Tip 1: Start early.
You know those people who are really great at gift giving? Who manage to strike the perfect balance of thoughtful, generous and chic? Who deliver beautifully wrapped goodies, complete with card, on the appropriate day?
We're about to teach you how to become one of them.
Let's face it... whether you’re searching online or decide to submit yourself to a gruelling session of shopping IRL, the options for gifts are endless, overwhelming, and usually not what you're after.
But becoming an amazing gift giver is not only possible, it's actually fun! Try these 7 tips to help you find gifts which will be cherished for years to come.
Tip 1: Start early
While it may seem like you’re jumping the gun by looking for presents a couple months prior to gift-giving day, brainstorming ideas as early as possible is the key to securing the perfect gift. Perhaps your recipient mentioned over dinner last week they’re hosting lunch for their in-laws at the end of the year; so, you decide to gift them with a fresh set of Tableware to dress their dining area with. If that's out of the budget but in the right realm, gift them some dining table accessories such as candles and coasters.
This will give you time to think, research and keep an eye out for the perfect item, rather than rushing around last minute and panic buying something that’s not quite right. Plus, starting early means you can take advantage of the upcoming sales season, too!
Tip 2: Pay attention
Taking time to pay attention to the needs of your loved ones will help you in finding the perfect gift. Often, people mention things they want or need in casual conversation, so make a habit of noting these down. Perhaps you're over for dinner and they don't have enough plates for everyone – take note. Perhaps you're down at the beach and see their towel is frayed or stained – take note. Not only will this make your shopping experience easier, it will help you settle on a gift that makes them feel seen and loved – what more could you want?
Tip 4: Practical gifts are always appreciated
It’s easy to get caught up in finding the latest and greatest item to gift someone with, but at the end of the day, receiving a gift which will be used regularly and make life somewhat easier is always appreciated. Take note of your recipients daily activities and any mentionings of items they have which might be worn out or coming to an end. Maybe they’ve mentioned their towels are starting to feel old and rough, so you gift them with a new set, or they complained of getting cold in the evenings so you find the perfect throw.
Tip 6: Look to the past
Stumped on finding something your recipient would like right now? Have a go at looking to the past. What did they love as a child? Where did they grow up? Find topics or items with sentimental value for the recipient – the extra thought and care will go a long way. Perhaps they grew up overseas, so a vibrant coffee table book on where they’re from, or a cookbook with recipes on their favourite dishes will make for a thoughtful and cherished gift.