The Art of Gifting: Gift it With a Little Thought

How happy do you feel when someone gives you a gift that you always wanted? Gifting someone their favourite thing is not an easy task. There are times when one can gift a thing that is of no use for the receiver.

There are cigars handed to people who don't smoke, DVDs sent to people who don't own DVD players, and basketfuls of luscious sweets presented to diabetics. And woe to the recipient of a fancy bottle of exotic perfume... who suffers from multiple chemical sensitivities.

From choosing the right gift to selecting the appropriate wrapper, there's an art to giving a gift. Hear from the pros on how to do it with flair....

Tailor your gift:

Don't buy a gift that you like and think they'll like or a gift you think they need, but have never expressed a need for. Instead, match the person to the gift. This might take a bit of research.

Pay attention to what the giftee does:

Do they play sports, enjoy games, like good food and wine, always wear fabulous shoes? Listen closely for hints. These can lead to clues of what and where to buy them a gift this season, whether it be a beaded turquoise necklace, a pink cashmere hoodie, or anything to do with golf. If you're completely clueless, but can't show up at the party empty-handed, then consider a gift card. Play sleuth and learn the recipient's likes and dislikes. What are they interested in? Their hobbies? Favourite colours? Brands? Do they value helping a good cause? Do they have a pet? Don't just ask them if they like chocolate; ask if they like milk, dark, bittersweet or white chocolate! Get the details.

What if you don't know the recipient?

Shopping for acquaintances and co-workers can be challenging. If you don't know someone very well, consider something that's practical. Everyone will enjoy a gift they can really use, like tickets to a nearby movie theatre or a gift card to a favourite coffee house, and tell them, 'Thanks a-latte!' Gift a petro-card and say, 'Drive around this holiday!' Even if you just know they have kids, that means they'll love a family game, new video or something they can do together.

Consider an 'experiential' present:

Does your friend or family member already 'have it all'? Then experiential gifts is the thing for them. These include adrenaline-pumping adventure activities such as bungee-jumping for a day or riding a racing car. Other gifts can include customised in-home entertainment, like a sommelier evening, a personal chef providing a week of customised meals, or even a customised cooking lesson with an acclaimed chef.

Wrap presents with flair:

For an outdoorsy look, wrap , gifts in brown paper and tie with jute or raffia ribbon in green, then add colourful leaves and a pine cone as the centre 'bow'. For sparkle and shine, choose metallic paper in gold or silver. Tie with a coordinating ribbon and then spray the paper with hairspray and sprinkle on little bits of coloured confetti or glitter. For winter glitz, wrap the gift in blue paper, tie with white ribbon with a bow on top, and then add large paper cut-outs of snowflakes to the end of the ribbon and a few decorations lightly glued to the package. Add a card written in silver ink.

Wrappers can be unconventional, too. Remember a personal note. The handwritten note adds a nice touch to any gift. Those deserving a note of thanks include anyone who's given you advice, their time, or a helping hand this year.

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