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For some of us, we were born to shop and we have a true knack for always buying the right gift. Then there are the rest of us. Everyone has those people on the list who are just 'impossible.' But are they really? First of all you have to have a list. The biggest way to overspend is to not have a list of recipients and a budget before you hit the pavement. To get you thinking about gift ideas, here are a few rules of the road for that special someone in your life.
For Her:
1. Do not buy her something practical unless she has specifically asked for it. However, if she did, make sure you know exactly what she wants. A blender is not a blender is not a blender.
2. Clothing: You can go sooo wrong with this. Be careful. Know her size and know her style.
3. Gift Certificates: While this is an easy fix to a big problem, it can scream I don't know what else to buy you.
o Do not buy a gift certificate to the mall or department store.
o Use the same philosophy with gift certificates as with gifts. Know the person's style. If she loves DIY, then try a gift certificate for lessons (pottery class, art lessons, even DIY home improvement if she is in to that). If she needs to relax and unwind, gift certificates to a spa are a great idea.
o Now, you have the gift certificate and you put a lot of thought into so don't blow it on the packaging. A plain white or store envelope is not the way to go. Package it with a product from the store (i.e. aromatherapy if doing the spa idea) or her favorite wine, chocolates, etc.
Remember that just because it is a gift certificate, does not mean it should not be treated like any other gift.
4. And here is the big one: Buy what she likes not what you like!
For Him:
1. Practical works for men but only if it is something he wants, not something you think he should have to do a chore on the "to do" list.
2. Clothing: Same rule applies for men as for women. Know his size and his style. Now some of you are reading this and saying but I don't like what he wears. This is not the time to reform him. If you don't like what he wears then don't buy him clothing for the holidays OR buy him a gift certificate for a personal shopper that he can use in any manner he wants.
3. Gift Certificates: For men, you need to be specific. Many women don't mind shopping but most men do. Gift certificates to internet vendors that he frequents are good. Mall gift certificates are not. And again, follow the simple rules for packaging the gift certificate. Don't use the plain white or store envelope.
4. And now the big one: Sports/Hobby equipment or Electronics. If you are going to buy your guy something to accentuate his hobbies or activities then make sure that is what it actually does. If he is a sports enthusiast then he most likely has brands or styles of equipment that he prefers. Talk to his sports buddies or check out sports experts online before buying him something he doesn't want or need. Use the same philosophy when buying electronics. Research what is best for his needs and buy the best you can afford in your price range. If you know he wants a specific product and it is out of your budget, do not buy second best. Choose another idea.
For the one who has it all: The BusyB Herself will tell you that you have to work pretty hard to find her someone who truly has it all and for whom she can't find a creative gift. However, if you have someone who does not need nor want, try something different. There are a multitude of charitable organizations out there who do want and need. Think about his/her passions. For example: if he/she is really into animals then make a donation to the local shelter on his/her behalf and then package it with the donation letter as well as something from the organization or a magazine/book on the subject.
Happy Shopping! Remember, if you can't do it, don't want to do it or don't think you are going to get it right, call in a personal shopper.
Indra A Books, author of this and many other lifestyle articles, is the owner and founder of ON THE GO 4 U, Personal Shoppers & Concierge Service in the Washington DC metropolitan area. The company’s creed is to provide its clients with the ultimate life management experience. In addition to its shopping and concierge services, ON THE GO 4 U also publishes a monthly e-zine and conducts workshops on wardrobe, entertaining and decorating. For more information about the author and ON THE GO 4 U, please visit http://www.onthego4u.net
© 2005 Indra A Books for ON THE GO 4 U
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