If you’re looking to buy a present for someone this holiday season, there are some things you should keep in mind. There are various gift guides out there that can help guide your choices and make sure you pick the right thing. However, with so many options out there, it can be hard to choose what is actually the best gift.
For those of us who have been around the block a few times, we know where most people go wrong when choosing gifts. Here are eight tips that will help ensure that you get the perfect gift or two.
1. Ask for Input
When you want to get a good idea about what to get someone, talk to them first. You don’t need to ask every single person in your life what they would like for Christmas, but you do need to find out if they have any specific requests. If not, then you can just go ahead and choose something on your own.
Even though you may already have an idea of what might be appropriate for your friend, co-worker, or family member, it never hurts to ask their opinion. In fact, asking for input can also help alleviate some stress from your end. It’s always nice to give someone something they asked for specifically rather than having to think up a random idea on your own.
2. Don’t Forget about Food
Food is something everyone loves at this time of year. We all love eating and talking about food, which makes it a great choice as a gift. If you see someone has a favorite restaurant or someone who likes cooking, then consider giving a gift card to the establishment or letting them cook themselves dinner one night. This will not only show them how much you care, but it will also allow them to enjoy a special meal together.
3. Choose Something Personalized
People tend to get really excited about anything personalized, whether it’s a picture frame or even a mug. This is because it shows that you took the extra effort to pick out something unique and personal. Plus, people tend to appreciate anything given by someone who took the time to put thought into the gift.
You could also consider making something yourself. Many items, such as mugs, key chains, etc., can be made easily and inexpensively. Not only does this save you money, but it also gives you the satisfaction of knowing that you did it yourself.
A person can choose personalized gifts. They are a good option as people will get the idea as other people have concern for them.
4. Consider Buying Online
Buying online can be a lot more convenient than going to a store. While you don’t have to wait in line, you still need to drive somewhere and walk around looking for a particular item. Buying online means you just have to open your computer and click, which is easier and quicker than driving somewhere and searching for something.
5. Give Them What They Want
What better way to make someone happy than to give them exactly what they wanted? Sometimes, people don’t realize what they want until after they receive a gift that doesn’t fit what they were expecting. This can lead to disappointment or even anger, neither of which serves anyone well.
Make sure you take the time to look through their wish list to see what they might like before you go shopping. Then, you can focus on getting them what they want instead of trying to guess what they want.
6. Look Through Their Social Media Accounts
Social media is another great tool for finding out what someone wants or needs. People post pictures of their families, pets, and other fun things on their social media accounts. By doing a quick search, you can quickly learn a whole lot about what kind of gift would be appreciated by the person receiving it.
7. Keep Costs Realistic
One of the biggest mistakes people make when buying gifts is overspending. As mentioned above, it’s easy to want to throw money at the problem, but that usually leads to overspending. When you spend $50 on a gift, you only have to pay half of it back. That leaves you with a $25 gift left over, which feels pretty good. The same goes for expensive gifts. People get excited about expensive presents, but they never seem to use them, so you end up spending money you’ll probably never get back.
Try to stick within the budget you have set, especially during the holidays. You don’t want to end up with anything left to buy a new pair of shoes.
8. Get Specific
We all know that “something” works. For instance, if you tell someone that you got them a teddy bear, they probably expect a stuffed animal. However, this isn’t always the case. Someone may prefer a picture frame, for example. Instead of picking out a generic gift, try to figure out what the recipient actually wants. Then, purchase something based on that information.
It takes time to narrow down gift ideas, but it’s worth it in the end. Make sure you find something fun and unique that fits their personality.
These tips should help you find the perfect gift or two for the people in your life this holiday season. Good luck and merry Christmas!
