Tips On Gift-Giving Etiquette

May 31, 2023

Gift giving, at face value, seems like a simple endeavour, but many unspoken rules have to be considered when trying to find the perfect gift for a friend or loved one. Whether you're delivering Christmas presents or presenting someone with a sympathy gift, you should always consider whether your gift-giving method abides by the simple etiquette rules. 

This will help you avoid making your recipients feel uncomfortable, spending too much money and ensuring they know how much you've put into their gift.

In this article, we'll provide you with the best gift exchange etiquette tips so you can confidently give a gift.

7 Gift-Giving Rules To Master Gifting

Below are seven gift-giving rules you need to think about to offer the perfect gift-giving experience to your recipient:

1. Make Sure It's Occasion Appropriate

The most important thing to consider before scrolling through gift ideas is ensuring your gifts are occasion appropriate. While various gifts, like flowers, spa gift baskets, wine and chocolate, are perfect for all occasions, some events require a little more thought.

For example, if you're sending a gift basket for a baby shower, you might consider sending a baby-themed basket with toys, blankets, books and other mother and baby goodies over a bottle of wine.

Similarly, it's important to consider the occasion when sending a sympathy basket, as you won't want to offend your recipient or be insensitive to their feelings. Before you click add to cart, always consider whether your gift is perfect for the occasion, and if you have any doubts, it's always better to return to the drawing board!

2. Set a Clear Budget

While we all have the temptation to splash out on those we love occasionally, we should always stick to a designated budget. This is particularly important if you agree on a specific budget with your recipient if you’re exchanging gifts for the holidays or special events. Deviating from this might make your recipient feel bad about the amount they spent on their gift to you.

A gift basket is a great way to cram many items into a single gift, giving the illusion of splashing out while keeping to a budget. You can easily use a budget-friendly basket to pack all of your recipient's favourite treats like snacks, wine and other delicacies.

3. Tailor the Gift To Your Recipient's Interests

We all know the feeling of opening a present at Christmas only to be disappointed in knowing you'll never use your gift. Don't offer your loved one the same experience; instead, tailor their gift to their interests.

If you're giving a gift to a colleague you don't know very well, for example, consider thinking back to their daily routines and asking yourself what they usually eat and what they talk about in conversation. From this, you can usually pick up their basic interests and find a gift that makes their day.

Personalized gifts show that you've thought extensively about their interests and typically offer a more meaningful gift-giving experience. If you want to offer a personalized gift but don't have the time to take a trip to the store, why not use a gift basket?

At My Baskets, you'll find incredible baskets perfect for personalizing your recipient's interest. If you have a health nut in your inner circle, you can buy a gift basket full of healthy treats. Or, if you have a friend that loves gourmet food, why not give them a charcuterie board-themed basket? Personalizing a gift basket is easy, so consider sending one now!

4. Always Prioritize Good Presentation 

No one wants to receive a gift that looks like it's been kicked around a soccer field, so always think about the presentation. Your recipient will decide whether you've put time and effort into their gift in the first few seconds of receiving their gift, so if your presentation isn't up to scratch, they might get the wrong idea.

If you're wrapping a gift in traditional wrapping paper, ensure that you give yourself enough time to wrap it neatly, using enough paper to conceal the entire gift. Don't overuse tape, as this looks untidy and makes it harder for your recipient to open their gift.

If you're sending a gift basket, the finishing touches count! Consider using cellophane and a classic ribbon to give your basket a professional look, and ensure that your wrapping provides structural support for the contents of your basket.

Suppose you don't have time to think extensively about your gift wrapping; in that case, trust My Baskets. Each of our gift baskets is meticulously wrapped and presented with a stunning bow, giving your gift basket that professional, classic look.

5. Give Your Gift On Time

Running late for anything is never a good look, but when it comes to gift-giving, it's essential to avoid delay! Whether you're sending birthday gifts or a colleague a retirement gift basket, giving a gift on time shows that you care. However, we know that sometimes life gets in the way of punctuality.

Consider planning your gifts at least a few weeks ahead to avoid this. This will help you account for any shipping delays and ensure that you're prepared to give a gift that matters by the time the big day comes around. If you're sending a last-minute gift in Toronto, why not use a gift-giving service like My Baskets? With same-day delivery, you can put a smile on a loved one's face immediately, making belated gift-giving a thing of the past!

6. Include a Gift Receipt 

You won't always hit the target when giving a gift, which is fine! However, it's important to provide a gift receipt with your gift so your recipient can easily exchange it for a gift they'll love. 

This is especially important if you're gifting clothes, shoes, electronics or any other gift that depends almost entirely on your recipient's tastes. Even good gifts can miss the mark, so don't feel defeated if your recipient has to return a gift; it's the thought that counts!

7. Include a Gift Card

Sending a gift via a courier service? Always include a gift card! Gift cards might seem confined to bouquets, but it's important to add a little extra personalization to your gift, especially if you're not delivering it. With a gift card, you can add a heartfelt message and show someone you're thinking of them when they open their gift.

With a gift basket from My Baskets, you can easily add a personalized message with a customizable gift card available with each of our baskets!

Show Someone You Care With a Stunning Gift Basket From My Baskets 

Cover all the etiquette bases and more when you shop for a beautiful gift from My Baskets. At My Baskets, we consider your recipient's experience and ensure you can offer a thoughtful, personalized gift that shows someone you care, even if you're not delivering it.

With same-day delivery in Toronto and free shipping on orders over $100, it's never been easier to put a smile on someone's face. Shop online at My Baskets today, and let us handle your gift-giving etiquette!

Also in Greeting Card Messages