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takes can be avoided with an ounce or two of homework.
“Before you spend an afternoon and a lot of money shopping for someone, find out what they like and, more importantly, what they need at the time,” said Dersh. “Most people would rather receive a thoughtful $20 gift that they keep than a $200 gift that ends up in the back of their closet.”
She said sticking with themes is almost always a clever and appropriate idea.
“Theme gifts have also become very popular, particularly among couples that want to do something a little different,” said Dersh. “It doesn’t matter whether the person you’re shopping for is into cigars, golf, or chocolate, there are neat little gift packages you can build around that won’t offend anybody. They don’t have to cost a lot of money, either.”
Dersh said “Secret Santa” gifts at the office are also a slippery slope on the etiquette chart. She cited one recent example.
“I know one gentleman who drew his boss as a Secret Santa and, looking to impress him, went out and bought a $150 tie,” said Dersh. “Funnily enough, the boss drew the same employee and bought him a $10 gift. I guess the moral of the story is not to overdo it within the office, particularly in partytype settings where gifts are opened in front of large groups of people.”
Another touchy area involves gifts for the host of a holiday party. While showing up empty-handed is rarely a good idea, it’s also important to bring a gift that isn’t geared to one person in particular. For example, bringing a box of cigars when only one person in the house enjoys them probably isn’t appropriate.
“Hostess gifts are always good to keep on hand and can include things like rum cake, potpourri, or chocolates,” said Dersh. “Those are traditional gifts, but they’re usually pretty safe.”
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