The Art of Gift Giving

Gift giving occurs throughout the year. There are many public and personal events we celebrate. A number of these occasions are marked as gift giving opportunities.

Most of us do not think of gift giving as an art. But, it is. When we choose a gift for someone, we usually put a lot of thought into it. We want it to be something special, something that the recipient may not pick out for themselves. Or, it can be something they want but they think it is too extravagant to buy for themselves. Or, it can be something we make ourselves.

When we choose gifts for a particular person, it is usually an expression of our love, or friendship, or thanks to the recipient. They are also gifts to celebrate a special occasion or to acknowledge a personal or business relationship. Sometimes, the reason for a gift is "just because." Whatever the reason, the gift is genuinely from the heart and is meaningful whether it is purchased or created by our own hands.

The art of gift giving is in how the gift is selected. The best gift is one that the recipient will remember and should evoke an emotional response. The type ofgift we give is based on the occasion and the relationship we have with the recipients.

Gifts should be given based on the occasion and they type of relationship you have with the recipient. This means that you should know something about the person to whom you are giving the gift. If the recipient is on a diet, you do not want to give this person a box of chocolates.

When you know something about the person to whom you are giving the gift it will reflect their tastes and preferences. Your gift selection will be based on the "Wow, when I saw this, I immediately thought about you."

The art of gift giving means that the gift is given with no thought of getting one in return. There are times when "just because" gifts are appropriate. If a friend or loved one loses someone or is going through a tough emotional time, a small gift to show you care is appropriate and your thoughtfulness will always be remembered. If you and your friend share a common goal, you may want to give a gift that will be symbolic of your journey.

Gifts do not have to be expensive. If you have a budget for gifts, keep it in mind. There are sales all year-long at department stores and gift shops on the Internet. Look for these specials and determine if that Wow gift is available within your budget. Buy it and put it away until you plan to give it.

The art of gift giving means that the gift you present to the recipient is something that is pleasing and satisfies them in some way. It also is a message to the recipient. Giving a gift of tools or appliances on an anniversary or birthday does not exactly convey a special thought, unless the recipient requested it. Make these types of occasions special with gifts you have found that ideally fit the person for whom it is intended.

Presentation is important when giving your gift. There are many innovative ways to package your gifts. You can use plain or fancy gift wraps. You can create your own personal signature gift wrap by using a special paper in a specific color with a specific type of bow or ribbon. Personalize the gift with a handwritten note.

The art of gift giving means that you know the person for whom the gift is intended. You made a conscientious effort to select that something special for the recipient. You may shop at sales for the gifts you give, but you do not just pick up anything. Surprising the recipient adds to the Wow factor. Giving a gift "just because" makes the gift even more special.

When you practice the art of gift giving, you will be as satisfied with the gift that you give as the recipient who receives it.