Simple tips for memorable Christmas and New Year gifts

Hyderabad: There isn’t a person in this world who does not like to receive a gift. But giving a gift is much more than just handing someone a material object. It can be a way to strengthen relationships, especially when the gift is thoughtful and includes personal touches.

When done with care and creativity, gift-giving can be as rewarding for the giver as for the receiver. When wrapped with care, a gift can be a visual delight.

Need not be very expensive

A gift need not be very expensive. Creating a gift for someone using your own skills and talents makes it extra special. Whether you’re a painter, a poet, a baker or a babysitter, you will be giving a part of yourself.

What better way to show someone how much you care? Homemade speciality food items make great gifts for almost any occasion, and your receiver will find them much more meaningful than store-bought products.

Gifting rules

There are some gifting rules, though. Spend time really thinking about what makes the recipient of the gift special and unique. Consider their interests, hobbies, style, needs and happiest moments. By giving a person a gift that is tailored to them, you can actually strengthen your ties with them.

Giving a gift to a woman

Giving a gift to a woman is slightly more difficult. Take a good look at the home decor of the woman who will receive your gift. See if she decorates her rooms with angels, candles, family pictures, posters or art. Does she like cut glass or porcelain? The items a woman chooses for her home will give many clues as to what she would enjoy receiving.

Flowers and chocolates

When in doubt, you can always gift flowers and a box of chocolates or mithai. But do not give sweets to someone who has high blood sugar or is overweight.

Gift certificate

But when in doubt give a cash envelope or gift certificate. Many malls offer gift certificates that are convenient and easy to redeem. It may seem like a gift certificate is the easy way out but it isn’t. If you purchase a gift certificate from a store that offers gifts interesting to the woman in your life then you are doing her a huge favour. Not only will she get a great gift that interests her but she can choose something that she will actually use and enjoy.

Gifting disasters

Do not give her a home appliance on her birthday. Children too rather get a gift certificate from their favourite shop which they can redeem for toys and clothes rather than get a puzzle or game that they already have or get stuck with a T-shirt or dress which is two sizes too small. Vouchers to a beauty salon or spa can be appropriate to a woman close to you if she likes pampering beauty treatments but avoid presenting a membership to the local gym as she will feel that you think of her as overweight.

When it comes to giving, the old adage “it’s the thought that counts” really does hold true. If you create something personal and heartfelt, its meaning will surely come through. But remember-you simply cannot give someone a fabulous homemade gift using old and dusty wrapping paper. You can easily and quickly personalise the wrap as well as the gift. Create your own custom wrapping paper, gift bags, or even fancy boxes. You can also use and make unique gift toppers. So, next time you are giving a special gift, forgo the expensive store-bought wrap and try one of these. Use your creativity for the best possible effect. Add a handmade card or select one from your nearest card shop. Read the words carefully to see if they echo your sentiment.

A gift, if selected with care can be an endless delight to the recipient.