Five Christmas Gift Mistakes to Avoid!

Nobody should ever roll their eyes when they open a bad gift. If they did, they shouldn't be receiving any gifts to begin with, as they know nothing of simple gratitude. But you have to admit there is a feeling of disappointment when you peel away that pretty, sparkly wrapping paper to reveal... another candle holder. You don't know how to react. If this were a Secret Santa Exchange, the scenario might be a bit more understanding but in any situation where you know who will be receiving this gift there is no excuse for such thoughtless gift giving.

Rather than trying to explain what the characteristics of a good gifts are, I'll cover the 5 most common gift giving mistakes. You can make your own shopping decisions from there.

Food Gifts

Nothing says 'I didn't know what else to get you' or 'Hey! At least I remembered to get you something' like a fruit basket, popcorn tin, or anything of this nature. There can be some loose exceptions here. For example, my family has a tradition of sending around boxes of chocolates because the brand name is the same as our last name. Although my last name has been changed, I still feel special to receive this traditional box of chocolates.

It doesn't have to be a tradition to be okay to send out a box of chocolates or food basket that you know somebody will enjoy. However, for many family members you have to remember to include a personal touch to ensure that this gift was specially chosen for them.

One other exception to this rule are homemade recipe-in-a-jar gifts. Not only are these more affordable gifts to give to (nearly) everyone on your shopping list, but you can creatively personalize each one from the contents to the card. (For Recipe Ideas for Gifts In a Jar, read this article!)

Clothes

This bad gift idea isn't solely based on the nightmare homemade sweater with the reindeer or Christmas tree on the front. The idea of those gifts have been humorous because it is a bad idea to give a gift that nobody will ever (willingly) use... but you wouldn't want to make this nightmare a reality would you?

The reason you should avoid giving clothes for Christmas is similar. You may give something that is not as ugly as the fictionalized Christmas sweater, but it may not be the right size or taste of the recipient.

Of course this rule is flexible, in the case of children or close family in your home that you know the right size. Be forewarned that with teenagers you are much safer giving a gift card to their favorite store and letting them pick out their own outfits.

Something You Want

This mistake is very loosely based on personal experience. Boyfriends, husbands... shopping isn't your thing and shopping for your girlfriend or wife is apparently even harder. If you need our help, feel free to ask! Don't assume that because you want a new Dewalt 18v cordless drill, we do too. This may be an over-exaggerated example of 'self focused' gift shopping... it is a reminder to consider the desires of the gift recipient and not your own desires.

An Un-Educated Guess to Maintain an Element of Surprise

Since I already picked on boyfriends and husbands... I'll use the wives and girlfriends in this example. We have the right idea when it comes to thinking "what does this person enjoy?" However, even if we have the right idea, we should not guess. For example, let's say you are trying to pick out a new gun for your husband because you know he loves to hunt. This is a great idea to surprise him with! What if he hasn't dropped any hints about wanting a specific new gun. How can you choose one without alerting him to the surprise?

Show an interest. Learn about it. Find out what he prefers. Does he prefer a shotgun or a rifle? Is there a certain brand? What about the action, some people have a preference there as well. Chances are your husband would be pleased that you were thinking of him if you gave him a 20 gauge Remington, but might not ever use it because it is a 20 gauge. Avoid that mistake by, even if only temporarily, developing an interest to educate yourself in the field of interest of the gift recipient. If you are worried about him figuring out your motive, then talk to somebody else who shares the same interests. Read about it. If nothing else, you may understand the difference between a 12 gauge and a 20 gauge and better understand what your husband would appreciate.

Knick Knacks

Dollar stores are absolutely wonderful for last minute shoppers and those on a budget. In fact, knick knacks can be appropriate if it is thoughtful. For example, if somebody on your list loves angels, pick up a set of angel knick knacks at a dollar store to save money. While you're there, you may find a porcelain robin that would be perfect for your aunt who loves bird watching. That's thoughtful.

However, giving out candles and candle holders to everyone on your list is a bit thoughtless on your part. It's not even that the gift won't be unappreciated, it's that it will be sitting on a shelf and not making somebody smile year round over the thought you put into it. Even if you are only spending a dollar, you can get more out of your money. Need an example? If you know somebody who is always complaining about losing their pen... buy a pack of pens. You can do this at a dollar store... and the notion is much nicer than another scented candle!

Good luck with your Christmas shopping. I hope this article helps you put a smile on everybody's face that you are shopping for, and avoid wasting money on thoughtless Christmas Gift Mistakes.