•5 min read

The Art of Giving: How to Present Gifts According to Etiquette

Choosing a gift is only half the success. The process of giving it is equally important. Rushed delivery, careless wrapping, or thoughtless words can ruin the impression.

Christmas gift-giving etiquette

Learn how to prepare a gift for handing in and give it beautifully according to etiquette.

Preparing for Presentation

The impression of a gift is determined by many factors. Before presenting it, consider the wrapping, card, and words to be said during the presentation.

Wrapping should be neat and suitable for the occasion, the character of the person, and your relationship with the recipient. For instance, choosing a flashy box with funny captions might not be appropriate for a business partner's gift.

Another crucial detail is attaching the signed card. It's best to write a few lines by hand. Even a short handwritten wish makes the gift more personal.

Some might consider cards old-fashioned, but they have their benefits.

  1. Sometimes it's easier to express emotions and feelings in writing.
  2. A card ensures that the gift stands out and helps the recipient remember who gave it.
  3. Many people keep cards as memories of pleasant events and joyful moments.

Prepare a speech in advance to avoid being at a loss during the presentation. Decide whether you'd prefer to offer a good wish, express gratitude, or recall a pleasant moment shared with the recipient. Keep it simple and sincere; brief remarks always resonate better than long stories or ambiguous jokes. Avoid mentioning problems to keep the festive mood intact.

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Always include the gift receipt to allow the recipient subtly exchange the present, for example, if it's the wrong color or size.

When and Where to Give Gifts

The choice of time and place greatly depends on the setting and occasion. Additionally, consider the nature of the gift, as some surprises are best given one-on-one.

Setting

The location often sets the tone for the celebration. Whether it's a home gathering, office party, or formal banquet, each requires a specific approach.

At a home party

At a home party, birthday, or Christmas, give the gift to the host upon arrival, or place in a designated area.

If the surprise is very personal and youā€™d rather not draw attention to it, pick a moment when you are alone with the recipient. This will save them from potential embarrassment or pressure from other guests.

In a public setting (school, work, etc.)

If gifting a present to someone individually, do so privately to avoid putting anyone in an awkward position. In the office, it might be best to wait until work hours end or during the official celebration.

However, if the gift is from the team, then public presentation is an essential part of the ritual, given in front of everyone. Usually, one or two delegates handle this, delivering the gift alongside a congratulatory speech.

Also Read:
Work Gift Etiquette: How to Give the Perfect Christmas Gift at Work
Read
Work Gift Etiquette: How to Give the Perfect Christmas Gift at Work

Occasion

Christmas is the tradition involving gifts placed under the tree. If celebrating on Christmas Eve, presents are opened after midnight, so no need to worry about timing or location.

Leaving gifts under the tree is handy if you play Secret Santa. This game involves anonymous gift exchanges, perfect when playing with family, friends, classmates, or colleagues.

Use the MySanta app to organize your gift exchange smoothly this Christmas. It offers features as follows:

  1. Unlimited participants. It's easy to join the game both online and offline.
  2. Quick draw. Pairs are matched in just seconds.
  3. Anonymous chat. Useful for confirming any gift details with the recipient.
  4. Wish lists. Minimize the chance of receiving an unwanted gift.
Try our MySanta app
You can create wishlists, add exclusions, and communicate with your gifree secretly. Moreover, there is an option to track gifts and ensure that everyone buys a present on time.
Start
Try our MySanta app

How to Present a Gift

How the gift is presented greatly influences its impact. Avoid rushing or being overly nervous. Even a modest surprise can bring joy when given with warmth.

In some cultures, it's significant with which hand you give a gift.

  1. In India and the Middle East, gifts are handed over with the right hand only, as the left is considered unclean.
  2. In Asia, including China, South Korea, and Japan, gifts are presented with both hands as a sign of respect and trust.
  3. In the US, gifts are often given with the left hand while the right is used for shaking hands.

Smile and make eye contact with the recipient. Avoiding eye contact may create awkwardness or confusion.

When presenting the gift, offer a few warm words. For example, "Happy Holidays, Mike! Wishing you the best. Hereā€™s a little gift from me." Keep it concise; not many enjoy long speeches.

Here's what to avoid when handing in your gift:

  1. Mentioning the price or the difficulty of finding the gift. Phrases like "It was really expensive" or "I barely found it, itā€™s the last one" can make the recipient uncomfortable.
  2. Over-excusing. "I didnā€™t know what to get you, so forgive me if it's not what you were expected" sets a negative tone and devalues your gesture.
  3. Giving unsolicited advice. Donā€™t rush to explain how to use the gift unless asked.

During the celebration, and afterward, refrain from pestering the recipient with, "Be honest, did you like what I chose?"

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If you're invited over and the host asks you to come without gifts, respect their request. Otherwise, you might put other guests, who didn't bring anything, in an awkward position.

How to Send a Gift to Someone Far Away

Even when loved ones are miles away, thereā€™s still a way to show you care. Hereā€™s how to deliver a gift:

Order from a marketplace. Choose a gift, pay for it, and send the recipient a pick-up code and location.

Use a delivery service or mail. Get your gift delivered to the recipient's doors. It's convenient and time-saving. Ensure secure packaging to prevent damage.

Send through friends or family. If someone you know is visiting the recipient, ask them to hand in the gift for you.

Also Read:
How to Send Your Secret Santa Gift Anonymously?
Read
How to Send Your Secret Santa Gift Anonymously?

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To avoid delivery hassles, consider a digital gift: an e-gift card, event ticket, or subscription to a useful online service.

How to Accept a Gift

Gift reception etiquette exists for recipients too. Itā€™s essential to show appreciation and make the gift-giver feel valued.

  1. Unwrap the present. This shows your interest and respect for the giver.
  2. Thank the giver. For instance, "I'm grateful for this gift" or "Thank you so much for this gift."
  3. Compliment the gift. Even if itā€™s not exactly your taste, highlight some positives. Criticizing or expressing disappointment is a bad tone.

During Christmas, it's customary to reciprocate gifts. If you know coworkers or friends plan to give you something, prepare to return the favor promptly. Donā€™t delay your reciprocation.

Conclusion

A gift is, above all, a warm sign of attention. The more natural and sincere your approach, the more enjoyable the moment is for both the recipient and you.

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