The Art of Gift Giving: How to Give a Gift That Will Be Cherished

For many, the idea of giving a gift creates a feeling of dread. Perhaps all too often your gifts have been met with a less-than-enthusiastic response. With a growing reputation for bad gift giving, the task becomes just that - a job to accomplish. Many givers stop considering what their loved ones even want and give presents instead that are easy to come by. Being a good gift giver may seem like an art, but it's actually a talent that can be easily nurtured. And believe it or not, gift giving can be fun!

How to give great gifts:

1. Brainstorm. Take a pencil and piece of paper in hand. Sit down and consider the lifestyle and interests of the recipient. Is the person an outdoorsy-active type or does she prefer to be curled up with a good book? What types of foods do they enjoy? Write down any hobbies or interests. For the health-nut, maybe a subscription to a magazine or cooking class would be in order. Think tickets to a sporting event for the sport's lover or a manicure for a busy mom. Imagine what activities the recipient might most enjoy but hasn't had time to pursue.

2. Keep a journal or notebook with a running list of gift ideas for close friends and family. If a family member mentions something they would like to have, write it down. When a birthday or other event rolls around, consult the notebook before choosing a gift. This will also allow you to comparison shop throughout the year for the best deals.

3. Do some research. Talk to the recipient's friends and family for ideas. This is especially useful when giving gifts to children. Consult the parents first in regards to a child's interests and hobbies. They may be able to provide some insight that will lead to finding a unique gift. Also, pay attention to the person's style of dress, jewelry preferences and other details that might provide additional ideas.

4. Give an experience instead of things. Many of us already feel we have enough gadgets and widgets to last a lifetime. What really excites some people is the gift of a memory. This is especially true for older adults who may have all they will ever need in worldly possessions. What they might really enjoy is your time, which is one of the greatest gifts we can give one another. Consider planning a special dinner with family at a local restaurant, tickets to the theater, or another event that brings people together.

5. Pick a hobby or area of interest. Pulling from the first idea, zero in on a person's special hobby. Do they love to garden? Are they crazy about jazz? Is coffee or wine at the top of their list? Do they pine for shoes or handbags? Everyone has interests that can provide a wealth of ideas when it comes to gift giving. In fact, you could assemble a basket full of items related to a person's hobbies. For instance, garden lovers welcome gifts such as gardening supplies, seed packets, books, and other items to assist them in their pursuits.

6. Don't forget the simple things. In a tech-crazy world, sometimes the simplest gifts are the nicest. What kid can resist a set of Lincoln Logs or an art set? Or go with a practical gift such as a household item that the recipient could use.

7. You can never go wrong with jewelry. Women especially appreciate the gift of jewelry. Think of personalizing the gift, such as a necklace with the recipient's birthstone or birthstones of her children. A lovely charm bracelet from a friend can serve as a treasured possession for years to come. Choose an item that represents a significant relationship or memory. Jewelry is a gift that never goes out of style.

8. Have fun. In nurturing gift-giving abilities, it will seem less like an obligatory effort and more like a privilege to celebrate the loved ones in your life. Whether spending a little or a lot, giving the perfect gift shows people how much they are treasured.

About the Author

Lewis Jewelers is proud to carry the full line of Pandora Jewelry. Pandora bracelets, Pandora charms, and Pandora beads are only a part of the collection. For more information, Lewis Jewelers, 2000 West Stadium Blvd., Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48103, 877-88-LEWIS or visit the website.

Article Info