Save Face when Regifting

Safely regifting items is an art, and can go wrong. Proper etiquette for the process is not to be overlooked. When is it the right thing to do? There are several rules that apply universally for recycling a gift you don't want or can't use. So what are they?

*New, No Used- Imagine Aunt Jane steaming from the idea that she's received a used sweater as a Christmas gift. Be selective about what regifting items you choose. Going to a thrift store for regifting is totally off limits. Gifts should be new, no exceptions.

*Leave Intact- Regifting an item with torn plastic is a pretty obivous sign that the recipient is not the intended receiver. If you know that an item will not fit or is not your style, leave everything in tact, including plastic, and tags.

*Timely Gifts- Regive a gift while it's still "in." Allowing an item to collect dust, or go out of fashion, only to try and revitalize it before giving, is not the best way to go. Although you should store your regifting items, within a couple of months, the gift should have a new home.

*Give in Another Circle- Regifting with gusto means putting a gift to use, in another circle. It isn't so secretive when Uncle Jim recognizes the gift to Sally as the one he gave you, last Christmas. Avoid hurt feelings by keeping a list of who gave what.

*Rewrap and Retag- Regifting should include fresh paper and tags, with no tears, rips, or holes. This is a common courtesy to the recipient of the gift.

*Properly Store Items for Regifting- This especially applies if you have a smoker at home. No one wants to receive a gift full of smoke. Perhaps your painting room. There again, the gift will smell of the distinct odor of paint. Store items away, in a plastic container with a lid, if possible.

* Gifts Should Be Useful- Regiving a new shirt is perfectly fine, as long as it coincides with the correct size of the person. Make sure the person receiving the gift will be able to get some use out of it. No one likes receiving gifts just for the sake of receiving them.

Regifting is an art with a couple of rules that make it worthwhile. Following proper etiquette makes it a success for everyone. This year, as you prepare to regift, do so in an organized and manner bearing fashion.