How to Select a Gift for a Holiday Gift Exchange

Whether you enjoy them or not, gift exchanges are an inevitable activity during the holiday season. It can often be difficult to select a gift for a gift exchange. Will the recipient like it? How will it compare with the other gifts?

If you have anxiety over your holiday gift exchange, follow these simple rules for a stress-free gift exchange experience.

Pay Attention to Price Range

Most gift exchanges have a set price range. You want to select a gift at the upper end of the price range without going over (of course, a slight overage is ok as long as it's not obvious). Make sure you spend at least 85% of the maximum price. If not, your gift exchange group is sure to notice. If you select a gift that is perfect but on the low end of the price range, add something else. Nothing is worse than being labeled the Scrooge of the group.

Don't Be Too Generic

If you don't know your recipient well, it might be hard to get a gift that touches on a personal level. However, don't a box of chocolates just because it's easy and then find out later that the recipient is diabetic. If necessary, ask other members of your group about the likes and dislikes of your recipient or run your gift idea past a mutual friend before you give a dud gift.

Don't Go Overboard

So you picked your best friend's name out of the hat and you're just dying to get her a certain gift that costs two times the set price limit. Don't do it. Sure, your friend will love the gift, but others might be jealous or upset. You might put off a vibe that you are simply exchanging gifts with your one friend, not participating in the group activity. This is not the type of attention you want. If you really want to buy the more expensive gift for your friend, exchange an appropriate gift at the gift exchange and then exchange the bigger gifts later.

Don't Stress!

Holiday gift exchanges should be fun. Don't stress over gift selection. Remember that most people don't expect grand gifts from a gift exchange. If you really can't think of anything the recipient might like, ask a mutual friend for advice. Or, you can always go with an old standby such as a holiday scented candle, a Christmas tree ornament, or a box of holiday-themed candies.