Gift Etiquette

Get Gift Tips & Strategies to Ensure you Give the Proper Gift at Every Occasion!

Whether it’s your best friend’s birthday, a graduation gift, or an anniversary for your parents, finding the right gift can be a mind-boggling affair. While there are plenty of options to find a present online, there’s almost too much to choose from. Besides, just figuring out how much to spend creates some stress of its own! If you’re in need of some gift tips and strategies, brush up on the basics with the following guidelines for gift etiquette:

Weddings and Engagement Party Gifts

When you’ve just received a wedding announcement, be sure to scan it for any indication of a wedding registry. This will help you figure out what type of budget is expected, and you can usually pick and choose from a variety of items that the happy couple has listed. If you don’t see something in your own budget, look for items that are similar in quality and style, but maybe don’t carry that hefty price tag. One gift is all that’s required for most gift-giving situations at weddings, unless you’re super-close to the couple and want to give more. For engagement parties, $35-$50 should suffice; wedding gifts can range from $50-$100+.

Baby Shower Gifts

Your neighbor just announced the arrival of yet another tike to the family, and now it’s time to make the purchase. Check with the new mom to see if there’s anything in particular they need, as it can be helpful to find a truly useful gift idea instead of another luxury item. Most new parents are on tight budgets, and you can relieve the pressure if you simply ask first! Plan to spend around $30-$50 for baby shower gifts; this might include a new set of baby clothes, a scrapbook or family album, or even some toddler toys. Gift certificates to a baby clothing store also work well.

Graduation Gifts

High school and college graduation gifts usually require a little creativity. Tap into the inspirational book section and look for signature mugs or office supplies. An engraved bookmark, set of motivational books, and a nice card are usually the standard: average price to spend would be between $25-$40.

Hostess Gifts

This is a European tradition that still makes its way to parties and events in the U.S. today. If you’re thinking of giving a hostess gift for attending a party, your best bet is something gourmet; think truffles or chocolate, an attractive potted plant, or some boxed stationery. Hostess gifts are a simple way of saying “thanks” for your invitation to the event. Plan to spend about $15-$25 for one of these.

Sympathy Gifts

When your best friend’s close relative passes away, a small gift with a heartfelt message can go a long way. Small bouquets of flowers with a card, a cheerful box of notecards or stationery, or even a homemade gift are simple ways to show you care. Plan to spend about $10-$20 on something from your local boutique.

Finding the right gift for a special occasion takes time and creativity; make your gesture truly unique by planning ahead. As the old adage goes, it’s the thought that counts!

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Article Written by: Sabah Karimi; Sabah writes on style, beauty, fashion, and trends for DivaVillage. You can usually find her scooping up the latest gifts and accessories from the downtown boutique.