Your Guide to Better Gift Giving

As a mother, daughter, sister and friend I find myself buying gifts for some occasion almost on a monthly basis.  And quite often it causes me more stress than it should.  I like to give special and meaningful gifts to my loved ones.  I dread seeing that look of “what I am going to use this for ?” on their face.  Here a few tips to hone in on just what to get that special someone the next time gift buying turmoil sets in for you.

1. Forget your preferences.  It is easy to get sidetracked by your own tastes when shopping for others.  But remember who you are shopping for.  Although you might think that bold colored wrap is to die for, your sister who is partial to neutral tones probably won’t.
2. Go local.  If you are in an area with a distinct local history or charm, consider sending a piece of your hometown to loved ones that don’t live near you.
3.  Plan ahead.  Keep an eye out throughout the year for the people closest to you.  If you see the perfect vase for your mother in July, go ahead and buy it even if here birthday isn’t until November.  Shopping in this manner will help you avoid that last minute bolt to the mall when you realize that time of year has crept up on you yet again.
4. Share the credit.  Consider going in on a large gift with a few other people.  This might enable you to get them something they really want that you might not have been able to afford otherwise.
5. Give the gift that keeps on giving.  If your loved one had a great passion for something, consider a monthly gift club.  For instance, if your girlfriend is a chocoholic then sign here up for the chocolate of the month club.  She will have a different, amazing chocolate selection sent her each month for as many months as you choose.  Check out www.amazingclubs.com for some unique ideas.