back into your buying process. This mimics the calculation and thought process you go through when spending cash. Your buying rubric can be as simple or as complicated as you need. 

• Is the item something a gift receiver or I need or want? 
• Have I researched the item to compare features, quality, and price? 
• Do I or the gift receiver have space for the item at home? 
• Is the item within my budget? 

Delay your purchases 

If you find yourself impulse buying, you aren’t alone. The average American spends about $151 monthly on impulse purchases. While you feel good in the moment, it can lead to greater feelings of negativity later. Its potentially negative impact on your budget can lead to greater feelings of stress. 

One method for reducing impulse purchases is to follow a 24-hour rule. When you find something you want to buy, save it to your Giftster list for at least 24 hours before making your purchase. This creates a cooling-off period where you escape the feelings of urgency that can motivate you to buy. It also lets you step away from the moment and clearly consider whether your purchase is a “need” or a “want” decision. 

Reduce your excessive online shopping 

If you want to reduce your excessive online shopping habits, you must figure out what motivates your spending. It could be an emotional crutch, a habit, marketing-motivated, or simply too easy or impulsive. When you disconnect from marketing and set boundaries for your spending, you can regain control of your mindless or emotional shopping habits. 

Create a wishlist for yourself with items you see online and want to buy. Instead of impulsively buying, you can impulsively add items to your wishlist. Then, wait a day or two before committing to your purchase.

Sign up free on giftster.com and take a step toward reducing your frivolous online shopping. Who knows, maybe someone will gift you one of those items too!

The post How do I stop excessive online shopping? appeared first on Giftster and was written by Giftster.

Let’s first look at some of the ways families around the globe pay tribute to the remarkable women who’ve shaped our lives.

Mother’s Day traditions from around the world 

While Mother’s Day is a national holiday in the United States, it isn’t the only country that celebrates the holiday. Many countries throughout the world have their own traditions for how they recognize mothers. You could incorporate them into your traditions for a unique celebration. 

Mexico

Mother’s Day is one of the biggest and busiest holidays. The traditions are similar to those in the United States, with flowers and the importance of spending time with family. A unique tradition is mariachi bands performing Las Mañanitas. 

United Kingdom

In the UK, Mother’s Day is still tied to its religious roots, with it being held on the fourth Sunday of Lent. However, how people celebrate the day differs greatly from its origins. Some individuals may stick with the traditions by using the day to honor the Virgin Mary. Others choose to give their mother a simnel cake.

These are light fruit cakes that have layers of marzipan (shown above). Candy, cards, and flowers are also popular. 

Italy

In Italy, Mother’s Day is known as La Festa della Mamma. Mothers are pampered with a day of relaxation. They aren’t allowed to cook or do chores (sign me up for this!). Family members often give homemade gifts or fresh pastries. 

Australia

While giving flowers is a similar tradition, mothers in Australia specifically get chrysanthemums, or “mums” for short. Their popularity is because mothers in Australia are called “mum,” which mirrors the flower’s name. Other traditions mirror the traditions of the United States. 

History of Mother’s Day 

The Mother’s Day holiday didn’t start out with the same traditions and focus that we know today. Looking back into ancient history, the Greeks and Romans celebrated the mother goddesses Rhea and Cybele at annual festivals. In the 16th century, those living in the UK would participate in Mothering Sunday. It was held on the fourth Sunday of the Lent. The tradition was to visit your “mother church,” which was the church you were christened at or your nearest chapel or church. People would go a-mothering.

It was one of the few days during the year that servants would be given the entire day off. Children and families would join servants on their journey to their mother church. This eventually turned the day into an opportunity for family reunions. The focus shifted to individual family mothers rather than the church. 

Mother’s Day really began to take the form we know today in the United States. A woman named Anna Jarvis wanted to honor her mother’s work nursing soldiers during the Civil War by getting a day dedicated to honoring all mothers. Her definition of a mother was quite broad:

“…the person who has done more for you than anyone in the world.”

–Anna Jarvis

President Woodrow Wilson declared it a national holiday in 1914. Watch more about Anna Jarvis and the history of Mother’s Day in the U.S below.

Start new Mother’s Day traditions in your family

Honoring tradition is one way to celebrate Mother’s Day. However, it can feel a bit empty or impersonal if you don’t have a direct connection to the gifts or activities that you are doing. Instead, consider making it more meaningful to your family by starting new traditions.

How to create your own traditions

1. Reflect: Consider what makes you and your family’s relationship with your mom unique and special. Reflect on shared interests, memorable experiences, or meaningful activities you all might enjoy. This could be anything from cooking to playing sports, creating art, going out to eat, or traveling. 
2. Brainstorm: List out ideas for new traditions that resonate with your mom’s personality and preferences. Think outside the box and consider activities or rituals that are both meaningful and enjoyable for both of you.
3. Personalize: Add personal touches to make the tradition truly special. Consider incorporating elements that hold sentimental value, such as favorite foods, cherished memories, or symbolic gestures.
4. Plan: Once you have a few ideas, plan out the logistics of your new tradition. Decide on a specific activity or event, set a date and time, and make any necessary arrangements to ensure everything goes smoothly.

You could be the type of family that appreciates sticking with the familiar. Or your family could thrive on trying new things. You want something that can be a shared activity or thing that you can make memories and bond over. Don’t forget that the holiday is about mom, so your chosen tradition should be something she loves. 

Embracing all moms 

Modern families can take all forms, and with it, the image of a mom can come in many forms. It’s important to recognize all non-traditional moms who take on the role of providing unyielding love, guidance, and support. From the single moms to the stepmoms and the women who haven’t given birth but still take on the role for the children in their lives. Don’t be afraid to share your love and appreciation for all the mother-figures in your life.

Honoring mothers who have come before us 

While Mother’s Day can be a day filled with laughter and joy for some, it can also bring feelings of sadness for others. Our mothers are influential people who leave a lasting hole in our hearts when they pass away. This can make Mother’s Day especially difficult when we are reminded of the wonderful women who are no longer with us. 

Turn this potentially sad day into a touching one by celebrating and honoring the mothers who have come before us.

Thoughtful ways to celebrate a mother’s spirit

• Try lighting a candle with a scent that reminds you of her. Scent is a powerful tool for evoking memories.
• Reminisce by looking at pictures and videos.
• Write a letter to your mother where you share your thoughts, feelings, and what you have been up to over the last year.
• Spend the day doing your mom’s favorite activities. 
• Plan a celebration with your siblings
• Bake/cook her favorite foods
• Visit her final resting place with flowers or her favorite things

Start your Mother’s Day traditions  

There is a reason so many countries have similar traditions when it comes to celebrating and honoring mothers. Flowers, candy, cards, and jewelry are popular gifts. Acts of service are also popular, such as cooking, baking, or cleaning.

However, how you celebrate Mother’s Day can look very different from one family to the next. The goal is to celebrate the mom in your life with a kind gesture, gift, or activity that she will appreciate the most. 

If you need help with gift ideas for Mother’s Day, have mom make a giftster.com account. She can then create a wish list that gives you a roadmap to the gifts she wants the most. Remind her she can even just jot down “quality time with my family” or “dust the house” as an item on the list. With Giftster she can truly can add anything her heart desires.

The post What are some unique Mother’s Day traditions to honor mom? appeared first on Giftster and was written by Giftster.

Recognize milestones 

Long-distance relationships are hard work. They require more effort because you are physically unable to spend quality time together. This makes reaching relationship milestones that much more important. So celebrate even the smallest of milestones with a token gift. Little milestones only need a small gift, so don’t go all out for every milestone. Perhaps you send flowers, a coffee gift card, or arrange for dinner delivery.  

Create anticipation and excitement 

Part of gift giving when in a relationship is the experience you two have together when giving the gift. When you are in a long-distance relationship, you don’t have this. Instead, create anticipation and excitement leading up to your long-distance gift-giving. This helps build the experience and creates a stronger connection between you two. You could give hints or have them guess what the gift might be. Or you could mail several packages that have hints or parts of the gift that will arrive in the days leading up to the final gift. 

Properly time your gift 

Timing can be crucial when giving long-distance gifts. You want the gift to get to the recipient in time for the occasion that you are giving it for. For example, a birthday gift that arrives the day before or on the day of is more meaningful than one that arrives a week later. It shows you pay attention and prioritize your partner. Otherwise, it may seem like you forgot and rushed at the last minute to send something. 

Don’t skip wrapping 

You can and should wrap your gifts before you mail them. Yes, this is an extra step. However, it is one worth doing. When your partner opens their package, they still have a beautiful gift to unwrap. This helps to build anticipation a little more and make the gift feel more special. 

Share the experience virtually 

Once the gift is with the other person, arrange a time to open it together. That way, both of you can share in the excitement and experience of opening the gift. The giver can see the joy on the recipient’s face and the recipient can properly thank the giver. 

Become a pro at long-distance gift-giving 

Show the special person in your life that you care about them by mastering long-distance gift-giving etiquette. Don’t be afraid to celebrate milestones, build excitement, and share the experience of opening the gift with them virtually. Show them you care through your actions of properly timing your gift and wrapping it before packing it up to mail. 

Make long-distance gift-giving easier for both of you by signing up for Giftster (it’s totally free!). With online wishlists, you can easily see what the other person wants most. Then, secretly select an item from their list and give them the perfect gift. 

The post How do you give gifts in a long-distance relationship? appeared first on Giftster and was written by Giftster.

Start by thanking them

Before you say anything, genuinely thank them for their gift. Recognize their thought and the effort they put into it. You want them to know you appreciate them and are grateful, but the gift isn’t quite right for you.

Be honest

It can be tempting to sure and soften the blow or sugarcoat things by telling a white lie. Don’t do this, as it will only complicate the issue. The other person needs to know why the gift isn’t right so they don’t repeat the mistake with a future gift. Try to include something positive you like about the gift while explaining why it won’t work. Remind them how appreciative you are that they went out of their way to give you a gift.

Consider the relationship

How you handle returning the gift and speaking with the gifter will depend on your relationship with them. The closer you are, the more honest and upfront you can be with them. You know your friend, so approach the topic in a way that they will receive the best.

If you aren’t close or you’re worried they may take it the wrong way, it might be best to simply thank them and move on.

Consider the gift

You may not need to return the gift to the gifter at all. Check for a gift receipt. This signals that the gift giver knew you might not like the gift. They included the receipt so you could easily exchange it for a different size, color, or style. You could let the gifter know, but wait until you have the exchanged item.

Consider the time

If you decide to speak with the gifter, do it sooner rather than later. The more time that goes by, the harder the conversation will be. It doesn’t have to be in the moment of receiving the gift if you are in a group. Wait until you are in a quiet place to speak with the gifter privately.

If you don’t want to speak with your friend about the gift, consider waiting before passing the gift along. They may want/expect to see you wear/use the gift. You could do this a few times over the following weeks. Then, when they have moved on, you can quietly pass the gift to someone who would appreciate it more.

Artfully navigate returning a gift

Even the best of friends don’t get the perfect gift every time. Honesty is the best policy when you have a close and open relationship with your friend. Show gratitude for their gesture and then explain the gift isn’t a good fit.

Consider making a free friends wish list sharing group on giftster.com. You can create and view each other’s wish list at any time. That way, everyone can give a gift that is wanted or needed for any occasion. It just might be a subtle way to avoid tough gifting moments down the road!

Happy gifting!

The post How do I navigate returning a gift without hurting my friend’s feelings? appeared first on Giftster and was written by Giftster.