How To Become The Ultimate Gift Giver Of Your Family

This Christmas, choose nothing less than the best for your loved ones. The formula to find the perfect gift for every member is easier than you think. Our tips and tricks will prove just how easy it is and prepare you to become the ultimate gift giver. 

It’s official! This is not a drill! With less than a week to go until the wrapping paper is ripped apart, it is quite literally now or never. And if you want to earn the title of ‘The Ultimate Gift Giver’ this festive season, I suggest you waste no time and dive straight into our tips. We’ve got 20 fail-proof ways waiting to help you sleigh it! Dive right in.

1. Reflect on What You've Heard Throughout the Year

Keep a mental (or actual) list of things your friends and family casually mention wanting or needing. Karen’s been banging on about needing a new cafetiere? Sorted. Uncle Bob’s dream is to drive a tank? Take note.

2. Ask the Right Questions

The art of subtle questioning is key. Try something like, “If you could do anything for a day, what would it be?” or “What’s your guilty pleasure?” The answers are goldmines of inspiration. Of course, don’t wait until mid-December to start asking. 

3. Go Personal

Customised gifts are the ultimate crowd-pleasers. Think engraved jewellery, a monogrammed wallet or a photo book filled with cherished memories. If in doubt, consider their hobbies and interests to give them an experience gift instead. 

4. Think Outside the (Gift) Box

Experiences are gifts that keep on giving. A rare helicopter ride, an exciting gin-tasting experience, or even a cosy afternoon tea can be far more exciting than another pair of socks.

5. Be a Detective

Stalk their social media like a harmless festive Sherlock Holmes. People tend to share their interests and hobbies online, so their Instagram or Facebook feed could be your guide to choosing the ultimate gift. If you see a few gym photos or a post from an art class, consider gifting them items related to these activities. 

6. DIY Delights

Homemade gifts are often more meaningful than shop-bought ones. Whether it’s a batch of their favourite biscuits or a hand-knitted scarf (YouTube is your friend here), your effort will not go unnoticed.

7. Avoid the Obvious

If you’re tempted by bath sets or novelty mugs, step away. Unless, of course, it’s a novelty mug shaped like a bath… hmm. In all seriousness, if you’re unsure avoid gift sets and opt for gift cards instead. 

8. Embrace the Element of Surprise

Unexpected gifts are often the most delightful. Is your friend a fashion fanatic? Surprise them with tickets to West End’s Devil Wears Prada or a classic fashion film screening. 

9. Set a Budget

Great gifts don’t have to cost a fortune. Set a budget and get creative. After all, thoughtfulness trumps price tag every time. Experience gifts work best for buyers on a budget as you can find something that suits your budget and the recipients can upgrade it later if they wish to. 

10. Use the Power of Nostalgia

Tap into their childhood favourites. Whether it’s a retro toy, a vintage comic or a pack of sweets from the corner shop they loved as a kid, nostalgia never fails.

11. Focus on Their Passion

Got a football fanatic in the family? Consider giving them a stadium tour experience where they can learn about their favourite team’s history and witness the magic firsthand. You can even add in some merch into this rare experience. Bookworm bestie? A first-edition novel, a book subscription or a cute bookmark could be just the thing.

12. Practical Can Be Perfect

It’s not boring if they’ll use it every day. A fancy coffee machine, a cosy blanket or noise-cancelling headphones can make their daily life so much better. You can even add in a year’s supply of coffee pods or extended warranty on their headphones if you’re feeling extra generous. 

13. Know Your Audience

A gift for your gran might not have the same ‘wow’ factor for your teenage niece. Unless your gran’s into TikTok, of course - then we’re impressed. Make sure to keep the recipient’s age, likes and dislikes in mind. 

14. The Gift of Time

Sometimes, the best gift is simply spending quality time together. Plan a day out or a cosy afternoon tea with your loved ones. Disconnect from the digital world and fully commit to spending valuable time with them. 

15. Keep It Balanced

If you’re giving gifts to a couple or a family, make sure you’re not leaving anyone out. Trust us, no one wants to be the forgotten sibling on Christmas morning. For extra cuteness, add their pet’s name to their Christmas card as a finishing touch. 

16. Don’t Forget Presentation

Half the fun of a gift is opening it. Wrapping paper, ribbons, and bows can make even a modest gift feel extravagant. Plus, it’s an excuse to get all Pinterest-y. You can even opt to customise the plain old brown wrapping paper and reuse ribbons from last year as a sustainable choice. 

17. Plan Ahead

Don’t be that person panic-buying at 11 pm on Christmas Eve. Start early, make a list, and tick off each name as you go. Stress-free and smug? Yes, please.

18. Check for Return Policies

If you’re buying something a bit niche, make sure it’s returnable or exchangeable. This way, there’s no pressure for them to love the gift — although they probably will because you’re amazing! PS. Make sure to get a gift receipt for in-store purchases. 

19. Think Sustainable

Eco-friendly gifts are a great way to show you care about the planet and the person you’re gifting. Reusable coffee cups, house plants or upcycled home decor are thoughtful and on-trend choices.

20. Have Fun With It

Gift-giving doesn’t have to be a chore. Enjoy the process, get creative and embrace your inner elf. Your enthusiasm will shine through in every present you give. If you have the space for it, buy and choose non-perishable gifts for your loved ones throughout the year. This way, when December hits, you’ll be all set to simply dig into the box and get wrapping. Happy shopping! 

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Suhani Lotlikar

Content Writer

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