Is there such a thing as gift giving etiquette? Of course!
There are quite a few DOs and DON'Ts of gift giving. Remember,
though, that each situation will be a little different from the
next, just as individuals differ from each other. We've done a
little research to provide a basic gift giving guide. These
aren't set in stone, but they should give you a good idea about
how to approach gift giving in most situations.
GIFT GIVING ETIQUETTE
Dinner or Party Invitation?
When someone invites you over for a "get together", you'll want
to bring a small gift to show your appreciation for the
invitation. This could include a candle, flowers, or a bottle of
wine.
"Please, No Gifts"
If you've been invited to a birthday party, graduation party,
anniversary celebration, wedding, or any gift giving occasion
and the invitation specifically reads: "No Gifts, Please", then
it is appropriate to respect that request. If you feel that you
must bring "something", try a card or some other very small
sentiment.
Is money an appropriate gift?
It is appropriate to give money in a few (sparse) situations,
like when a teen-ager asks for it. But try to avoid giving
money. It's more thoughtful to give a gift certificate or gift
card, but only if you take the time to consider the the
appropriate store or restaurant. Pick something that will be
enjoyable and/or useful for the gift recipient.
Other Gift Giving Hints
- Don't give loud toys to children
- Don't give things that YOU want
- Always try to wrap a gift. If you don't have the time or
talent to make it look nice, spend a dollar on a gift bag and
some tissue paper.
- Include a card with your gift, and actually write a personal
note in it
- Don't re-gift a present that you have been given unless a) it
is still in it's original packaging, b) it's appropriate for the
next recipient, and c) the re-gifting will NOT be discovered (by
the original giver or the new recipient)
- Always get a gift for a wedding, even if you can't attend
(unless "no gifts" were requested)
- Always bring a gift to a shower, but don't feel obligated to
do so if you aren't able to attend
Business Gift Giving
Business gifts are appropriate in the following situations:
- Close of a business deal (beware of international etiquette)
- Group gifts for a retirement, serious illness, or other
momentous occasion
- Holidays (like a Secret Santa or grab bag)
In a business situation, don't give gifts that are:
- Personal in nature (perfume, red roses, etc.)
- Only from you (give outside of the office in this situation)
- In violation of company policy (check your company guidelines)
- Not considerate of a person's culture, diet, environment, etc.
GIFT RECEIVING ETIQUETTE
When you receive a gift, no matter what you think of it, say
"Thank you". Accept any gift politely and remember that it's a
GIFT that was not necessary.
Thank You Notes
"Thank You" notes are highly regarded in the gift giving
etiquette world. They are particularly common after a bridal
shower, baby shower, or wedding. However, if you opened your
gift in front of the giver when it was given, then a "Thank You"
note isn't absolutely necessary, although it is still
appropriate. "Thank You" notes don't have to be completely
formal, either. The importance is in the sentiment.
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