One of the best thing about Christmas is the exchange of gifts but it can also lead to a few sticky situations. From re-gifting to gift receipts, today we explore gift giving etiquette.
The who
This should be pretty straightforward. Just listen to your heart. Give presents to close family, friends and anyone else you think deserves to have their day brightened up. In Malta it’s also customary to give little gifts to the postman, the Kappillan and to Joe from the grocery store amongst many others. There is a reason why the Maltese are known to be the most generous people on the planet.
The how much
Many say it’s the thought that counts. This is repeated over and over again only because it is true. Stop stressing about the monetary value of gifts. Give presents from the heart and try and find meaning in them rather than cost. Do not try and match the value of the gift you received last year and do not stress out too much if you have to deal with a budget. A pair of cow fuzzy slippers will make your best friend - who has this weird obsession with cows and finds them to be the cutest animal on earth - a lot more happy because it shows you listen and care.
The gift card/receipt
Many of us feel bad for giving gift cards as we see it as the easy way out but in reality there is nothing wrong with it. Make sure the gift card has a purpose. Friend just moved in a new place? Opt for a gift card from a home improvement store. Sister under a lot of stress? Why not give her a gift card to a spa? With regards to gift receipts, it is always best to include them just in case as it gives the receiver options.
The boss
Probably one of the most awkward things around the holiday season is the protocol of gifts and bosses. Your coworkers might see a personal gift to the boss as a way to get in the good books but if you have a friendly relationship with your boss it might make sense to give the gift outside the place of work to avoid any showing of favouritism. Of course the easiest way forward would be to make the gift to the boss a team effort where everyone pitches in and one gift is bought.
Finally, remember never re-gift and if you find yourself as the recipient of an unexpected gift just smile and say thank you.