We’ve arrived here at holiday time and there seems to be some confusion about proper holiday gift etiquette.
So what are the DOs and DON’Ts of gift giving?
Most of the time, common sense will prevail in these situations. But some forethought – however small – might just be your best friend at this time of year.
Trust me.
Number one: You never want to leave anyone out. Going over to Cousin Verne’s house to exchange Christmas gifts? Make sure to ask exactly WHO will be in attendance.
You don’t want Uncle Larry to sneak up on you when you assumed he would be in Detroit this year. Ask. Then, ask again. Just to be sure.
But to be extra, EXTRA sure, bring along some additional Christmas steaks to give as host/hostess gifts and to those whose appearance is a mystery to you.
Oh, hey Larry. Didn’t see you over there. What a nice surprise! Enjoy these steaks…
Number two: Is a knitted toilet paper holder really the best choice for holiday gifting?
Miss Manners would say not.
Again, the gift of gourmet edibles is always a smart choice. Everyone has to eat, so why not make it enjoyable? People really appreciate good food. It’s universal.
And it’s something everyone in the family can agree on. Those topics may be few and far between. So bask in them and keep directing the conversation back to neutral topics.
Number three: When RECEIVING a gift, always be grateful. Even if you are wishing it was something delicious in return – and it’s not. At least they were thinking of you when picking out that potholder. Be gracious.
But I don’t have to tell you that, right?
Most of all, let’s just treat each other with kindness this holiday season. That’s the best etiquette tip of all.
Happy holidays, everybody!
